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Mykonos is one of, if not the, most famous islands in all of the Aegean Sea. Bright and cosmopolitan, it has been a magnet of high profile guests since the 1960s.
It is no surprise then that it was voted as one of the top holiday destinations to visit. With its amazing beaches, award-winning restaurants, and mythical parties that last all night long, it is a must-visit destination.
The list of celebrities who visit Mykonos is constantly growing: Harrison Ford, Tom Hanks, Shakira, Lady Gaga, Steven Spielberg, Monica Bellucci, Liam Nisson, Hugh Jackman, Michael Douglas, Catherine Zeta-Jones, Clive Owen, Jean Paul Gotti, Giorgio Armani, Russell Crowe, and many more.
Particularly open to diversity, Mykonos is considered the most gay-friendly destination in Greece and is one of the most popular in the world.
Visit Mykonos Town and marvel at the white cubist architecture which engulfs the island. Mykonos is also home to many old churches and wells. Take a walk through its narrow streets and admire this beautiful city.
Shop in Chora and see the latest collections from brilliant fashion and jewelry designers. You will find plenty of branded clothes and accessories, jewelry, and other fashionable goods.
In Gialos you can see the famous Mycenae Pelicans and visit Aghios Nikolaos town, a town whose town hall was built in 1780!
See “Little Venice” and view tiny cute little houses built in the 18th century that have foundations in the sea! It is said that pirates used to come to this island and use the doorsteps of the houses on the water as miniature planks to make people walk off of. Today, the homes are filled with bars and restaurants.
The other trademark landmark of Mykonos, the Kato Myloi windmills, used to grate greats using the power of the north winds until the beginning of the 20th century! In the evenings, they are lit up with a beautiful glow.
Visit the beautiful quiet and secluded beaches of Agios Sostis, Kapari, and Fokos.
If you like busier beaches, however, visit Psarou, Ornos, Paradise, and Platis Gialos where there are parties all of the time!
See this ledgendary lighthouse which stands on the edge of Phanar. Enjoy stunning views of sunsets as you relax!
Scuba dive and see octopi, starfish, sponges, and maybe even Monachus-Monachus seals! There are many diving centers on the island which offer diving in reefs, caves, and even shipwrecks!
Visit Rinia and dive into its crystal clear blue waters and spend time relaxing on its beaches.
Visit Delos, what is considered the island of Apollo, the god of light, and visit its archeological sites.
Tradition says that anyone who drinks the water from the wells in the center of the village will never leave the island!
Enjoy!
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Itinerary: 7 days Greek Islands – Cyclades (from Mykonos)The most famous islands of Greece invite you to discover the reasons why they have been leading world travel destinations for years. The duration of travel between islands is estimated approximately on an average speed of the boat.
MYKONOS (One of the most popular and favorite destinations in Greece and around the world)
The most famous island of the Aegean with Santorini. Bright and cosmopolitan, it has been a magnet since 1960 to the present day VIPs of the whole planet. Mythical names of the international jet set were connected with Mykonos.
It is voted in the top places of the best holiday destinations: excellent beaches, award-winning restaurants, the best of the Mediterranean, with many distinctions and awards, endless mythical parties that do not stop all summer, expensive yachts, dream villas, five-star beach service.
Mykonos will tease you. But above all, it will release you. Here you will be transformed, you will be left… and you will feel uncomfortable in love with life. Spinning all-white against the background of the blue of the Aegean. Particularly open to diversity, the Mykonians welcomed the gay community and Mykonos became the most gay-friendly destination in Greece and the most popular in the world.
The most famous country in the Aegean. In the photographed Little Venice, the houses built in the 18th century have foundations in the sea. Today they host bars and restaurants and from their balconies, the glow of the Aegean is blinding.
The other trademark of Mykonos, Kato Myloi, grated the grains with the power of the north until the beginning of the 20th century. Today, they gaze at the sea illuminated in the evenings.
Holidays in Mykonos means fun: lunch and dinner, improvised or organized parties, famous DJs from around the world!
Stunning beach, cocktails in the boat overlooking the illuminated Mills, champagne, dance and flirting until the night.
See what Mykonos has for you. The scuba diving presents a different world and recommends you to selected “local Mykonians”, such as octopuses, starfish, snorkels, sponges or Monachus-Monachus seals! You will find many diving centers, which offer diving in reefs, caves, shipwrecks or mysterious night dives. Mykonos will tease you.
