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.
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.
