Islands of Light: Southern Cyclades Voyage
Discover the hidden beauty of the Southern Cyclades—where mythology, nature, and island elegance come together. Set sail on a motor yacht adventure like no other. Join us and experience the Cyclades from a whole new perspective.
Myths, Shores, and Sunsets
Embark on a 7-day motorboat journey through the sun-drenched gems of the Southern Cyclades. Designed for high-speed cruising, this itinerary offers a perfect blend of history, nature, and island charm—without the crowds.
Day 1 – Athens to Kea
Cruise south around Makronisos and head northeast toward the enchanting island of Kea. Famous for its sandy shores and rich mythology, Kea is home to medieval castles, traditional watermills, and sacred ancient sites dedicated to Athena, Apollo, Demeter, and Asklepios.
Day 2 – Kea to Kythnos
Known for its healing thermal springs, Kythnos is a classic Cycladic island. Explore the fascinating Katafiki Cave—once an iron mine—and admire its striking stalactites and rock formations. Visit local folklore and Byzantine museums in Dryopida, and don’t miss the island’s beloved church, Panagia Kanala.
Day 3 – Kythnos to Sifnos
A southeast sail brings you to elegant Sifnos, with its olive groves and almond orchards. The Church of the Seven Martyrs stands proudly on a rocky outcrop—an iconic Cycladic scene. Discover hidden monasteries and museums, including the revered Chrissopighi Monastery.
Day 4 – Sifnos to Milos
Head southwest to the volcanic island of Milos, still relatively untouched by mass tourism. Discover the island’s mineral-rich heritage at the Mining Museum, explore early Christian catacombs, and visit the ancient theatre in Adamas, where cultural events still take place today.
Day 5 – Milos to Ios
Sail east to lively Ios, an island alive with festivals and summer energy. Beyond the buzz, visit the Tomb of Homer or explore the archaeological site of Skarkos to get a glimpse of ancient Cycladic life.
Day 6 – Ios to Anafi
Anafi welcomes you with peaceful beaches and a laid-back atmosphere. Spend the day sailing around the island or join in on summer cultural events. Its unspoiled beauty makes it a tranquil escape near bustling Santorini.
Day 7 – Anafi to Santorini (Kamari & Vlychada)
Drop anchor in Kamari, where you’ll find seaside shops, tavernas, and a charming open-air cinema. Discover the ancient city of Thera on Mount Mesa Vouno, try diving or water sports, and soak in the island’s unique volcanic landscape. End your journey in Vlychada, known for its scenic beaches and horseback riding tours. If time allows, explore Akrotiri’s archaeological ruins, taste local wines, and visit the monastery of Prophet Elias.
This route is ideal for motorboat seeking a mix of iconic sights, hidden gems, and unforgettable sailing moments in the Cyclades.
Athens
Athens is one of the few places where you can spend the morning at a 2,500-year-old ruin and be anchored off an island by afternoon. The food gets better the moment you leave the tourist zone — fresh seafood at Mikrolimano, late lunches along the Piraeus waterfront. Alimos Marina, the largest in Greece, sits on the city's southern edge and puts the Saronic Gulf and the Cyclades within direct reach. From the water you see the Temple of Poseidon at Cape Sounion the way it was meant to be seen — alone, glowing at sunset, no crowd between you and the cliff. The season runs April through October; give yourself a day in the city before you set sail.
Kea
Kea, also known as Tzia, is a hidden gem of the Cyclades, offering a perfect blend of natural beauty, rich history, and authentic Greek charm. Just a short trip from Athens, Kea invites you to explore its picturesque villages, hike through ancient trails, and relax on unspoiled beaches. Dive into the crystal-clear waters of Koundouros and Otzias, or marvel at the island's underwater treasures with a dive to shipwrecks like the famous Britannic. Wander through Ioulida, the island’s quaint capital, where stone-paved alleys, traditional houses, and stunning sea views await. With a laid-back atmosphere and a welcoming local spirit, Kea is the ideal escape for those seeking tranquility and adventure, all wrapped in the allure of authentic Greek island life.
