29 independent reviews for Sailing vacation in the Aegean Sea

Reviews for Sailing vacation in the Aegean Sea

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review 8 Oct 2023

1. What was the most memorable or exciting part of your vacation?

The diving! They brought us to many beautiful spots.

2. What tips would you give other travelers booking this vacation?

If you have any question/doubt when reading the email it is very easy to clear it off with them.

3. Did you feel that your vacation benefited local people, reduced environmental impacts or supported conservation?

A lot, the guides brought us to remote islands sailing and made us discover so much of the local cuisine from local restaurants living there.

4. Finally, how would you rate your vacation overall?

As a very educative and definitely very romantic adventure sailing the greek islands

review 16 Sep 2023

1. What was the most memorable or exciting part of your vacation?

Everything about the trip was wonderful. The small lovingly cared for older boat with none of the showy excesses of the tourist charter boats. The Skipper, Sotris, has such expertise - as does Annie, as crew the week I went. Both are remarkable people, interested in their passengers, able to talk about a big range of subjects, and welcome conversations and discussions. To those interested in sailing, Sotris gave freely of his knowledge and Annie as dive master did the same for the divers. I did neither but was well attended to in terms of my own interests. He and Annie together created and maintained our little group as a happy community and shepherded us to tavernas on the islands owned by local friends for incredible food, good conversations and even some nights live traditional music. Being on the sea under the sails, sometimes on rough seas, was peaceful, exhilarating.

2. What tips would you give other travelers booking this vacation?

It’s a beautiful outdoor life for a week. Prepare to get wet from waves, dress very casually, not mind if you don’t get a shower for a few days, surrender to the winds (in terms of where you go). There are abundant opportunities to swim, both from the boat and at beaches in the islands.

3. Did you feel that your vacation benefited local people, reduced environmental impacts or supported conservation?

We always went to older local places to eat usually where Sotris knew and was friends with the owners. Both he and Annie knew many local people in the islands and greeted them or chatted with them. So I never felt we were in a tourist bubble cut off from the concerns of the islands. Our boat seemed as non-invasive to marine culture as it was possible to be. Just to be sailing in the wind without using any fuel was a beautiful conservationist feeling.

4. Finally, how would you rate your vacation overall?

Amazing.

review 25 Jul 2023

1. What was the most memorable or exciting part of your vacation?

Sailing every day. Initially in very strong winds, then later without much wind. Local island culture.

2. What tips would you give other travelers booking this vacation?

Pack lightly. You don’t need much, especially in the summer. Don’t expect luxury. This is a small yacht with limited water, power and space.

3. Did you feel that your vacation benefited local people, reduced environmental impacts or supported conservation?

Yes. Eating at local restaurants, listening to local music…

4. Finally, how would you rate your vacation overall?

Really loved seeing small islands off the beaten track. Excellent guide/skipper who was knowledgeable and a skilled sailor.

review 31 Oct 2022

1. What was the most memorable or exciting part of your vacation?

Sailing to the remotest islands.

2. What tips would you give other travelers booking this vacation?

Stay off the beaten path, they were the most fun.

3. Did you feel that your vacation benefited local people, reduced environmental impacts or supported conservation?

Yes, very few tourists at that point in time, so any income for them would have been beneficial, with low impact on anything else.

4. Finally, how would you rate your vacation overall?

10 out of 10.

review 16 Aug 2022

1. What was the most memorable or exciting part of your vacation?

For me sailing between the islands - enjoying the space and time to relax and just enjoy the ride. For my teenage children they enjoyed visiting the different islands and eating lots of lovely food. We all enjoyed swimming and snorkelling in the clear blue water.

2. What tips would you give other travelers booking this vacation?

The boat is a smallish space and living quarters are cosy - if you are sharing the boat with others you don't know you need to ensure you can manage a week of that and be relaxed about it and be respectful of each other's space. Prices on the islands are quite expensive so bring sun cream and similar items with you - we were bitten a lot by mosquitoes there was repellent on the boat but good to be aware.

3. Did you feel that your vacation benefited local people, reduced environmental impacts or supported conservation?

The boat went to different islands and we visited several different tavernas. The Greek islands all drink bottled water so the consumption of plastic is high, whilst there's was nothing that could be done it felt eye watering how much plastic is being consumed across the islands. There was recycling on the boat, and we were encouraged to use little water and power. We would have liked more information about conservation and environmental impact, nothing was shared with us during the vacation.

