UVA in Greece Program Overview

Summer 2025
Dates TBA
Application Deadline Forthcoming

Learn More and Apply

Virtual Information Session

Tuesday December 3, 5:30PM
On Zoom, Register

ODYSSEY IN THE ANTHROPOCENE

Inspired by Homeric poems and Odysseus’ travels, as well as current sustainability challenges in the Aegean, this experiential learning and sailing program introduces students to both past and present ways of life in Athens, the Saronic and Argolic Gulf islands of Aegina, Poros, Hydra, Spetses, Dhokos, and the Peloponnese peninsula. Greece offers unique environmental and cultural resources to support student learning about changing human-environmental relations, culture, and settlement patterns from antiquity to the Anthropocene.

In the process of passing one of the EU’s most ambitious climate laws, Greece plans to cut greenhouse gas emissions 55% by 2030 and intends to be fully net zero by 2050. Ten types of single-use plastic products were banned in 2021, 12% of electricity demand is generated by wind turbines and 7% by solar, and sustainable water initiatives are underway. Greening its’ 200 inhabited islands will create Europe’s largest network of sustainable off-grid communities. While most current development consumes vast amounts of water and energy, traditional Greek settlements and buildings were simply, effectively, and beautifully designed for their specific climate and provide important sustainability lessons.  

In ancient Greece important settlements were connected by water. The ocean was a divinity and source of all seas, rivers, and streams. From it rose the sun and dawn, the constellations, and in it they set. Students will experience the Greek islands more akin to how Odysseus saw them—from the sea in sailing vessels. For two weeks we will live aboard 45 to 50 foot monohull yachts and sail with highly experienced, professional Greek skippers from Poros-based Greek Sails and Profs. Crisman and Petrus, who also skipper yachts in Greece. Sailing offers a sustainable way to travel by harnessing wind energy, while managing limited water supplies, wind and solar energy, and waste reduction strategies. Lectures, reading discussions, research reports, visits to significant sites, and cultural exchanges with Greek locals will provide opportunities for students to gain valuable knowledge and experiences. Daily academic field journal entries will require students to reflect on their learning. 

LOCATIONS

The program will begin in Athens, with visits during the first 3 days to the Parthenon on the Acropolis, the Stoa of Attalos, Tower of the Winds, National Archeological Museum, The Hellenic Maritime Heritage Park and several other sites. On day 4 we travel by ferry from Athens to the Island of Poros. From there we begin our two-week sailing odyssey aboard 45 to 50 foot yachts though the Saronic and Argolic Gulfs and along the Peloponnese peninsula. Each day we will travel to a new destination - stopping in a cove for a lunchtime swim, docking in a town to explore local sites, and enjoying free evenings and dinner at local cafes and restaurants. Each night we will sleep onboard while docked or at anchor. We will always sail within sight of land and rarely more than an hour from a port of refuge. The day after we return to Poros, we will take a short ferry ride to the island of Hydra and then return to Athens. We will enjoy a final day in Athens before bidding farewell and independently traveling home or elsewhere.

Our travel dates are late May to mid-June. During that time temperatures are typically in the upper 60s F to the low 80s, which will be comfortable with the low humidity of the area. The sun will feel strong when you are out in it, though the boat’s cockpit is covered by a fabric shade structure. Winds for sailing will be generally mild (5 – 20mph), perfect for novice sailors. 

LEARN MORE —

Program dates, Program details, Planning Information, Program Costs, Financial Aid Information and Application Details can be found at UVA's Education Abroad Website.

Required Interview: An interview is required as part of the application process. You are advised to apply early so that you can complete your interview before the deadline. Contact Profs. Crisman (pc4v@virginia.edu) and Petrus (mrp7m@virginia.edu) to schedule.

Please note: School of Architecture students are encouraged to apply for dedicated financial aid for this program. This is a Walker Global Experience Scholarship Program - supported by a generous $2 million gift. Students may apply for an award of up $5,000 to cover expenses such as program tuition fees, room and board, transportation and incidental costs.