Three captains, three Mediterranean itineraries

Greece

‘Starting from Athens is always the best option because it gives you flexibility depending on the weather. One of the advantages of CLELIA III is her ability to cruise at night, which means you can make up for any lost time. Guests embarking in Athens could be on a beautiful island in the Cyclades by the next morning. From there, I’d mix in a few lively stops like Mykonos and Santorini with quieter islands such as Paros, Koufonisia, or Amorgos.

‘Alternatively, if the weather in the Aegean isn’t ideal, we can cruise towards the Ionian Sea, passing through the Corinth Canal at sunset for an unforgettable experience. By the next morning we could be at Ithaca, the homeland of Odysseus, ready to explore and enjoy the island. The geography of Greece allows an experienced captain to create truly amazing itineraries and unforgettable moments for guests that last a lifetime.’

Captain Manolis, CLELIA III

The Balearics

‘The beauty of the Balearics is that they offer both vibrant beach clubs and restaurants as well as remote anchorages and untouched nature. And the further one moves away from the busy coastline, the more authentic and serene the experience becomes.

‘For a week, I’d recommend a circular itinerary exploring Mallorca and combining it with either Ibiza and Formentera to the south, or Menorca to the north. That said, it is equally possible to dedicate an entire week to a single island, exploring two or three anchorages per day without excessive navigation, allowing guests to fully immerse themselves in each location.

‘Adding one or two evenings ashore in historic town centres such as Palma or Ibiza, along with a lunch at a world-renowned beach club, creates a balanced and memorable experience blending nature, culture, and refined leisure.’

Captain Jose, AZIZA

The Mediterranean

‘The Greek and Adriatic Islands offer some of the most beautiful cruising grounds with incredibly pristine waters. On a charter, mornings include a gentle cruise to a new spot while guests unwind on board. We then anchor for a delicious lunch prepared by the chef before an afternoon of watersports and exploring hidden coves. Then in the evenings we’d tender ashore so guests can enjoy the local nightlife.

‘For a Greek charter, Lefkada – often called ‘the Caribbean of Greece’ – is a great starting point famous for its dramatic white cliffs. Nearby is Meganisi, ideal for a day spent hiking its green hills or snorkelling in the sea caves.

‘In Croatia, the Kornati Islands National Park is a must‑visit. With over 80 islands, islets, and reefs, it’s one of the most stunning wilderness areas with extraordinarily clear water.

‘In the Aegean, Serifos is an unspoilt gem favoured by Athenians – always a good sign. Hydra is also special, where the only transport is on foot, by water taxi, or by donkey. And of course Mykonos and Santorini, though busier, remain popular for good reason, offering vibrant excellent restaurants and nightlife.’

Captain David, FORTITUDE 1