Greece to Italy Sailing Cruise

date_range
8 days from

£2415 GBP pp

* Current p/p indicative rate.

Overview
Highlights
Dates & Prices
Itinerary
Map
Ships

Highlights

  • Discover the volcanic islands of Italy – Explore Sicily’s Taormina and the Aeolian Islands of Lipari and Stromboli, known for their dramatic volcanic landscapes, ancient heritage and spectacular views across the Tyrrhenian Sea.
  • Experience the beauty of the Mediterranean coast – Visit the green Ionian islands of Paxi and Antipaxi, discover Capri’s towering cliffs and sea caves, and enjoy opportunities for swimming, snorkelling and kayaking in sheltered bays.
  • Sail from Corfu to Sardinia aboard a tall ship – Journey through Greece and Italy aboard Running on Waves, combining island-hopping and coastal exploration with full-board dining, spacious outdoor decks and onboard sailing activities, before arriving in Olbia on Sardinia’s scenic north-eastern coast.

Highlights

  • Discover the volcanic islands of Italy – Explore Sicily’s Taormina and the Aeolian Islands of Lipari and Stromboli, known for their dramatic volcanic landscapes, ancient heritage and spectacular views across the Tyrrhenian Sea.
  • Experience the beauty of the Mediterranean coast – Visit the green Ionian islands of Paxi and Antipaxi, discover Capri’s towering cliffs and sea caves, and enjoy opportunities for swimming, snorkelling and kayaking in sheltered bays.
  • Sail from Corfu to Sardinia aboard a tall ship – Journey through Greece and Italy aboard Running on Waves, combining island-hopping and coastal exploration with full-board dining, spacious outdoor decks and onboard sailing activities, before arriving in Olbia on Sardinia’s scenic north-eastern coast.
Capacity: 42
Feture image for Greece to Italy Sailing Cruise

Travel from Corfu to Olbia aboard Running on Waves on an eight-day voyage connecting the Ionian Islands with Sicily, the Aeolian archipelago, the Bay of Naples and Sardinia.

The journey begins among the green landscapes and clear waters of Paxi and Antipaxi before crossing to Italy. From there, the route follows some of the country’s most distinctive coastlines through Taormina, Lipari, Stromboli and Capri, ending in Olbia on the north-eastern coast of Sardinia. Along the way, guests experience volcanic islands, ancient towns, dramatic cliffs, sheltered bays and views across the Tyrrhenian Sea.

Each destination introduces a different side of the Mediterranean. Taormina combines Sicilian streets with an ancient theatre overlooking the coast, while Lipari and Stromboli reveal the volcanic character of the UNESCO-listed Aeolian Islands. Capri brings together steep cliffs, sea caves and the landscapes of the Bay of Naples, before Sardinia completes the voyage with granite shores and emerald-coloured water.

Between destinations, guests can swim directly from the ship, snorkel, kayak, windsurf or use the water slide. The onboard programme may also include sail handling, knot-tying workshops, mast climbing, master classes, shows and karaoke, depending on the weather and sailing schedule.

Full-board dining, spacious outdoor decks, internet access, jacuzzi and a limited number of guests create a comfortable base throughout the journey. This cruise is designed for travellers who want to combine island-hopping, Italian coastal culture, swimming and life aboard a tall ship.

  • Discover the volcanic islands of Italy – Explore Sicily’s Taormina and the Aeolian Islands of Lipari and Stromboli, known for their dramatic volcanic landscapes, ancient heritage and spectacular views across the Tyrrhenian Sea.
  • Experience the beauty of the Mediterranean coast – Visit the green Ionian islands of Paxi and Antipaxi, discover Capri’s towering cliffs and sea caves, and enjoy opportunities for swimming, snorkelling and kayaking in sheltered bays.
  • Sail from Corfu to Sardinia aboard a tall ship – Journey through Greece and Italy aboard Running on Waves, combining island-hopping and coastal exploration with full-board dining, spacious outdoor decks and onboard sailing activities, before arriving in Olbia on Sardinia’s scenic north-eastern coast.

