CYCLADES CIRCULAR ROUTE
STARTS from PAROS
ENDS in PAROS
–
158 miles in TOTAL
DAY1 – PAROS TO NAXOS – 16 miles
DAY2 – NAXOS TO IOS – 26,4 miles
DAY3 – IOS TO SANTORINI – 27,3 miles
DAY4 – SANTORINI TO FOLEGANDROS – 29,4 miles
DAY5 – FOLEGANDROS – SIFNOS – 28,8 miles
DAY6 – SIFNOS TO PAROS – 30 miles
ITINERARY
The Greek island complex of the Cyclades, located not far from the capital Athens, is one of the most popular destinations for yachts and holiday goers. If you are interested in long walks on sandy and white sand beaches or want to admire some ancient ruins from afar, this is the ideal holiday destination.
Our 7 Day Cyclades itinerary starts from the island of Paros, famous since antiquity for its fine white marble that was used for the Temple of Apollo on Delos, the Venus of Milos, and many other famous statues and landmarks. Paros has quickly risen to the top of some of the most popular spots for Greek summer holidays but still retains that laid-back touch and local aesthetic. Arriving early on the island will allow you to take a stroll around Naoussa and Parikia and acquaint yourself with the cubic whitewashed buildings around its narrow streets or do some hiking and explore the town from above.
> Sailing in Paros – important information:
The main harbor of Parikia is relatively sheltered and the busiest port on the island
Don’t miss Antiparos and the stalactite cave
> Sailing in Paros – don’t miss:
Swimming at Kolymbithres beach
Walking around the picturesque Parikia and Naoussa
A visit to Lefkes village
DAY1 – PAROS TO NAXOS – 16 miles
From Paros, we start our day early, with plenty of time to make it across to nearby Naxos. The largest island in the Cyclades, Naxos is also one of the greenest and most diverse islands, with lush valleys and impressive mountains that offer plenty of hiking opportunities. Here you will also find beautiful monuments and one of the finest traditional cuisines in the Aegean.
You’ll be hard-pressed to find a beach on Naxos island that isn’t amazing. Agios Prokopios, 5km south of Chora, is a Blue Flag beach with a large soft sand sandbed that has space for everyone. On the western coast, we find Plaka and Saint George, two of the most popular beaches for water sports activities. Anything from windsurfing, water-skiing, SUP, and jet skiing equipment.
> Sailing in Naxos – important information:
There are half a dozen anchorages in Naxos to pick from
Lots to discover, so consider extending your stay here if possible to enjoy everything on offer
> Sailing in Naxos – don’t miss:
A stroll around the Old Town of Naxos
Hiking Mount Zas for panoramic views
Tasting Naxian potatoes and Kokoras me Makaronia (rooster and pasta)
DAY2 – NAXOS TO IOS – 26,4 miles
Heading south past the small islets of Iraklia and Schinoussa, we reach the island of Ios. A vibrant island, Ios has been known for its nightlife. It is a pole of attraction for young holiday goers who seek to experience parties, loud music, and flawless sandy beaches. But there are also plenty of other attractions should you desire them, like a visit to the Byzantine fortress of Palaiokastro so you can appreciate the view from above and beautiful churches like Panagia Gremiotissa and Aghia Ekaterini.
> Sailing in Ios – important information:
The main port on the island is Yialos
Anchorages of Milopotamos, Koumbaras and Manganari offer access to beautiful beaches
> Sailing in Ios – don’t miss:
Enjoying the nightlife and party scene
Swimming at Manganari
Visiting Homer’s Tomb and seeing the view from above
DAY3 – IOS TO SANTORINI – 27,3 miles
The queen of the Cyclades could not be missing from your itinerary, so after enjoying the sandy coves of Ios, we head towards the volcanic landscape of Santorini. As one of the most popular destinations for honeymooners in the world, this is where you can enjoy majestic sunsets, excellent local produce, including the famous Vinsanto wine that has grown since antiquity, and discover the history of the Akrotiri peninsula. The settlement of Akrotiri is one possible location for the long-lost city of Atlantis, which was destroyed in the 16th century BC and brought to light in 1967.
> Sailing in Santorini – important information:
The safest anchorage is Vlyhada public marina
Plenty of shoals at the entrance
The caldera is incredibly deep – no anchoring possible
> Sailing in Santorini – don’t miss:
A visit to the picturesque village of Oia with views of the Caldera
Tasting Saganaki cheese, fava dip, and white eggplants
A romantic dinner at a winery and a taste of the local Vinsanto
DAY4 – SANTORINI TO FOLEGANDROS – 29,4 miles
On Day 4, we set sail towards the island of Folegandros. With its distinctive architecture and rugged landscape, Folegandros is an opportunity to explore a different side of the Greek islands. Unlike the nearby islands of Mykonos, Santorini, and Naxos, Folegandros enjoys fewer crowds and is preferred for its laid-back aesthetic and feel. Wandering around the “Kastro” in the main village of Chora is a must, as is a walk up to the Church of Panagia to enjoy the view. The beaches tend to be wild and unspoiled, with trees offering their shade and not much else in terms of infrastructure.
> Sailing in Folegandros – important information:
Two main anchorages: Karavostasi and Ormos Vathi
Night approaches not recommended for Karavostasi
Most beaches on the island are only reachable by boat
> Sailing in Folegandros – don’t miss:
The walk to the medical castle for panoramic views and the Church of Panagia
A swim at Agali beach
Snorkelling at Katergo beach with crystal clear waters
DAY5 – FOLEGANDROS – SIFNOS – 28,8 miles
The next stop on our Cyclades sailing itinerary is Sifnos, located about 23 nautical miles north of Folegandros. Sifnos is a popular choice for a yacht with its pristine beaches, traditional architecture, and friendly atmosphere. But it also boasts one of the best food scenes in the Cyclades and a rich culinary tradition that makes people yearn to return time and time again. If you prefer to stay on your boat, there are plenty of options for a refreshing swim, including Platis Gialos, Vathi, Kamares, and Faros. The wide beach of Kamares will be our anchorage stop for the night.
> Sailing in Sifnos – important information:
Easy approach, except for possible meltemi winds
Ormos Kamares is the only port on the island
There is water and electricity available on the quay at Kamares
> Sailing in Sifnos – don’t miss:
Visit the church of Seven Martyrs
Swim at Platys Gialos beach
Explore the village of Kastro
DAY6 – SIFNOS TO PAROS – 30 miles
After spending six full days exploring this spectacular region of Greece, one can go home with memories that last forever. We will depart in mid-morning and say goodbye in Paros, where you are welcome to stay and explore more of the island.
PRICES
up to 2 cabins/4 guests – 4000euro
up to 3 cabins/6 guests – 4750euro