SeaDream Yacht Club: Malta to Athens Cruise Trip Report

SeaDream Yacht Club: Malta to Athens cruise trip report

June 10 - June 16, 2024

Ship: SeaDream Yacht Club

Route: Malta → Athens

Duration: seven Days

Day 1: Monday, June 10 - Embarkation in Malta

We boarded the luxurious SeaDream in Malta, and the embarkation process was seamless. SeaDream’s staff warmly welcomed us with champagne and guided us to our spacious suite. The smaller yacht size and intimate setting immediately stood out as a key benefit. After settling in, we enjoyed our first sunset sail away from Malta's Grand Harbor, with breathtaking views of the limestone city.

Day 2: Tuesday, June 11 - Viagrande & Benanti Winery Tour (Sicily)

Our first port stop brought us to Sicily for a wonderful Viagrande & Benanti Winery Tour. Nestled on the slopes of Mount Etna, this charming vineyard combines rich Sicilian history and volcanic wines. The tasting session showcased crisp whites and bold reds paired with Sicilian bites. We savored the laid-back experience and admired panoramic vineyard views before returning to the yacht for dinner under the stars.

Day 3: Wednesday, June 12 - Day at sea

A relaxing day at sea was a perfect mid-cruise break. The SeaDream crew went above and beyond with personalized service, offering sun loungers, spa treatments and a variety of activities. I opted for a morning workout in the fitness center, followed by a luxurious 90-minute spa massage. Afternoon cocktails and lounging by the pool created the ultimate relaxed atmosphere.

Day 4: Thursday, June 13 - Otranto coastal drive & wine tasting (Italy)

We docked in Otranto, Italy, a quaint coastal gem. The Coastal Drive & Wine Tasting Tour highlights Italy’s picturesque coastline and vineyards. The tour included a walk through the charming old town and a visit to a boutique winery. The local wines were exceptional, particularly the refreshing rosé. Otranto’s medieval streets and seaside setting added to the charm.

Day 5: Friday, June 14 - Private guided tour & seaside meal (Kefalonia)

Kefalonia was a true highlight of the trip. We began the day with a private guided tour that showcased the island’s natural beauty, including caves, lush landscapes and the iconic Melissani Lake. After exploring, we enjoyed a delicious meal at a table seaside, savoring freshly prepared Greek dishes while gazing out at the turquoise waters. The setting was picture-perfect, combining exceptional food with stunning scenery.

Day 6: Saturday, June 15 - Delphi & Corinth Canal (Greece)

This day was steeped in history as we visited Delphi & the Corinth Canal. Delphi’s archaeological site felt magical, walking among ancient ruins with sweeping views of Mount Parnassus. Our guide shared fascinating myths and historical insights. We ended the day with a scenic cruise through the Corinth Canal, a bucket-list experience made even better aboard SeaDream’s smaller vessel.

Day 7: Sunday, June 16 - Hydra self-exploration (Greece)

Hydra was a delightful stop for self-exploration. The absence of cars and charming cobblestone streets gave the island a timeless feel. We wandered through the shops, admired the architecture and enjoyed a seafood lunch by the water. Swimming off Hydra’s rocky shores was a highlight, as the crystal-clear waters were truly inviting.

Day 8: Monday, June 17 - Arrival in Athens

We disembarked in Athens at 9 am, feeling refreshed and already nostalgic for the personalized SeaDream experience.

Each evening brings a delightful surprise gift from SeaDream waiting in our suite — thoughtful touches like branded sunglasses cases, pens, water bottles and even personalized pajamas. These small details made the trip feel incredibly special and memorable.

The evening culminated in the yacht's signature "Starlit Movie Night" on deck. I was also fascinated to learn you could reserve a Balinese bed to sleep under the stars, a unique experience I didn’t try but loved hearing about.

Highlights of the cruise

• Personalized Service: The attentive and friendly SeaDream staff made us feel like honored guests.

• Special Gifts: Thoughtful evening gifts — sunglasses cases, pens, water bottles and personalized pajamas — add a luxurious and unique touch.

• Intimate Yacht Experience: The smaller ship size allows access to charming ports and an exclusive, uncrowded feel.

• Unique Ports: Stops like Kefalonia and Hydra offer a mix of history, scenery and relaxation.

• Seaside Dining: The seaside meal in Kefalonia was a standout moment of the trip.

• Relaxation: The Day at Sea and onboard spa provide the perfect balance to an active itinerary.

• Under-the-Stars Option: The ability to reserve a bed on deck to sleep under the stars is a truly unique SeaDream experience for the adventurous.

Overall impressions:

SeaDream Yacht Club delivers an unforgettable luxury cruise experience. This Malta-to-Athens route combined Mediterranean beauty, cultural exploration and SeaDream’s exceptional hospitality. It’s ideal for travelers seeking intimacy, relaxation and unique destinations. We’re already planning our next SeaDream adventure!

For clients considering this SeaDream Yacht Club cruise in the Mediterranean, the best time to travel is during the late spring and early summer months (May to June) for ideal weather and fewer crowds. First-time cruisers will appreciate the intimate yacht experience — pack light, as the onboard dress code is elegant but relaxed. Be sure to reserve a Balinese bed to sleep under the stars for a one-of-a-kind experience and take advantage of the exceptional onboard spa. Must-do activities include private guided tours in ports like Kefalonia and wine tastings in Sicily, which offer immersive and memorable cultural experiences.

For more inspiration and insider recommendations, visit our Athens page.