Captain’s Blog

The landscapes that make up the Greek Islands are known as one of the premiere sailing destinations on the planet. Over 2,000 islands and islets sparkle like diamonds across the blue cover of the ocean (only 169 are inhabited). The islands represent 20% of the total area of Greece creating a coastline 15,000 km. Each island oozes with its own unique beauty and charm.

Santorini

The Cyclades island cluster is one of the many popular areas for sailing enthusiasts to steer their vessels. It is the central group of islands in the Aegean Sea. The Cyclades were given their name because its 220 islands create a circular ring surrounding the center island of Delos. Delos is an ancient center of trade and worship. It is also known as the birthplace of the Greek God Apollo. The islands are peaks of underwater mountains that cut through the delicate ocean surface. The penetration of these peaks into the mild climate above creates a setting filled with natural life and breathtaking scenery. The stunning shores and unspoiled beaches are doorways into vacationing bliss.
Each island within the cluster is separated by wide stretches of the sea that permit relaxed sailing schedule filled with sightseeing. The delicate wind proves its worth as a sailor’s best friend allowing easy navigation throughout the region. The spaces between the islands act as a moderator for the high temperatures in the summer. Most importantly there is predictable winds, little rainfall and plenty of sun. Early spring into the late summer will provide the best time to sail the waters of the Cyclades.

The Cyclades islands are best known for their history of art and civilization that date back to the Bronze Age. Streaking rows white washed houses gleam against the deep blue background of the sky and ocean. The islands are rooted with history and unique culture. Local handcrafts, windmills, narrow paths filled with flowers, great dive sites and never ending nightlife also add to the areas charismatic allure. The Cyclades islands are a must see destination for all who sail the Greek islands.

Ionian Island

The Saronic Gulf is another popular destination for sailors who come to Greece. The gulf lies between the north eastern shoulder of the Peloponnese and Attic Coast in close proximity to Athens. The Sarconic Gulf is home to some of the most beautiful and interesting islands throughout all of Greece. Each island is within a two or three hour sail from one another. The scenic paradises provide sailors with some of the most picturesque and diverse landscapes. Long stretches of sandy and pebble beaches, fragrant pine forests and rocky capes are among the varying sites that give each island its own special character. Combined with a setting of dazzling sunshine and crystal blue waters, the gulf provides an infinite range of scenic beauty.

The culture and people of the area are just as varied as the setting. The towns of the Sarconic gulf contrast different generations of architecture throughout the region. Modern high-rise apartments clash with ancient sites of Greece’s historic past. Remnants of Athens classical age and the Mycenaean period perforate through the narrow winding streets of the island towns. The gulf gives its visitors further incentive to sail to the islands by pampering travelers with different art work, pottery, shops and restaurants. It is the perfect paradise for all travelers.

The Ionian Islands may come as a subtle surprise to those who have sailed through other areas of Greece. The scenery on the seven main islands wield their own personality giving them a unique identity. The lower areas of the islands are layered with ever-green cypress, pine, and elm trees. Green fields and flowers patch the fertile grounds throughout the islands. The polish of dull green olive trees are also prominent throughout all parts of the islands. The higher slopes are covered in pine and the Mediterranean marquis. A mile away from shore the smell of the lush green vegetation can sting the nostrils of sailors as the potent odor soars in the wind.
The culture and architecture of the Ionian Islands follow a similar genetic path of contrast. Instead of the usual white washed house, the islands are known for having red tiled Latin houses, an eccentric assortment of Italian and French architecture and a touch of English flavor. All these foreign essence concoct an unusual blend of Greek culture.

ithaca

The Sporades Islands are another beautiful archipelago in the north-east of Greece. The scattered cluster of fertile green forested islands flaunts some of the best beaches in the Aegean with 68 white sand beaches painting its shores. The islands also have a number of glittering bays filled with an abundance of wildlife.
The national marine park of Alonisses is home of the Sporades Islands most cherished wildlife. The park houses 50 monk seals, the world’s largest remaining settlement for this species. The monk seal is among the most endangered species in the world. The striped dolphin, long finned pilot whale and loggerhead turtle also swim freely throughout the park. The preserve is decorated by many species of sponges and endangered coral. Several bird species such as the red – black -yellow billed Audounis gull and Eleonora’s falcon serenade this wildlife sanctuary.

Skiathos

Santorini Greece

The Sporades Islands provide visitors with plenty of authentic bars, discos, and restaurants that will welcome everyone after an adventurous day of sightseeing. The cluster of islands is another refuge that makes Greece one of the top sailing destinations in the world.
It would be impossible for anyone to fully comprehend sailing in Greece just through one trip. It would take years of navigating the ocean before anyone could claim they have knowledge of this natural treasure. The wide variety of islands, beaches, anchorages, architecture styles, historical sites, and cultures make Greece one of the finest places for yachting enthusiasts to explore. All those who travel to the Greek islands will have great experiences and endless tales to share and pass on.