Sailing holidays in the Cyclades with a local skipper
Discover the treasures of the Aegean Sea - a collection of islands
with their own unique charm, landscapes, and coastlines. The
Cycladic Islands act as a brilliant destination to unwind, relax,
and connect with some of the most stunning natural beauty. Explore
the stunning Santorini, Mykonos, and Ios with a passionate, local
skipper.
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Reviews - Sailing holidays in the Cyclades with a local skipper
George is the owner of the sail boats and he has at least 2 skippers that he works with (Eric & Georgios), so your experience can differ really depending on which skipper you get. George is a really cool guy with lots of great tips and local insider tips for taverns, caves and beaches, however, he is not the skipper. Our skipper was Eric.
Eric is a polite person, we felt safe with him as he is a experienced sailor. Unfortunately, he preferred speaking French on the boat, which wasn’t so nice for the international crowd. My boyfriend was really curious to learn about sailing, but the English communication was an issue for that. I’d recommend the trip for French speaking tourists.
He is also a bit introverted, so if you want to have someone entertaining the crowd, giving proactive advise, then this is not the skipper for you.
However, overall Eric is a great person with a good heart. He brought us to some hidden gems for swimming and knows a few nice taverns in the area.
The cruise with Manuele and his boat "Margarita" was extraordinary. We were a family of 5. I have absolutely no comments to make. Everything was perfect. Manuele is a very cool guy. He is passionate about sailing and navigation. He does everything to make sure that the guests have an unforgettable time. Many thanks Manuele & Margarita.
I didn’t know Andrea and I trusted about his previous references. To be frank he is a great sailor and (maybe much more important) a very honest and nice person. I really enjoyed my time on board and w the crew. I really hope to be in touch w him and I m looking forward to have an other sail trip on his boat!
We had a blast - most relaxing vacations I had in a lobg time. Adriana and Radu are super cool, friendly and went out of their way to nake us feel comfortable on board and to gove us the best greek experience as possible. On each island we were equipped with local insider tipps what to go and see. The boat was super clean, sheets were even changed in the midtime of our trip. We had an amazing trip and would go sailing with them again tomorrow.
Where to begin...
Spiros is without a doubt one of the most attentive, relaxed, talented people we have met- sailing aside. In regards to sailing, Spiros was an absolute wonder to have as a skipper. We had some days with a lot of wind (meltemi) and waves but he was both re-assuring, fun and made the experience exhilarating.
We not only had a wonderful holiday visiting wonderful places but we also made a friend in him. We will be back.
Devon et Hugues
We have been 1 week in the cruise around cyclades islands, and It has been a beautiful experience. Everything was perfect, the places, where we have been, were so nice, thanks to Istvan who has done this possible, He is so Kind, always telling us some anecdotes. Thanks for this experience!
Cette croisière avec Nikos et Mathilde était notre première croisière en voilier, et nous avons adoré! L'itinéraire a dû être revu du fait des conditions climatiques et nous avons finalement navigué dans les îles Saroniques, mais l'expérience est restée exceptionnelle. Quelle sensation que celle de se laisser porter au gré du vent. Nikos nous a initiés à la navigation et aux manœuvres, et grâce à la planche de paddle et à l'équipement de snorkeling, nous avons profité à fond des plaisirs marins. Nikos et Mathilde nous ont tout de suite mis à l'aise, sachant se montrer très souples et réactifs, désireux de satisfaire à la moindre de nos envies, sans jamais s'imposer. Les bons petits plats de Mathilde sont un vrai plus!!! La Grèce est un pays magnifique, et les Grecs un peuple charmant. Nous avons visité différents villages traditionnels et nous n'oublierons jamais l'effervescence de ce petit port d'Hydra, où tout le monde s'affairait à faire une petite place pour notre voilier... MERCI.
This was ou first time joining this type of holiday and I have to say that it went beyond expectations.
First of all the communication with Sandrine and Jean-Marc have been very prompt and clear from the beginning.
The boat is exactly (or better) as in the pictures and description provided, very comfortable.
Sandrine and Jean-Marc have been more than just skippers, they have treated us like friends and did their best to accommodate our wishes. I have had few episodes of sea sickness and they adjusted the trip to make sure I wouldn't suffer the sailing time for too long.
The islands they have chosen for the itinerary were not the usual touristic spots, they really took us to beautiful places like Pirates Bay in Milos, unforgettable.
They were very kind by preparing us breakfast and lunch or dinner in case we wanted to stay on the boat.
Also, we didn't lack of privacy at all and we have strongy appreciated that. I will definitely consider to joining them again for another holiday!
vacanza PERFETTA! La barca era spaziosa e dotata di ogni comfort e divertimento ( kayak, musica ecc). Vasilis e suo figlio Panos sono stati super gentili e disponibili con noi esaudendo qualunque nostro desiderio e preparandoci dei pranzi e delle cene meravigliosi!! ( spesso con pesce pescato da loro sul momento). Grazie Vasilis per aver reso questa vacanza INDIMENTICABILE!