It is necessary to sail the boat to nearby Delos to admire the remnants of the past and history. Delos is the island of Apollo, the god of light. So, in the evening as the archaeological site closes and you start the way back, enjoy the unique sunset…
Sail your boat in Rinia
Meet “neighbor” Rinia with the boat, dive into the blue waters and cool off the Cycladic air. Peace, relaxation and enjoyment under the sun.
You are in the largest, most fertile and autonomous island of the Cyclades. In the harbor, you are welcomed by Ancient Portara – the marble supernatural frame, the same as the National Geographic label – and the view of the medieval castle. The island with a history of centuries, unique sights, alternating landscapes, hospitable inhabitants and good food.
A visit to Naxos is not complete without the exploration of the picturesque countryside and the mountain villages of the island, which have been inhabited for centuries.
It’s no coincidence that the popular tripadvisor holiday site has made it the number two in the preferences of its traveler-members in Europe but also the 6th best island in the world after a big vote.
It could also be described as a culinary destination since it produces some of the country’s excellent products such as its famous cheese, but also its splendid beaches that awarded Naxos and the Guardian.
A well-hidden terrestrial paradise is Koufonisia. A place worth visiting by boat.
Exotic beaches, caves… for hunted pirates and bold lovers. Peace, relaxation, parties that sparkle and places to hide from the voices, to calm down, against the backdrop of the endless blue of the Aegean.
Crystal, clear waters, dreamy landscapes and music inspired by the moonlit nights. In Koufonisia there is only one settlement. From here you will also pass through this Cycladic microcosm that invites you to wander in its narrow streets. The hospitable Mediterranean basin is ready to offer you the most exotic dives of your life.
You will also find yourself discovering a Greek island untouched by mass tourism, where ancient customs, old paths, and authentic villages are kept. With traditional cafes that will treat you to the wonderful raki of Amorgos.
Panagia Chozoviotissa: A Miracle in the Aegean Can you climb 300 steep stairs? Arriving at the monastery of Hozoviotissa, the view of the Aegean will compensate you. One of the oldest monasteries, its enchanting waters, its picturesque cobbled streets, the intoxicating sunset, the unprecedented relaxation… Amorgos is the island of endless blue!
When you come, you will find out how varied, wild and fascinating is this island.
Ios is the perfect holiday that you dreamed about in the winter. A Greek island, where wild entertainment takes flesh and bones. But it is something deeper – the beauty of breakfast… with the Aegean background… after the party. In Ios, entertainment has no boundaries or borders. A long tradition has linked her to wild entertainment and summer parties.
Ios is also a popular tourist destination known for its beautiful beaches, traditional settlement, hospitality, but also for good food, smile and tradition! The most famous sight of Ios is the famous tomb of Homer, located north of the island.
Welcome to one of the most beautiful Greek islands and the most romantic destination in Greece!
That island distinct from the others… a unique geological phenomenon, a brilliant majestic state built on the edge of the cliff, with picturesque hamlets, cobblestone streets, cave houses, dug in the volcanic rocks, either whole or with additional built.
The “Pompeii Aegean” houses built on volcanic terrain, with the simple Cycladic lines, and with a unique architectural “innovation”. Meet one of the most important cultures of the Aegean. Dive into the mysterious seabed of Santorini, see its famous sunset not described in words, try its unique wines from volcanic vineyards that count over 3,200 years of life.
Beaches full of color… Dive into beaches with black, red and white sand or colorful pebbles and sculptured by the salt and wind rocks. A unique setting that you will not find anywhere else in Greece… For lovers of good food… Santorini at your table! Overlooking the endless blue, traditional Mediterranean cuisine and the unique white and red wines of Santorini will take your mood off.
The sunset, every year is attracting couples to the volcanic island to enjoy the amazing view from the balcony of the Caldera. It is the famous sunset of all Santorini. A unique sight for your eyes only. Santorini is full of love…
One of the diamonds of the Cyclades. It is the “new Santorini” and the “new Mykonos”. It is one of the smallest and most picturesque Cycladic islands, with 32 square kilometers of land and about 650 permanent residents.
The landscape is so wild and charming! Its shores are steep and form many capes… but with a sea!
