The dazzlingly beautiful Cyclades islands are scattered off the southern Greek mainland and whilst many will recognise names such as Santorini and Mykonos, we invite you to join sailing yacht Zorba to discover some of the lesser-known isles. During the summer months, the islands are blessed by a northerly wind known as the ‘meltemi’ which turn these stunning lands into a sailor’s dream, perfect for island-hopping and exploring. But, aside from these perfect conditions, what makes sailing here so special? We asked Aga and Greg, the skipper’s of Zorba, why the Cyclades islands never cease to amaze….
THE CYCLADES ISLANDS ARE ICONICALLY GREEK
We love that each island is so very evidently Greek. Intricate white-washed labyrinthine towns, blue roof-tops and bright pink Bougainvillea all greet you on arrival from the sea and this always make us smile. Watching as guests reach for their cameras while mesmerised by the beauty is so wonderful and is a fantastic way to start each island visit.
FABULOUS SWIMMING AND SNORKELLING
The Aegean Sea is warm, turquoise and crystal clear. With numerous secluded bays, deserted beaches and rocky outcrops, snorkelling and swimming opportunities are plentiful. Having spent the last fifteen years sailing in Greece, we know them well and have several ‘secret’ spots to take guests where the marine life is plentiful. Colourful fish dart amongst the rocks whilst the sun gleams through the water onto the white sand below, it’s just magical and one of the many reasons why we love to take guests on sailing holidays in the Cyclades islands.
EXPLORING ASHORE
With plenty of picturesque islands, exploring here is best done under sail. Leaving behind the well-known tourist hot spots of Santorini and Mykonos we prefer to sail in quieter shores far from the crowds. At the beginning of each venture we ask if there is anything in particular guests would like to experience and then we tailor the trip to meet these requests. History lovers will enjoy experiencing the ancient acropolis on Antiparos as well as the ruins on Delos, an island which was sacred to the ancient greeks.
Beach goers are simply spoilt for choice, we can head to Ios which is known for it’s golden sandy shores or the small isle of Koufonissi which promises remote beauty. Just 10 square miles in size, what this island lacks in size, it certainly makes up for with jaw-dropping beauty. And after a day spent in the fresh air soaking up all that the Cyclades islands have to offer under sail, sit back and take in the warm Greek hospitality at a traditional Greek taverna where we will while away the evening.
Crystal clear warm watersAnchoring in the CycladesBright Bougainvillea
Sailing Holidays in the Cyclades Islands
If you’re feeling tempted by a sailing holiday in Greece (and who wouldn’t be?!) then take a look at our schedule for sailing yacht Zorba. She sails to the Cyclades in August, returning north to Athens and the Saronics towards the end of the month.
For many, the notion of sailing in Greece is often one of flotilla’s, large groups and crowded waters however, our sailing holidays in the Saronic Islands could not be further from this. Join gorgeous Zorba in Athens for a skippered, charted sailing holiday in the Saronic Islands and step off the beaten track to experience authentic Greece and remote escapism.
THE NATURAL BEAUTY OF THE SARONIC ISLANDS
The Saronic islands are renowned for their natural beauty which has long-drawn writers and artists seeking to draw inspiration from the stunning scenery. Blessed with stunning beaches, secluded coves and ancient olive groves, the isles boast more lush vegetation than many other Greek islands. Surrounded by clear cerulean seas which glitter under the bright Grecian sun, they offer an unparalleled natural beauty. While away the hours exploring uninhabited islands, soak up the sun on deserted beaches and snorkel in warm waters before relaxing on Zorba’s deck and absorbing the picturesque landscape with a drink in hand.
No holiday to Greece would be complete without taking in the 2500-years of history and with the Saronic islands having played a pivotal role in the history of Greece, the islands offer plenty of historical attractions. Stop off at Aegina to visit the Temple of Aphaia, one of three historical Greek monuments which form the so-called holy triangle of antiquity, along with the Parthenon in Athens and the Temple of Poseidon in Sounion. Head to car-free Hydra, one of the most popular islands, navigate yourself through the cobbled streets to the fascinating Museum of Historical Archives and Bastions. Hydra town has been restored and preserved exactly as it was in the 1800’s with breathtaking Venetian style architecture looming tall and proud above the harbour. Or call in at Poros, the island made up of two parts having formed as the result of a volcanic explosion in 273BC, to visit the Holy Monastery of Zoodochos Pigi, founded in 1720 by the then-Archbishop of Athens.
SARONIC ISLANDS – FOOD AND DRINK
Although they lie in close proximity to Athens, each of the Saronic islands proffer their own personality and true Greek hospitality, with tavernas lining harbours and hillsides. Sailing in the Saronic islands is utter bliss and with so much to explore, we guarantee that come the evening, you’ll have worked up a healthy appetite! We step ashore each evening to allow guests the opportunity to enjoy the warm Greek hospitality and fabulous food – the islands have even featured on one of Rick Stein’s culinary journeys and it is easy to see why. The food offering in the Saronic islands is unbelievable, from locally produced wine to home-grown fresh-out-the-field produce, there is plenty to tempt the hungry sailor. Dine in waterside taverna’s, absorb the views from rooftop garden restaurants in the mountains and hunker down in unassuming backstreet eateries. This region loves it’s food and drink, the only thing the people love more is sharing it with those who take the time to visit.
