Greek Islands Bike & Boat

This trip exceeded all my (very high) expectations. Everyone I met was amazing and everyday brought a fantastic new and fun adventure! This trip will stick with me for a long time!

This trip operates from Athens to Corfu. Please plan your flights accordingly.

• Day 1 (Friday): Arrival to Athens

  Individual arrival by plane and transfer to the boat. Check in on the boat will be from 2pm onward – participants will be provided with boat location. Our welcome dinner will be onboard, and we will stay in harbor that first night in the harbor of Piraeus.

• Day 2: Piraeus - Aegina Island - Corinth Canal - Galaxidi

  Anchors aweigh! In the morning we will sail to Aegina, an island famous for pistachios, where we head off on our first cycling tour. Our first cycle leads us to the temple of Aphaia, perched high above the sea. In the afternoon, we will sail through the isthmus of Corinth, planned by Julius Caesar, but completed in 1893. If weather allows, we will sail on to Galaxidi.

  Biking: 22 mi/35 km

• Day 3: Galaxidi - Delphi - Nafpaktos - Mesolongi

  Today we will take a bus to visit Delphi. Ancient Greeks came here to worship Apollo and consult the oracle. The temples, treasuries, theater and stadium, along with its perch on the hillside and gorgeous views of the mountains make this an unforgettable experience. We will visit the harbor of Nafpaktos for lunch, before continuing on to Mesolongi, where we stay the night.

  Biking: 0 mi (Delphi Day!)

• Day 4: Mesolongi - Ithaca

  A longer crossing in the morning brings us to Ithaca. This hilly island with its spectacular scenery is said to have been home to the mythical king Odysseus. We’ll start today’s tour in Vathy, and during the ride we get to enjoy lesser-seen character of the Ionian Islands off the beaten tourist track: gnarled olive trees, crystal clear water, and friendly islanders – time seems to stand still on Ithaca. Overnight in Vathy.

  Biking: 22 mi/35 km

• Day 5: Meganisi - Lefkas

  During breakfast, we cross the sea to Meganisi. The panoramic tour leads along secluded roads and the island’s three villages. These small hamlets give us a good impression of traditional Greek island life. At Spartochori beach there will be time to enjoy a coffee and swim in the sea. In the afternoon, we continue on to Nidri on Lefkas, where we have the opportunity to cycle through rustic olive groves to a hidden waterfall. Overnight in Nidri.

  Biking: 11 mi/18km

• Day 6: Lefkas - Paxos

  Today we will cycle through the impressive mountains of Lefkas to Lefkas Town, the capital of the island. On our way we will enjoy spectacular views, and a coffee stop in the mountain village of Karia. From here, our floating home awaits us for a longer crossing to Paxos, whose unique natural harbor in Gaios vibrates with a magical atmosphere. We may just spend the evening here in one of Gaios’ cozy taverns.

  Biking: 19 mi/30 km

• Day 7: Islands of Paxos and Corfu

  Paxos, the smallest of the seven Ionian Islands, is so densely covered in olive trees that the whole island seems to glisten in a wonderful silverish green. Our morning tour leads us through this shimmering island, and we’ll have plenty of time to enjoy a swim stop at one of the many beaches.

  In the afternoon, our beloved boat will take us to Corfu. The last evening onboard concludes with a farewell dinner and final fun gathering with our crew, fellow travelers, and tour guides.

  Biking: 14 mi/23 km

• Day 8 (Friday): Departure from Corfu

  After breakfast, check out and individual return home or onward travels.

By far one of the best trips I have ever been on. I didn’t have to think about a thing other than making sure I showed up at the right time to get on the boat. Each day I felt like I was living in a dream and knew I was on a truly relaxing vacation when biking one day I had no clue what day it was. Thank you for an adventure filled week in the most magical place!

TRIP COST: $3,990 per person

WHAT’S INCLUDED

• 7 nights lodging onboard our charming motor yacht in A/C ensuite cabin, double occupancy
• Most meals (see “Meals” in “LOGISTICS & FAQ” tab)
• Daily guided cycling tours as described in itinerary
• English-speaking cycling guides
• Overview/Maps for daily tours
• Bottled drinking water
• Bed linens & towels
• Tourist taxes
• Entrance to antique sites, museums, and further attractions as noted in itinerary (group entrance only)
• Guided tours in archeological sites and important cities as noted in itinerary (group entrance only)

WHAT’S NOT INCLUDED

• Bar tab (drinks are tallied throughout the week and may be paid on board at the end of the trip)
• Bike rental (see “Bike Rental” in “Trip Details” tab)
• Flights & transfers outside itinerary
• Tips & gratuities for crew and guides
• Meals not included on board (up to 5 meals) (see “Meals” in “Trip Details” tab)
• Personal expenses
• Travel insurance (see “Travel Insurance” in “Trip Details” tab)

I love this trip more than words can really describe. I did the Croatia 2021 trip and enjoyed myself so much that I just had to come back again. It’s so fun to spend time on a gorgeous ship relaxing and taking it slow, but then also get to bike in a new location every day, best of both worlds. As always, JUMP trips include amazing people signing up for adventure, so you’re surrounded by a group of supporters and champions. The attention to detail, friendships and just overall community is what keeps me coming back time after time.

