Tinos Yacht Charter Guide

One of the lesser known destinations in the Cyclades, Tinos offers the best of authentic Greek island life. As a result of its religious association, it is often dismissed by tourists in favor of the bustling island of Mykonos (just 15 minutes away by boat). However, this means that the island has retained its quaint charm and authenticity. With a plethora of beaches, walking trails and small villages to discover, Tinos is an excellent destination for a family charter. The slow pace of life and emphasis on al fresco experiences will leave visitors feeling relaxed and recharged. 

In recent years, Tinos has cultivated a reputation as a haven for foodies, something that is celebrated each May during the Tinos Food Paths festival. Visitors can expect a delicious array of fresh seafood dishes, refreshing wines and sweet treats that are all crafted from local ingredients.

Best time to visit: Tinos has warm weather for much of the year, and the most popular months to visit are from May - September. Tinos is known for its winds, so it often feels much cooler than other parts of the Cyclades. 

Key cruising areas: Tinos Harbor is the main port on the island, which can become quite busy with ferries and local boats. For quieter anchorages, Livadha offers clear waters and a sandy seabed – a perfect place for swimming and snorkeling. Pourgia is a small bay on the north of Tinos that is a protected harbor ideal for yachts.
As part of the Cyclades, a charter to Tinos can include day trips to nearby islands such as Mykonos, Syros, Paros and Naxos. These are much more popular destinations so guests should expect a more buzzing, party atmosphere than the tranquil Tinos. 

Don't miss: Kardiani is a quaint village nestled on the mountains of Tinos. A charming place to explore one afternoon, it offers superb views of the Aegean Sea and several beautiful churches crafted from local marble. The whitewashed houses with bright blue doors are the epitome of Greek architecture – simply picture-perfect. 

Best spots for wining and dining: The culinary scene on Tinos has grown exponentially in recent years. Enjoy lunch by the water at Thalassaki, a well-known restaurant with an elevated selection of seafood dishes. In addition to a delicious menu and good selection of wines, the location is simply unbeatable. Another great option is Marathia, which is found just moments away from Agios Fokas beach. It offers guests a modern take on traditional Greek food, proudly uses only local ingredients and the owners even make their own cheese. A visit to Volacus winery in Falatados is both a wonderful experience and an unforgettable chance to try local wines.

Best local dish: Fourtalia is a local delicacy, which is a savory tortilla made with potatoes fried in olive oil and pork fat with sausages and eggs. Artichokes are one of the most popular items on Tinos as they grow abundantly all over the island, so expect to see these as an ingredient in many dishes. Castellano and Kopanisti are both cheeses native to the island and for a sweet treat, try some local honey infused with thyme. 

Local culture: The identity of Tinos is intertwined with its religious history. There are 750 chapels and churches to visit, as well as the Temple of Poseidon where the individuals were ‘purified’ in ancient times before they visited the sacred island of nearby Delos. Panagia Megalochari is the most famous church and one of the most visited religious pilgrimages in Greece. Here you will find the icon of the Virgin Mary that is a huge influence on the culture of Tinos. Each August, the entire island comes alive with festivities that celebrate the Virgin Mary. 

Best beach: Away from the crowds, Livada is a remote pebble beach on Tinos that is often quiet. The winds and waves can be quite strong so this is a great place to kitesurf but may not be best for families with small children. Agios Fokas is a sandy, wide beach on the southern side of the island with tavernas and cafes nearby.

IYC recommends: Tinos is a great place to spend time outside and take part in sports. There are over 90 miles of trails on the island. Set off on foot, by bike or on horseback and spend the day taking in the calming atmosphere of the natural landscape. For something a little more adventurous, surfing and windsurfing are very popular around the island. Take advantage of your yacht’s water toys, jump in and ride the waves around Tinos.