Cpt Vasilis and his son Panos Made our trip a Great experience. The boat was very comfortable and equipped with a lot of amenities ( kayak, Music etc..). Vasilis has always been ready to fulfill our requests to have us enjoy the stay. He’s also a great cook , We had great meals with seafood ( fished by him during the very same trip ) and with other greek specialities.
Thanks so much Vasilis to have Made our vacation so memorable!
Un Abbraccio pour Riccardo, grâce à toi une formidable croisière dans les Cyclades, j'en suis émerveillé, du vent, une mer Égée toute belle avec Filippo aussi, tout bien la navigation, la table, la compagnie. A bientôt, j'espère.
J ai vécu 2 semaines extraordinaire a bord du bateau de Riccardo , La 1ere semaine nous avons navigués de Mykonos jusqu a Santorin , pleins d escales dans des endroits fantastiques , que ce soit les criques ou ports . Je suis partie seule mais des le 1 er jour avec l Equipage je n ai eu aucuns problèmes . Merci encore Riccardo et BON VENT :)
Une semaine extraordinaire en voilier avec Christopher et Marie
Accueil sympa parcours extra baignade dans de superbes criques
Bonne musique le soir et repas délicieux
Que du bon temps
Adam et Allan pris leur premier cours de navigation avec le captain Christopher
N’hésitez pas à embarquer
Merci mille fois
Adam Allan Zena et Patrick
Nous venons de voyager une semaine avec le Capitaine Vardis sur son bateau à travers les îles des Cyclades. Ce fut l'une des plus belles expériences, aussi bien maritime que la rencontre avec ce superbe skipper. Nous avons partagé de nombreux moments de joie, de rire, de plaisir, à naviguer sous le soleil de la mer Égée. Il nous a fait découvrir la Grèce comme jamais, ainsi que ses très bon repas. Enthousiaste, professionnel, fin connaisseur de la mer, des criques où nager dans cette mer d'un bleu typique, nous pouvons que vous le recommander fortement ! Merci encore Capitaine et à bientôt, je l'espère !
What a sailors! Vasilis and his son Panos have been amazing in hosting us and guiding us across the Cyclades. They are real sea dog who has sailed the seas for decades. We have been navigating in full security and comfort across 3000 nautical miles even if sometimes wind and current were against us. Vasilis and Panos have always been attentive to our needs and willing to discuss any itinerary decision. They took us to unique islands snorkeling and spearfishing spots, beautiful beaches with natural hot springs, idyllic white villages. All of their three vessels fleet are fully equipped and comfortable for long cruises, including rigid sun protection structure, SUPs, kayaks, fins and masks, spearguns. Furthermore he is great chef: don't miss his Kakavia fish soup! I had such a great sea-life experience that I can only give my best recommendation to this Ikarian crew. I would jump on board of their boats tomorrow!
Vacanza indimenticabile con uno skipper di rara esperienza e simpatia! Massimo ci ha fatto veleggiare tra alcune isole di una bellezza mozzafiato: una vacanza che ha unito la possibilità di vedere calette stupende con ad una buona dose di divertimento, risate e buon cibo.
Consiglio Massimo come skipper specialmente per chi la barca a vela la vuole vivere a 360° coniugando la voglia di vacanza a quella di "imparare" a vivere il mare da un'altra prospettiva. La passione di Massimo per la barca a vela e il mare è stata trasmessa a tutto l'equipaggio fin dalla prima traversata.
Mi sento di consigliare Massimo al 200% e sicuramente torneremo a bordo della sua fantastica barca per nuove avventure e traversate insieme.
Buon vento caro Skipper e grazie mille per la bellissima esperienza!
Una bellissima settimana in barca
Itinerario bellissimo e preparato al meglio
Pierluigi è stato un capitano indiscutibile ma anche pronto a divertirsi insieme a noi
Con Nicoletta hanno reso la settimana piacevolissima... solo un difetto: è passata troppo in fretta.
Watching Luigi was watching a master at work. He n is an expert sailor and also as a gernerous caretaker of the guests. He goes beyond to ensure that everyone feels welcome, is enjoying the experience and works tirelessly without letting it show to build camaraderie and good will.
I will always remember the crystal clear waters the rhythm of the waves, the laughter of the new friends. A true gift to be on the Grail.
Phil è una persona disponibile e di gran compagnia con la battuta sempre pronta, siamo stati molto bene!
Questo tipo di viaggio è un’ottima soluzione per raggiungere le varie isole in tutto relax senza dover prendere traghetti e stressarsi con i bagagli. In più si impara qualcosa sulla vela e si possono incontrare dei simpatici compagni di viaggio. Noi siamo stati fortunati! :)
George is an excellent skipper, competent and professional. He is forthcoming, humorous and relaxed. George was always ready to help and made sure you feel comfortable. The boat was well kept and modern. The crew had lots of possibilities to participate as they wanted. We had a fantastic sailing week exploring the Greek islands with George's local expertise.
Si può solo che parlar bene di Claudio!