Meet the most exotic island of the Aegean. It is an island beyond the ordinary.
Take your boat and enjoy the colorful kaleidoscope of the beaches of Milos in all its splendor. Take a stroll in the picturesque colorful settlement on the water, where the harbor of ancient Milos was.
Wander around the settlement and wait for the sunset… The beaches of Milos are special and the most beautiful of the Cyclades. The Pirates of the Middle Ages had their lakes on the island of Milos… Their traces will be found in Kleftiko.
The famous statue of Aphrodite of Milos, which is now in the Louvre Museum (Paris), was found in Milos in 1820, while the copy is located at the Milos archaeological museum in Plaka.
Visit small and picturesque seaside villages and… taste the famous delicious lobster.
Quality vacation on the island of measure and harmony. Sifnos combines picturesque, gastronomy, folk art and tradition. It keeps a low profile without eccentricities and excesses, soothing the visitor.
An island that is famous for its architecture and the originality of its Cycladic beauty. Cosmic and elegant but simple and traditional at the same time, Sifnos is full of contradictions.
A popular destination, ideal for any type of holiday.
Paros, an island, white, like its famous marble… with its beautiful Cycladic-cobbled streets will give you a scent of jasmine and red bougainvillea and with its picturesque harbor make up a lively cinematic scenery, you will find it hard to find elsewhere land.
Paros will gladly give you what you want!
The morning return to Mykonos
Have a wonderful trip !!!
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Itineraly:7 days AEGEAN Islands – Cyclades (from Athens to Santorini)The most famous islands of Greece invite you to discover the reasons why they have been leading world travel destinations for years.
The duration of travel between islands is estimated approximately on an average speed of the boat.
The Most Popular Attractions in the Athens ”Riviera”
Athens ”Riviera” is called the area in the southern suburbs of Athens from Piraeus to the southernmost point of the Attica peninsula in the Cape of Sounio. On this route, you will find the most cosmopolitan beaches of Athens, Alimos, Glyfada, Vouliagmeni, Lagonissi, and Varkiza
Cape Sounion is located 69 kilometers (43 mi) south- southeast of Athens, at the southernmost tip of the Attica peninsula in Greece.
In recent years, the wider region due to its environmental value was declared a national park One of the most beautiful places in Europe where the temple of Poseidon dominates. Feel the energy of this landscape, drenched in the same light as in ancient times. A place of myths and legends.
The god of the sea – Τhe Doric Temple of Poseidon was built (around the same time as the Parthenon, 440 BC), standing proudly above the sea that the god adored. From this privileged point, you will have a panoramic view of the coastline and the neighboring islands of the Aegean Sea. It is world-famous its wonderful sunset.
Perhaps with the most beautiful beach of the Cyclades, Kythnos, modest and hospitable, unexpectedly beautiful and calm, welcomes you to its places.
When nature has a mood… it draws unique beauty beaches.
It has more than 70 beaches, many of which are still inaccessible by road. Of particular note is the crescent-shaped isthmus of fine sand at Kolona and the warm thermal springs at Loutra bay, which are said to have curative properties.
Picturesque villages with stone-paved cobbled streets, white houses, and blooming courtyards. Walk-in its neighborhoods, among tiled houses, and listen to its tranquility.
The gastronomy of Kythnos reflects its temperament: it is warm, family and simple. The tables on the waterfront, with umbrellas in the morning and evening candles, welcome friends Kythnos, simple and beloved!
Serifos
Discover the scenic and charming Serifos. Island of intense contrasts with golden beaches and wild beauty. The capital of Serifos, the magnificent Chora, with windmills and paved pedestrian streets, is a beautiful island settlement. The amphitheatrical country of Serifos with cubic houses. Whitewashed houses with simple wooden blue windows and doors.
Τraditional, simple Cycladic architecture that keeps unchanging over the years.
Serifos is a scenic and quiet place with traditional taverns. Chora offers a charming setting and is suitable for strolling and fun. With beaches ideal for diving and with tranquil harbors for relaxation and romance.
Quality vacation on the island of measure and harmony. Sifnos combines picturesque, gastronomy, folk art and tradition. It keeps a low profile without eccentricities and excesses, soothing the visitor.
An island that is famous for its architecture and the originality of its Cycladic beauty. Cosmic and elegant but simple and traditional at the same time, Sifnos is full of contradictions.
