From June to the end of August, the hot, dry summer wind dominates the area of the Cyclades south of Athens. It blows reliably from a northerly direction, often averaging 5 or 6 Beaufort, but can easily reach 8 or 9 Beaufort for several days or a week. There are also downdraughts and jet effects on the coasts of some islands. If you are travelling with your family or fellow sailors who cannot tolerate the high, long swell, you may find yourself facing a tough test of endurance.
But the Cyclades are one of the most beautiful island regions in Europe, and many crews dream of sailing there. The only option is the early or late season. Late September and early October are particularly popular. When it is already getting very chilly in Germany, the water in the Aegean is still 22 degrees and the weather often still allows you to sail in shorts and a T-shirt. Many tavernas and bars are still open before the Cyclades slowly go into hibernation from mid-October.
We wanted to find out what side of the region the weather would be like during this time, so we put the post-season to the test with a twelve-day trip - right into the middle of the Medicane "Zorbas", which caused a major storm in the region in September. Apocalyptic weather at the start of the trip. So was the whole thing a crazy idea?
You can read the story about the cruise through the Cyclades in YACHT No. 4/2019, available in the DK-Shop, or you can download the article directly via the link below.
Downloads:
Andreas Fritsch
Editor Travel