È una persona meravigliosa, velista di indubbia passione e capacità! Mi sono affezionata a lui e ai miei compagni di viaggio nel percorrere insieme questa settimana divertente e piena di vento e di onde ed è iniziata anche una bella amicizia oltre che concretizzata la passione per la vela!
Posso solo dare il voto più alto a Carlo e a questa vacanza. Avevo promesso 8 stelline ma il punteggio massimo possibile è di 5. Sappiate però che le 8 stelle sono più che meritate! Nonostante fosse la mia seconda esperienza mi sento assolutamente di dire che con Carlo ho vissuto la mia prima vera vacanza in barca a vela. Lui preparatissimo e professionale, sempre calmo e paziente con tutti; aveva organizzato tutto già prima di partire e non ha lasciato nulla al caso. Ci ha portato in baie meravigliose con colori stupendi e tramonti indimenticabili. Rade fantastiche, in alcune eravamo totalmente immersi nella natura illuminati da luna e stelle; in altre eravamo nelle vicinanze di paesini caratteristici che avevano il loro fascino. Non è mancata la fortuna di vedere delfini e tartarughe!! Equipaggio TOP con tante risate e nuove amicizie! Una mix di mare, cultura, divertimento e relax!
Consiglio a tutti un viaggio con Carlo!
It was an amazing trip.
Max is an excellent skipper, very Nice and take care with the crew.
I really recommande à sail trip with him.
Thank you for everything
See you
Prima esperienza in barca a vela...che dire fantastica, emozionante incredibile!!! Nn potevo trovare skipper migliore! Competente, preparato, simpatico, discreto sempre pronto a far interagire il gruppo con le manovre! Insomma se volete provare una vacanza alternativa in piena sicurezza che dire Daniele è una garanzia!!
Io nn posso dire che alla prossima!!
8 reasons to choose the Cyclades for your next sailing holiday:
Home to some of the most spectacular beauty in the Greek Isles in Santorini, Mykonos, and Ios
Lesser-known treasures of the Cyclades such as Sifnos, Koufonisia, and Amorgos which are regarded by expert skippers as some of the most perfect Greek islands
An ideal climate for sailing from April through to October
Learn the special sirtaki dance in the area’s street festivals
Taste the popular Greek liquor, ouzo, with a meal of local produce
Discover some of the world’s most charming coves and lagoons
Immerse yourself in the regions iconic white, cubic architecture and charming fishing villages
The best places & specific destinations to visit during your sailing holidays in the Cyclades:
Sailing the world renowned landscapes of Mykonos
This island of Mykonos, a favourite holidaying spot, is recognised for the beauty of its hilly landscapes, sandy beaches, and picturesque Cycladic white country chapels. Where as, the crescent-shaped Santorini, or Thira, as it’s otherwise known, is in fact a group of islands in the southern Cyclades.
The volcanic complex of the Santorini Islands has crafted some of the most unique arrangements of rock and ocean - while sunset images from the famous Caldera have become synonymous with romance. Then there is the island of Ios, known as Nios by the locals, and considered by many as one of the most beautiful islands in the Cyclades. The Panayia Gremiótissa church that stands at the highest point of Ios offers a striking view over the town and out onto the open sea.
Exploring the secret beauty of the Cyclades
The best kept secrets of the Cyclades are the islands of Sifnos, Koufonisia, and Amorgos. Sifnos with its red bougainvillea that hugs the white of the buildings, as the gentle Meltemi breeze flows over the hills and onto coastline. Koufonisa is said to compete with the best of Greek islands on all fronts. The port of Koufonisa sits on the islands only village, here some of the most charming blue lagoons are being secluded. Amorgos rises dramatically from the Aegean, creating extremely unique landscapes, and is described by skippers as a charm that you most confront at least once in your life.
The Cyclades, which originates from the Greek word for ring or circle, is in fact made up of around 220 different islands. This variety in island, partnered with the Meltemi winds, make for some of the best conditions for a sailing holiday full of discovery and fun.
Tips to help you to better plan for your next sailing holidays in the Cyclades:
As the region boasts a warm climate for much of the year, sailing the Cyclades is recommended between early April and late October.
You can find experiences for a week in the Cyclades with a skipper from €500 per person. This figure excludes transport to and from the holiday. It is important to remember that depending on the month of travel and style of boat pricing is subject to change.
The two main airports in the area are based in Mykonos and Santorini. If not clear in the holiday listing, reach out to a holiday’s organising skipper to understand more precisely the most suitable transport options.
The best sailing holiday itineraries for your next adventure in the Cyclades with a skipper:
Due to the Cyclades having approximately 220 islands, there are a great number of different sailing holiday itinerary options. Popular itineraries include the exploration of some of the areas most popular islands including - Sifnos, Poliegos, Kimolos, Milos, Paros, Syros, Santorini, and Mykonos.
Such concentration of different islands means that some skippers like to propose visiting a new island each day. If there are shorter holiday time frames available, there are many itineraries that revolve more heavily on the Small (otherwise known as Little, Minor or Lesser) Cyclades.
