Day 1

Board a yacht in the lively harbor of Patras, a few hours drive from Athens. Wine enthusiasts should sample the region's excellent wines and visit the Achia-Klauss winery.

Day 2

Sail southwest to Zakinthos. This island offers spectacular scenery. The springtime wildflowers earn Zakinthos the designation "the flower of the East." Visit the blue-water caves or tour frescoed churches ashore.

Day 3

Head north to Kefallonia, to the eastern port of Poros wedged spectacularly between a gorge and the sea. Unwind on the beach or explore ancient ruins. The tombs at Krani are regarded as the best examples of Mycenean tombs in Greece.

Day 4

Cruise to Lefkada to enjoy its sweeping golden sand beaches and dramatic cliffs. The great poet Sappho supposedly flung herself off the 240-foot white cliff on the island's southern tip. Ashore, explore Byzantine churches.

Day 5

Today it's on to Ithaca, home of Odysseus and a yachtsman's paradise with many serene, remote coves, and water so clear the bottom is easily revealed even at great depths. Visit the Cave of the Nymphs where Odysseus is said to have hidden his treasure.

Day 6

Return to Kefallonia to the port of Sami near the semi-underground Lake Melissani, and the famous Drogarati cave. Further north lies the quaint fishing town of Fiskardo that survived the region's destructive 1953 earthquake. Dine in one of the village's many fine restaurants.

Day 7

Back to Patras today to conclude your holiday by relaxing in the town's cafes or taking in a summer performance in the restored Roman odeum, built in 160 AD. As an alternative, continue north from Ithaca to end your journey in Corfu.