• HOW TO BOOK YOUR SPOT

  Rates are per person, whether you sign up solo or with a buddy. You do not have to sign up with someone else (we LOVE solo travelers!), but everyone will be paired with a roommate, as there is no single occupancy rate. If you really prefer single occupancy, please book two spots for yourself. If you do sign up with someone else, you may specify your roommate request when you book.

  How booking your spot works

  “Single Bed” option:

  (14 spots total/7 single bed rooms)

  Choose this option if you want your own bed in a 2-person room. You may specify your roommate (if applicable) and deck preference upon booking.

  Traveling with buddies and booking together? You can select and book as many spots as your group needs if you are booking together, but each participant gets their own bed in a 2-person room with this option.

  Solo travelers, choose this option, you don’t need to have a buddy to sign up! We will do our best to place solo travelers with same-gender roommates.

  “Double/Shared Bed” option (for 2 people):

  (4 spots total/2 double bed rooms)

  Choose this option if you have 2 people booking together who want to share a double bed in a 2-person room. You must select and book 2 spots with this option, which fills the room.

  Above or below deck preferences are first come, first served. You may select your preference upon booking, but understand that we may not be able to fulfill each request. 

  You will be prompted to make your rental bike selection upon booking as well. Please see the next section!

• BIKE RENTAL

  You will be prompted to make your rental bike selection upon booking. We will bike approximately 100 miles throughout the entire week.

  The routes on this itinerary are suitable for both regular and e-bikers. You may choose upon booking which bicycle you wish to rent. You are free to set aside a half or full day to swim or to spend time on board the boat, instead of taking part on a planned cycle tour.

  PRO TIP: If you really want to take the “stress” out of your vacation, grab an e-bike!

  Regular (non-electric) bike technical details:

  • Wheels 28″
  • Gears 24-speed Shimano Alivio
  • Brakes Shimano V-Brakes
  • Frame Aluminum
  • Weight 13.5 kg

  Regular bike with insurance: $115 for the week.

  E-bike technical details:

  • Wheels 28″
  • Gears 9 or 11-speed Shimano
  • Brakes Shimano hydraulic disk
  • Frame Aluminum
  • Weight 20-23 kg without battery

  E-bike with insurance: $315 for the week.

  Your bike rental comes with an Ortlieb pannier (aka bike bag to hold your daily ride items!) at no additional charge.

  Helmets Required:

  Helmet use is mandatory on all cycle tours. You are strongly encouraged to bring your own (well-fitted) helmet. Rental helmets are available in limited numbers on board (please request upon booking).

  Personal Bikes:

  Sorry, due to insurance regulations, personal e-bikes cannot be accommodated. Should you prefer to bring your own non-electric bike with you, please make sure to check the condition of your brakes, gears, and tires, and don’t forget to bring along a puncture repair kit and the essential spare parts (e.g. brake pads and tubes). Your bike should be in perfect mechanical working order and you should know how to repair it yourself on the go if needed.

  Yes you can bring your own bike seat and pedals. Our guides are happy to assist you in attaching these to your rental bike.

• FLIGHT & TRANSPORTATION

  Airfare and transportation outside of itinerary is not included.

  Please note: This trip operates from Athens to Corfu.

  Airports for this itinerary: Athens, Greece (ATH) and Corfu, Greece (CFU)

  Day 1 (Friday): Check-in is from 2-2:30pm at the boat at the port in Piraeus. Please plan your transportation accordingly, so that you can arrive in time to check in at 2pm.

  Day 8 (Friday): Check-out is 9:00am from the port in Corfu. We will already be in port in Corfu (we spend the last night there), so early morning departures can be accommodated – you can leave the boat whenever you need to. Breakfast is included on the boat, but we must be off the boat by 9:00am.

  The Athens airport is about 15 miles away from the Marina Zeas at the port in Piraeus.

  

  Please note: Exact location of the boat may change but participants will be provided notice if this happens.

  The Corfu Airport is very close to Corfu’s many ports. A taxi from the main harbor to the airport costs about 10 euro and takes about 5 minutes. Please insist that the taxi driver turn on the meter to avoid unpleasant surprises regarding the fare. You can also take a bus for about 1 euro.

  

• TRIP LEADERS & GUIDES

  We are proud to be working with the same fabulous partner that we use for our tried and true Croatia Bike & Boat trips. The guides are multilingual, friendly, and professional, the boat crew is as local as they get, and we will be well taken care of!

  Trip Leaders: Jackie & Carley (yeah, you get both)

• PHYSICAL FITNESS

  A basic level of physical fitness is required for this trip. Please note that most of our rides will start at sea level and usually include a climb.

  If you are at all worried about the biking, rent an e-bike! You can do it!

  You are free to set aside a half or full day to swim or spend time on board the boat, instead of taking a planned cycle-tour.

