There are places in this world that don’t just steal your heart, they become a part of it. For me, that place is Greece.

This part of the world is deeply personal, it’s my heritage. As someone of Greek Cypriot heritage, I grew up swimming in these sparkling blue waters, exploring hidden bays with my family, swimming in untouched coves, and dining under the stars in quiet villages. These islands are more than destinations, they’re memories, soul, and story. And I’d love nothing more than to share them with you.

By Emma Morgan

Chartering a yacht in Greece gives you the rare chance to explore both the well-loved and the little-known, all at your own pace. While visitors flock to the iconic islands (and rightly so), it’s the untouched corners and quiet anchorages that truly capture the soul of the Aegean.

Pictured: Emma Morgan in Greece

Kea

A hidden gem of the western Cyclades, Kea (or Tzia) combines sophistication with authenticity. It’s where understated villas nestle into hillsides, and locals gather at seaside tavernas serving the freshest seafood. The sheltered bay of Vourkari is ideal for anchoring, calm, stylish, and just steps from charming cafes and boutiques. Inland, explore Ioulida, a hilltop village with panoramic views, local artists, and timeless architecture.

Serifos

For those who love wild landscapes and a touch of solitude, Serifos is a dream. The island’s rocky terrain hides some of the most beautiful, untouched beaches in the Cyclades. Ganema and Vagia beaches are perfect for dropping anchor, their quiet, golden shores feel worlds away from civilisation. Explore the dramatic Chora perched high on a hill, it’s postcard-perfect and especially magical at dusk.

Pictured: Serifos, an island marked by dramatic landscapes, rich history and unique character

Milos

Milos is an island like no other. Shaped by volcanic activity, its coastline is dotted with surreal rock formations, mineral-coloured cliffs, and secret caves. The highlight? Kleftiko, a former pirate hideout only reachable by boat. Dive into its turquoise waters, swim through sea caves, and marvel at towering white cliffs. For a quieter anchorage, head to Gerakas, a stunning, sheltered cove with soft sands and thermal springs nearby.

Paros & Antiparos

Paros is effortlessly stylish, with lively ports like Naoussa, where traditional fishing boats bob next to chic cocktail bars. But just around the corner, you’ll find hidden coves and calm anchorages like Laggeri Beach or the Blue Lagoon between Paros and Antiparos, ideal for snorkelling and paddleboarding. Antiparos, Paros’ little sister, is peaceful, exclusive, and dotted with sea caves and remote beaches that yachts can slip into undisturbed.

Pictured: The small and picturesque fishing village of Naoussa in Paros

Naxos

The largest of the Cyclades, Naxos offers a rich contrast of mountain villages, fertile valleys, and pristine beaches. Chartering here means accessing hard-to-reach gems like Agiassos or Aliko Beach, where cedar forests meet powdery white sands. Inland, explore authentic Greek life in villages like Halki, known for its olive groves, old churches, and distilleries making Kitron, the island’s signature liqueur.

Ios

While Ios has a reputation for nightlife, most never venture beyond the main town. But sail south, and you’ll discover a completely different side. Manganari Beach is a sheltered, serene stretch of sand with crystal-clear water, perfect for a quiet overnight stay. With far fewer visitors, it’s ideal for morning swims and lazy lunches on board. The hilltop Chora is stunning, especially in the soft light of sunset.

Pictured: Naxos, the Cyclades by drone

Hydra

A unique gem in the Saronic Gulf, Hydra stands apart with its strict car-free policy, preserving an atmosphere of timeless charm and tranquillity. The island’s harbour is a picture-perfect scene, lined with elegant, well-preserved stone mansions and vibrant fishing boats bobbing gently in the clear blue waters. Wander its narrow cobblestone streets, where art galleries, quaint cafes, and boutique shops await around every corner. For yacht charters, Hydra offers numerous secluded bays and pristine snorkelling spots just a short sail from the harbour, where crystal-clear waters reveal vibrant marine life. The blend of natural beauty and cultural heritage makes Hydra an ideal escape for those seeking peace without sacrificing sophistication.

Pictured: Cliff view on Hydra Island, Greece

Sifnos

Sifnos enchants with its blend of rugged natural beauty and rich culinary traditions. This island, dotted with charming, whitewashed villages and terraced hillsides, invites exploration on foot or by sea. Renowned for some of the Cyclades’ best hiking trails, you can discover hidden chapels, olive groves, and panoramic viewpoints that reveal endless blue horizons. Along the coast, pristine beaches and quiet coves offer perfect anchorages, with turquoise waters ideal for swimming and paddleboarding. Food lovers will appreciate Sifnos’ reputation as a culinary hotspot, boasting traditional tavernas serving locally sourced ingredients and recipes passed down through generations. It’s a place where every meal and every view feel like a celebration of Greek island life.