4. Finally, how would you rate your vacation overall?

It was a great vacation and a new experience for my teenage children. Safety was paramount and the skipper was careful to ensure that the route pursued was tailored to those on the boat. The islands we visited were all different and the tavernas were all great - good to have recommendations. If you enjoy boat life it's an incredibly relaxing week and one I would recommend doing.

review 11 Oct 2021

1. What was the most memorable or exciting part of your vacation?

I wanted a fairly chilled vacation so my highlight was the joy of arriving at a port and exploring the island. I loved heading off to find a beach to rest on and then joining with the group for one of the most delicious dinners I have ever had. We ate so well and Annie and Soti knew some really lovely places to eat that I just wouldn't have found without them.

2. What tips would you give other travelers booking this vacation?

This is quite an active vacation, lots of movement and rolling with a plan that evolves daily. I think an open mind and a chilled attitude is required.

3. Did you feel that your vacation benefited local people, reduced environmental impacts or supported conservation?

I loved interacting with local people in a way that I don't think would have been possible without our Greek friends introducing us. It felt lovely to be more integrated into communities and not feel just a tourist.

4. Finally, how would you rate your vacation overall?

I loved the experience, I was a little apprehensive before I went but it was a much needed adventure and I really enjoyed myself. I am so glad to have experienced these beautiful Greek Islands in this way.

review 1 Jul 2019

1. What was the most memorable or exciting part of your vacation?

We did the Sailing and Walking in the Cyclades trip. Everything was memorable and exciting: the sailing - excellent skipper and crew ! - , the walking with our wonderful guide, the natural beauty of all the islands, discovering small, quaint, white and blue villages and less visited islands, and a new tavern every night !! My most memorable part .... probably our beautiful hike on the island of Amorgos arriving just in time for dinner in a small tavern where the menu selection was made right in the kitchen, and then walking back down to the boat under the moonlight !! Very exciting and quite memorable also was our very first hike on Syros, as our sailing was delayed due to extreme winds: incredible sights and flowers everywhere.

2. What tips would you give other travelers booking this vacation?

Pack light, quarters are tight - as expected on a boat. Be flexible as schedule may have to change due to weather. We were 5 close friends and that is a very maximum occupancy in my opinion.

3. Did you feel that your vacation benefited local people, reduced environmental impacts or supported conservation?

Yes. I feel that our environmental impact was very minimal, because sailing and walking (!), and on each island we bought local food from small merchants and dined in taverns that supported local food production.

4. Finally, how would you rate your vacation overall?

It was great and hope to repeat the experience ! Thank you Sotiris and Annie !

review 14 Jul 2019

1. What was the most memorable or exciting part of your vacation?

Being allowed to steer the boat

2. What tips would you give other travelers booking this vacation?

If you go with divers and you do not dive have plenty to read as you’re not allowed to go into the water when they are diving unless the boat is anchored. If you stop in Amorgos take the time to visit the monastery and Hora, they are unmissable (go with your driver license and rent a car, you’ll have time).

3. Did you feel that your vacation benefited local people, reduced environmental impacts or supported conservation?

Yes, we always used local resources

4. Finally, how would you rate your vacation overall?

Very nice. The organizers are very good and they are pleasant and interesting people.

review 11 Sep 2018

1. What was the most memorable or exciting part of your vacation?

Watching the kids jump off the boat time and again, swim to shore, dive to see the plane wreck and explore the remote islands.

2. What tips would you give other travelers booking this vacation?

Pack light. You need so little. I took one carry on and still had clothes I hadn't work during the week. One 'nice' outfit is plenty -- everything is very relaxed.

3. Did you feel that your vacation benefited local people, reduced environmental impacts or supported conservation?

We visited tavernas, some more remote than others. We shopped locally, we bought our own lunch and all breakfasts came from the ports we stayed in.

4. Finally, how would you rate your vacation overall?

Fantastic. A delightfully fun, relaxing week with a skipper (Sotiris) who found the perfect balance between being present and leaving us to it. Spot on.

review 19 May 2018

1. What was the most memorable or exciting part of your vacation?

A great compromise between sailing, swimming in secluded creeks and discovering the small cyclades and its lovely traditional greek foods.

