KOUFONISIA PRIVATE FIELD GUIDE
Weeklong Open-Water Odyssey with an Olympic Champion in the Small Cyclades
A seven-day, shore-returning swimming week led by Olympic swimmer Ioannis Drymonakos that explores hidden coves, crystal waters and local tavernas — this guide distills the route, what to pack, and who it suits.
Weeklong Open-Water Odyssey with an Olympic Champion in the Small Cyclades.
Adventure brief
Weeklong Open-Water Odyssey with an Olympic Champion in the Small Cyclades
Set between Paros and the lesser-known isles of the Small Cyclades, this seven-day program pairs daily open-water swims in impeccably clear Aegean sea with afternoons ashore to explore villages and tavernas. Led by Olympic champion Ioannis Drymonakos, the trip balances structured swim sessions with flexible options for those who prefer to rest onboard, finishing with a farewell BBQ to mark the week.
Koufonisia, part of Greece’s Small Cyclades, is a jewel in the Aegean Sea renowned for its turquoise waters and rugged coastlines. This 7-day swimming adventure, led by Olympic champion Ioannis Drymonakos, takes travelers beyond typical Greek island visits into an intimate encounter with the sea. The trip showcases some of the most pristine and secluded coves, where swimmers are greeted by crystal-clear water and striking limestone formations. The journey isn’t just about swimming; it’s an immersion into local culture with fresh seafood, vibrant villages, and a lively farewell BBQ. Participants will enjoy flexible daily activities, ensuring there's time to relax or explore further. What makes this trip unique is the combination of elite coaching, stunning seascapes, and the inviting Greek hospitality. Whether you’re a seasoned swimmer or a curious beginner, the route offers accessible routes and guided support, making it suitable for all skill levels. The Small Cyclades islands are less touristy than Mykonos or Santorini, allowing a peaceful, authentic experience. The well-located Koufonisia provides opportunities for exploring sea caves and snorkeling among colorful marine life, surrounded by landscapes that look straight out of a postcard. Adventure seekers will appreciate the personal touch and the immersive atmosphere. This trip is perfect for those craving a combination of adventure, culture, and stunning scenery in one of Greece’s most beautiful settings. Whether you're seeking a relaxing escape or an active challenge, Koufonisia’s waters promise an unforgettable adventure and a chance to connect deeply with the Aegean environment.
Route Schematic
Daily route schematic
The itinerary moves island to island, with shore returns each evening and swim targets at each stop.
Day 1 — Koufonisia (Ammos Beach, Sorokos Bar)
Meet in Aliki, Paros at Angeliki Hotel, sail to Koufonisia, settle into accommodation, and gather at Sorokos Bar for introductions, a week briefing and distribution of swim cap and inflatable buoy.
Day 2 — Kato Koufonisi (Nero Beach)
Morning sail to largely uninhabited Kato Koufonisi for swims up to approximately 3 km amid pristine beaches and hidden coves; lunch at a local taverna follows before returning to Koufonisia.
Day 3 — Schoinousa (Ofidoussa Beach)
Sail to Schoinousa for a quieter swim of up to approximately 2.5 km, then time to explore the island’s village and have lunch ashore.
Day 4 — Iraklia (Alimias Beach, WWII plane wreck)
Swim at Alimias Beach with the chance to view a submerged WWII German aircraft wreck; the swim distance is up to approximately 2.5 km before lunch and return to Koufonisia.
Day 5 — Ano Antikeri
A remote-islet day swimming from Kato Antikeri to Ano Antikeri covering up to approximately 3 km among rugged, unspoiled coastline.
Day 6 — Keros (Megali Plaka to Plaki Beach)
A longer swim day of up to approximately 3.5 km around archaeologically notable Keros, with crystal-clear water and a return to Koufonisia for the evening.
Day 7 — Paros (Aliki Beach) and farewell BBQ
Return to Aliki, Paros with an optional final swim at Aliki Beach (up to approximately 3 km) and a celebratory farewell BBQ onboard.
The itinerary is explicitly flexible: participants may swim more or less as they prefer and may opt to relax on the boat instead of joining a swim session; daily maximum swim distances are provided in the itinerary for planning purposes.
Highlights
Outing Highlights
Daily open-water swims amid unspoiled coves
Swim routes traverse crystalline water and rugged Cycladic coastline with daily maximum swims ranging up to 3.5 km, letting participants measure effort against sea conditions and personal preference.
A seven-day circuit of Koufonisia and nearby islets
Each day links a different Cycladic spot — from Nero Beach on Kato Koufonisi to Keros and Paros — returning each evening to Koufonisia or Aliki, Paros as the itinerary dictates.
Local tavernas and a communal farewell BBQ
Lunches are planned at local tavernas (expenses at your own cost) and the week concludes with an onboard farewell BBQ that reinforces the trip’s social fabric.
What the day feels like
What the week feels like
Mornings begin with a short sail to a new swim site, where clear Aegean water and sheltered coves frame guided open-water sessions; afternoons are for onshore exploration, quiet beaches or relaxed time aboard. The program is intentionally flexible so swimmers can increase distance or opt to rest on the boat, and the week culminates in an evening BBQ to celebrate shared miles and new friendships.
Suitability
Who it's for
Who this week suits — and who should reconsider.
Practical planner
Details to review before reserving
Seven days total, with the group returning to shore each evening and reuniting early each morning for the next day’s activities.
Meet at Angeliki Hotel in Aliki, Paros or at Sorokos Beach Bar on Ammos Beach in Koufonisia as noted in the itinerary.
Swimming goggles, towel, swimsuit, flip-flops and loose clothing are specified as suggested items to bring.
Light lunches on sailing days and taverna meals are part of the plan, but lunches at local tavernas are listed as expenses at your own cost.
Review cancellation policies before reserving.
Frequently asked questions
Planning Your Outing
Do I have to swim every day?
No — the itinerary is designed to be flexible; participants may choose to swim less or relax on the boat with no pressure to join every session.
How long is the program and what is the daily rhythm?
The program runs seven days with daily sails to swim sites, returning to shore each evening and regrouping early each morning for the next day.
Where and when do we meet?
Meeting locations are Angeliki Hotel in Aliki, Paros or Sorokos Beach Bar on Ammos Beach in Koufonisia as listed in the itinerary.
What swim distances should I expect?
Daily maximum swims vary by day: typical maxima are approximately 2.5–3 km, with one day listed at up to approximately 3.5 km.
What should I pack for the trip?
Bring swimming goggles, a towel, a swimsuit, flip-flops and loose clothing, per the trip’s suggested gear list.
Who leads the swims?
The week is led by Olympic champion swimmer Ioannis Drymonakos.
How this guide was prepared
This field guide is synthesized using verified supplier specifications, route descriptions, and destination data. Some booking links may generate affiliate revenue for ADV Guides.
- Verified: 2026-09-10T12:14:05.625Z
Some booking links may generate revenue for ADV Guides or The Adventure Collective.
Availability, pricing, schedules and operating details can change.
Trip details and contextual sources were reviewed by ADV Guides Editorial.