One of the diamonds of the Cyclades. It is the “new Santorini” and the “new Mykonos”. It is one of the smallest and most picturesque Cycladic islands, with 32 square kilometers of land and about 650 permanent residents.
The landscape is so wild and charming! Its shores are steep and form many capes… but with a sea! Aaaa!!!
Welcome to one of the most beautiful Greek islands and the most romantic destination in Greece! That island distinct from the others… a unique geological phenomenon, a brilliant majestic state built on the edge of the cliff, with picturesque hamlets, cobblestone streets, cave houses, dug in the volcanic rocks, either whole or with additional built.
The “Pompeii Aegean” Houses built on volcanic terrain, with the simple Cycladic lines and with a unique architectural “innovation”. Meet one of the most important cultures of the Aegean. Dive into the mysterious seabed of Santorini, see its famous sunset not described in words, try its unique wines from volcanic vineyards that count over 3,200 years of life.
Beaches full of color… Dive into beaches with black, red and white sand or colorful pebbles and sculptured by the salt and wind rocks. A unique setting that you will not find anywhere else in Greece… For lovers of good food… Santorini at your table! Overlooking the endless blue, traditional Mediterranean cuisine and the unique white and red wines of Santorini will take your mood off.
The sunset, every year is attracting couples to the volcanic island to enjoy the amazing view from the balcony of the Caldera. It is the famous sunset of all Santorini. A unique sight for your eyes only. Santorini is full of love…
Meet the most exotic island of the Aegean. It is an island beyond the ordinary. Take your boat and enjoy the colorful kaleidoscope of the beaches of Milos in all its splendor. Take a stroll in the picturesque colorful settlement on the water, where the harbor of ancient Milos was.
Wander around the settlement and wait for the sunset… The beaches of Milos are special and the most beautiful of the Cyclades. The Pirates of the Middle Ages had their lakes on the island of Milos… Their traces will be found in Kleftiko.
The famous statue of Aphrodite of Milos, which is now in the Louvre Museum (Paris), was found in Milos in 1820, while the copy is located at the Milos archaeological museum in Plaka.
Visit small and picturesque seaside villages and … … taste the famous delicious lobster lobster.
The morning return to Athens.
Have a good trip!
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The 10 Best Things to Do and See in SantoriniSantorini, one of, if not the, most beautiful island in Greece, is sure to impress. Considered one of the ten best islands in the world to visit, Santorini has breathtaking views, unique architecture, authentic cuisine, delicious wines, and stunning sunsets. Geographically, Santorini is an island like no other. Santorini sits on the caldera of an erupted volcano, and its principal towns, Fira and Oia, cling to cliffs on its coastline. Here, we give you a rundown of the ten best things to do on this wonderful island.
1. Take a Boat Around Santorini’s Caldera
To really appreciate all of Santorini, one should take a bout around the entire island and see its enormous Caldera, which at its base is 16 kilometers long! View its steep slopes upon which its villages sit and admire the beautiful blue and white houses on its coastline.
2. Visit Fira
Built on the caldera, at 260 meters above sea level, Fira has magnificent views of the crystal blue waters of the Aegean Sea and the island of Nea Kameni. There is also plenty of shopping in Fira, where you can check out art galleries, and souvenir as well as jewelry shops. And if you’re more of a partier, Fira is also the center of nightlife on the island, with many bars and clubs open late nights for endless dancing.
3. Hike the Volcano
Hike around the caldera of Santorini and dive into some of its natural warm waters. Santorini’s volcano is one of the larges underwater active volcanos in the world! But don’t worry though, it won’t erupt any time soon. According to scientists, the volcano is supposed to erupt only every 20,000 years, and the last eruption was only 3,600 years ago.
4. Visit Oia
A traditional settlement of Santorini famous for its sunsets, Oia has many homes built in caves, as the volcanic rock of the island made it perfect for cutting away spaces for homes.
5. Discover Finikia
Close to Oia lies Finikia, a beautiful countryside village. Take a walk around the settlement and experience beautiful traditional old homes painted in earthy colors and see pretty little gardens and courtyards.
