Yacht charter in Cyclades

Built around the meltemi rather than against it: work north and east early in the week, then run back downwind. Morning passages, afternoons in harbour.

1. 1

   Paros — Parikia or Naoussa

   Saturday handover; short move within the island.

2. 2

   Mykonos — Tourlos

   North-east early; the old port is exposed when the meltemi fills in.

3. 3

   Delos

   A morning on the archaeological site — no overnight is allowed — then on to Naxos.

4. 4

   Naxos

   The harbour under the Portara; provisioning and a greener island.

5. 5

   Koufonisia or the Small Cyclades

   South-east into the quiet group; sand bottoms, clear water.

6. 6

   Ios — Ormos

   The enclosed harbour; the reliable shelter if the wind is up.

7. 7

   Paros

   The downwind run back north-west — the fast, enjoyable leg.

For mid-July to the end of August, when 25 knots in the afternoon is normal. Fewer islands, more reliable harbours, and every passage finished by lunchtime.

1. 1

   Paros

   Handover; stay on the island and watch a full afternoon of the wind before committing.

2. 2

   Antiparos

   The sheltered channel; a short hop to settle the crew.

3. 3

   Naxos

   East across the channel, leaving at first light.

4. 4

   Naxos south — Kalandos or Moutsouna

   Work down the lee side of the island rather than across open water.

5. 5

   Koufonisia

   Short crossing in the morning calm.

6. 6

   Back to Paros or Naoussa

   Downwind; the easy leg, and the one to keep in hand.

7. 7

   Paros

   Short final leg for handover.