2. What tips would you give other travelers booking this vacation?

Ask where is the departure point precisely and the arrival point (not the island but the harbour) so you can make further arrangements for visiting without loss of time. Also let at least a buffer day at each end.

3. Did you feel that your vacation benefited local people, reduced environmental impacts or supported conservation?

Surely, but the dilemma is that the more you benefit the locals the more the place will become a tourist trap and tourists like us will not go there any more. It is important to preserve the character of those small harbours and the pristine aspect of its waters.

4. Finally, how would you rate your vacation overall?

Top ten on all counts - has been wonderful and the mix of people was good as well.

review 27 Aug 2018

1. What was the most memorable or exciting part of your vacation?

There isn't just one memorable part of the vacation. We saw many places, ate at well chosen local restaurants that I would not have otherwise found if traveling alone, swam daily in different coves and pretty local beaches, I was fortunate to have excellent company and the skipper gave us good tips. The boat had a good collection of music that added to the fun. One highlight for me was the BBQ on a deserted island that the skipper organised.

2. What tips would you give other travelers booking this vacation?

Travel light. There's very limited space on board and the cabins are minute.

3. Did you feel that your vacation benefited local people, reduced environmental impacts or supported conservation?

I think the vacation benefitted local people in that we spent a lot and hence helped their economy. However I doubt we reduced the environmental impact. We drank loads of bottles of water daily, all plastic.

4. Finally, how would you rate your vacation overall?

Excellent. However, 2 things to bear in mind: breakfast was scant and inconsistent. Cooked eggs only offered on the first day. We had to remind him to buy fresh bread, yoghurt etc. We ran out of coffee and on one occasion ran out of bathing water in the boat. I wish the boat was refilled the day before it ran out, when we had an opportunity to do so. Secondly, despite what the email said, there was no opportunity to leave our luggage with them if we arrived early and wanted to explore Antiparos.

Read the operator's response here:

Dear Sophia, thank you very much for your kind words. We are very pleased that you enjoyed yourself and you rated the vacation as excellent. Our skipper told us that it was a great group and really enjoyed your company. I would like to address a couple of points you made. Unfortunately there is no drinking water at the smaller islands and we thus have to buy plastic bottles of mineral water. There is actually not water at all at the islands, and water has to be brought by boat from the mainland. We have looked into this and there is no other solution. The least we can do is to provide space inside the boat for recycling of the plastic bottles. As you can read at all our copy on our website, responsibletravel’s website and our emails, breakfast items are provided by us but is self-service as we don’t believe we should raise the fees and pay for a 2nd crew member just to make breakfast. Our skipper asked you at the briefing to let him know when you run out of something so he can replace it. I believe he did replace and buy what you asked for for your breakfast. Finally our policy is to take our guests to the smaller, unspoilt islands and avoid large, crowded, noisy marinas. This means that the places we go are more relaxed, quaint but don’t always provide all the facilities. I believe that the skipper refilled the water tanks and you didn’t stay without water for long. We are truly sorry for the inconvenience. Wish you all the best for this winter and hope to hear from you in the near future.

review 25 Sep 2017

1. What was the most memorable or exciting part of your vacation?

Dolphins around the bow of the yacht, beautiful beaches and villages, the walk up to the church on the hill in Chora, Folegandros.

2. What tips would you give other travelers booking this vacation?

Travel light - there is limited space. Interact fully and share with all your traveling companions - not just the ones you know.

3. Did you feel that your vacation benefited local people, reduced environmental impacts or supported conservation?

Yes - we went to different bars/restaurants/shops every day and there is a strong sustainability ethic on board in terms of recycling etc and clear appreciation of wildlife.

4. Finally, how would you rate your vacation overall?

Magical. The skipper and assistant worked incredibly hard to please everybody and are extremely skilled.

review 22 Jul 2017

1. What was the most memorable or exciting part of your vacation?

The beauty of the islands of the Small Cyclades we visited--Iraklia, Amorgos, Koufonissi, Antiparos... All stunning and with a wonderful, relaxed vibe.

2. What tips would you give other travelers booking this vacation?

Pack lightly--all one really needs is a swimsuit, flip flops, shorts and a few t-shirts. Also worth packing a waterproof, lightweight jacket to wear on deck during high seas.

