Cyclades Islands
Your special heading description text goes here. You can edit it using Frontend Builder.
The most enchanting gems of the Mediterranean waiting to be discovered!
hen you think of sailing around the Cyclades do you dream of the rugged beauty of Santorini? The crystal waters of Milos? The history and energy of Delos or the bustling life of Mykonos? The volcanic landscape, the trademark windmills, the unique Cycladic architecture or the long tradition and the great ancient history?
The Cycladic Islands are an amalgam of different landscapes that allow the visitor to choose from a wide variety of experiences to enjoy. The Cyclades are the passport to an abundance of beautiful places to visit, crystal clear waters to swim in, traditional villages to explore, winding, cobble-stone alleys to stroll along. They are everything you have ever dreamt a sailing trip should be and indeed they deliver a lot more.
To start with, one of the things you should know is that the name “Cyclades” refers to the islands’ formation. They do indeed form a circle/cycle (“circular islands”) around the sacred island of Delos; which used to play a significant role during the ancient times. With over 220 islands to explore and to enjoy the Cyclades are the most famous island group in the Aegean Sea. Whether you opt for bareboat sailing in the Cyclades or skippered yachting, this is the ideal destination for you where you will find some of the most charming beaches in the world. Sail away and get ready to discover dreamy caves, a traditional lifestyle, smiling people and amazing architecture in white and blue!
Knotty Boats can provide you with a boat charter in the Cyclades and help you experience the sailing trip of your dreams. Navigating from the mesmerising shimmering waters of Milos, through to the unique beauty of Kythnos and Serifos, past Sifnos and the iconic Folegandros to the cliffy Santorini and the bustling Mykonos, Kea and Paros. Roam the alleys of the villages, to discover traditional settlements, lonely churches perched on hills, all ideal places to take in the breathtaking views. The Cyclades are among the most charming of destinations of the Mediterranean; a cluster of gems, lying in the sapphire waters waiting to be discovered.
Kea – Tzia
Upon arriving at Kea you can find mooring in Vourkari; the main anchorage for yachts in the island. Vourkari is well-sheltered from the famous and strong meltemi winds, but in case of strong westerly winds, we would advise you to move to Korissia (Livadi) port. Typical Cycladic architecture, long sandy beaches and great diving spots are a fully promising start to your most memorable sailing adventure
Sifnos
When departing from Livadi, head SE and sail for 20 nM to Platis Yialos in Sifnos; an island renowned for its cuisine, with a long tradition in pottery and architecture. In Apollonia, the capital of Sifnos, one can join pottery workshops as well as traditional Greek cooking lessons, in the homeland of Nikolaos Tselementes, one of the most famous Greek Chefs.
Santorini
A miraculous scenery with captivating landscapes, alluring sunsets and an active volcano are some of the beauties of Santorini. Knotty Boats can locate the best boat charter in Santorini and enable you to experience the island and what it has to offer to the fullest. The island will definitely charm you with its wild, unearthly landscape and its mystic beauty. It is the island where the myth of the Lost Atlantis took place. Do not miss to visit the ancient settlement of Akrotiri, a remarkably well-preserved ancient town buried by the Theran eruption during the late Minoan Period. Explore Santorini on a yacht, go scuba diving and take in this fascinating experience, featuring a rich sea bottom, especially around the breathtaking Caldera, Palia and Nea Kameni islets. Knotty Boats can help you find a yacht charter service in Santorini; a ticket to a great seafaring adventure.
Paros
When in Paros charter a boat and explore yet another Cycladic gem with beautiful beaches and a booming island life. Start by mooring in Parikia, an excellent shelter from the meltemi and the south winds. Roam through the traditional settlement extending in narrow pebble-paved alleys lined with small boutiques, cafes, restaurants and bars in a colorful atmosphere. Parikia is the place where one can experience the authentic Greek island spirit. For a more cosmopolitan ambience and vibrant nightlife, visit Naoussa.
Kythnos
Sail to the northern tip of Kythnos island and into the pleasant small harbor at Loutra on the NE which is the main ferry port and it is more yacht-friendly than Merikas. Visit the Kolona beach; probably the most iconic and well-known beach of the island. Beautiful, sandy, idyllic it is the perfect location to enjoy the sunset. Kythnos, though a small island, can facilitate the high expectations of the beach seekers. The island itself boasts over 70 beaches on a coastline stretching over 100 km² long. Many of these charming beaches are accessible only by sailboat. As a contemporary Robinson Crusoe, you can explore remote beaches and experience the serenity of the traditional lifestyle. Note that, the two biggest settlements of the island are car-free villages with winding, sometimes steep, streets and the common means of transportation are cute donkeys.
Milos
From Platis Yialos, head SW and sail to Adamas, the main harbor of Milos island, where the famous Venus de Milo statue was found. Charter a boat in Milos and sail around the striking coastline, with its pristine beaches and colorful volcanic formations. It is a captivating experience to remember for a lifetime. Crossing those sparkling turquoise waters, is a siren’s call to mythical sea dips.
Ios
Ios island, with its golden sandy beaches and the vivid alternative lifestyle is an island filled with natural beauty. Explore Ios by boat and visit Homer’s tomb, the grand poet and writer of the Odyssey. Relish the cinematic “Big Blue” view where parts of the famous movie were shot.
Delos
To explore Delos by boat is a unique experience filled with mesmerising places of great historical significance. The island is a UNESCO world heritage site. It’s an ark of history, floating lazily on the waters of the Aegean Sea, just a few miles away from the cosmopolitan Mykonos. While exploring Delos you will have the chance to walk around and take in the revival of the glory of the Greek civilization. It’s the most historically significant and sacred island of the Cyclades; the birthplace of the immortals. That is mystical Delos.
In the ancient times, the myth of Apollo, the god of light, and Artemis having been born there, rendered the island sacred: no mortal would ever be allowed to be born on that land…
Serifos
Continuing your expedition, sail S 23 nM from Loutra to Livadi, the harbour of Serifos island. Apart from sailing around the magnificent, wild coasts of the island, do not miss to visit the scenic destination of Chora, the main settlement of Serifos. It is one of the most charming Cycladic towns with a Venetian Castle, traditional architecture dotting the narrow streets and stairs adorned with colorful flowers.
Folegandros
Next stop is Folegandros island; one of the most iconic destinations among the Cyclades. Lose yourself in the island’s wonderfully mazey streets, enjoy the serenity, breathe in the clean air, follow the local vibe and time travel to a past era.
Naxos
Naxos island is the largest among the Cyclades. The island is famous for its underwater beauty, blessed with a spectacular seabed featuring shipwrecks, reefs, capes and a rich marine life. Boat charter in Naxos is not available but you can either charter a boat from Paros or Mykonos and you can explore the island’s snorkeling options providing an outstanding experience!
Mykonos
The wild heart of Cyclades, a world-known destination for its bustling lifestyle and non-stop partying nightlife. Charter a boat in Mykonos and moor in the Tourlos marina, a quiet spot providing good shelter from the prevailing winds and give in to the vibe. Mykonos sailing vacations will give you the chance to explore and discover different aspects of the island, beyond the famous restless lifestyle.
Knotty boats are happy to provide a Mykonos yacht charter to anyone interested and help you sail away to the nearby Delos islet; the mythical birthplace of Gods Apollo and Artemis. Or you can opt for an alternative experience enjoying moments of pure serenity sailing around the secluded Rhinia islet, also known as Greater Delos.