6. Visit Akrotiri
Known as the “Pompeii of the Aegean Sea,” Akrotiri was once a Minoan village before it was destroyed by a volcanic eruption. The area of Akrotiri was first inhabited during the Late Neolithic period (around 4500 BC) and during the 18th century BC. Akrotiri’s remains still however somehow survived, and you can see what used to be warehouses, crafting tables, streets, and even a drainage system!
7. Discover Volcanic Beaches
Explore beaches with black, red, and white sand and enjoy the cool waters of the Aegean!
8. Honeymoon
Many couples honeymoon in Santorini, so it’s definitely a worthwhile destination to visit with your spouse!
9. Eat!
Grab a bite to eat from one of the wonderful seaside restaurants overlooking the Aegean Sea and enjoy authentic Mediterranean cuisine as well as the unique red and white wines of Santorini!
10. View a Sunset
Cou0ples flock to Santorini every year to enjoy a beautiful sunset from the Caldera. You should definitely see one too: it is quite a sight to behold.
Enjoy Santorini!
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Greece Sailing Itinerary: 7 Days Through the Cyclades IslandsThe Greek islands are a must-visit destination for any traveler. Indeed, the Greek islands have topped countless lists as a top destination around the world. In this itinerary, we lay out for you a plan to go from Athens to Mykonos and see the most spectacular highlights the Greek islands have to offer.
The Athens Riviera is a coastal area in the southernmost suburbs of Athens. On this sailing route, you will find the most cosmopolitan beaches of Athens, including Alimos, Glyfada, Vouliagmeni, Lagonissi and Varkiza.
Cape Sounion is located 69 kilometers (43 miles) southeast of Athens, at the southernmost tip of the Attica peninsula in Greece. Recently, the wider region of Cape Sounion was declared a national park, and is now protected by the Greek government. Cape Sounion is also home to the ruins of the ancient Greek temple of Poseidon, the god of the sea in classical Greek mythology. From the ruins, one can view the sunset over the Aegean Sea, a famous and beautiful view that many travel to see.
Kythnos, located in the Western part of the Cyclades, has perhaps the most beautiful beach out of all the Greek islands. This beach, a crescent- shaped isthmus, has extremely fine sand and warm thermal springs at Loutra bay, which are told to have healing properties.
Kythnos also has picturesque villages with cobblestone streets and white houses with blooming flower courtyards. Kythnos is warm, friendly, and simple. Walk through its quiet neighborhoods and dine on fresh food at waterfront tables.
Syros is located 144 kilometers (78 miles) southeast of Athens. Its capital, Ermoupoli, is a neoclassical town and one of the most beautiful settlements you will encounter in the Cyclades. Syros’s Roman quarter is home to the fortress-like St. George’s Cathedral. Go up to the top of the hill the Cathedral sits on, through the narrow streets, past the traditional whitewashed houses, and through the archways and open spaces to catch a breathtaking view of the entire island.
Syros also has beautiful architecture, such as the churches of St. Nicolas the Rich and Dormition of the Mother of God. On the hill that St. George’s Cathedral sits on, also sits the remarkable medieval settlement of Ano Syros, built during 300 AD.
3rd DAY: MYKONOS
The most famous island of the Aegean, Mykonos is bright and cosmopolitan, with exciting nightlife and stunning scenery. With its stunning beaches, award-winning restaurants, endless fantastical parties, and dream villas, it is no wonder Mykonos has been voted one of the top vacation destinations worldwide.
If the Mykonos nightlife scene isn’t for you, don’t worry. Mykonos is also home to the Ano Mera Village, a calm, authentic, and picturesque town home to the historic church Panagia Tourliani as its main attraction.
A very diverse island, Mykonos has become the most gay-friendly destination in Greece and the most popular in the world.
Mykonos is also home to Little Venice, and its houses (which were built in the 18th century) have foundations in the sea! Today they offer bars, restaurants, and stunning views of the Aegean from their balconies.
The other trademark of Mykonos are the Kato Myloi, a series of windmills, that, built by the Venetians in the 16th century, milled flour up until the mid-1900’s. Today, they are home to locals and serve as vaults to numerous Mykonian heritage documents.
Moreover, Mykonos has tons of scuba diving, and its waters are home to some amazing creatures, including octopus, starfish, and Mediterranean monk seals! There are countless companies which offer diving expeditions through reefs, caves, and even shipwrecks!
