BOAT-COMPARATOR Guide
One week under sail in the Cyclades: the realistic itinerary
Athens, Kythnos, Paros, Naxos: a one-week Cyclades itinerary that works with the meltemi instead of fighting it.
The Cyclades are among the world's mythical cruising grounds — and among the worst planned: every summer, crews discover that 'doing Santorini from Athens in a week' means spending their holiday beating into 30 knots. Here is the itinerary local skippers actually recommend.
The right track out of Athens
From Athens (Alimos or Lavrio marinas): Kythnos and the double beach of Kolona (4 hours), Serifos and its hilltop chora, then Paros (Naoussa, one of the prettiest ports in the Cyclades) and generous Naxos. Return via Syros, the elegant capital, and Kea. Seven short legs, proper anchorages, and weather margin at both ends.
Working with the meltemi
The northerly blows hard in July-August (often 25-35 knots for days at a stretch). The golden rules: run downwind early in the week and keep the return leg short, never plan the last night far from base, and prefer June or September, when the meltemi eases and the anchorages empty. The Ionian islands remain the gentle alternative for novice crews.
Budget and boats
A 36-42 ft monohull runs €1,800 to €4,000 per week by season; catamarans cost distinctly more and fit awkwardly in the small harbours. Charters run Saturday to Saturday; prices drop 30% outside July-August.
What about Santorini?
Honestly: on a one-week bareboat, rarely a good idea. The caldera offers few safe anchorages and the return against the meltemi can be brutal. Save Santorini for a ferry, and treat your crew to the coves of Polyaigos — the best-kept secret in the Cyclades.