  For all of our adventures, we recommend nuun tablets for electrolyte replacement and hydration, compression socks for blood flow and fast recovery, and emergen-C packets to start each day with a boost of energy. These are in addition to physical fitness, they do NOT replace your training.

• PACKING & HELMETS

  This packing list will get you started:

  A Bike Tour Packing List For Any Weather

  Besides your biking gear – a few dresses (ladies), comfy clothing, swim attire, shirts, and comfy boat shoes should do you fine. Bring some layers in case we get chilly winds.

  AVOID hard-sided suitcases if you can; bring bags that can be stuffed into small spaces inside your cabin!

  Helmets Required:

  Helmet use is mandatory on all cycle tours. You are strongly encouraged to bring your own (well-fitted) helmet. Rental helmets are available in limited numbers on board (please request upon booking).

• THE BOAT

  Our home for the week is a lovingly restored motor sailor and was originally built in the shape of a traditional Greek caique.

  A splendid teak wood deck, a cozy saloon with stained glass windows, comfortable seating areas throughout the ship, and sunning mats on both of the sun decks provide a true sense of familiarity and home.

  Six of the charming cabins are located below deck and four above deck. They are named after popular Greek islands and are furnished functionally and are incredibly comfortable. The sea can be accessed via the swimming ladder, lowered into the sea when anchored in a secluded bay.

  The friendly and experienced crew has worked together for many years and is a well-coordinated team who will provide you with a truly care-free time on board. According to past travelers, they have a strong reputation for treating guests like family, so be ready for a warm welcome!

  • WiFi: While there is WiFi on board, the signal may not be very strong. Please don’t count on streaming anything! Cell service is available in most places.
  • Cabin features: A/C, hairdryer, tiled bathroom with a mirror, an all-in-one shower, washbasin and WC.
  • Beds: doubles 200 x 140 cm // single and bunk beds: 200 x 80 cm
  • Outlets: Greece uses Type C, rounded two-prong outlets like most of Europe. We recommend bringing a portable charger for those times when electricity is limited. There are outlets in each cabin.
  • Water: Drinkable water will be available throughout the entire trip. Bring a reusable water bottle to refill and help us avoid using single-use plastic bottles whenever possible.
  • Sleeping under the stars: Yes, you may sleep on the top deck under the stars if you wish! We suggest bringing your own sleeping bag for this, as it is prohibited to take the linens from the boat cabins.

• MEALS

  Most of our meals are included and will be shared together in the beautiful saloon on board. The on-board chef is a member of the crew and prepares the breakfast and one or two other warm meals a day, depending on our itinerary. We will have opportunities throughout the week to try local restaurants in some of our destinations. This allows us to have some free time to explore on our own and sample as much or as little of the local flavors as we’d like. Meals on board start with dinner on the first day and end with breakfast on the last day. Meals off the boat are not included in the price.

  Dietary restrictions: There is a surcharge of 70 euros for the entire week for strict dietary requirements including gluten-free, dairy-free, and vegan – this surcharge is to be paid in cash directly to the captain on board the boat. Please plan accordingly.

• BAR TAB & TIPPING

  As the boat is equipped with its own bar, you may order drinks as you wish. Drinks will be tallied up throughout the week and are payable upon check-out, in cash only (no credit cards).

  Tipping is not a strong tradition in Greece, but the following is generally recommend for tourists:

  Restaurants – leave around 10%, or you can leave more (15-20%) if you had exceptional service.

  Taxi – round up the bill

  Our boat tour guides and crew – we generally recommend at least $50 per guide (two) and $50 for the crew. This can be paid in euros at the end of the week, and you can modify as you see fit, as tipping is not obligatory.

• WHAT IF I GET SEASICK?

  The islands where we will be sailing are pretty well protected, meaning, we won’t be traveling far enough to hit real open seas. That said, there of course is the potential we will face winds and high swells if there is a storm.

  Even if you are prone to seasickness/motion sickness, you can still have a wonderfully successful trip with a few recommendations from some of us who are in the same boat (ahem).

  Here’s what we recommend to best set yourself up for success:

  • Day-time dramamine to keep in your system throughout the trip
  • Anything else consumption-wise that you think will help (or anti-consumption-wise – perhaps going light on the alcohol while aboard)
  • Most importantly – we have passed this Reliefband around on previous bike & boat trips and now we all swear by it. It actually, truly WORKS. Several of us who tend to suffer from motion sickness use them and are consistently dumbfounded by the successful results. This thing will change your life!

• TRAVEL INSURANCE

  Deposits are non-refundable. Please click here to view our Booking Terms & Conditions.

  Each participant is highly encouraged to purchase CFAR (Cancel For Any Reason insurance) as soon as you book your trip, to protect your travel investment as well as have personal luggage and medical coverage, not to mention peace of mind! Click here to get quotes from our trusted travel insurance partner.

   

• TERMS & CONDITIONS

  We reserve the right to make changes to the planned itinerary due to changing wind and weather conditions as well as organizational requirements.

  Deposits are non-refundable. Please review our Booking Terms & Conditions before booking any trip with us.