7-Day Cyclades Yacht Itinerary–Athens to Milos

Rafina Port in Athens is a convenient base for yachts, particularly those heading to the Cyclades Islands. Located along the eastern coast of Attica, it’s only a 20-minute drive from Athens International Airport. You might want to arrive early to take advantage of the opportunity to explore the Greek capital before departure, with the Acropolis Hill the most popular attraction. You’ll be walking in the footsteps of ancient greats like Socrates and Plato while admiring monuments that date all the way back to the 5th century BC, including the iconic Parthenon that has overlooked the city for nearly 2,500 years. 

If you have time, wander through the Plaka district with its more than 3,500-year history as one of Europe’s most ancient settlements. It lies beneath the Acropolis and includes beautiful neoclassical buildings, Byzantine temples, and ancient ruins. You’ll also find many shops for picking up souvenirs and any necessities for your sailing adventure, along with sidewalk cafes for outdoor dining.

Soak up the spectacular beauty of the Aegean as you sail to Mykonos, about 85 nautical miles from Rafina. The best marinas here are Mykonos Marina (Tourlos), which is the main port and provides easy access to Mykonos Town and Ornos Bay which provides a more peaceful spot and more sheltered anchorage. Upon arrival, you’ll have many options when it comes to things to do. The island’s beaches are renowned for their soft, powdery sands, offering everything from famous party scenes at beach clubs on Super Paradise to more secluded stretches like laid-back Panormos. For buzzing nightlife, Cavo Paradiso is known for its international DJs, where you can dance ’til dawn. Keep an eye out for celebrities as this cosmopolitan island attracts everyone from supermodels to Hollywood stars like Leonardo DiCaprio and Lindsay Lohan. 

Nature lovers and outdoor adventurers might consider embarking on an off-road Jeep tour to discover the island’s hidden gems or take part in activities like hiking, cycling, sea kayaking, and swimming. History enthusiasts won’t want to miss the iconic windmills in Little Venice, while foodies might take a tour that includes tastings and meeting producers like cheesemakers, or join a cooking class hosted in a local family’s home.

Continue to Naxos where you can anchor at Naxos Marina, suitable for a variety of yacht sizes and convenient for exploring the shops, eateries, and attractions in Naxos Town. You can stroll the labyrinth of marble-paved streets lined with whitewashed homes that lead to a Venetian castle with an archaeological museum. If you want to get more active, hike to the summit of Mount Zeus for a panoramic view of the Aegean and nearby islands, or head to one of the many beautiful beaches. Naxos is home to some of the country’s very best, with long stretches of white powdery sands and calm, translucent turquoise water that looks like a vast swimming pool. Paddleboarding, sea kayaking, and other water sports are possible too.

Visiting the mountain villages is a treat that can be enjoyed by taking a tour or renting a car. Apiranthos is especially impressive, nestled between two valleys with marble-paved paths and Venetian architecture. Naxos has also become famous for its farm- and sea-to-table culinary scene, providing lots of delicious eats to fill your appetite afterward. There’s a focus on seafood and other fresh island products such as Naxian potatoes and cheeses. Foodies might want to consider a food tour that will bring you to local producers for tastings.

Journey to the bucket-list island of Santorini, one of the most popular Greek islands. Vlychada Marina is the best marina, located on the south coast and well-protected as the primary choice for yachts, although smaller vessels might consider Ammoudi Bay just below famous Oia village with its whitewashed homes and blue-domed churches cascading down the caldera cliffs. You might rent a car to discover the top sites or take a tour that can bring you everywhere from the famous Red Beach with fiery red sands spectacularly contrasted against the cobalt sea, to the Pompeii-like Akrotiri archaeological site. It was blanketed under ash during the 1646 BC volcanic eruption, preserving life some 3,700 years ago. 

Wine tasting tours are available if you’re interested in sampling the island’s unique wine, with the grape vines woven into basket-like structures called kouloura close to the ground. Hikers can take the trek between Fira and Oia for incredible views of the caldera and the Aegean Sea. If you can, plan to be in Oia just before dusk to marvel at one of the country’s most renowned sunsets. 

Parikia Marina offers a central location and protection from northern winds, but some may want to dock at Naoussa Marina with its especially picturesque setting. Either way, once you’ve arrived, you’ll find everything from historic sites to beautiful beaches and opportunities for water sports. You might get lost among the winding streets of sun-soaked, whitewashed villages draped in vibrant shades of pink, red, and purple bougainvillea as the aromas of jasmine, thyme, and oregano waft in the air. The Church of a Hundred Doors is arguably the most popular historic landmark while wine enthusiasts can explore the island’s 5,000-year-old winemaking tradition. 

It’s worth taking a tour to experience some of the most authentic areas of Paros, including the traditional mountain village of Lefkes with its impressive architecture and panoramic vista that awaits at its edge. Walking the thousand-year-old marble path to nearby Maripissa is a popular thing to do and you won’t want to miss sampling a handmade sweet in one of the local cafes. Beach lovers are sure to enjoy Marcello with its strikingly white sands and calm water while Golden Beach offers a wide range of water sports, including gear rentals. 

Dock at Karavostasi Marina, the only major marina on Folegandros and it offers a designated area for yachts while being close to Chora, the main town. This unspoiled island is ideal for those who want to escape the thick tourist crowds and massive cruise ships. Chora offers an especially tranquil atmosphere with motorized vehicles banned, making for more pleasant strolls along the cobbled streets lined with whitewashed buildings. Don’t miss the historic Kastro quarter where you’ll find a medieval castle. By following the paved path from Pounda Square to the Church of Panagia, you can take in a breathtaking panoramic view. While there are no Michelin-star eateries anywhere on this island, you’ll find plenty of cozy cafes for delicious traditional cuisine. 

It’s worth venturing beyond Chora to visit the Ecological and Folklore Museum in Ano Meria with a vast collection that includes temples, a primitive wine press, the remains of an olive press, local costumes, and more. Nature lovers will find remote trails for scenic treks and many beautiful beaches to relax on, including secluded Ligaria or Agali, a livelier stretch with loungers, umbrellas, and facilities for water sports. 

Adamas Port is the main port on Milos Island and the place for yachts to dock. In town, you can browse the shops and enjoy tasty local cuisine at the many tavernas, while Papikinou Beach is within walking distance. It’s worth taking a cruise around the island to visit its many beaches. There are over 75 here, including world-famous Sarakiniko with smooth, chalk-white rock formations that are ideal for sunbathing while stunningly contrasted by brilliant aquamarine water for swimming. There are also hot springs along the island’s shore where you can stop and enjoy a relaxing soak. 

To explore history, visit the site where the Venus de Milo statue was discovered and the ancient 3rd-century BC theater set atop a mountain overlooking Klima. The picturesque hilltop town of Plaka is also lovely to explore and hosts an archaeological museum where you can learn more about the island’s past.