The Discerning Collection adds luxury yachts

The Discerning Collection has added a fleet of luxury yachts to its portfolio

The privately owned, specialist tour operator already offers a selection of exclusive, hand-picked hotels and villas across a number of Greek islands, including Crete, the largest and southernmost island in Greece, the stunning Ionian island of Kefalonia with its dramatic scenery, crystal-clear waters, idyllic villages and great beaches, and Lemnos, one of the Aegean’s most tranquil and unspoilt gems. .

Discerning Collection’s Luxury Yacht Portfolio will consist of two yachts and a catamaran, offering guests an exclusive and indulgent way to explore the stunning Ionian Islands in style. Based in Corfu, the two yachts, Jeannous, a 65ft super yacht (sleeps six), and Argentous, a 57ft luxury yacht (sleeps eight), and the super-sleek, state-of-the-art catamaran, Aurous (sleeps 10), will abe available for sole charter from May to October. All come complete with skipper and private chef. Guests are invited to dine on board throughout the day, but come evening, are given the choice to remain on board or sample one of the charming tavernas on shore in a picturesque Greek village. Head north to the Faraway Islands or south via Paxos and Anti-Paxos down to Kefalonia, or east towards the mainland. All boast state-of-the-art facilities, including watersports equipment.

The Discerning Collection offers seven nights on board Argentous from £1,460pp (based on eight sharing), Jeannous from £1,580pp (based on six sharing), and Aurous from £1,400pp (based on 10 sharing). Prices include flights and transfers, breakfast and lunch daily, as well as tea, coffee and soft drinks.

The tranquil island of Lemnos is still relatively undiscovered, yet boasts beautiful beaches, delightful restaurants that cost a fraction of some of its better-known neighbours, and locals who ooze warmth and hospitality. Mount Athos on the Greek mainland sits to the west of the island and on a clear day it is possible to see Athos. Inland, it is mostly rural and the coastline is home to several stunning beaches virtually untouched by tourists, with numerous hidden coves and bays. Myrina is the main town and capital, virtually surrounded by sea with a plethora of authentic Greek restaurants selling fresh fish.

Located just 25 minutes’ walk from Myrina and 200 metres from one of the island’s sandy beaches, Afroditi Villa is a charming property in the sleepy village of Plati, with lush gardens and cleverly designed rooms. Perfect for couples and families alike, all rooms are tastefully furnished with all necessary amenities, with the majority boasting sea views. There is a large pool with plenty of space to soak up the sun, or alternatively relax in the pretty, flower-filled gardens. The Discerning Collection offers seven nights at Afroditi Villa from £875pp staying in a Standard Room on a B&B basis, including flights and transfers.

The largest of the Ionian Islands, Kefalonia is home to dramatic scenery, with mountain roads that wind through sweet-smelling pine and cyprus forests down to picturesque harbour villages, spectacular beaches and secluded coves. With the vast majority of accommodation on the island centered around Fiscardo in the north of the island, those looking for somewhere slightly off the beaten track should head to Assos. Unlike many parts of the island, this picturesque village remains unspoiled by tourism, with a handful of cafés and tavernas dotted along the pretty horseshoe-shaped bay.

Scattered across a hillside in the beautiful village of Assos, you will find the small cluster of Braunis Horio Villas (a mix of two and three bed properties). Each villa boasts a private pool, flower-filled terrace areas, BBQ area and spectacular views over Assos and out to sea. Relax with a book in the shade of the gazebo and dine al fresco as the sun sets over this magical and unspoiled corner of Kefalonia. If you can lure yourself away from the comfort of your villa, the friendly tavernas of Assos are just a short stroll away, where you can sample delicious, fresh local produce whilst taking in the views of the pretty bay and old Venetian-inspired architecture. The Discerning Collection offers seven nights at Braunis Horio Villas, 2-bed villa from £950 including flights and transfers.