4th DAY: MYKONOS – DELOS & RHENIA ISLANDS
Delos is one of the most important mythological, historical, and archaeological sites in Greece. Dolos is the birthplace of the twin gods Apollo and Artemis and has been a holy sanctuary for a millennium. Admire beautiful archaeological sites and watch the unique sunset on the island of the god of light, Apollo.
Charter your boat in Rinia, where you can dive into blue waters and cool off in the fresh air. Rinia is a peaceful, almost deserted island where one can recharge and catch a break from all the noise.
Naxos is the largest, most fertile, and self-sufficient island of the Cyclades. In the harbor, one is welcomed by Portara, a large marble frame and an ancient Apollo Temple, along with a view of a medieval castle. The island has a history dating back centuries, unique sights, varying landscapes, and delicious food.
A visit to Naxos is not complete without the exploration of the picturesque countryside and the mountain villages of the island which have been inhabited for centuries.
Naxos was rated the sixth best island in the world and the number two place to visit in Europe according to TripAdvisor, the popular travel site’s, users. It is also described as a critical culinary destination because it produces some of Greece’s most famous exports including many Greek cheeses.
Koufonissia is a well-hidden terrestrial paradise that is also definitely worth visiting. Filled with quiet beaches and caves, Koufonissia is an excellent place for relaxation and time to oneself.
Koufonissia, with its crystal clear waters, has plenty of opportunities for beautiful Mediterranean diving. With dreamy landscapes and tranquil music, Koufonissia is one of the most peaceful places to explore.
6th DAY: PAROS or SIFNOS
Paros also has beaches with crystal clear waters and magnificent beauty Also in Paros however, you’ll discover Byzantine footpaths which which connect traditional villages like Naoussa, a colorful village where the ruins of a Venetian fortress stand at the entrance to its small harbor. Naoussa is also home to exquisite shopping opportunities in the town’s narrow alleyways and fine dining along its shores.
Sifnos combines picturesque views with folk art and tradition. It has many medieval remains and contains 360 churches, for the number of days in a year.
Sifnos is an island famous for its architecture and its beauty. Elegant but simple at the same time, Sifnos is full of stunning, pure beauty.
7th DAY : SERIFOS to ATHENS
Serifos is the ideal place for taking a stroll or stopping into one of its cafes, fish taverns, or pastry shops located next to the sea. Chora, Serifos’s capital city, was built on a rocky hilltop overlooking over the rest of the island, and houses a Venetian castle built in the 15th century. The most beautiful architectural building on Serifos however, is the ancient Hellenistic marble watchtower Aspros Pirgos, or “White Tower.”
Simply put, Serifos has beautiful, simple Cycladic architecture that has remained unchanged for centuries.
With magnificent views, archaeological wonders, and fantastic adventures, you’re sure to love this itinerary which takes sailors to all of the must-see Greek islands.
Enjoy!
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The Best Sailing Destinations in Aegean SeaWhat makes the Aegean the ideal setting for sailing in Greece? Mild and gradual changes in temperature, steady, predictable winds, the absence of tides and strong currents, crystal-clear waters and countless bays, a plethora of stunning islands and the short distances between them, picturesque harbours, safe anchorages, the possibility of fishing, diving, water skiing… It’s doubtful whether any other sea on the planet can muster a longer list.
And then there are the meltemia, the prevailing north winds that blow every summer from about 5 to 7 Beaufort from May to September, a phenomenon known since antiquity. What more do you want? Sail in the Aegean and explore Cyclades, Dodecanese and Sporades with just one click here!
Popular sailing destinations in the Aegean
1. Attica:
Setting off by boat into the Aegean, one of the most popular departure points is Attica. It has many fully equipped marinas offering a high level of service, such as Zea and Flisvos, which can accommodate the most luxurious cruisers, as well as Alimos, which is the home port for most of the charter companies. On the east coast, at Lavrio, the Olympic Marine has extensive facilities for sailing. Given the number of yacht charterers, you can take your pick from a huge variety of sailboats, with crew or bareboat of any size. Most of the firms also arrange their clients’ transfers from the airport and offer them a full package of sea experiences/itineraries.
2. Cyclades:
The Cyclades are a particularly attractive sailing destination, mainly because of their relative proximity to Athens and the great variety of experiences they promise. The contrast of their shockingly white houses against the deep blue of the sea is Greece’s trademark internationally, not to mention the colours of its flag. And because the distance between islands is small, a yachting holiday can take in numerous ports and coves within a very short time. You could even sail to a different island every day, although each one merits close examination.