Availability is always subject to confirmation. Please check with us before booking flights

17 July, 2027 to 24 July, 2027 on Running On Waves
Prices

Prices quoted here are often dependent on currency fluctuations. Please check with (01432 507450 or info@small-cruise-ships.com) for the very latest price, which may well be cheaper than the one advertised here.

Tween Deck Cabin. From
£2415 GBP pp (+ Port Taxes £336 GBP pp)
Tween Deck Cabin. From
11–12m² King or triple beds available Nautical decor, Gobelin tapestry Ideal for couples, solo travelers, or families
Main Deck Suite. From
£5125 GBP pp (+ Port Taxes £336 GBP pp)
Main Deck Suite. From
14–20m² King beds, Mediterranean interiors Direct access to open decks Mosaic entry, teak flooring, redwood furniture
31 July, 2027 to 07 August, 2027 on Running On Waves (reverse)
Prices

Prices quoted here are often dependent on currency fluctuations. Please check with (01432 507450 or info@small-cruise-ships.com) for the very latest price, which may well be cheaper than the one advertised here.

Tween Deck Cabin. From
£2415 GBP pp (+ Port Taxes £336 GBP pp)
Tween Deck Cabin. From
11–12m² King or triple beds available Nautical decor, Gobelin tapestry Ideal for couples, solo travelers, or families
Main Deck Suite. From
£5125 GBP pp (+ Port Taxes £336 GBP pp)
Main Deck Suite. From
14–20m² King beds, Mediterranean interiors Direct access to open decks Mosaic entry, teak flooring, redwood furniture
show reverse itinerary
Day 1 Corfu

Afternoon

Arrive in Corfu and make your way to the port to board Running on Waves. After settling into your cabin, meet the crew and the other guests joining the voyage.

Take time to explore the ship’s outdoor decks, lounge areas and onboard facilities. Depending on your arrival time, walk through Corfu Old Town before embarkation, discovering its narrow streets, shaded squares and Venetian fortifications.

Evening

The journey begins with a welcome and safety briefing, followed by the first dinner on board.

The crew introduces the itinerary and explains how shore visits, swimming stops and onboard activities will be organised during the week. Running on Waves then leaves Corfu and begins the short passage towards Paxi and Antipaxi.

Day 2 Antipaxos & Paxos

Morning

Wake as Running on Waves approaches Antipaxi, a small island known for vineyards, secluded beaches and exceptionally clear turquoise water.

After breakfast, spend the first half of the day swimming, snorkelling or kayaking near the island’s pale shores. Depending on the anchorage and sea conditions, guests can enter the water directly from the ship, use the water slide or relax on deck surrounded by one of the quietest landscapes of the Ionian Sea.

Day

Running on Waves later continues towards neighbouring Paxi, an island covered with olive groves and surrounded by white cliffs, sea caves and sheltered bays.

Go ashore to explore one of the island’s harbour settlements. Gaios, the main town, lies behind two green islets and offers a compact waterfront lined with cafés, tavernas and traditional houses.

Spend time walking through the narrow streets, browsing local shops or relaxing beside the harbour before returning to the ship.

Evening

Return to Running on Waves for dinner as the ship leaves Paxi and begins its longer passage from Greece towards Sicily.

Day 3 At Sea

Spend the day crossing the Ionian Sea towards Sicily and experience the atmosphere of life aboard a traditional tall ship.

Explore the working side of Running on Waves during a tour of the ship, including the Bridge and Engine Room. Join the crew for marine activities such as sailor’s knot lessons, mast climbing, sail setting and an introduction to celestial navigation. Depending on sailing conditions, guests may also have an opportunity to take the wheel under the supervision of the Captain or Officers.

Between activities, relax in the jacuzzi, find a quiet place on deck and enjoy uninterrupted views of the open sea.

Day 4 Taormina

Morning

Spend the morning sailing along the eastern coast of Sicily as Running on Waves approaches Taormina.

Breakfast is served on board with views of the coastline and, in clear weather, Mount Etna rising in the distance.

Day

Running on Waves arrives at approximately 12:00, giving guests the afternoon to explore Taormina.

Perched around 200 metres above the sea, the town offers wide views across the Sicilian coast and towards Etna. Walk along Corso Umberto, through stone gateways and lively squares, or visit the Ancient Theatre of Taormina, one of the town’s most recognisable landmarks.

