7-Day Cyclades Itinerary: The Perfect Island-Hopping Route

This is our go-to Cyclades route when clients want the full experience without the Mykonos crowds. It's a perfect loop from Lavrion (Athens' sailing hub), hitting seven stunning islands in seven days. Here's the day-by-day breakdown.

Day 1: Lavrion → Kea (22 nm, ~4 hours)

Start early. Lavrion marina is well-organized; briefing and check-out usually take an hour. Head north to Kea — the closest Cycladic island to Athens. Anchor in Vourkari Bay (best for dinner — try the fresh fish at O Mylos) or Korissia (more sheltered if the Meltemi is strong). Kea is low-key, with ancient ruins and a sleepy village. Perfect first stop.

Day 2: Kea → Kythnos (18 nm, ~3.5 hours)

Kythnos has some of our favorite anchorages. Kolona Bay is a must — a narrow strip of sand connecting two beaches, like a natural pier. Stunning. Alternatively, Merichas for a marina night, or Loutra for hot springs. Dinner at Thalassa in Merichas — the owner is a character, and the food is superb.

Day 3: Kythnos → Serifos (25 nm, ~5 hours)

Serifos has a dramatic hilltop chora (main town) that looks like a movie set. Anchor in Livadi Bay — the main port — or the smaller, prettier Ganema Bay. The Meltemi can funnel through here, so check the forecast. Nicoleta's tip: if it's blowing 20+, leave early (before 8 am) or wait until late afternoon when it often eases. Never fight the Meltemi at midday.

Day 4: Serifos → Sifnos (15 nm, ~3 hours)

Sifnos is the foodie island. Known for pottery and incredible tavernas. Anchor in Kamares (main port) or the idyllic Platys Gialos. Apollonia, the capital, is worth a taxi ride — white alleys, ceramic shops, and restaurants that rival Athens. Our favorite: Omega 3 in Platys Gialos for the freshest seafood.

Day 5: Sifnos → Milos (22 nm, ~4.5 hours)

Milos is the highlight. Volcanic, colorful, with beaches that look like another planet. Kleftiko is the famous spot — towering white rocks, crystal water, caves to swim through. It's a day anchorage (not for overnight in summer — too exposed). Overnight in Adamas (main port) or the beautiful Pollonia. Milos has the best sunsets in the Cyclades. Don't miss the sulfur mines at Thiorichia — surreal.

Day 6: Milos → Kimolos (8 nm, ~1.5 hours)

Kimolos is Milos' quiet neighbor. Fewer tourists, same volcanic beauty. Prassa Beach has white cliffs and turquoise water. Anchor in Psathi or Aliki. Simple tavernas, friendly locals. A perfect chill day before the sail back.

Day 7: Kimolos → Lavrion (55 nm, ~9 hours)

The long leg home. Start at 6 am to avoid the midday Meltemi. It's a straight shot — mostly motoring or broad reach depending on wind. Plan for 8–10 hours. Arrive by 4 pm for check-in.

Nicoleta's Meltemi Navigation Tips

Check the forecast every morning. Windy.com or PredictWind are our go-tos. If it's 25+ knots, consider a rest day or a short hop. Sail early (before 10 am) or late (after 5 pm) when the wind is lighter. Always have a plan B anchorage. And never be shy about reefing — a reefed sail is a happy sail.

This route works best June–September. May and October are possible but some tavernas may be closed. Ready to sail it? We have yachts in Lavrion — let's make it happen.