3. Did you feel that your vacation benefited local people, reduced environmental impacts or supported conservation?

Absolutely! Annie and Sotiris are passionate about making as little environmental impact as possible and that credo imbues everything on, and relating to, the trip, including selecting dining spots where the owners offer local produce.

4. Finally, how would you rate your vacation overall?

This was a wonderful adventure and I will cherish the memories I have from a fantastic week at sea with Annie, Sotiris and my fellow travelers.

review 11 Jul 2017

1. What was the most memorable or exciting part of your vacation?

The spontaneity of the whole trip. Nothing was really planned - the skipper would decide the following day's itinerary each morning. The highlight was a beach BBQ on a deserted beach and near-full moon.

2. What tips would you give other travelers booking this vacation?

Pack light . You don't need a lot whilst cruising the Islands and cabin space can be tight. If you are device addicted, it may be worth bringing a powerbank as recharging facilities are not always available.

3. Did you feel that your vacation benefited local people, reduced environmental impacts or supported conservation?

Yes - we ate at local family taverns.

4. Finally, how would you rate your vacation overall?

Fantastic vacation. Our skipper and Divemaster were fantastic and made this a memorable, relaxing vacation.

review 25 Sep 2016

1. What was the most memorable or exciting part of your vacation?

The close contact with sea for one week. I and my 8 year old daughter loved sailing and jumping from the boat in the clear blue sea of beautiful small Cyclades. To swim with thousands little fish and to snorkel in natural caves. The Tahita crew - Annie and Sotiris are a sweet couple who took care of all the crew with love. We really appreciated all thir information given during the sailing.

2. What tips would you give other travelers booking this vacation?

Go sailing ! Is the most natural, sustainable and beautiful way to visit islands in Greece. You will be out of the crowded touristy places and you will see beautiful desert beaches and islands that is priceless.

3. Did you feel that your vacation benefited local people, reduced environmental impacts or supported conservation?

Annie and Sotiris can suggest you the best taverns on the islands. They really take you to visit the places where local people gather . They have an authentic and friendly relationship with local people. We enjoyed a lot a night of live Greek traditional music , we were the only foreigners in the restaurant ! Sailing is a sustainable way of traveling -Sotiris the skipper - tryes to reduce the use of engine to the minimum. On the boat they have a system of wind power. They take care of garbage .

4. Finally, how would you rate your vacation overall?

Great vacation , very very recommended indeed ! I am reborn!

review 9 Sep 2016

1. What was the most memorable or exciting part of your vacation?

The entire vacation was memorable without exception. But some of the many highlights were snorkelling through spectacular luminescent coral reefs, the stunning and dramatic coastline walk around Koufonisia, exhilarating sailing in force 7 winds, and the delicious and authentic evening meals in local tavernas on each island.

2. What tips would you give other travelers booking this vacation?

Just book it! You won't regret it. But pack very lightly. You need much less stuff than you think you do.

3. Did you feel that your vacation benefited local people, reduced environmental impacts or supported conservation?

Absolutely. In every way possible. Sotiris, the skipper, also runs an up-cycling business, making useful and beautiful items out of garbage, and is passionate about conservation and recycling. It comes through in everything he does and the way the trip is run. Without a doubt, we kept our environmental impact to an absolute minimum and supported small local businesses. Sotiris and Annie gave us such a deep insight into the local culture and economy on each island we visited, and how they are being impacted by social changes and globalisation. The trip was not only hugely enjoyable, but incredibly informative, and highly Eco-aware.

4. Finally, how would you rate your vacation overall?

Fantastic. Sotiris and Annie were perfect hosts. They put so much of themselves into this trip, and treated us like traveling companions and friends, rather than customers. They are friendly, engaging and entertaining company and they instantly made us feel relaxed and at home on their boat. They clearly love what they do, and this comes out in their passion and enthusiasm. The trip itself was filled with exceptional moments, both on land, on a new island every day, each with its own charm and character, and at sea - sailing, swimming and snorkelling in crystalline waters surrounded by beautiful undersea life. Thank you so much for a wonderful experience, Annie and Sotiris.

review 29 Aug 2016

1. What was the most memorable or exciting part of your vacation?

Building a bonfire & BBQing on a deserted island, sleeping under the shooting stars, taking local food & wine, swimming in the clearest waters,

2. What tips would you give other travelers booking this vacation?

Travel lightly and learn as much as you can from your skipper!