There is also time to explore local shops, stop at a café or enjoy the panoramic terraces overlooking the Ionian Sea.

Evening

Dinner is served on board as Running on Waves leaves Taormina and continues north towards the Aeolian Islands.

Day 5 Lipari & Stromboli

Morning

After breakfast, go ashore to explore the largest of the Aeolian Islands. Walk through the old town, where narrow streets lead between small shops, cafés and restaurants serving Sicilian cuisine.

Continue towards the hilltop castle and archaeological area above the harbour. The local museum presents finds from the Greek and Roman periods and tells the story of the Aeolian Islands’ long maritime history.

Day

There is time to explore Lipari’s waterfront, visit the historic centre or walk towards viewpoints overlooking the island and surrounding sea.

Evening

The ship makes a scenic passage near Stromboli, an active volcano rising directly from the sea.

Watch the island’s dark slopes and black-sand coastline from the deck. Volcanic activity may sometimes be visible, although any observation depends on weather, visibility and current safety conditions.

Day 6 Capri

Morning

Spend the morning at sea as Running on Waves approaches Capri.

The ship reveales the island’s steep cliffs and the distinctive rock formations rising from the surrounding water.

Day

Go ashore to explore Capri at your own pace.

Visit the Gardens of Augustus, where terraces overlook Marina Piccola and the famous Faraglioni rock formations. Continue towards the historic Charterhouse of San Giacomo or explore the elegant lanes and viewpoints around Capri Town.

Guests looking for a more active route can walk uphill towards Villa Jovis, the remains of the Roman residence where Emperor Tiberius once stayed away from Rome.

Evening

Dinner is served on board as the ship leaves Capri and begins the longer passage across the Tyrrhenian Sea towards Sardinia.

Day 7 At Sea

Enjoy a full day aboard Running on Waves as the ship continues from Capri towards Sardinia.

The passage offers time to experience tall-ship sailing at a slower pace. Take part in the crew’s marine activities, practise maritime knots, learn more about navigation and sail handling or join a supervised mast-climbing session. When conditions allow, guests may also be invited to help steer the ship.

The rest of the day is free for relaxing in the Jacuzzi, spending time on deck and enjoying the final open-sea passage before arrival in Olbia.

Day 8 Olbia

Running on Waves arrives in Olbia, on the north-eastern coast of Sardinia.

Enjoy a final breakfast on board before saying goodbye to the crew and the guests who have shared the voyage.

Disembarkation marks the end of the cruise. Guests staying longer can explore Olbia’s historic centre, continue towards the beaches of north-eastern Sardinia or extend the journey along the Costa Smeralda.

Please note:

Itineraries are subject to change. 

Day 1 Corfu

Afternoon

Arrive in Corfu and make your way to the port to board Running on Waves. After settling into your cabin, meet the crew and the other guests joining the voyage.

Take time to explore the ship’s outdoor decks, lounge areas and onboard facilities. Depending on your arrival time, walk through Corfu Old Town before embarkation, discovering its narrow streets, shaded squares and Venetian fortifications.

Evening

The journey begins with a welcome and safety briefing, followed by the first dinner on board.

The crew introduces the itinerary and explains how shore visits, swimming stops and onboard activities will be organised during the week. Running on Waves then leaves Corfu and begins the short passage towards Paxi and Antipaxi.

Day 2 Antipaxos & Paxos

Morning

Wake as Running on Waves approaches Antipaxi, a small island known for vineyards, secluded beaches and exceptionally clear turquoise water.

After breakfast, spend the first half of the day swimming, snorkelling or kayaking near the island’s pale shores. Depending on the anchorage and sea conditions, guests can enter the water directly from the ship, use the water slide or relax on deck surrounded by one of the quietest landscapes of the Ionian Sea.

Day

Running on Waves later continues towards neighbouring Paxi, an island covered with olive groves and surrounded by white cliffs, sea caves and sheltered bays.

Go ashore to explore one of the island’s harbour settlements. Gaios, the main town, lies behind two green islets and offers a compact waterfront lined with cafés, tavernas and traditional houses.

