We’re slowly making our way south through the Cyclades, and are beginning to understand why it’s such a popular place to charter a boat and go sailing. We’re also feeling grateful that we have our own boat and can sail at our own whim because there are so many wonderful places to explore!
For those unfamiliar with this region, the Cyclades are the most renowned island group in the Aegean Sea, encompassing 39 islands located in close proximity to each other. They are well known for their distinct barren landscapes adorned with traditional white and blue architecture and stunning sandy beaches, as well as their welcoming and friendly residents. Only 24 of these islands are inhabited year-round, with the remaining smaller islands and islets remaining untouched – accessibe only by boat. The name “Cyclades” is derived from the islands forming a circular pattern (in English, the name means “circular islands”) around the sacred island of Delos.
The days seem to be settling into a wonderful rhythm. Sail a little. Drop anchor somewhere irresistible for a swim and/or paddle board. Enjoy lunch aboard KORA. Then, by evening, find another beautiful harbour to wander ashore, browse the local shops, and settle in for a memorable meal by the water. Every island seems to put its own twist on simple, fresh ingredients – olive oil, herbs, seafood, goat, chicken & pork, and garden vegetables. The ingredients rarely change, yet somehow every island serves up a meal that has its own unique flavour, and every one seems better than the last.
Today took us from Kythnos to Serifos. The wind seemed to take the day off, so KORA did much of the work under engine power, but calm seas made for an easy passage and nobody seemed to mind. Sometimes slowing down is exactly what sailing is about!
Around lunchtime we dropped anchor at Psili Ammos Beach, one of Serifos’ most beautiful stretches of sand. The water was simply irresistible. A few of us even swam across to what quickly became known as our own private beach – a tiny pocket of sand tucked beneath the cliffs that felt like it had been waiting just for us.
After fresh sandwiches aboard, we continued around to the island’s main harbour of Livadi.
From our anchorage we could see the island’s famous Chora, perched dramatically on the hillside above the bay, its whitewashed houses glowing in the late afternoon sun. According to Greek mythology, Serifos was the island where Perseus arrived with his mother Danaë after they were cast adrift at sea. Years later, after slaying Medusa, Perseus is said to have returned here and turned the wicked King Polydectes to stone using Medusa’s head. Fortunately, the locals seemed much friendlier these days!
After showers we dinghied ashore, wandered the waterfront shops, and, unsurprisingly, Chelsea quickly found herself making friends with the local feline community. I suspect she now knows more island cats than people.
The day finished exactly as a Greek island day should – with another wonderful meal beside the water, plenty of laughter, and the best company anyone could ask for. The food was so good and we were all ravished, so unfortunately we missed our standard photos of the feast laid out before us and our group.
Naturally, another swim was required after dinner. Yes… with a glass of wine in hand!
Life really is pretty good out here!