3. Did you feel that your vacation benefited local people, reduced environmental impacts or supported conservation?

Yes, and it was so exciting to meet with locals and eat local food

4. Finally, how would you rate your vacation overall?

Definitely 5 stars

review 22 Oct 2016

1. What was the most memorable or exciting part of your vacation?

I won't forget the fantastic landscape of the Cyclades, beautiful clear sea, shining sun and friendly people. Whether out on the sea or exploring the islands you feel really at peace and awed by your surroundings.

2. What tips would you give other travelers booking this vacation?

Just enjoy!

3. Did you feel that your vacation benefited local people, reduced environmental impacts or supported conservation?

Yes - and I took away from it an appreciation of how much water and electricity we consume daily without even thinking about it.

4. Finally, how would you rate your vacation overall?

Excellent - the hostess and skipper are so hospitable. There was no problem too great that Annie couldn't solve!

review 21 Oct 2016

1. What was the most memorable or exciting part of your vacation?

It was our first sailing vacation. We enjoyed it greatly and there was a fantastic team of people on board so that made the vacation ever more memorable. Plus we really enjoyed the diving.

2. What tips would you give other travelers booking this vacation?

Be flexible and keep an open mind as sailing is very much dependant on weather so schedules can vary but there are so many great place to visit around the small Cyclades.

3. Did you feel that your vacation benefited local people, reduced environmental impacts or supported conservation?

Definitely. We had a very informative presentation about the Mediterranean sea and the marine life and it was apparent that the vacation providers care about what they do very much.

4. Finally, how would you rate your vacation overall?

It was a great adventure! It definitely something we might do again.

review 3 Sep 2016

1. What was the most memorable or exciting part of your vacation?

It's very difficult to chose something one because that one week on Tahita yacht was a very memorable experience in itself. The feeling of freedom when you feel the wind on your skin during a sail, sleeping on a deck under the open sky with myriad of bright stars, every evening discovering a new island, snorkelling at night, seeing a tortoise- all of these was memorable and exciting. But perhaps the most memorable experience is getting to know the skipper of the yacht - a man who made all of the above possible plus he taught us how to to be more aware of the limited resources we use daily without thinking, such as water and electricity, and ultimately how to appreciate the beauty of simplicity on the yacht and generally in life. The stories he told us about Greece and its people, the places he brought us to taste delicious local food, the music he shared with us, the long conversations we had over dinners - these are the most precious and memorable moments. My 12 year old son puts it simply: Sotiris, the skipper, was the best part of my entire vacation in Greece.

2. What tips would you give other travelers booking this vacation?

Be prepared to confined spaces and limited resources ( you can't take showers for hours on the yacht), but more importantly be open-minded, don't expect an "all inclusive service" and don't expect anyone to serve you. This vacation is about something different - it's about exploring and discovering something about the sea and yourself and your companions. for me that was the most valuable part of it.

3. Did you feel that your vacation benefited local people, reduced environmental impacts or supported conservation?

Yes, we ate at local tavernas and again thanks to our skipper we learnt a lot about garbage recycling, became more aware of how to use water and electricity with less waste.

4. Finally, how would you rate your vacation overall?

These 7 days on the yacht created a lot of wonderful memories and both myself and my son feel very grateful to the people who made it happen . Thank you, Sotiris and Annie, hope we'll come aboard Tahita again for a longer sail and for more nights under the open sky.

review 17 Jul 2016

1. What was the most memorable or exciting part of your vacation?

The trip did not meet our expectations. The host, Annie, did not even show up for the week. We heard that she left the boat the morning before we all arrived but it wasn't explained. She did not join us on our vacation, and we did not hear from her that week. The skipper of this boat should not, we are sorry to say, be working with people alone. He brought his new girlfriend, who unfortunately did not like to sail, and was sick the whole time; she was very pleasant but we didn't often see her. Most of the week we were left to fend for ourselves. We bought our own bread and water and replaced basic supplies when necessary. We spent the majority of the time in port. This cannot be blamed on the weather, as short trips around the islands to spots for the day would have been easy, and fine for us. Indeed the other boats that crossed our path that week did multiple day trips of this sort while we lingered on the concrete. When we asked if that was possible we were reprimanded and told that we should have been abandoned in the first port for the week. We were taken on one day trip, for an hour and a half, on one day of the seven, under duress. The contempt for doing so was apparent throughout the day and we were made to feel like we were even more unwelcome. The skipper was, at best, silent and moody, at worst, hostile. We were not welcome on board, and any questions were given one word answers or ignored. There were no walks organized, no explanations, no information given about the ports we were abandoned in, no orientations or even ideas about what to do. Most of the time he left us and went away. When he was on board he did not speak to us.

