IYC Insider’s Guide To Discovering The Lesser-Known Cyclades Islands
There are many reasons why the Cyclades typically feature at the top of many Greece yacht charter itineraries. The iconic whitewashed villages, Greek island life, crystal-clear waters of the Aegean, and Instagram sunsets are among the many factors driving superyachts to this corner of Greece.
There are over 200 islands to choose from, so while you may think you have completed the Cyclades by visiting hotspots like Santorini, Mykonos, Naxos, and Paros, to name a few of the well-known islands, there are many more destinations in this island chain where you can find the quieter and more local alternatives.
Getting off the tourist trail for a more private and authentic luxury yacht charter experience is highly recommended. Plenty of the islands have beaches that are empty, trails to discover alone, harbors full of locals, and volcanic landscapes that many have yet to discover. Here we spotlight our favorite insider spots in the Cyclades Islands to include on your next Greek yacht charter itinerary:
Schoinoussa
Small and completely unspoiled, with a tiny permanent population, Schoinoussa is a hidden gem of the Small Cyclades. One of the few inhabited islands within this chain, these islands are completely different from one another, but well worth a visit as undiscovered spots.
The waters surrounding Schoinoussa are among the clearest in the Aegean, and the quiet anchorage options make spending a day, or a few, here unique. A spot where yachts visit to enjoy the authenticity and natural charm. Admire the traditional houses in the main settlement of Chora, then stop at a handful of local cafes and restaurants. Whether you take to the walking trails of the island or simply lie back and relax on one of the many pristine beaches, Schoinoussa is worth a visit for those looking for a true Cycladic experience.
Iraklia
Another island located in the Small Cyclades, set between Naxos and Ios, Iraklia is a picturesque and lesser-visited spot to include on any Greek itinerary. With just two small villages, hiking trails winding around the olive groves on the hillsides, and a slower pace of life, the island is perfect for yacht charter experiences.
On the island’s southwestern coast, at Alimia Beach, beneath the surface, you can also dive or snorkel to explore the sunken wreckage of a WWII seaplane, before returning back to the yacht for impressive sunset backdrops.
Polyaigos
Lacking development and even roads, Polyaigos, near Milos and Kimolos, is the largest uninhabited island in the Cyclades. The name, meaning “many goats,” highlights the island’s only inhabitants. Visiting the rugged and wild landscape is ideal by yacht charter, drop anchor here for a day trip and a peaceful overnight stay.
Photographers will love exploring the rocky and clear coastline by tender. Nature and wildlife are abundant here, and its protected status reflects this, from the seabird colonies to the endangered Mediterranean monk seal residing here. Recently marked as an official archaeological site, its ruins and shipwreck are also now protected, so new development will not be on the horizon, leaving a quiet yachting destination perfect for those wanting to get away from the bustle of other islands.
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Any Greek yacht charter is an unforgettable experience. But to explore the Cycladic Islands by luxury yacht is a dream come true. Drink in the views of white-washed, sugar-cube houses perched in the hills of picture-postcard Greek towns, amongst windmills and church domes painted in vibrant bright blue.
The Cyclades are an iconic group of islands in the Aegean Sea, which have become intrinsically known for their whitewashed villages, blue-domed churches, and white sandy beaches bordered by chic beach clubs.
Embark on a Greece yacht charter vacation to uncover the rich history and archaeological wonders scattered throughout the Cyclades island chain.
Anafi
Located just east of the famous volcanic island of Santorini, Anafi is one of the least-visited islands. While the neighboring island draws in the crowds, Anafi is kept for those in the know. The dramatic landscape is full of volcanic hills, rugged rocks, and cliffs dropping into beaches below, and walking ashore here typically includes visits to whitewashed houses, monasteries, and villages.
The slower pace here is the main attraction, unwind on the secluded beaches, take long lunches at local tavernas, and enjoy the yacht’s toy box in the beautiful anchorages.
Kimolos
For those looking for a peaceful stop on a yacht charter itinerary in the Cyclades, Kimolos is one not to miss. Offering dramatic scenery, excellent watersport opportunities, and a glimpse into the Greek island way of life. The main village of Chora is compact and charming to wander, full of tavernas and cafes.
Kimolos also offers some great hiking thanks to its diverse landscapes, and gives a great chance to enjoy the views and experience its wild side. While cruising here, pay a visit to the most scenic beach, Prassa Beach, great for anchoring off and exploring the vibrant blue waters.
Despotiko
A short hop from Paros and Antiparos, the island of Despotiko is frequently overlooked but is home to one of the most significant archeological sites in the Cyclades. Still being excavated today is the ancient sanctuary of Apollo; you can head ashore to explore it firsthand. Uninhabited, the island is a perfect cultural stop off with some idyllic beaches and coves to anchor in.
For those heading to the Cyclades for the IYC Cyclades Cup, Despotiko is a great addition to your yacht charter itinerary, combining it with exploring the sailing yacht regatta event’s host island of Antiparos.
Sikinos
Unaffected by mass tourism, Sikinos gives you a sense of what all the Cyclade Islands used to be like. The beaches, like Agios Georgios, and sheltered anchorages offer tranquil and crowd-free spots to relax. And ashore, the island has Byzantine ruins, an ancient temple, and walking paths that connect the small villages.
On a yacht charter itinerary, combine Sikinos with its neighbor, Folegandros, another lesser-visited Cycladic island and the perfect complement to a quieter Cyclades trip.
Explore The Cyclades With IYC
The lesser-visited and known islands of the Cyclades are perfect for those who want to escape the crowds of the more famous and bigger islands, or to combine both for a well-balanced itinerary. From archeological finds, uninhabited coastlines to local tavernas and hiking ashore, the quieter side of the Cyclades does not disappoint.
Contact our expert IYC consultants today, who can help curate a perfect insider’s yacht charter itinerary cruising the Cyclades Islands this summer. IYC’s Greek experts match your preferences to the best yacht for charter, and complementary islands, depending on the type of vacation you are looking for.