A stone's throw from the capital of Athens but still soaked in that Cyclades flavor, Kea is a lesser-known gem that other islands but makes for a great hangout for charter guests wanting to experience a local secret. Kea has been around since the bronze age which means it has a long history and a lot of archeological sites and ancient ruins to suit. One of the must-see ancient sites on Kea is the stone-carved lion which dates back to 600 BC. Get into the rhythm of life on Kea at the port of Korissia, where the pebbled beach comes flanked with colorful homes in shades of burnt orange against the blue sea. Hike the trail of the ancient cities that crosses over 40km and leads you through landscapes that were once home to cities of old. With a tender on hand, you can also explore the nooks and coves tucked into he coastal crannies of Kea.
This small, uninhabited paradise island is just a short trip from Mykonos. Thanks to its great archaeological value, it is not possible to purchase land here to develop and some of the island is rented and used to cultivate and keep a few farm animals. Stepping off your yacht, you will be blessed with peacefully quiet soft-sand beaches and clear bays to swim. For a trek further in land you will be spoiled with views and ancient ruins of temples, graves and churches.
The small, windswept island of Delos is a UNESCO world heritage site. It is also known as Apollo's birthplace and is a must-stop on any Cyclades charter. Home to only a handful of residents, this sacred island is one of Greece's most important mythological, archeological, and historical sites. Delos is famed for many things and was the epicenter of the Delian Festival for a thousand years. Be sure to see the sacred Temple of Apollo and the highly photogenic Terrace of the Lions. This sacred and historic island is blessed with shrines and impressive remains of its glory days.
Mykonos is one of the most luxurious Greek islands, with countless resorts and many great restaurants and bars. Mykonos is famous for the glamour of its nightlife, the island's main attraction after its plethora of beautiful beaches. Anchor off "Little Venice," the charming seaside neighborhood with its row of waterfront cafes overlooking the sea, and stop at the Folklore Museum and the Archeological Museum. Shop by day or enjoy a sunset cocktail in one of the glamorous Mykonos bars.
Another paradise for lovely, fine-sand beaches is Paros, situated south of Mykonos. The quaint little harbour is full of fishermen's houses and Athenian retreats. Paros, much like Mykonos, is a windsurfing paradise and home to windsurfing championships. Travel inland to The Valley of the Butterflies, where you'll see thousands of Tiger Moth butterflies fluttering their wings in summer. Stay on the sister island of Antiparos for a peaceful anchorage, where there are several beaches and a spectacular Cave of Antiparos with its stalactites and stalagmites dating back 45 million years!
Wild, fragrant, and bursting with flavor, Sifnos is known for being one of the prettiest ports of call in the Cyclades. Sifnos is a postcard with its whitewashed buildings, impossibly blue sea, and the sparkle of sunlight hitting already golden-soaked rocks. Charter guests should be sure to explore the stone streets of Kastro and make the short hike to see the enigmatic Church of the Seven Martyrs. This white-washed, blue-top tiny church sitting precariously at the edge of a cliff has become a poster child for the ancient charm of Greece. The seafood and mezze here are spectacular, with fresh calamari and octopus bruschetta, which are a must while watching a sunset of dizzying color.
Named after a mythical king, it's no wonder that Kynthos feels like a fairy tale. With its rolling golden hills, charming stone huts, and absolute serenity, you couldn’t wish for a better escape in the Cyclades. The port of Merichas welcomes you in with its relaxing buzz and bright waterside cafes. Visit villages and caves and wander the colorful close-knit streets of Hora with their painted walls, local frescoes, and windmills. On the northern side, charter guests can seek steaming hot springs in Loutra, and with more than a hundred beaches to choose from, when it comes to sun and sand, you will be spoilt for choice.