Tavernas in the Saronic IslandsFood onboard Zorba
Sailing Holidays in the Saronic Islands
Sound enticing? Then jump aboard Zorba this season for a sailing holiday in the Saronic islands, with cheap flights from the UK to Athens and the boat moored just a short taxi-ride from the airport, joining us couldn’t be easier! Sail with Zorba >
Set 28 miles out into the Atlantic Ocean, the low-lying Isles of Scilly are small, untamed and isolated. Often bathed in warm sunshine, they offer a balmy idyll surrounded by crystal-clear waters.
Comprised of just five inhabited islands, and numerous tiny uninhabited rocks and islets, the archipelago is home to 2,200 islanders, The largest, St. Mary’s is just 2.5 square miles in size and home to the largest population – a total of 1,800 – with the other 400 Scillonians spread across Tresco, St. Martin’s, Bryher and St. Agnes. Each isle has it’s own personality, offering subtle differences from its neighbours. No visit here would be complete without experiencing them all and the best way to explore is with a Scilly sailing holiday.
St. Mary’s
For those arriving into Scilly by flight or boat, they will have their first glimpse of island life on St. Mary’s. It may be the largest in the cluster but it’s still very small with a total circumference of just over 9 miles. Head to the ‘capital’ Hugh Town to browse an eclectic cluster of shops, galleries and the museum or soak up the sights from one of the tempting cafes and restaurants that are dotted throughout the town. As you sail into the main harbour, you can see why this island attracts too many sailors each year and with its new marina onshore facilities, the islands welcome boats from far and wide every season.
Lace-up your boots and set off on foot to uncover some of the islands Bronze Age history and the outstanding scenery that has long lured artists and wildlife enthusiasts. Take in the incredible sights from the historic 16th Century Star Castle which commands panoramic views across the archipelago or make for Old Town where you can beach comb whilst losing yourself in the peaceful hush that falls on this quieter side of the island. And if you’ve worked up an appetite after a busy day exploring then you’ll be pleased to know that nowhere is far from a delicious local eatery. – there’s even a vineyard and gin distillery to enjoy!
St. Martin’s
Home to some of the finest powder-soft white sandy beaches, visitors to St. Martin’s are often forgiven for thinking they’ve landed in the Caribbean. The miles of long white sand, backed by marram-topped dunes are deemed some of the best in Britain, they ebb away into mesmerizingly clear turquoise waters which just cry out to be swum in. It’s the perfect place to pack up a picnic and wander along the coast, exploring, beachcombing and whiling the hours away.
Aside from the beach St. Martin’s offers a natural paradise, a spectacular landscape of wild flowers, heather and gorse. The birdlife here is exceptional with guillemots, Storm Petrels and puffins all calling the Eastern isles (which are scattered off the far tip of St. Martin’s) home. Stick around until after dark and you will be rewarded with a sky full of stars – the island boasts five dark sky sites and even a community observatory.
St. Agnes
Fondly referred to as the wild isle, St. Agnes is Britains most southwesterly outpost and is strewn with Bronze Age burial sites and barren heathland. Spirited, independent and windswept, St. Agnes offers a rugged beauty interspersed with stunning sheltered coves. The only island to be separated from the archipelago by a deep-water channel, St. Agnes is connected to the diminutive island of Gugh by a shallow sand bar that is only accessible at low tide. Stroll barefoot across to spend a few hours utterly castaway during the flooding high tide. Gugh is one of the most popular anchorages on Scilly, where you can spend the evening on deck with the most amazing sunsets and starry skies for company.
It is in part this isolation that has seen the island become a magnet for wildlife and it is here that Storm petrels and Manx shearwaters have started to breed again thanks to the highly successful Seabird Recovery Project. For those who prefer more modern comforts, fear not, St. Agnes is also home to galleries, musicians and artists’ workshops as well as the most south-westerly dairy farm in Britain which produces absolutely phenomenal ice cream!
Tresco
Manicured and sophisticated, Tresco is the only privately owned island in the chain and its luxurious appeal lures celebrities and royalty alike. Proffering fabulous beaches – both Pentle Bay and Appletree Bay jostle for attention amongst the world’s best beaches – it is the ideal place to linger and take in the sense of calm which Tresco exudes.
However, it is the incredible sub-tropical Tresco Abbey Garden for which the island is arguably best known. A botanical wonder set amidst the ruins of an ancient Benedictine priory, the gardens are home to over 20,000 plant species collected from around the globe, many of which would be unable to survive anywhere else in the UK. Whilst exploring, keep eyes out for the flash of a red squirrel – they have thrived since being introduced in 2013 and are often spotted hopping from tree to tree! Wildlife watchers will also rejoice in watching the seals and array of migratory birds that flock to Great Pool whilst history lovers can spend hours visiting the numerous heritage sites found on Tresco, including Cromwell’s Castle which guards the channel between Tresco and Bryher. And there’s no need to pack a lunch, hungry tummies can be satiated at one of the mouth-watering eateries, each serving up delicious island shellfish and local produce.