2. What tips would you give other travelers booking this vacation?

We are repeat clients of RT and have only had wonderful experiences every other time. We had absolutely lovely fellow guests which made the trip, and we all share the same concerns. We have all spent a lot of time on sailboats, and so we know what the trip should have been like. We have just returned from an absolute amazing week sailing on another boat in exactly the same area, and every day was glorious, interesting and full of adventure, with amazing hosts; and all in worse weather than we had the week of this sail; and would be highly recommended.

3. Did you feel that your vacation benefited local people, reduced environmental impacts or supported conservation?

The facilities were somewhat poor, not kept in good shape, not normal for a charter. And we have been on four other similar charters. Once berthed, we would not see our hosts for the day. We took no tours or eco-walks, as discussed prior to sailing, when asked for recommendations about what to explore or where to go we got silence or 'do whatever you want I don't really care' as a response before walking away. We were advised that breakfast was included. As we have experienced on other sailing tours, the crew would be up and have a simple breakfast ready for their waking guests bought locally. This was not the case on this trip. The guests were required to buy ourselves with our own funds all supplies for breakfast including water. We did have dinner in all-local restaurants. So we do not know of any other positive impacts as we were not communicated with for the most part. We all felt the vacation provider fell well short of "responsible tourism". We were told that the diesel motor had to be constantly run to charge the batteries in order for there to be sufficient power for the lights. However the lights were not standard energy efficient LED lights and as a consequence we had to run the diesel motor longer, sometimes all day or overnight. On one occasion, while berthed, the crew departed from the boat with the motor running all day. We were confronted by the neighbouring boat berthed alongside complaining of the constant running engine which was both inconsiderate and environmentally inefficient. We had to explain to them why and try to calm them down. They ended up boarding and turning the motor off themselves.

4. Finally, how would you rate your vacation overall?

Other than one stop that we begged the skipper for, for an hour and a half, on one day of seven, our tour of the islands could have been replicated using local ferry services. We were all actively discouraged from participating in sailing the boat, even though we all had experience, and some of us were fully certified. On the occasions when we tried to participate we would be told in a most discouraging way that we had incorrectly. In the end, we decided for our own sake that we should simply sit quietly.

Read the operator's response here:

We are really sorry to hear that you didn't enjoy your sailing week with us. It was a challenging week in terms of the rough seas. Apart from one day that you stayed at Iraklia, you sailed to different islands in the Small Cyclades every day. We only wish you had communicated with us during the trip or sooner as we may have been able to explain and clarify certain issues you raised (for ex, there is no hostess, breakfast is self-service, etc) and maybe we would have been able to act and do something to make your vacation a better experience. We sincerely hope you have some good memories from the islands you visited and the people you may have met. Best regards Annie

review 17 Jul 2016

1. What was the most memorable or exciting part of your vacation?

Our experience with the vacation provider in Greece was disappointing. In short we found the vacation provider to be anything but mystical and far from ecologically responsible (as claimed). Our expectations of "mystical" was to sail to remote Greek island beaches and bays, spend the day at isolated locations, and then sail to a quiet harbour to spend the evening in a local village. We also envisaged that we would be welcomed to participate in sailing - something we have done previously and thoroughly enjoyed. The reality fell well short of our expectations. Other than a dive stop on the first day, and another stop at an isolated beach (reluctantly made by our captain following a request by another guest), we did not stop at remote island beaches and bays. We simply sailed or motored directly to the harbour of the next island where we moored or anchored for the day and night. Other than these two stops, our tour of the islands could have been replicated using local ferry services. Guests were actively discouraged from participating in sailing the boat. On the occasions when we tried to participate we would be told in a most discouraging way that we had performed the task incorrectly. In the end, we simply sat quietly being "ferried" to the next port. As paying guests and reading previous reviews we expected an engaging and accommodating host. Annie, who features prominently in the feedback, was not on our tour - despite the understanding and expectation she would be. We were later advised she and Sotiris (the captain) had separated. Sotiris is anything but an accommodating host. His communication style was "matter of fact" (at times abrupt) and lacked any personal hospitality. It was very quickly realised that the less you said the better! We were advised that breakfast was included in this tour. It wasn't. The guests were required to buy all supplies for breakfast including breakfast for the crew. Breakfasts were on a help yourself basis - nothing was prepared or laid out by our host. Guests were expected (at times requested) to buy drinking water for ourselves as well as the crew. A few of us did experience a great dive at a remote location on day one which was guided well by Sotoris. This was on the first day and the highlight of the week. Leading dives and sailing are obviously Sotiris' forte as he is any but an accommodating and welcoming host. accommodation host are communication was otherwise abrupt and generally impersonable. Highlight- seeing dolphins, the dive and getting to know the other 3 guests.

