SAILING IN CYCLADES
The Cyclades, the most renowned island group in the Aegean Sea, are known for their distinct barren landscapes adorned with solitary chapels, traditional white and blue architecture, stunning sandy beaches, folk music and festivals, and their welcoming and hospitable residents. The name "Cyclades" is derived from the islands forming a circular pattern (in English, the name means "circular islands") around the sacred island of Delos.
The Cyclades encompass 39 islands located in close proximity to each other, making them an ideal yachting destination. Of these, 24 islands are inhabited year-round: Kea, Kythnos, Serifos, Sifnos, Milos, Kimolos, Andros, Tinos, Mykonos, Delos, Syros, Paros, Naxos, Ios, Donousa, Koufounisia, Iraklia, Shinousa, Amorgos, Santorini, Thirasia, Anafi, Sikinos, and Folegandros. The remaining smaller islands and islets remain untouched and are accessible only by boat.
Sailing conditions are most favorable from early June to mid-July and in September. Towards the end of July and throughout August, the Cyclades experience strong winds known as the "Meltemi," blowing from the north and northwest with forces reaching up to 7-8 Beaufort.
You may start your sailing holidays in the Cyclades from different marinas, depending on yacht availability, flight schedules, charter duration and desired itinerary
Marina Lavrion (Athens area)
Marina Alimos (Athens)
Marina Zeas (Athens)
Marina Agios Kosmas (Athens)
Marina Vouliagmeni (Athens)
Marina Paros (Cyclades)
Marina Mykonos (Cyclades)
Marina Santorini (Cyclades)
POPULAR ISLANDS IN THE CYCLADES
You will sail on a new and luxuriously equipped yacht. A professional skipper will take you to a different island every day and stop in the most breathtaking beaches and little bays, many of which are untouched and only reachable by boat. Sailing time on board will be between 2-3h per day. At night you will anchor in idyllic ports, explore the vibrant island life, taste delicious locally produced food, and stroll around sheer endless little villages and alleys.
Kea (Tzia), the closest Cycladic island to Athens, is approximately 13 nautical miles from Lavrio and 37 nautical miles from Alimos Marina.
The main port, Korissia, offers sheltered anchorage and easy access to Ioulida, a picturesque hilltop Chora. Sailors can explore tranquil beaches like Koundouros and Otzias, perfect for relaxation and exploration.
TZIA (KEA)
You will sail on a new and luxuriously equipped yacht. A professional skipper will take you to a different island every day and stop in the most breathtaking beaches and little bays, many of which are untouched and only reachable by boat. Sailing time on board will be between 2-3h per day. At night you will anchor in idyllic ports, explore the vibrant island life, taste delicious locally produced food, and stroll around sheer endless little villages and alleys.
Andros, known for its verdant landscapes and maritime charm, is a must-visit for sailors seeking tranquility and adventure. The sheltered bay of Gavrio provides a perfect anchorage, with easy access to the vibrant Chora, rich in history and elegance. Explore pristine beaches like Achla and Zorkos, ideal for swimming and unwinding amid stunning natural beauty.
ANDROS
You will sail on a new and luxuriously equipped yacht. A professional skipper will take you to a different island every day and stop in the most breathtaking beaches and little bays, many of which are untouched and only reachable by boat. Sailing time on board will be between 2-3h per day. At night you will anchor in idyllic ports, explore the vibrant island life, taste delicious locally produced food, and stroll around sheer endless little villages and alleys.
Kythnos is a must-visit destination for sailors exploring the Cyclades. The main port, Merichas, provides sheltered anchorage and access to the picturesque Chora. Discover the island’s iconic Kolona Beach, with its unique double-sided sandbar, and tranquil spots like Apokrousi. With pristine waters and scenic coastlines, Kythnos offers an unforgettable sailing experience.
KYTHNOS
You will sail on a new and luxuriously equipped yacht. A professional skipper will take you to a different island every day and stop in the most breathtaking beaches and little bays, many of which are untouched and only reachable by boat. Sailing time on board will be between 2-3h per day. At night you will anchor in idyllic ports, explore the vibrant island life, taste delicious locally produced food, and stroll around sheer endless little villages and alleys.
Serifos, a hidden gem in the Cyclades, is a must-visit for sailors seeking natural beauty and authentic charm. The main port, Livadi, offers a sheltered anchorage and easy access to the island’s stunning Chora, perched on a hill with breathtaking views. Sailors can explore pristine beaches like Psili Ammos and Koutalas, perfect for swimming and relaxing.
SERIFOS
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You will sail on a new and luxuriously equipped yacht. A professional skipper will take you to a different island every day and stop in the most breathtaking beaches and little bays, many of which are untouched and only reachable by boat. Sailing time on board will be between 2-3h per day. At night you will anchor in idyllic ports, explore the vibrant island life, taste delicious locally produced food, and stroll around sheer endless little villages and alleys.
