M/Y Maria: Koufonissia Sth

Cave & emerald waters

Full day cruise to Heraklea, Shinoussa, Kato & Pano Koufonissi and Keros approx. 110 NM, 6h45 engine hours
Departure time 8am, Return 8.15pm

Our journey will begin from the port; We will sail to Heraklea for visiting Saint John’s cave. We will swim to the neighbor bay Alimia. Under its blue waters it hides a German plane of the 2nd World War. We will sail along the Cape Merichas surrounded by imposing rocks that rise steeply over 100 meters, a renowned shelter to wild sea-birds, along the wild paradisiacal beaches of kato Koufonissi, Paradisos, Nero and have lunch at a remote fish Taverna at Detis beach. We will continue with the wonders of Pano Koufonissi, natural pools, caves, emerald waters and magnificent sandy beaches: Italida, Pori, Gala and Xylobatis. On our way back we will admire natural formations on two inhabited islets, Glaronissi, Keros and have a last swim at Psili Ammos beach in the island of Schinoussa. Before mooring to the marina we will not miss to admire the hot spots of Santorini’s Caldera: Ammoudi the picturesque port, the volcano and the hot springs, the black, white and red beach.

Beaches √ Scuba √ Antiquities X Religion X Speleo √ Natural wonders √ Walk √ Traditional settlements √

SAINT JOHN’S CAVE

A unique work of nature with rich decoration from stalactites, stalagmites and columns of natural shades. Although it has not been developed, it is the biggest cave in Cyclades and one of the most important in Greece. According to tradition Saint John’s icon was found by a shepherd in the first main room, where the Christian icon stand was built. On august 28th a great Mass takes place where pilgrims from all the islands gather.

CYCLOP’S CAVE

Nearby Saint John’s cave. It has two rooms, not as impressive as those of the great cave, but spacious and bright. According to tradition it was where the mythological Cyclops used to live. The locals are willing to show you the rocks that the Cyclops was supposed to be throwing in the sea. For the past centuries it was used by hermits.

Other interesting places

Heraclea

"Bousoules": Indicators of orientation they are scattered around the rocks of the area between Agio Giorgo to Agio Athanasio in the island of Heraclea. Archaeologists are studying them in order to determine their date and exact use.

Pano Koufonissi

Fishermen feast: On June 24th the captains of the caiques cook for everybody on the pier the traditional cacavia (bouillabaisse-a soup made with different types of fish). A feast follows with traditional music and dance.

Schinoussa

. Two caves: Maniatis’ cave and Fishermen’s cave. Both situated near the port.
. Gerolimnionas: White sand with waters in all shades of blue and green. One of the islands best.