Bryher
Beautiful Bryher, an island of rugged cliffs and secluded coves, of wonderful contrast and overflowing with charm. Just one and a half miles in length by half a mile wide, this tiny isle packs a punch with countless artists and creative spirits inspired by its magical charms including author Michael Morpurgo. Indeed, Bryher is the location for the film When the Whales Came, filmed on the island back in 1988.
However, you do not need to be a creative type to be captivated by Bryher’s allure. Experience the stillness of the southern shores with their shell-strewn beaches and rich aquamarine waters. Venture up the granite stacks of Shipman Head to storm watch and embrace the wilder side of Bryher or circumnavigate the coastline via the seven hills, none of which rise more than 150 feet.
The island is also home to an abundance of tempting island produce. Indulge in heavenly freshly-prepared paella, cook up some Bryher bangers and farm produce on a barbecue, or treat yourself to some delicious Veronica Farm fudge and Crab Shack delights – yum!
You can choose to sail over to the Isles of Scilly from Cornwall or Devon, with voyages departing from Falmouth, Penzance Plymouth or Brixham. The trip over the 28 miles to the islands can take a full day of sailing, depending on the winds, but once you are over there you have the freedom to tour via boat with opportunities to step ashore each day and explore the islands on foot. If you’re not keen to sail over to the Isles of Scilly then you can charter the Scillionian classic boat Pettifox who spends her summers on St Mary’s where she will meet guests off the planes and ferry to host them on board for a week or a weekend. Sail the islands and stop off each day to explore and enjoy the local food or cook out on the beach with a BBQ and watch the sun go down. A sailing holiday on the Isles of Scilly is a truly magical experience unlike any other sailing adventure in the UK.
The perfect destination for family yacht charters and beginner sailing holidays.
Known as the ‘Queen of the Ionian Sea’, Corfu combines breath-taking natural beauty, traditional Greek charm and intriguing coastlines. This makes it the ideal destination for a beginner’s sailing holiday and undoubtedly an adventure at sea the whole family will enjoy.
Sailing in Corfu offers an exciting mix of sheltered coastal coves and miles and miles of crystal-clear open waters to enjoy.
Nicknamed ‘Emerald Island’, thanks to its lush green landscapes, Corfu is a feast for the eyes. Bright turquoise waters and swathes of pine trees, olive groves and vineyards line the island’s coast and mountain tops, offering up one of Europe’s most beautiful sailing backdrops.
Life at sea in Corfu offers you freedom and flexibility to do what suits you and your family, whether that’s adventures and activities, or some much needed rest and relaxation, or both. Sailing in Corfu makes for an unforgettable family adventure.
Swimming and snorkelling
The warm, inviting waters of the Ionian Sea are perfect for swimming. On board our luxury classic yachts Rhea and Kairos, our admiralty ladder is a firm favourite with guests of all ages – the perfect place to jump into the turquoise sea and climb back on board with ease. Hours of fun and an experience no-one will forget.
Corfu is just as beautiful below the water as it is above. It’s considered to be one of Europe’s undiscovered snorkelling gems. The peaceful, clear waters are ideal for family snorkelling and our boats provide snorkelling gear for guests to enjoy at their leisure. Furthermore, both Kairos and Rhea also have water skiing, wake-board, and tube ridingavailable to make the most of the beautiful waters below you.
Have an adventure
Sailing in Corfu is all about making discoveries and enjoying an adventure. Steer clear of crowded tourist hotspots and uncover the real Corfu under sail.
Corfu and its surrounding islands are peppered with pebbled coves, vast olive groves and stunning stretches of golden sandy beaches, ready to be explored. Your voyage route to explore beyond Corfu will depend entirely on which way the wind is blowing, adding to the excitement and sense of adventure.
To the north of Corfu is the Diapontia Islands of Othonoi, Eirkoussa and Mathraki. These peaceful islands offer tranquil stretches of golden sands, quaint fishing villages, and traditional tavernas with delicious local produce, particularly seafood.
To the south, there are the beautiful Paxi Islands of Paxos and Antipaxos, famous for their fine wines and stunning sandy beaches. The west coasts of the islands remain untouched, offering a perfect place to explore centuries-old olive groves and unspoilt coves.
Soak it all in
Corfu has some of the most beautiful scenery in the world and soaking up the sun with a cool drink on board a classic luxury yacht has to be one of the best ways to experience it. It is certainly a holiday where you can leave it all behind and escape to paradise.
Sailing in Corfu for beginners
Our sailing holidays in Corfu are ideal for beginners. Our boats are fully crewed, and you don’t need any sailing experience to get involved. From hoisting the sails to taking the helm, chart reading or even having a go at splicing some rope, there is always something interesting happening on board if you want to join in.
Of course, you may prefer to sit back, relax and let your experienced skipper expertly guide you across the seas to discover the next hidden gem Corfu has to offer.
Either way, sailing in Corfu is sure to capture your family’s heart and make memories that will last a lifetime.