Sifnos is a stunning Cycladic island that beckons sailors with its charm and beauty. The main port, Kamares, offers a safe anchorage and easy access to the island’s traditional villages. Explore serene beaches like Vathi and Platis Gialos, perfect for swimming and relaxation. With its picturesque coastline and inviting waters, Sifnos is an essential stop on any Cycladic sailing adventure.
SIFNOS
You will sail on a new and luxuriously equipped yacht. A professional skipper will take you to a different island every day and stop in the most breathtaking beaches and little bays, many of which are untouched and only reachable by boat. Sailing time on board will be between 2-3h per day. At night you will anchor in idyllic ports, explore the vibrant island life, taste delicious locally produced food, and stroll around sheer endless little villages and alleys.
Milos, a volcanic gem in the Cyclades, is a top destination for sailors seeking dramatic landscapes and unique anchorages. The island offers natural wonders like Kleftiko, a breathtaking cove with sea caves and turquoise waters perfect for anchoring and snorkeling. The port of Adamas provides a well-protected spot and easy access to the island's charming villages. Sailors can also explore the serene waters of Sarakiniko and Pollonia.
MILOS
You will sail on a new and luxuriously equipped yacht. A professional skipper will take you to a different island every day and stop in the most breathtaking beaches and little bays, many of which are untouched and only reachable by boat. Sailing time on board will be between 2-3h per day. At night you will anchor in idyllic ports, explore the vibrant island life, taste delicious locally produced food, and stroll around sheer endless little villages and alleys.
Mykonos, the jewel of the Cyclades, is a top destination for sailors seeking vibrant nightlife and stunning scenery. Its main port offers a lively anchorage close to the island's iconic windmills and charming old town. Sailors can also anchor at Ornos or Psarou Beach for serene waters and luxury beachfront dining.
MYKONOS
You will sail on a new and luxuriously equipped yacht. A professional skipper will take you to a different island every day and stop in the most breathtaking beaches and little bays, many of which are untouched and only reachable by boat. Sailing time on board will be between 2-3h per day. At night you will anchor in idyllic ports, explore the vibrant island life, taste delicious locally produced food, and stroll around sheer endless little villages and alleys.
Paros and Antiparos, nestled in the heart of the Cyclades, are idyllic destinations for sailors. Paros offers vibrant ports like Naoussa, with its lively marina, charming streets, and waterfront tavernas. Antiparos, just a short sail away, features serene anchorages and pristine beaches like Faneromeni and Soros. The strait between the islands provides calm waters and scenic sailing, ideal for exploring hidden coves and sea caves.
PAROS & ANTIPAROS
You will sail on a new and luxuriously equipped yacht. A professional skipper will take you to a different island every day and stop in the most breathtaking beaches and little bays, many of which are untouched and only reachable by boat. Sailing time on board will be between 2-3h per day. At night you will anchor in idyllic ports, explore the vibrant island life, taste delicious locally produced food, and stroll around sheer endless little villages and alleys.
Naxos, the largest island in the Cyclades, is a must-visit destination for sailors seeking diverse landscapes and vibrant culture. The main port of Naxos Town provides a lively anchorage with easy access to historic sites like the Portara and charming old town streets. Sailors can explore serene beaches like Agios Prokopios and Mikri Vigla, or anchor in secluded bays along the island’s rugged coastline.
NAXOS
You will sail on a new and luxuriously equipped yacht. A professional skipper will take you to a different island every day and stop in the most breathtaking beaches and little bays, many of which are untouched and only reachable by boat. Sailing time on board will be between 2-3h per day. At night you will anchor in idyllic ports, explore the vibrant island life, taste delicious locally produced food, and stroll around sheer endless little villages and alleys.
The Small Cyclades, a collection of hidden gems in the Aegean, are a dream for sailors seeking tranquility and unspoiled beauty. Islands like Koufonisia, Schinoussa, Iraklia, and Donoussa offer secluded anchorages, crystal-clear waters, and charming ports. Pano Koufonisi’s picturesque harbor and white sandy beaches like Pori are perfect for relaxing, while Schinoussa and Iraklia provide peaceful bays and authentic Greek charm.
SMALL CYCLADES
You will sail on a new and luxuriously equipped yacht. A professional skipper will take you to a different island every day and stop in the most breathtaking beaches and little bays, many of which are untouched and only reachable by boat. Sailing time on board will be between 2-3h per day. At night you will anchor in idyllic ports, explore the vibrant island life, taste delicious locally produced food, and stroll around sheer endless little villages and alleys.
Ios, a vibrant Cycladic island, is a favorite among sailors for its stunning landscapes and lively charm. The main port, Gialos, provides excellent anchorage and quick access to Chora, known for its iconic whitewashed architecture. Sailors can explore beautiful beaches like Mylopotas and Magganari, ideal for swimming and relaxation.
IOS
You will sail on a new and luxuriously equipped yacht. A professional skipper will take you to a different island every day and stop in the most breathtaking beaches and little bays, many of which are untouched and only reachable by boat. Sailing time on board will be between 2-3h per day. At night you will anchor in idyllic ports, explore the vibrant island life, taste delicious locally produced food, and stroll around sheer endless little villages and alleys.
