The Cyclades are calling
Circling the Sunset Islands
With sacred Delos as their central point of reference, the 39 islands of the Cyclades are spread around the Aegean to the south-east of the mainland. Although only 24 of them are inhabited, each one has its own identity, history, traditions and unique landscape. The most well known isles are Amorgos, Anafi, Andros, Antiparos, Delos, Ios, Kea, Kimolos, Kythnos, Milos, Mykonos, Naxos, Paros, Folegandros, Serifos, Sifnos, Sikinos, Syros, Tinos and Thira or Santorini. Each island you visit will undoubtedly have that typical Cycladic architecture of little whitewashed houses and small fishing villages 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 notorious ‘Meltemi’ wind 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 safe harbour. Best left to experienced seamen, the Cyclades are an invigorating sail for those seeking a little excitement.
The crystalline waters of the Aegean and the rich marine life 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 busy hub at 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 beautiful mooring location. 9 miles on lies Sifnos, with its large sheltered bay and its beautiful fishing village at Vathi. Milos, like the more famous Santorini, is 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 fervent night life.
The Cyclades enjoy mild winters and fresh summer winds with little rainfall. The hottest period is from July to August. The sea temperature averages 23°C, perfect for those who enjoy a refreshing dive and the air temperature can reach up to 27°C degrees.