Spend time walking through the narrow streets, browsing local shops or relaxing beside the harbour before returning to the ship.

Evening

Return to Running on Waves for dinner as the ship leaves Paxi and begins its longer passage from Greece towards Sicily.

Day 3 At Sea

Spend the day crossing the Ionian Sea towards Sicily and experience the atmosphere of life aboard a traditional tall ship.

Explore the working side of Running on Waves during a tour of the ship, including the Bridge and Engine Room. Join the crew for marine activities such as sailor’s knot lessons, mast climbing, sail setting and an introduction to celestial navigation. Depending on sailing conditions, guests may also have an opportunity to take the wheel under the supervision of the Captain or Officers.

Between activities, relax in the jacuzzi, find a quiet place on deck and enjoy uninterrupted views of the open sea.

Day 4 Taormina

Morning

Spend the morning sailing along the eastern coast of Sicily as Running on Waves approaches Taormina.

Breakfast is served on board with views of the coastline and, in clear weather, Mount Etna rising in the distance.

Day

Running on Waves arrives at approximately 12:00, giving guests the afternoon to explore Taormina.

Perched around 200 metres above the sea, the town offers wide views across the Sicilian coast and towards Etna. Walk along Corso Umberto, through stone gateways and lively squares, or visit the Ancient Theatre of Taormina, one of the town’s most recognisable landmarks.

There is also time to explore local shops, stop at a café or enjoy the panoramic terraces overlooking the Ionian Sea.

Evening

Dinner is served on board as Running on Waves leaves Taormina and continues north towards the Aeolian Islands.

Day 5 Lipari & Stromboli

Morning

After breakfast, go ashore to explore the largest of the Aeolian Islands. Walk through the old town, where narrow streets lead between small shops, cafés and restaurants serving Sicilian cuisine.

Continue towards the hilltop castle and archaeological area above the harbour. The local museum presents finds from the Greek and Roman periods and tells the story of the Aeolian Islands’ long maritime history.

Day

There is time to explore Lipari’s waterfront, visit the historic centre or walk towards viewpoints overlooking the island and surrounding sea.

Evening

The ship makes a scenic passage near Stromboli, an active volcano rising directly from the sea.

Watch the island’s dark slopes and black-sand coastline from the deck. Volcanic activity may sometimes be visible, although any observation depends on weather, visibility and current safety conditions.

Day 6 Capri

Morning

Spend the morning at sea as Running on Waves approaches Capri.

The ship reveales the island’s steep cliffs and the distinctive rock formations rising from the surrounding water.

Day

Go ashore to explore Capri at your own pace.

Visit the Gardens of Augustus, where terraces overlook Marina Piccola and the famous Faraglioni rock formations. Continue towards the historic Charterhouse of San Giacomo or explore the elegant lanes and viewpoints around Capri Town.

Guests looking for a more active route can walk uphill towards Villa Jovis, the remains of the Roman residence where Emperor Tiberius once stayed away from Rome.

Evening

Dinner is served on board as the ship leaves Capri and begins the longer passage across the Tyrrhenian Sea towards Sardinia.

Day 7 At Sea

Enjoy a full day aboard Running on Waves as the ship continues from Capri towards Sardinia.

The passage offers time to experience tall-ship sailing at a slower pace. Take part in the crew’s marine activities, practise maritime knots, learn more about navigation and sail handling or join a supervised mast-climbing session. When conditions allow, guests may also be invited to help steer the ship.

The rest of the day is free for relaxing in the Jacuzzi, spending time on deck and enjoying the final open-sea passage before arrival in Olbia.

Day 8 Olbia

Running on Waves arrives in Olbia, on the north-eastern coast of Sardinia.

Enjoy a final breakfast on board before saying goodbye to the crew and the guests who have shared the voyage.

Disembarkation marks the end of the cruise. Guests staying longer can explore Olbia’s historic centre, continue towards the beaches of north-eastern Sardinia or extend the journey along the Costa Smeralda.

Please note:

Itineraries are subject to change. 