Pictured: An aerial view of Kamares, sifnos greek island

Symi

Nestled near Rhodes, Symi is a jewel of the Dodecanese, famous for its striking harbour lined with colourful neoclassical mansions reflected perfectly in calm, crystal-clear waters. The island’s natural harbours provide sheltered moorings, making it a favoured stop for yachts cruising the southeastern Aegean. Beyond the picturesque harbour, Symi offers quiet beaches and serene bays, where swimmers and snorkelers can enjoy pristine conditions away from the crowds. The island’s charming villages invite leisurely strolls through narrow alleys adorned with bougainvillea and traditional architecture, while local tavernas serve fresh seafood caught just offshore. Symi’s blend of vibrant culture, historic charm, and natural beauty makes it a captivating destination for any yacht itinerary.

Pictured: Colourful houses by the water in Symi, Greece

The Small Cyclades - (Schoinoussa, Iraklia, Koufonisia) – Where Time Stands Still

These tiny islands, tucked between Naxos and Amorgos, are the epitome of off-the-beaten-track.

• Schoinoussa has just a handful of tavernas, sleepy bays, and one of the darkest night skies you’ll ever experience, perfect for stargazing from your deck.
• Koufonisia is slightly more known, but still wonderfully laid-back, with brilliant turquoise waters and a walkable coastline dotted with natural pools.
• Iraklia is the most untouched, with just one main village and countless caves to explore by dinghy.

Pictured: Drone shot taken above a majestic scenery, formed by rocks, located in Kato Koufonisi, Cyclades, Greece.

Experience the Magic of Santorini and Mykonos from the Sea

While I treasure the quiet, hidden gems of Greece, there’s no denying the magic of its most iconic islands, and seeing them by yacht brings an entirely new level of beauty and freedom.

Imagine anchoring beneath the caldera cliffs of Santorini, watching the sun melt into the sea from the privacy of your deck, far from the crowds. Explore volcanic beaches, bathe in warm springs, and dine cliffside in Oia or Fira with views that linger in your memory.

Then there’s Mykonos, where glamour meets tradition, drop anchor in crystal-clear bays like Psarou or Agios Sostis, stroll through whitewashed lanes, and experience everything from beach clubs to tucked-away tavernas. And just offshore, discover Delos, an uninhabited archaeological wonder only reachable by boat. These iconic islands are popular for good reason, and by yacht, you get to enjoy their magic in complete comfort, style, and serenity.

Pictured: Drone shot taken above a majestic scenery, formed by rocks, located in Kato Koufonisi, Cyclades, Greece.

Discover Cyprus

A Perfect Day Charter Escape with Hidden Treasures and Timeless Villages

If you’re not planning on visiting the Aegean Islands, why not head to Cyprus and spend a day or two at sea to explore the hidden places of this beautiful island? Cyprus offers a unique blend of rich history, vibrant culture, and diverse landscapes, from golden sandy beaches to rugged mountains dotted with ancient villages. Its warm Mediterranean climate, welcoming locals, and delicious cuisine make it a captivating destination in its own right and a perfect complement to your Greek island adventure.

For those seeking a more authentic and tranquil experience, Cyprus is full of non-touristic gems waiting to be discovered. From late May through August, the secluded beaches near Latchi in Akamas National Park become a magical sanctuary where you can quietly witness baby sea turtles hatching and making their way to the sea, a rare and deeply moving natural spectacle shared by only a fortunate few.

Pictured: A beach in northern Cyprus

Venture inland to the Troodos Mountains, where pine-scented trails lead to peaceful villages untouched by mass tourism. Here, you can explore historic monasteries like the serene Kykkos Monastery or discover lesser-known spots such as Machairas Monastery and quiet mountain hamlets where tradition and nature coexist in harmony.

For a glimpse into Cyprus’ rich cultural heritage, a visit to Lefkara is an absolute must. This picturesque village, nestled in the foothills of the Troodos Mountains, is world-renowned for its exquisite Lefkaritika lace, a delicate hand-embroidered craft passed down through generations. Wander its narrow cobblestone streets, admire traditional stone houses, and visit local workshops where artisans meticulously create intricate lace and silverwork.

Pictured: Mountainous terrain in Lefkara

Not far from Lefkara lies the enchanting village of Omodos, famed for its vine-covered squares, historic monasteries, and warm hospitality. The beautiful Holy Cross Monastery in Omodos, dating back to the 4th century, offers a serene spiritual experience. Omodos is also a delight for food lovers, with traditional tavernas serving local wines and Cypriot cuisine in a timeless setting.

Whether you’re snorkelling in hidden coves, wandering ancient paths, or simply enjoying the stillness aboard your yacht with uninterrupted coastal views, Cyprus invites you to uncover its authentic spirit, natural beauty, and timeless traditions.

Pictured: Beautiful Omodos, Cyprus

Whether you choose to discover the vibrant energy of Mykonos and Santorini or the tranquil hidden gems like Serifos, Kea, and Cyprus’ secret coves, your journey will be one of beauty, discovery, and unforgettable memories.

Thank you for letting me share these special places with you, I can’t wait to help you explore this magical part of the world!

Get in touch today: info@westnautical.com.

Please note at the time of writing, Cyprus is experiencing wild fires, which may affect travel conditions and make a luxury charter unadvisable.