The Cyclades

This group of 39 beautiful islands with laid-back vibes lies in the Aegean Sea, close to Athens, and is one of the most popular sailing grounds in the world. From the whitewashed houses, to the iconic blue-painted church domes and charming old windmills, this is Greece personified. 

The beauty of chartering a yacht in the Cyclades is that you have complete freedom to hop between the islands as your captain and crew will adapt your itinerary to your personal preferences. The beaches are one of the biggest draws to the Aegean, with warm, calm waters making a yacht charter here a wonderfully relaxing and experience for couples, friends or families.

The best-known islands in the Cyclades, Mykonos, Santorini and Ios draw lovers and couples who stroll through their narrow streets arm in arm, taking selfies besides glorious Bougainvillea. Be sure to visit Santorini, renowned for its own volcano as well as its scenic natural, black pebble beaches. A party hotspot, Mykonos boasts lavish nightlife and some of the most notable and romantic restaurants in Greece, while Ios – also known for its nightlife – offers the chance to relish gorgeous Magganari beach and explore the town’s windmills.

Besides the main islands, there are numerous little islands. To the south, the once remote island of Folegandros is becoming increasingly popular, whilst nearby Sikinos is still little-visited and boasts a population of only 300. Oia is peaceful and romantic, while the best sunsets can be seen from the ancient ruins on Thea. Kea, with its oak forest, and Kythnos, with its hot springs, are both quieter than many of the other islands. Like the other Aegean islands, the Cyclades are in the path of the warm Meltemi wind from the end of June through into September – ensuring excellent conditions for a sailing yacht charter.