Monday 4 September 2017

The Sunset Islands of Greece - Cyclades


The 39 islands of the Cyclades are spread around the Aegean to the south-east of the mainland with sacred Delos as their central point of reference. Although only 24 of them are inhabited, each one has its own identity, history, traditions and landscape that is unique. The most well known isles are Santorini, Mykonos, Amorgos, Anafi, Andros, Antiparos, Delos, Ios, Kea, Kimolos, Kythnos, Milos, Naxos, Paros, Folegandros, Serifos, Sifnos, Sikinos, Syros, Tinos and Thira. Each island you visit will undoubtedly have that typical Cycladic architecture of little whitewashed houses and fishing that is small and once you are in the region, it is very easy to hop from one island to the other due to their relative proximities.



The Island Winds
The Cyclades are quite exposed in the Aegean Sea to the ‘Meltemi’ that is notorious which dominates the area, especially in the summer months. It can reach 7 Beaufort and last for a couple of days, but there are a multitude of small protected bays on most of the islands providing harbour that is safe. Best left to experienced seamen, the Cyclades are an invigorating sail for those seeking a excitement that is little. The crystalline waters of the Aegean and the marine that is rich make for truly pleasurable sailing with an abundance of beaches approachable only by boat offering small pieces of paradise to all who visit.

Charms of the Cyclades
Beginning from the north-west, Kea is close to the Attica coast and hence is a hub that is busy weekends for local motor yachts. Kithnos lies just to the south of Kea and is famous for its cheese while its neighbour, Serifos, is well known for being the island of Perseus. The spectacular bay of the main port is an often crowded but mooring location that is beautiful. 9 miles on lies Sifnos, with its large bay that is sheltered its beautiful fishing village at Vathi. Milos, like the more Santorini that is famous a volcanic island of startling landscapes and beaches surrounded by pumice and basalt cliffs with several hot springs. Paros and Antiparos are graphic yachting favourites, while Mykonos, attracts visitors for its night that is fervent life.

Santorini

The Cyclades enjoy mild winters and summer that is fresh with little rainfall. The period that is hottest is from July to August. The sea temperature averages 23°C, perfect for those who enjoy a dive that is refreshing the air temperature can reach up to 27°C degrees.

There is no better way to explore the astonishing Greece islands than on a private yacht charter. Royalty Yachts offer a great selection of private luxury yachts for charter as Greece is such a popular destination. Options include motor yachts, catamarans and sailing yachts that will surpass all your expectations.

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