Serifos Yacht Charter Guide

Unspoilt and charming, the rugged landscape of Serifos is the chosen destination for many Greeks to spend their summer vacation. One of the least visited islands in the Cyclades, a yacht charter here promises a calm, peaceful insight into Greece’s slower pace of life. The natural beauty of Serifos is best explored by yacht, with many deserted beaches and cays to discover while on board. An excellent destination for families, Serifos is just a short sail from Athens and is the gateway to the Cyclades archipelago.

Best time to visit: Warm throughout the year, the most popular months for visitors are July and August, outside of this the island is relatively quiet. 

Key cruising areas: Serifos has over 70 beaches and bays to visit, many of which are only accessible by boat or tender. Koutalas bay is located on the south of the island and is a serene place to drop anchor, swim and relax by the shore. Ideally located in the western Cyclades, Serifos is also an excellent starting or mid-way point to further explore the archipelago.

Don't miss: The port of Livadi has a great selection of waterfront tavernas, boutiques and bars. Relax and enjoy the slow pace of life on Serifos and after a day of walking around the town, sit back and admire the beauty of the island as the sun sets over the harbor.

Best spots for wining and dining: Kali's in Livadi has some of the best seafood dishes on the island, with the catch of the day cooked and served whole to guests. For breakfast or a light afternoon snack, Stou Stratou is a casual place found in the main square of Hora. For drinks, Chill & Co Resto-Bar is a chic, modern spot to have a cocktail. For a more authentic Greek experience, Gaidaros is a tiny bar hidden in the backstreets of Chora. Sip beer with the locals and try to snag one of the rooftop tables!

Best local dish: There are many local delicacies to try while visiting Serifos. Sun-dried tomatoes, Fava beans, Marathon Tiganites (friend fennel-balls) and Revithada (a chickpea stew with rosemary) are just some of the dishes you will find on the island. As with many places in Greece, the fresh seafood is extraordinary, with mullet, swordfish, monkfish and squid common specialities of the region.

Local culture: Serifos has less than 1,500 full-time residents today but that has not always been the case. Abundant in natural materials, Serifos has been mined since the Roman ages and present-day visitors can still see glimpses of the island’s past inhabitants – which at its peak was almost 20,000. Tourists can explore the ruins of long-forgotten towns and even climb an ancient stairway that leads to a Venetian castle and the chapels of Agia Varvara, the Saviour, Agios Konstantinos and Agios Ioannis.

Best beach: Serifos is blessed with an abundance of beaches to choose from. Livadakia is a popular destination that is just 5km south of Chora. For quieter, off-the-beaten-track areas to relax, try Vagia or Psili Ammos.

IYC recommends: Set sail to the deserted island of Poliegos. A magical place to spend the day, the waters around this uninhabited island are an unbelievable shade of blue. Swim, snorkel and sunbathe on the shores or head inland to discover the historic lighthouse. A pristine area of natural beauty and refuge for many animals – including native Monk Seals – this peaceful place is a wonder of Greece.