Itinerary also available in reverse
Running On Waves
Vessel Type: Three-Mast Sailing Vessel, Barquentine Length: 64 metres Passenger Capacity: 42 Running On Waves is one of the biggest sailing yachts in the world. According to SOLAS convention,…

Running On Waves

Vessel Type: Three-Mast Sailing Vessel, Barquentine

Length: 64 metres

Passenger Capacity: 42

Running On Waves is one of the biggest sailing yachts in the world. According to SOLAS convention, the highest safety standards are maintained on board a vessel of this class, the same as would apply to a cruise liner carrying thousands of passengers. “Running on Waves” operates under the flag of Malta.

The ship was conceived to combine maneuverability of a sport yacht, the highest standards of comfort and decor, and a shallow draft that allows calling at small marinas inaccessible even to many a big yacht, let alone cruise liners. The unmatched draft of 3.2 metres was made possible owing to a brilliant idea to use lead ballast. The uniqueness of a number of technological solutions confirmed by the US Patent Department.

Every guest of ours enjoys 15,5 square metres of available open teakwood deck space, that is three times more than aboard most expensive cruise ships and would befit a most prestigious private mega-yacht.

The policy of the Company is to always keep the boat in a mint condition. That is why, despite her tender age, we do profound refitting every winter, so that in Spring she welcomes you in full glamour of perfection.

Sails are our main driving power, thus we boast unbeatably low level of fuel consumption, on average 75 l per hour only, which is about 10 times lower than on a motor boat of a comparable size.

Premium comfort notwithstanding, RUNNING ON WAVES is nothing close to a floating hotel or a museum on water, she is a supercharged windship, and with favourable wind can run at 16 – 17 knots under sail. The ship’s superbly efficient ratio of sailing surface to displacement 2 sw.m/t makes her one of the fastest sailboats of old and new times.

To make sailing comfortable at any sea conditions, cutting-edge technologies were used, such as pitch-killing stabilizers, while sophisticatedly calculated mass distribution prevents the hull oscillation frequency from resonating with the frequency, which affects human vestibular system. There are desalinators on board which account for the unlimited supply of fresh water. Air–conditioning throughout the vessel makes you feel a sheikh even in hottest days of Mediterranean summer. Our state-of-the-art hydraulic ramp at the stern of the vessel allows for a direct access to water for swimming and water sports.

Sun Deck

Primary feature — a spacious deck for sunbathing with 16 chaise lounge chairs, which are accessible at any time absolutely free of charge. Additionally, the ship has a large area of covered surfaces, creating vast shaded zones on open decks, which allow for an enjoyable cruise while being protected from the sun. A fresh water Jacuzzi-swimming pool, accommodating six people, is located in the fore of the ship. In the aft of the ship, navigation equipment is behind the command bridge, followed by the massage center and the lounge area. A tour of the command bridge can be arranged at passenger’s request. One may enjoy professional massage services in the massage parlor, followed by some downtime on a small sofa in the lounge area.

Main Deck

The restaurant located on the Main deck is ready to please the ship’s guests with delicacies of Mediterranean cuisine. A fantastic Ocean Bar, located in front of the restaurant in the central part of the deck, offers refreshing drinks and exotic cocktails. You can enjoy your breakfast seated on comfortable sofas located in the cockpit, aft of the ship. Smoking is not prohibited in this zone. An observation deck in the fore of the ship is above the bowsprit, creating the feeling of flying over the water! Mini-suites and Premium cabins are located on the main deck. Size of the cabins vary from 16m2 to 20m2 (172ft2 – 215ft2).

Tween Deck

Passenger cabins occupy most of the tween deck. Crew cabins, companion cabins for the crew and the galley are also located on the tween deck. Fully equipped Water sports center with access to a hydraulic ramp is located in the stern. The stern can be opened up and lowered onto the water, transforming into a diving deck for water sports and recreation. Standard cabins and economy class cabins are located on the tween deck. Cabin sizes vary from 11m2 to 12m2 (118ft2 – 129ft2).

Deck plans are for illustrative purposes only – The actual ship and cabin layout may differ.

Cabin layout for Running On Waves
Overview
Highlights
Dates & Prices
Itinerary
Map
Ship

8 days from £2415 GBP pp

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