8 Day Illyrian Yoga Cruise in Greece

Each day, immerse yourself in the stunning landscapes and vibrant cultures of these unique destinations. Plus, enhance your well-being with daily yoga sessions led by an experienced instructor, who will also recommend the routes for jogging on the islands. Whether you are seeking adventure, relaxation, or a mix of both, this cruise promises an unforgettable experience. For safety reasons, children are allowed on board starting from the age of eight. Children under eight may be allowed on board by special permission of Running on Waves.

Itinerary

Day 1: Corfu - the smallest Italian-Greek island

This Greek island used to belong to the Italians. The town of Kerkira is an example of such influence - a Venetian labyrinth of streets, garlands of laundry ropes high above the head, and coffee aroma streaming from every open door. If time allows, stop by the St. Spiridon Orthodox Cathedral on your commute from the airport to the port. It is one of the most prominent Christian Saints.

• Estimated time of departure: 20:00

Day 2: Lefkas - the “whitest” island of Greece

“Lefko” in Greek means “white,” and the island got its name due to white upright rocks, which stand along most of the island’s western coast. This rocky and mountainous landscape on one side of the island is balanced with splendid, wide sandy beaches on the other side. Those who appreciate a medieval atmosphere may stroll along the streets with an abundance of ancient churches. Running on Waves also invites you to visit the wine factory at Lefkas and the Monastery of Panagia Faneromenis. Only five monks live on the territory of the monastery, although it attracts an abundance of pilgrims, as a miraculous icon of God is here. This icon is considered today as the island’s protector.

• Estimated time of arrival: 08:00
• Estimated time of departure: 23:59

Day 3: Zakynthos - the most reserved island of Greece

Zakynthos is the only Greek island having the international status of a natural wildlife preserve. The island has been called “The flower of the Mediterranean East” for its beauty and balmy gardens. Mirror-like waters of Zakynthos may be seen on almost every postcard of Greece. Yachts floating on the water surface appear to be suspended in the air. It would be a crime to visit and not to swim in this magical place! Once in town, one may go to the National Sea Wildlife Preserve or visit the temple of Saint Dionysus, the local winery, and the olive oil pressing factory, or walk along the coastal avenue – Strata Marina – the liveliest street in the town, filled with coffee shops, bars, and restaurants.

• Estimated time of arrival: 08:00
• Estimated time of departure: 23:59

Day 4: Kefalonia

Kefalonia is the island of sailors and mountain climbers, Greeks and Venetians, winemakers and travelers. Here stands Enom – the tallest mountain of the Ionian islands (1628m), covered with unique pine trees. Those willing to make a pilgrimage may get into the Saint Gerasim monastery. There you will find an ancient sycamore tree still standing, said to have been planted by the saint himself. His cave-cell is located under the building of the monastery. Then you shall go for Andrew the First-Called Apostle, the museum with miracle-making icons of Stephano Tsagarol, the Monastery of Saint Crucifixion in Pessado, and the Church of the Blessed Virgin Mary with benches.

It is also possible to pop into the local winery, where six kinds of Kefalonian wine are made out of the Robola grape. Another excursion will go to the famous Drogarati cave with stalactites, stalagmites, and unusual acoustics, due to which Maria Kallas and Luchano Povarotti took the floor there once. Then the observation ground above the famous beach Mirtos awaits us, followed by a lunch in the picturesque nearby village of Agia Efimia. Your trip will end with a visit to the underground lake Melissani; the cave that once stood over it was destroyed during an earthquake. Now the lake is exposed to the sun, which creates a beautiful light show on the water with colors ranging from sky-blue to intense dark-blue.

• Estimated time of arrival: 08:00
• Estimated time of departure: 20:00

Day 5.1: Antipaxi - the owner of the most beautiful beach

Antipaxi is an absolutely tiny island, which literally means “opposite Paxi.” Truly a blessed place, it is a real paradise for anyone looking for relaxation and solitude. The island is known for its famous beaches, among which Vutumi, with turquoise waters, is considered to be the most beautiful in the world. You will not miss it!

• Estimated time of arrival: 08:00
• Estimated time of departure: 15:00

Day 5.2: Paxi - the most carefree island

Paxi (or Paxoi) is the smallest group of the Ionian islands. Poseidon created it by chipping out a piece of land from Corfu to build a love nest for himself and his wife, Amphitrite. And Greek gods definitely knew the meaning of a love nest – just look for yourself. At Paxi, you will go near the Blue Caves known all over Greece. And although their real color is creamy-champagne, they got their name because of the unusual color of the water surrounding them.

• Estimated time of arrival: 16:00
• Estimated time of departure: 06:00

Day 6: Sivota

Sivota, often dubbed the "Blue Lagoon," is a mesmerizing gem nestled along the western coastline of Greece. Snorkelers and divers revel in the opportunity to explore the vibrant marine life beneath the surface, encountering colorful fish darting among swaying sea grass. The rugged cliffs that frame Sivota add an element of drama to the landscape, providing breathtaking vistas for hikers and photographers alike. For those seeking adventure, Sivota offers a range of water sports activities, from kayaking and paddleboarding to sailing and jet skiing. Excursions to nearby islets and caves provide opportunities for exploration and discovery, with each outing revealing new facets of Sivota's enchanting beauty.

• Estimated time of arrival: 08:00
• Estimated time of departure: 05:00 the next day

Day 7: Saranda - the most unexpected point of the itinerary, “southern door of Albania”

Saranda, a resort town in Albania, offers the most beautiful coastline of the country. The ancient town of Saranda is known from the times of Ancient Greece. A large number of Greeks still inhabit this region. The Greek government even wanted to connect this territory to Greece. Cicero wrote about Saranda as an important strategic point. In the times of the Byzantine Empire, the town was a ferry port between Italy and Epirus. Byzantine heritage left many traces here. The ruins of the ancient town of Butrint - “The town of the world heritage” – are adjacent to Saranda.

The ancient town of Phinichi is located nearby as well. According to scientists, the largest Acropolis in the world is found here; it is seven times larger than the Acropolis in Athens. “Blue eyes” and beautiful, tiny islands are nature’s gift. Interested tourists may wish to spend time in Ksamile – the best beach in Albania. A group of uninhabited islands is located at a distance of 10 minutes’ swim from the shore.

• Estimated time of arrival: 12:00
• Estimated time of departure: 06:00

Day 8: Corfu

This Greek island used to belong to the Italians. The town of Kerkira is an example of such influence - a Venetian labyrinth of streets, garlands of laundry ropes high above the head, and coffee aroma streaming from every open door. If time allows, stop by the St. Spiridon Orthodox Cathedral on your commute from the airport to the port. It is one of the most prominent Christian Saints.

• Estimated time of arrival: 08:00

Please note that the quoted timing (arrival or departure time to or from the islands, as well as some ports) is indicative and may slightly change due to weather conditions and especially for the sake of better provisioning of all the activities and benefits of the cruise.