The north part of the Cyclades is the most popular. It is the easiest to sail both ways. To the east, wind on port side beam pushing our catamaran at high speed to the next highland. To the west, wind on starboard side, making it easy to return to the port of origine without the hassle of beating against the wind. All the islands are nice to visit. We propose here what we really enjoy. Special mention for the ancient Delos, an idea of what was the life in the area five thousand years ago, before Mykonos parties became so popular.
The Archipelago of the Cyclades is the largest of Greece. South-East of Athènes it was at the center of the seas crossed by merchants and warriors since the beginning of time. There are remains of these ancient civilizations on the islands and under the sea. Today, it is crossed by large vessels going in and out of the black sea and passing through the Doro strait. Most of the time, the wind comes from the north, the Meltemi. A handful of islands are known for high touristic activities, Mykonos, Santorini, Milos, Paros… But the Cyclades are much more than this, many more islands and hundreds of well protected stopovers in stunning creeks or in small fishing shelters. More than often, there is a taverna available for a cold beer and a salad on the beach or on the quay. The season starts in April and finishes late October.
It is simple nature. It is delicious food. It is safe. It is the Cyclades.
Upon arrival on board, our skipper will give a thorough safety briefing and set sail directly to one of the closest island from Lavrio. Discover a quite and peaceful bay after the travel is great.
On the second day, we will sail across the infamous strait of Doro to reach Andros Island. The strait of Doro is surrounded by high mountains from Evia and Andros. This funnels the wind from the north and form a type of Venturi: the wind gets accelerated to extreme speed. So our skipper will be cautious sailing through this area, with likely little sail!
The south shore of Andros is full of protected anchorage and traditional fishing harbors. This is a great area to visit.
Delos is our preferred island. It forms a sort of archipelago and there are many protected anchorages.
The visit of Delos Island is quite interesting, it is the largest archeological site in the Cyclades. The top of the hill provides a great 360 view over the area.
This leg provides a great opportunity to test the Avel Vaez capabilities at high speed. This will typically be a down wind sail on relatively flat sea with a typically active Meltemi. Enjoy!
There is a lot to see in Syros. The main city Ermoupolis is the luxurious capital of the Cyclades. Its house and streets are made of white marbles. There are many signs of the past wealth of this city and the one from its famous inhabitant.
Kythnos is also one of our favorite stop. There are a number of hot water springs in the bays that are very welcome when the weather is cool.
In every little bay, there are delicious local tavernas with fresh and healthy food.
On Friday, we will sail back to Lavrio. If time allows, we recommend a short stop on the south of Kea to visit Kartheia, a recently restored archeological site.
Follow the blue route on the map below.