2. What tips would you give other travelers booking this vacation?

Book with another operator. We have done many sailing trips similar to this one in other countries and unfortunately this was far below expectations and promises.

3. Did you feel that your vacation benefited local people, reduced environmental impacts or supported conservation?

If conservation includes lack of basic facilities that should have been provided as mentioned in the brochure then yes. There was no hot (or warm) water for showers. There was no fresh water "wash down" facilities at the stern (to rinse after swimming), something common on boats the size of Tahita (the boat). There was no facilities to charge mobile devices. There was no refrigeration, despite there being a refrigerator. Guests reverted to buying ice in an attempt to keep perishables cool. We felt the vacation provider fell well short of its "ecological" mandate. This was possible best evidenced by the over reliance on the boats diesel motor. We were told that the motor had to be run to charge the batteries in order for there to be sufficient power for the lights. However the lights were not energy efficient LED lights (the common standard for energy efficient 12 volt systems) and as a consequence we had to run the diesel motor longer. The nights we berthed at a wharf we did not connect to mains power or water supply. We were told the leads and hoses where too short. On one morning while berthed, Sotoris had left the boat with the motor running. When we and other guests went to leave the boat we were confronted by the owners of the boat berthed alongside complaining of the running engine. (We know that running an engine for any length of time whilst berthed is irresponsible and inconsiderate). We ate at local restaurants every evening and the food and service was great.

4. Finally, how would you rate your vacation overall?

As Tahita is old and in a very "tired" condition we rate this vacation poor. We endured a disappointing experience the vacation provider and frankly could not wait for our time on Tahita and it's miserable captain to finish.

Read the operator's response here:

We are really sorry to hear that you didn't enjoy your sailing week with us. It was a challenging week in terms of the rough seas. Apart from one day that you stayed at Iraklia, you sailed to different islands in the Small Cyclades every day. We only wish you had communicated with us during the trip or sooner as we may have been able to explain and clarify certain issues you raised (for ex, there is no hostess, breakfast is self-service, etc) and maybe we would have been able to act and do something to make your vacation a better experience. We sincerely hope you have some good memories from the islands you visited and the people you may have met. Best regards Annie

review 28 Oct 2015

1. What was the most memorable or exciting part of your vacation?

Sailing in the open water on the calm sunny days with gentle wind. Mooring in the isolated bays away from any crowds. 5 different dive sites, especially the cave. All the small villages we visited.

2. What tips would you give other travelers booking this vacation?

Good to book slightly out of season to avoid the crowds. Pack light if the weather will be good.

3. Did you feel that your vacation benefited local people, reduced environmental impacts or supported conservation?

Good to see the crew were all over the recycling and we also had a beach clean up on one of the islands.

4. Finally, how would you rate your vacation overall?

Great experience and gave us a good taste of sailing, now ready for some more! You guys made the trip even better, great job Sotiris and Thakis.

review 18 Jul 2015

1. What was the most memorable or exciting part of your vacation?

The views from ashore and on dry land. The Cyclades are really unique.

2. What tips would you give other travelers booking this vacation?

Personal space is limited but it all adds to the fun. Sotiris and Annie are great hosts.

3. Did you feel that your vacation benefited local people, reduced environmental impacts or supported conservation?

Absolutely. We ate at local taverns, shopped in small shops that also offered local produce and learned to use water sparingly.

