Hiring a sailboat is a fantastic way to explore the hidden beauty of Kea, located in the southern Aegean Sea. Whether it’s a weekend excursion from Athens or a longer cruising experience in the Cyclades, Kea has multiple beaches, bays, and coves where you can anchor your vessel. There are several picturesque marinas in Kea where you can easily find the ideal sailboat of your choice. You can directly contact the owners of the vessel for the ideal sailboat or simply 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 have a license and enjoy a one-day cruise around the unique coastline. If you rent a sailboat, you can enjoy a two-day cruise to Sifnos. Finally, you can hire a luxury sailboat and go island-hopping for some of the best experiences you can imagine.
Kea is the westernmost island in the Cyclades, only 16 nautical miles from the capital of Greece, Athens. Kea has a population of about 3,000 people, with residents who will welcome you with a warm heart. In fact, Kea has been inhabited since the bronze age. It was influenced by Byzantine and Venetian Powers, followed by Ottoman rule all the way till the early 19th century. Kea still has several archaeological sites and trails built from stone that disperse through the island. Moreover, there are over 30 beaches that fill up the coastline. Kea’s architectural beauty creates the sense of another era. The Athenians continue to build summer houses, which makes them perfect for weekend escapes. During your holiday you can visit the ancient city and capital, Ioulis. Though cars are prohibited, you will enjoy walking up the monastery of Panagia Kastriani for panoramic views of the Aegean Sea.
This long-lived island may have been depopulated in the earlier days, but it today is booming with tourists. Sailing enthusiasts can explore the 30 beaches along the coastline. Similarly, walking enthusiasts can enjoy trekking the trails of ancient cities. Korissia, Ioulis, Poiessa, and Karthaia are connected by a 36km route that awaits exploration. There is a stunning record of 3,000 species of plants on the island. from Oak, maple, rare orchid species, and many more. You will also observe Hellenistic towers, windmills, and tavernas by the marinas. Kea also has one of the largest natural ports in the Mediterranean, the Gulf of Agios Nikolaos. Once you have decided to spend some time outside of Athens, you can begin your sailing trip around the island of Kea. With the many available vessels, BednBlue offers, you will have a one-of-a-kind vacation in Greece.
A day trip to Kea will allow you to visit picturesque villages with a refreshing finish line at the many secluded beaches. In the southeast part of the island, Karthera lies in a wonderful isolated bay. It is connected to the city where one can visit the Apollo temple or go for a long walk along the classical harbor. You can also depart from the commercial harbor of Korissia. It is a busy place with several stores and restaurants where many sailboats moor for shelter. From here you can visit Gialiskari beach. You will love to see the tamarisk trees covering the sandy beach and its clear waters. Nearby you can stop at Vourkari harbor. This is a beautiful fishing village with fish taverns and upbeat nightlife.
Kea’s best-known are Gias, Possas, Xyla, and Koundoros Beach. These beaches have been awarded the blue flag for their cleanliness. Do not miss the chance to swim and sunbathe in their crystal-clear waters. With a sailboat, you can tour various other beaches around the island. kaliskia, Otzias, Poles, Psili Ammos. and Sikamia, are great choices.
Sailing around the Cyclades you can also visit Kythnos, Serifos, Sifnos, Andros, and the cosmopolitan island of Milos. With a sailboat rental, you can group up with your friends or family and enjoy swimming and snorkeling at Koundouri Reef. It is well-protected from the northern winds. Another option is Makronisos closer to Lavrio. You would hate to leave Kea and not have tried the specialties which consist of locally made products from the agritourism farm in Chora. Next, you can visit Kythnos, an island a little further from Kea reputed for the healing properties of its thermal springs. Finally, you can either visit the island of Serifos or make your way back to Athens taking the time to enjoy sites you didn’t have the time to visit. In fact, you can also partake in the Fairy Tale Festival. This is an old cultural event in Greece where many musicians, prominent artists, and novelists attend. According to Mythology, Kea was the home of the nymphs which are often associated with growing things. Leaving Athens, you will get to spend time away from the City. You can always craft your itinerary in the Cyclades according to your liking. Kea or Athens can even mark the end of your journey.
Korissia Port: The island's main port is located in the Gulf of St. Nicolaus, one of the safest where many sailboats moor.
Vourkariou Port: Can accommodate all pleasure boats. A small coastal and traditional settlement that has a small picturesque bay. Often the spot for sailing competitions can load a maximum length of 130m for vessels with a depth of 3m.
Kea generally has good accessibility compared to the other Cyclades islands. Ferry ships daily access Kea from Lavrio, especially on the weekends. From Lavrio, the Athens Airport is roughly a 15-20 minute drive. There is also a bus connection from Athens to Lavrio and when you are ready to depart from the marina, make sure you book in advance especially if it's for the weekend or peak summer months (July-August).
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