3. Kea, Kythnos, Serifos & Syros:
Sailing east from one of the marinas on the coast of Attica, you’ll come across a few Greek islands worth exploring with your sailboat. You’ll find Kea first, then Kythnos, Serifos and Syros, the capital of the Cyclades, which is a base for many charter companies. This means that you could easily charter your yacht from the heart of the archipelago and start your explorations at once, while you also have the option of finish your cruise there and returnto Athens by plane or ferry. Aristocratic Ermoupoli with its large and safe harbour is a destination well worth visiting by boat.
4. Tinos, Mykonos and Andros:
Tinos and Mykonos are also ideal destinations although they need more caution, since the winds there can be stronger and there can be higher waves brought down from the Dardanelles by the prevailing northeasterlies.
5. Sifnos, Paros & Naxos:
Sifnos,Paros and Naxos to the south are classic choices, with a succession of private coves that are protected from the prevailing north winds or meltemia. All these islands boast good marinas with connections for fuel and water but also every kind of food supply. Paros also hosts international windsurfing competitions every year, thanks to the ideal conditions of steady winds without choppy waves.
6. Milos:
Milos, further south, offers spectacular lunar landscapes and dramatic coves and beaches that can be reached only by yacht. It also has one of the largest, almost enclosed harbours in the Mediterranean and the port, Adamas, is safe in all weathers and has facilities for servicing yachts. If you make it to Milos, a must see is the volcanic rock formations at Kleftiko on the south coast.
7. Sikinos & Folegandros:
Heading south you come to Sikinos and Folegandros, which though off the beaten track they are ideal settings for sailing, and are among the most strikingly beautiful islands in the Cyclades. Their ports are small and somewhat exposed, so keep your eye on the weather forecast.
8. Amorgos & Ikaria:
Waves in the Aegean are apt to be low because the islands’ relatively proximity, but the winds can be strong and need certain nautical experience, an example being conditions often found during the crossing from Amorgos. Still, the sight of Hozoviotissa monastery cut out of the rock, seemingly suspended above the sea, is a reward in itself.
9. Santorini:
There can be no more awesome experience than sailing into volcanic Santorini – one of the most famous Greek islands—and it has sufficient anchorage facilities and services for yachts.
10. Koufonisia:
Perhaps one of the most delightful destinations for those who prefer a low-key, natural setting rather than a zippy nightlife when the day is done, are the Koufonisia. These small, unspoilt islands now benefit from a new marina on Ano Koufonisi, making them an ideal base for exploring the islets, inhabited and not, in the vicinity. No longer a secret, their sheltered coves are often filled with boats at anchor.
11. Sporades:
The thickly wooded Sporades are wonderful to explore by yacht. It’s a toss up which of the three, Skiathos, Skopelos and Alonnisos, is the greenest, while their ‘brother’ Skyros is both pine-wooded and rocky, with its white Hora atop a bare promontory and visible from miles away. Again the distances between these islands are neglible and you can easily visit them all, as well as their smaller uninhabited relatives in the Sporades Marine Park. Don’t expect statel-of-the-art marinas but you won’t be disappointed by the wealth of sheltered bays and deserted coves. The meltemia, too, are milder here than in the southern Aegean.
12. Dodecanese:
Cruising the distant Dodecanese is made easier by the possibility of chartering a yacht locally. In summer especially, the meltemia make comings and goings by sailboat a very attractive option for experienced sailors, since the seas are open. But don’t expect to get there from Attica in a single day.
The Dodecanese are an ideal sailing destination. Airports exist on almost all the islands – Rhodes, Kastellorizo, Karpathos, Astypalaia, Leros, Kalymnos, Kassos and Kos – which makes getting there from Attica easy.
Like the Cyclades, these islands are fairly close to one another, apart from Kastellorizo, so you can visit a different one every day. Bear in mind that each island has more than enough to repay a longer stay. From Rhodes, the capital of this chain, to the tiny islands of Leipsi, Arki and Agathonisi, this group has a lot of wealthy to discover. Leros, Kos, and of course Rhodes, have magnificent marinas for all sizes of yachts.