Renting a sailboat is the ideal way to explore the hidden beauty of Astypalaia, the fifth-largest island in the Dodecanese complex. Astypalaia is a butterfly-shaped island in the center of the Aegean. It has several picturesque ports where you can easily find the ideal sailboat of your choice. You can directly contact the owners for the ideal vessel, or allow a BednBlue travel expert to guide you with some suggestions.
You have plenty of options:
You can book and hire a sailboat with a skipper, or without if you own a license, and enjoy a one-day cruise around the magnificent coastline. You can also rent a sailboat for a full-day tour of the various beaches of the island, or enjoy a two-day cruise to Amorgos or Kalymnos. Finally, you can hire a luxury sailboat and go island hopping in the Dodecanese islands to create lifetime memories.
Astypalaia or Astypalea stands like a cultural bridge between the Dodecanese islands and the Cyclades. It is shaped like a butterfly and has beautifully colored houses, flowery yards, and light blue domes. The main village of the island, Hora is the capital where you can get to see the traditional architecture of the Cyclades and several monuments. The church of Panagia Portaitissa and the Venetian Castle offer panoramic views of the Aegean. The castle managed to fit up to 4000 citizens for protection during pirate invasions, a construction shrouded in mystery. The church hosts a traditional festival Mary every 15th of August in honor of the Virgin Mary, an event which you can attend. Once you have had your necessary historical and cultural input on the island, be sure to schedule a sailing trip to Astypalaia and enjoy the rich coastline and islets around it.
From organized to completely remote beaches, daily sailing tours in Astypalaia are arranged during the summer months. The butterfly island has a narrow strip of land called “steno” (meaning narrow in Greek) that divides it into two. The eastern part is known as Mesa Nisi and the western part is known as Exo Nisi.
You can visit the beaches here that are only 5km northeast of Chora. The clean and shallow waters will ensure you have a secluded anchorage with your catamaran. Most sailboats depart from Pera Gialos marina. This gives you immediate access to the surrounding islands of Agia Kiriaki, Kounoupi, and Analapisi. From Steno, you can reach the natural harbor of Analipsi with ease. It is the second-largest settlement in Astypalaia where you can enjoy traditional Greek food. In fact, the Astypalaia International Airport is only 13m away from the village of Maltezana. This village has a natural harbor too. You may organize day trips to Shinontas or go for a dip on the beaches of Kotsomitis and Agios Fokas.
Hiring a sailboat with a skipper in the Dodecanese islands is generally the best option. Several beaches and islets are not mapped and often appear out of nowhere. Your captain can hoist the sail while you sit back, relax and enjoy the perfect sailing tour in Astypalaia. A popular beach worth mentioning is Livadi. It is 5km west of the main town. when you arrive, you can enjoy the crystal clear waters and spend a night in the shops and resorts of the small village. The beach of Vatses is also popular. it is only accessible by boat. At the edge, you will find the cave of Negros where pirates used to hide, with impressive stalactites and stalagmite formations. Near Vatses, you can also stop at the organized beach of Kaminakia which is rather protected from southerly winds. If you wish to island-hop the Dodecanese complex or the Cyclades, be sure to include Astypalaia in your weekly charter.
Some islands you can visit on a two-day or three-day cruise with a luxury sailboat are Amorgos and Kalymnos. Finally, aside from the beautiful beaches of the island, any visitor can enjoy several more activities. Ftera is a hiking route engraved with paths connected by small hills. There are many taverns scattered around the island too. Do not miss the chance to taste local braised lamb, fresh fish, and various desserts with local products.
Pera Yalos: the main port of Astypalaia, within walking distance from the capital Chora. Boats are well protected from the winds and there are little cafes and taverns by a beautiful clean beach. Nearby you can visit the Museum of Astypalaia and the church of St.Nikolas.
The Airport of Astypalaia is roughly 8.5km ( a 15 min drive) to Pera Yalos.
Chora: Located between the old port of Pera Yalos and the path that leads to Livadi. Has traditional stone mills, the castle from the Guerini family and little alleys in a central square. Also referred to as the Queen of the island.
Maltezana Harbour: located opposite Chora, Livadi, and Pera Yalos. This little port has many fishing boats and several accommodations nearby.
The Airport is roughly 5 min away (2km) from Maltezana Harbour.
Livadi: A few km outside Chora with an abundance of entertainment opportunities for tourists. You can enjoy water sports in organized beaches or dine at the traditional taverns. There are several accommodations such as hotels and multiple shops.
Vathy: The most remote community of Astypalaia with various activities for visitors. There are various sailing vessels anchoring here in a sheltered bay that is roughly 50m long. It is roughly 21km northeast of Chora.
There are ferry routes to Astypalea from the ports of Piraeus, Amorgos, Kalymnos, and Naxos
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