4. Finally, how would you rate your vacation overall?

brill!

review 21 Jul 2014

1. What was the most memorable or exciting part of your vacation?

Every day we would head off under the expert guidance of our skipper, Sotoris, to a new destination, never knowing for sure where we we were heading or what it would be like. But each destination was a stunner and Sotoris was so informative and helpful we were able to enjoy every moment spent there. Fantastic. There were so many highlights it is hard to pick out the best - snorkelling in clear blue waters, visiting deserted beaches, wandering through the streets of ancient villages far away from all the tourists, eating marvellous local food, seeing ancient ruins, sailing under starry skies....

2. What tips would you give other travelers booking this vacation?

Do it! Don't hesitate.

3. Did you feel that your vacation benefited local people, reduced environmental impacts or supported conservation?

Our skipper was very conscious of his surroundings and made sure that life on the boat reflected these principles. On board the boat Everything we used was recycled and we only used the motor when there was not enough wind to sail. Skipper Sotoris taught us about the marine life and the ecology of the surrounding area and how to protect it whilst we swimming and sailing. Each time we put into port Sotoris gave us the option to visit local family restaurants and cafes. He also helped us with timetables and tickets for the local bus services if we wanted to explore inland. All helping the local economy.

4. Finally, how would you rate your vacation overall?

It doesn't get much better than when 2 truculent teenagers and 2 grumpy parents all agree it was the best vacation they had ever had!

review 21 Jul 2014

1. What was the most memorable or exciting part of your vacation?

The whole first day in Amorgos, from waking up and going to the beach in the morning to the fantastic dinner with Greek music.

2. What tips would you give other travelers booking this vacation?

Just go with the flow, Sotiris and Annie know the best places, you should trust them. :)

3. Did you feel that your vacation benefited local people, reduced environmental impacts or supported conservation?

Yes, we slept on a sailing boat and we were very economical in our wastes, we ate in local restaurants and bought food in local markets.

4. Finally, how would you rate your vacation overall?

Awesome! I recommend everyone to try it.

review 6 Oct 2014

1. What was the most memorable or exciting part of your vacation?

The cave dives, beautiful! The evenings in the company of the group, Annie and Sotiris. Falling asleep on the deck without a single worry on your mind, while sailing and great music in the background.

2. What tips would you give other travelers booking this vacation?

Don't hesitate, just book! And be prepared to completely relax. You will be in great hands for the sailing, diving, places to see, restaurants to go to,... The boat is in perfect shape, clean.

3. Did you feel that your vacation benefited local people, reduced environmental impacts or supported conservation?

Yes, just a bit of consciousness, small things can make a difference.

4. Finally, how would you rate your vacation overall?

It exceeded my expectations on all points. Great atmosphere, great company, delicious food, hilarious moments, beautiful moments, new friends,... Writing this down, I miss it again.

review 1 Oct 2014

1. What was the most memorable or exciting part of your vacation?

The constant contact with a transparent and "mystic blue" sea!

2. What tips would you give other travelers booking this vacation?

Just enjoy every single moment!! With a sharing and open attitude, and trust Annie and Sotiris! It'll be just great!! Uh, well..remember to take some tablets/patches against sea-sickness with you just in case! They helped me sooo much! I've NEVER felt sea-sick during this amazing sailing trip! And I swear I'm pretty"susceptible" (is it right?) to those kind of things!;)

3. Did you feel that your vacation benefited local people, reduced environmental impacts or supported conservation?

Well..I think so. I think that it definitely benefited local people and it helped us to put out attention into not wasting water or food

4. Finally, how would you rate your vacation overall?

Great.!! Just great.! I've been very lucky: great group, wonderful weather, stunning sea, amazing places, no sea sickness and many smiles and laughs. And a breath taking full moon rising from a silent blue sea...

review 6 Sep 2014

1. What was the most memorable or exciting part of your vacation?

Sailing to some really beautiful, off-the-beaten-track islands and swimming and exploring.

2. What tips would you give other travelers booking this vacation?

Don't be afraid if it's your first time sailing; the skipper is brilliant and really knows his stuff. Indeed, for some keen sailors, it may include less hands-on sailing than one might expect. Also, the boat docks the evening before joining day and leaves the morning after, so you CAN just about fit the whole vacation into a week...

3. Did you feel that your vacation benefited local people, reduced environmental impacts or supported conservation?

Yes. They try to use as little fuel as possible. The level of recycling was unusually high. And we supported local shops and tavernas.

4. Finally, how would you rate your vacation overall?

An excellent break.

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