sailing in greece Archives - Venturesail Holidays

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.

Zorba Greek water — Crystal clear warm waters

Zorba Cyclades anchorage — Crystal clear warm waters

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.

Sail in the Cyclades with Zorba >

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.

EXPLORE ANCIENT GREEK HISTORY

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.

Zorba guests Taverna — Tavernas in the Saronic Islands

Zorba food onboard — Tavernas in the Saronic Islands

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 >