The archipelago was with the Attica and the Peloponnese, where the ancient Greek civilization developed and the uninterrupted wake of the ships linked the vital centers. The Cyclades, in the summer months, are the ideal route for lovers of sailing and the most demanding navigation spot because of the Meltemi, the strong seasonal wind that many passionate sailors search for.
The best times to enjoy these islands with more confidence are spring and autumn months, when the wind drops and the sea is calmer. The main bases of a sailing boat and motor yachts are the islands of Syros and Paros, in the heart of the Cyclades. You can also plan sailings from the capital, Athens, that is forty miles from the archipelago.
Each island, while being different from the others, embodies the characteristics of greek landscapes, like the white color of the houses, which makes the atmosphere almost enchanted; the presence of small windmills in harbors; the white beaches that contrast with the rocks and the blue sea, and finally the hospitality of the inhabitants, who do not deny the good name of the greek people.
Among many islands stand for beauty Kea, Kythnos, Syros that with their small villages built on the highest points of the territory, providing sweeping images of life and local traditions. It should be remembered Mykonos, with its famous bay where sailing boats and catamarans stop to admire the scenery; Santorini is the most romantic of the Cyclades and Ios, with its many churches. The wonders and excitement that this region of Greece offers are numerous, so it is recommended a cruise of at least two weeks.
The west coast of Turkey offers kilometers of bays and inlets, alternating with rocky coasts and vast deserted beaches bathed by a clear sea that makes the enchanting landscape. The coastal cities such as Bodrum, Marmaris, Fethiye, Antalya and others less known, are the only inhabited places you will encounter during your cruise in Turkey, where the local markets and bazaars attract you with their colors and scents. The climate is warm, but thanks to a constant ventilation and lack of moisture , people can enjoy easily a holiday in particularly on a nice sailboat. Turkey is the ideal area for boat cruises sailing or catamaran that are quiet and relaxing, in fact gives only small shifts from one bay, where the sea is very calm.
The anchors are close together and this allows you to choose every day the best place. The turkish territory is also full of wonderful archaeological finds, that tell the ancient Byzantines through the Egyptians, until you get to the robbers of the seas, the Pirates. European Blue Flag 2004-2005 as the cleanest sea of Europe, Turkey offers a chance to see many marine animals such as seals Nuns, whales, turtles and dolphins attracted by the silent hulls of sailboats rise to the surface and offer exciting stunt shows. Seeking a comfortable and undemanding cruise, it is recommend to rent a gulet, a large wooden sailing ship that offers many conveniences compared to catamarans and monohulls, and that will make you live the emotions of the Turkish nautical tradition. The catamaran boarding bases, sailing boats and little boats for hire are in the cities of Bodrum, Marmaris and Gocek.