Sailing the Cyclades Islands: Seven Days of Adventure
The Cyclades Islands are a group of 220 islands offering a rich tapestry of natural beauty, ancient history, and warm traditions. PrivatSea takes you on an exclusive journey around these legendary islands, where luxury, culture, and adventure combine seamlessly.
CYCLADES ISLANDS SAILING ITINERARY
DAY 1: Hydra
Our first destination has been home to many painters, actors, musicians, writers, and poets. The exquisitely preserved port descends dramatically into the perfect crescent-shaped harbour, with pristine white stone mansions attesting to the fortunes amassed by Hydriot captains. Cars and scooters are forbidden, and donkeys and mules serve as the primary means of transportation.
Offering an intimate setting right at the water’s edge, Omilos restaurant, located on the port of Hydra, offers contemporary Mediterranean cuisine overlooking the Saronic Gulf. Head Chef Dimitris Kantarakis infuses his menu with his Crete heritage and Greek culinary training to serve innovative twists on traditional dishes. From this Saronic island, we depart for the first Cyclades Island on our itinerary.
DAY 2: Kimolos
This tiny island lies in the western part of the Cyclades, near Milos. An unspoiled paradise where you can walk barefoot almost everywhere, the volcanic island got its name from the chalk trade, kimolia in Greek. To arrive is to step back in time, lost in the maze of streets that make up the beautiful capital that is Hora. Here, you’ll find some of the most pristine beaches in the Cyclades, including the glittering white sands of Prassa.
For your meal PrivatSea suggests Kimolia Gi, a small family-run hotel built with love for the island and respect for the environment. Book ahead as it is a tiny restaurant overlooking the bay of Prassa, serving dishes with fresh, locally sourced ingredients from the nearby family farm.
DAY 3: Folegandros
Karavostasi is the main port of Folegandros, a Cyclades Island known for its dramatic beauty with an imposing coastline and a charming main village perched 200 metres above the sea on a cliff. From the top, you can actually see the fish swimming in the translucent emerald waters. The ancient Greeks called the island Folegandros, or “iron hard,” because of its unforgiving terrain. Over centuries, a network of dry-stone walls has created terraces for cultivation.
Perched on a hillock overlooking the serene waters, Papalagi Folegandros restaurant offers classic Greek dishes and fresh seafood with unparalleled views. Be sure to try the traditional tsipouro, a local favourite!
but makes up for it with stunning landscapes and views
DAY 4: Santorini
Moored at the mouth of Fira’s spectacular harbour, you’ll be awed by Santorini’s splendour; the harbour was formed from the crater left by the massive volcanic eruption over 3500 years ago. Two dazzling white Cycladic villages – Oia and Fira – are perched high on the rim. Santorini is one of the world’s most breathtaking islands, and watching the sunset from the Castle at Oia is unforgettable.
With one of the island’s most tranquil views, Ambrosia restaurant offers fine Mediterranean and modern Greek cuisine, a selection of exceptional Greek and local wines and an intimate setting on two tiny candlelit terraces.
Relax at a private wine tasting at Santo Wines Winery, enjoying a selection of local wines paired with gourmet food, all while taking in the breathtaking views of the caldera.
Founded with the vision to deliver the very soul of Santorini on a plate, Selene Restaurant has become infamous for its medieval charm and fine dining experience that pleases every sense. Indulge in an unrivalled gastronomic experience, ‘Selene, a Journey Through Time’, with a special variation of their Full Moon Menu paired with accompanying wines.
and bar with breathtaking views of the Caldera and island Volcano
among the island’s most popular seaside villages
Across the water on Amorgos, you‘ll find the 11th-century monastery of Hozoviotissa, carved into a cliff 200m above the sea. Luc Besson’s cult movie The Big Blue was inspired by the beauty of this island and was filmed here.
To quench your thirst from your explorations, visit the quaint café Κουμπαρα or Koubara, located in Langada. Embracing Instagrammable playfully coloured chairs, shutters and door frames juxtaposed against the traditional white buildings, this whimsical setting in the narrow streets is the perfect pitstop for enjoying a coffee or afternoon treat.
With its natural tranquillity, Amorgos is an unspoiled destination amongst the Cyclades Islands to indulge in a wellness retreat. The island hosts many events throughout the year, and private retreats can be tailored to meet your unique preferences.
DAY 5: Koufonisia and Amorgos
Koufonisia – once a famed hideout for pirates – has thriving fishing fleets, wonderful hiking terrain and pristine sandy beaches. Perfect for jogging or hiking, followed by a dip in the emerald waters. While here, dine at the water’s edge at Laska Restaurant, offering a seasonal menu designed to share authentic tastes paired with exquisite wines from their cellar.
just off shore from a castle in Andros
DAY 6: Andros and Tinos
Anchor off Andros Town. The people of Andros once owned one out of every five Greek merchant marine ships, and you can witness the island’s glorious past in the many mansions that adorn the main town. Apart from the riches amassed by captains and owners, the island contains a lush landscape of springs and waterfalls. Also worth visiting is the Museum of Contemporary Art, which has earned a reputation for its outstanding summer exhibitions of world-famous artists.
Endochora is a picture-perfect restaurant in the heart of Chora, favoured by the local inhabitants. The decoration is white and minimal, with vintage lace curtains on the windows. The menu is small, as are the portions, but everything is well-balanced, fresh, and extremely well-presented.
In the afternoon, your superyacht moves to the island of Tinos, where mountains and fields surround white villages. Traditional churches and dovecotes are scattered across the island, which is also well known for its painters and sculptors. You can even experience a private cooking class at Tinos Farm to Table to learn how to prepare traditional Tinian dishes and take a part of your Cyclades Islands experience home to your own kitchen.
Kardiani is a small mountain village located almost in the heart of the island. A 20-minute drive from the main town is one of the island’s best-known restaurants, To Perivoli tis Kardianis. Naturally shaded by 100-year-old trees, with a panoramic view of the bay, the food will not disappoint either.
DAY 7: Delos and Mykonos
Despite its diminutive size, Delos is one of the most important archaeological sites in Greece and the mythical birthplace of twin gods Apollo and Artemis. This archaeological preserve is the largest open-air museum in Europe and a World Heritage Site. Visit early in the morning as the temperature rises by noon. Swim at nearby Rinia, a beautiful white sand beach only accessible by boat. After lunch, the vessel sails to the world’s favourite holiday playground – Mykonos. A maze of narrow lanes designed to defy the wind and pirate raids, the bustling port is one of the most photographed in Greece – where glamour meets simplicity.
Celebrate the end of your Cyclades Islands itinerary with an epicurean journey at Baos. This restaurant takes pride in delivering the finest farm-to-table ingredients to tantalise all of the senses. Celebrating Greek flavours with a contemporary twist, Baos specialises in haute cuisine and offers an exceptional tasting menu. Completing this luxury aesthetic, the restaurant is situated on a hillside with views over Little Venice and the horizon.
neighborhood reflect the island’s history under Venetian rule, inspiring its nickname
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