Kythnos
Kythnos, a hidden gem in the Cyclades, invites you to explore its unspoiled beauty and authentic island charm. Known for its traditional whitewashed villages, serene beaches, and rejuvenating thermal springs, Kythnos is the perfect destination for those seeking a peaceful escape. Wander through the picturesque streets of Chora and Dryopida, where time seems to stand still, and discover the island’s rich history through its ancient ruins and medieval architecture. Relax on the golden sands of Kolona Beach, a unique double-sided beach that offers stunning views and crystal-clear waters. For a touch of wellness, visit the Loutra thermal springs, where you can soak in warm, healing waters. Whether you're exploring secluded coves, savoring local delicacies at waterfront tavernas, or immersing yourself in the laid-back island lifestyle, Kythnos promises an unforgettable Greek island experience.
Sifnos
Sifnos, a hidden jewel of the Cyclades, invites you to discover its timeless charm and rich traditions. Known for its whitewashed villages, scenic hiking trails, and breathtaking beaches, Sifnos offers the perfect blend of relaxation and adventure. Explore the cobblestone streets of Apollonia, the island’s lively capital, or wander through the ancient alleys of Kastro, where history whispers from every corner. Relax on the golden sands of Vathi and Platis Gialos, or dive into the crystal-clear waters of Faros. Sifnos is also a paradise for food lovers—experience the island’s renowned culinary heritage with traditional dishes like revithada and mastelo, all crafted with local ingredients. Whether you’re searching for tranquility, outdoor exploration, or authentic Greek flavors, Sifnos promises an unforgettable island experience, wrapped in the warmth of genuine Cycladic hospitality.
Milos
Milos is the volcanic outlier of the Cyclades — a horseshoe-shaped island built from white pumice and rust-coloured lava that creates some of the most dramatic coastlines in Greece. Sarakiniko looks like a lunar landscape: smooth white rock sculpted by wind and sea, with a small turquoise channel cutting through. Kleftiko, on the south coast, holds towering sea caves that pirates once used as hideouts, now accessible only by boat. The fishing village of Klima stacks colourful boathouses (syrmata) directly on the water. The island is also where the Venus de Milo was found in 1820. Milos is 4 hours from Santorini. Season runs May through October.
Ios
Ios is the night-life capital of the southern Cyclades — a small island halfway between Naxos and Santorini that turns into one long open-air party in August. By day the picture changes: Mylopotas beach is a kilometre of golden sand with shallow turquoise water, Manganari in the south offers quieter sand coves, and the harbour of Ormos handles the charter traffic. The hilltop Chora village holds 365 churches (one for every day of the year, by local count) and the alleged tomb of Homer at the island's northern tip. Ios is 90 minutes from Santorini and 2 hours from Naxos. Season runs May through October.
Anafi
Anafi is the easternmost Cyclades island and one of the smallest with year-round population — fewer than 300 people, one harbour, one Chora village. The east end of the island is dominated by Mount Kalamos, a 460-metre limestone monolith rising straight from the sea, said to be the second-largest in Europe after Gibraltar. A path climbs to a small monastery wedged into a cliff terrace near the summit. The southern coast has empty white-sand beaches at Roukounas and Klissidi, both unmarked and reachable only by foot or boat. Anafi is 90 minutes from Santorini. Season runs May through October.
Santorini
Santorini is the one Greek island that needs no introduction — and looks nothing like the photos when you see it from the water. The volcanic cliffs rise straight out of the Aegean, Oia sits on the rim 300 metres above, and the caldera bay below is where your boat anchors while the rest of the island fills with crowds. By day, the black sand beaches of Perissa and Kamari, the ancient ruins of Akrotiri, and the wineries above Pyrgos are all within easy reach from the dock. By evening, the same sunset that draws thousands to the clifftops happens from your deck — on your own terms. Vlychada Marina on the southern coast is the main charter base, well-equipped and a short transfer from the island's key spots.
Answered