Santorini, with its iconic caldera and breathtaking views, is a must-visit for sailors exploring the Cyclades. Anchor in the sheltered bay of Vlychada or Ammoudi and enjoy easy access to the island’s stunning villages like Oia and Fira. Explore unique volcanic beaches such as Red Beach and Perissa, or sail around the caldera for unparalleled scenery.
SANTORINI
SAILING ITINERARIES IN THE CYCLADES
The Cyclades islands and islets are so unique and beautiful that it is quite impossible to point out and recommend only one specific route. There are countless routes worth exploring. You can choose among four different charter bases from which you can easily explore the Cyclades Islands. Marina Alimos and Marina Lavrion that are situated in the Attica region, and Marina Paros and Marina Alimos, which can be found right in the center of the Cyclades island group.
Marina Alimos and Marina Lavrion can be easily reached via Athens International Airport and are perfect starting points if you wish to explore the islands in the north, northeast, and west. Popular destinations that can be explored during a one-week charter in the northeast Cyclades are Kea, Kythnos, Syros, Andros, Tinos and Mykonos. A trip in the west might include the islands Kythnos, Serifos, Sifnos, Kimolos and Milos.
If you are planning to explore the rest of the Cycladic islands, you can start your trip from marinas Paros or Mykonos. Reaching Paros or Mykonos is quite easy as there are numerous domestic flights and ferry boats leaving from Athens daily. Starting from Paros or Mykonos, you have multiple options and you might visit well-known islands like Naxos, Santorini, and Ios or the lesser known Small Cyclades islands that include Donousa, Koufounisa, Iraklia, Shinousa and several smaller not inhabited islets. Distances between the small cycladic islands are short and the area is quite protected from the strong wind that is blowing in the Aegean sea. Thus, it is a perfect sailing area.
Since distances between most of the Cyclades islands are quite far, we advise you to be open to some small route adjustments shortly before or even during your trip in order to be able to take advantage of the wind.
Discover below a couple of one-week route options, staring from Athens.
You will sail on a new and luxuriously equipped yacht. A professional skipper will take you to a different island every day and stop in the most breathtaking beaches and little bays, many of which are untouched and only reachable by boat. Sailing time on board will be between 2-3h per day. At night you will anchor in idyllic ports, explore the vibrant island life, taste delicious locally produced food, and stroll around sheer endless little villages and alleys.
WEST CYCLADES
Aegina | Poros | Hydra | Spetses | Agistri | Ermoini
You will sail on a new and luxuriously equipped yacht. A professional skipper will take you to a different island every day and stop in the most breathtaking beaches and little bays, many of which are untouched and only reachable by boat. Sailing time on board will be between 2-3h per day. At night you will anchor in idyllic ports, explore the vibrant island life, taste delicious locally produced food, and stroll around sheer endless little villages and alleys.
WESTERN CYCLADES
Kythnos | Milos | Kimolos | Serifos | Kea | Sounio
You will sail on a new and luxuriously equipped yacht. A professional skipper will take you to a different island every day and stop in the most breathtaking beaches and little bays, many of which are untouched and only reachable by boat. Sailing time on board will be between 2-3h per day. At night you will anchor in idyllic ports, explore the vibrant island life, taste delicious locally produced food, and stroll around sheer endless little villages and alleys.
EASTERN CYCLADES
Kythnos | Syros | Mykonos | Tinos | Andros | Tsia | Sounip
CHARTER A YACHT TO SAIL IN THE CYCLADES
Monohull sailing yacht or Catamaran? Bareboat, Skippered or Crewed Charter? No matter what is your preferred sailing yacht and charter type, we can offer plenty of options, so that you can tailor your sailing holidays in the Cyclades to your needs.
You will sail on a new and luxuriously equipped yacht. A professional skipper will take you to a different island every day and stop in the most breathtaking beaches and little bays, many of which are untouched and only reachable by boat. Sailing time on board will be between 2-3h per day. At night you will anchor in idyllic ports, explore the vibrant island life, taste delicious locally produced food, and stroll around sheer endless little villages and alleys.
MONOHULL SAILING YACHTS
Monohull Sailing Yachts are beautiful classic sailing yachts that are characterized by their one hull. Since they are smaller in width than catamarans, it is easy to find them a room to moor in Greek ports, even in the peak months July and August. All our monohull sailing yachts can be chartered bareboat and with a professional skipper.
You will sail on a new and luxuriously equipped yacht. A professional skipper will take you to a different island every day and stop in the most breathtaking beaches and little bays, many of which are untouched and only reachable by boat. Sailing time on board will be between 2-3h per day. At night you will anchor in idyllic ports, explore the vibrant island life, taste delicious locally produced food, and stroll around sheer endless little villages and alleys.
CATAMARANS
Catamarans are characterized by their two hulls, which provide significantly more pace than classic monohull sailing boats. They are an ideal choice if you are planning a cruise with a group of friends or family. Our catamarans can be chartered either bareboat or with a professional skipper.