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Ciclades route, departure from Athens

Sailing in the Cyclades islands is an incredible experience that offers breathtaking scenery, crystal-clear waters, and a rich cultural heritage. Departing from Athens, you’ll embark on a journey filled with discovery and relaxation. Let’s set sail!
The Cyclades are further away from Athens, and also the distances between the islands are a lot longer than other Greek archipelagos. The area has pretty strong winds during the summer. The Meltemi wind blows from the North from mid June to early September and it can be pretty strong. It happens very often that it reaches 7 or 8 beauforts and along it brings big waves and swell. Going south, downwind, is easier. But if you need to return to north upwind, can be pretty messy. So before you plan in sailing in the area make sure you check properly the weather forecast and plan accordingly.

Best first stop after leaving Athens is Kythnos island. You can arrive late and stay you will find a spot at anchor in the protected bay of Kolona. From here you can head to the picturesque island of Mykonos. Known for its iconic windmills and vibrant nightlife, Mykonos offers a perfect blend of relaxation and entertainment. Explore the narrow streets of Mykonos Town, indulge in delicious Greek cuisine, and soak up the sun on the beautiful beaches. If weather is fine, you cn make a 2 days stop here.
Next on the itinerary is the enchanting island of Paros. Known for its traditional architecture, beautiful beaches, and vibrant local culture, Paros offers a perfect balance between relaxation and exploration. Explore the charming villages of Naoussa and Parikia, visit the ancient ruins of the Temple of Apollo, and indulge in delicious seafood at the waterfront taverns.

Leaving Paros, your sailing adventure takes you to the island of Naxos. Naxos is the largest of the Cyclades islands and offers a diverse range of activities. Explore the ancient ruins of the Temple of Apollo and Portara, relax on the pristine beaches, or hike through the beautiful Naxos countryside. Don’t miss the opportunity to taste the famous local cheese, which is a specialty of the island.

If the time allows and you like long sails, you could sail even to the stunning island of Santorini. Famous for its breathtaking sunsets and iconic blue-domed churches, Santorini is a must-visit destination. Rent a car and explore the island: take a stroll through the charming village of Oia, sample the local wines in the vineyards or relax on the volcanic beaches. The unique landscape of Santorini, with its dramatic cliffs overlooking the deep blue sea, will leave you in awe.
Siros is one of the important islands in the area, and it once was the capital of the Cyclades. Ermoupoli is a big town and port and we recommend it only if you feel like going back to civilization 🙂 A better option is the small port of

There are several islands in the area that are really worth a visit, and this is why we suggest 2 weeks sailing in this area. Or charter a yacht directly from Mykonos or Paros, so you save the time lost to sail from Athens and back. Islands that definetly should be visited are Serifos, Sifnos, Ios Those lesser-known islands offers a tranquil and authentic Greek experience. Enjoy the unspoiled sandy beaches, explore the charming hilltop town of Chora, and savor traditional Greek cuisine at local taverns. Serifos is the perfect place to unwind and reflect on the magical experiences you’ve had during your sailing adventure.

As you can see, sailing in the Cyclades islands, departing from Athens, offers a truly unforgettable experience. From the vibrant nightlife of Mykonos to the stunning sunsets of Santorini, each island has its own unique charm. Get ready to set sail and immerse yourself in the beauty, history, and culture of the Cyclades islands.

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