book2sail-harbor mykonos greece CELEBMYKONOS0817

7 Day Sailing Itinerary for the Cyclades Islands

Imagine sailing in the Cyclades, where you will find yourself surrounded by the majestic colors of the Aegean Sea and the wonder of Greek mythology. In fact, it is Poseidon, the God of the Sea, who created the Cyclades, a collection of islands which is now one of the most popular sailing destinations all over the world.

However, to thoroughly enjoy the unique nature of this region, it is best to spend one-week sailing in the Cyclades islands. Starting the journey in Athens, you can explore the surrounding islands of Syros, Mykonos, and Paros.  Interestingly, each island offers a unique sense of charm that never fails to delight sailing enthusiasts and tourists alike.

DAY 1 – ATHENS
book2sail-alimos marina athens

source: Epifany-Yachting.com

Considered the jewel of the Cyclades cruise, Athens is the best starting point for a week-long sailing itinerary. Alimos, the cruise port of Athens, is just 15 kilometers from the city center and this large and busy port serves as a dock for the many ferries and cruises that sail into the Cyclades. Before you get on with the cruise, take time to explore Athens and uncover many historical sights such as the infamous Acropolis, home to the notorious Parthenon.

DAY 2 & 3 – SYROS
book2sail-Syros island Greece

source: miriadna.com

From Athens, you can head over to Syros, the capital of the Cycladic islands, a place where Western influence and Greek tradition come into harmony. Here, you can feel enamoured by the sapphire waters of the gulf and moor at the quaint harbor at Finikas. Located on the southwest coast of the island, Finikas is where you can take a morning swim in stunning waters by day and explore the town at night. Featuring unique architecture, fine restaurants and a host of charming cafes, this is an excellent place to unwind and enjoy the small pleasures in life.

DAY 4 & 5 – MYKONOS
book2sail-maxresdefault 1 1

source: Youtube/ Travel Life Chose Me

After spending a day or two at Syros, you can head to Mykonos. Of all the islands of the Cyclades, Mykonos is arguably the most popular. Indeed, this island has something interesting to offer for everyone which is the reason you will often find this isle on most cruising itineraries for Greece.  You can spend a day or two here, where picturesque whitewashed buildings cling to the hillsides, and friendly faces adorn every street. Walking around the charming harbor, you should also take time to discover the hidden alleyways dotted with cafes, restaurants, and boutiques. After dark, the local nightlife is amongst the most vibrant with many bars and clubs taking their place on the lively waterfront.

DAY 6 & 7 – PAROS
book2sail-paros greece

source: Paros Greece

Finally, Paros Island is the final destination for this one-week itinerary for sailing in the Cyclades. You will most likely dock at the Parikia port, which is the main port of Paros, and there are so many things to discover in the charming island. However, unlike Mykonos and many other islands in the Cyclades, Paros is less touristy and a lot more laidback. In fact, this is often considered the sleepy island in the Cyclades until the busy cafes and bars open up for sunset.

Are you taking a sailing adventure into the Cyclades Islands? Please let us know in the comments!

Frequently asked questions

  • 1
    What are some of the key preparations I should consider prior to my yacht charter?
    • Travel Documentation

      Always ensure you have some form of acceptable identification, in legible condition and valid.

      Medication

      Double check that both you and other individuals in your group remember to bring important medications that you are currently being prescribed, accounting for the amount of time you will be at sea.

      Money & Additional expenses

      It would be prudent to budget for slightly over what you anticipate spending. Charter related expenses will be made known, however you never know whether you will need something once travelling.

      Research

      Set aside some time look up the areas you intend on visiting, both whilst chartering (as part of your anticipated itinerary) and whilst travelling to the location at which you will begin your charter.

      Supplies

      As with any journey or holiday, ensure you have adequate toiletries, perhaps some favored foods and snacks.

      Clothing

      Bring the types of clothing that will, in your estimation, suit the weather conditions of the location in which you will be chartering. It may be handy to spend some time researching a few sailing blogs and weather forecasts.

      Equipment

      All necessary equipment should be found already aboard (including safety equipment and anything required to properly operate the vessel. Though you may like to bring a few extra mod-cons to ensure you have the best of experiences.

  • 2
    What is the best way to choose the right vessel and charter for me?
    • Choosing the best vessel for you and those joining you on your yacht charter, would be dependent on your personal preference. Though we recommend considering the following points:

      • Your level of experience
      • Where you will be chartering
      • The time of year and associated weather conditions
      • The ages and competence of both yourself and those in your group

      It would be very helpful for you to conduct some basic research pertaining to all of the above, by way of asking those who you know have chartered the type of vessel or been to the location you are considering, before. Yacht charter blogs and other relevant websites that will offer you an understanding of the key factors you should consider.

      And of course, we are more than happy to help you with your decision.

  • 3
    Do I need a licence to charter a yacht?
    • That all depends on where you intend to charter. If you would like to charter a yacht within Europe, the answer would be yes. It is important to remember that the correct licencing and/or documentation for your charter is your responsibility and we would strongly advise you to enquire into the legal prerequisites of your chosen charter region, taking care to note any differences if you are to cross maritime boarders.

      Regarding Europe, you will require an International Certificate of Competence, also known as the ICC.

  • 4
    What is an APA?
    • As a rule of thumb, the fee you pay for your charter, includes the rental of the vessel and the necessary crew to operate it, all other expenses associated with the charter are separate and are financed by the APA, which stands for the Advance provisioning allowance.

      The APA generally amounts to 30% of the total charter fee, though this may vary depending on the vessel.

      Dockage fees, fuel, communications and food & beverages will all be financed by the APA. Any remaining money from the APA at the end of the charter, will be returned to you.

  • 5
    What happens if the owner/captain does not show up, or is late?
    • All boat owners are bound to have someone meeting charterers on the day of charter. It is important that you as a charterer notify us if there is something wrong with your charter. For more information read the charterer’s policy.

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