Table of Contents
Introduction
Cyprus is a Mediterranean island brimming with history, culture, and natural beauty. Its scenic coastline and temperate climate make it an ideal yacht charter destination. This article provides an overview of the allure of sailing in Cyprus and top tips for planning an unforgettable yachting adventure exploring its turquoise waters.
Overview of sailing in Cyprus
With its calm seas, light winds, and abundance of harbors, Cyprus has become a premier yacht chartering location in the eastern Mediterranean. The island’s many miles of scenic coastline offer plenty of spots to drop anchor and go ashore to explore quaint villages, secluded coves, and ancient ruins. Sailing here allows you to immerse yourself in the rich culture and welcoming hospitality of Cyprus.
Introduction to yachting adventures in Cyprus
From its lively cities to its tranquil interior, sailing around Cyprus promises new discoveries daily. You can cruise along the southern coastline with its turquoise waters or head inland to sail on peaceful lakes and reservoirs. With so many beautiful destinations and flexible itineraries, chartering a yacht provides the perfect way to have an active and liberating vacation.
The Allure of Cyprus for Sailing
What makes Cyprus such a fantastic place for a sailing holiday? Here are some of the highlights that draw sailors from around the world.
Ideal weather conditions
Cyprus benefits from plentiful sunshine and moderate winds, with pleasant daytime temperatures even in the cooler months. The sailing conditions are comfortable year-round. July and August bring the lightest breezes but intense heat, so spring and autumn are ideal times to charter.
Beautiful scenery and landscapes
From rugged cliffs to golden beaches, Cyprus wows with stunning coastal scenery. Inland landscapes range from pine-clad mountains to rolling vineyards and cypress groves. Sailing allows you to experience all these vistas and more from an unforgettable perspective offshore.
Rich history and culture
With evidence of civilization dating back over 9,000 years, Cyprus has a fascinating history waiting to be explored. You’ll find ancient ruins, Byzantine churches, Crusader castles, and Venetian walls dotted along the coastline. Meandering through quaint villages offers insight into traditional Cypriot culture and hospitality.
Top Yacht Charter Destinations
Cyprus offers plenty of prime sailing destinations. Here are some top spots to include on an island-hopping yacht itinerary.
Larnaca
Larnaca is a lively seaside town with palm-lined beaches, seaside promenades, ancient ruins, and great restaurants. Don’t miss the 9th-century Church of Saint Lazarus with Byzantine-era mosaics.
Paphos
Paphos offers archeological treasures like intricate mosaics plus scenic little harbors and coastal caves to explore. Sail offshore to find secluded anchorages and coves for swimming and snorkeling.
Ayia Napa
The energetic resort town Ayia Napa is renowned for its beautiful white sand beaches, crystal waters, and lively nightlife. Anchoring offshore means you’re just a quick dinghy ride away.
Limassol
Limassol is Cyprus’ largest yacht harbor along the southern coast. Use it as a base to visit wineries inland or the ruins at ancient Amathus just east.
Protaras
Protaras is a family-friendly beach resort town with fabulous clear waters for swimming and snorkeling. The Cape Greco headland nearby offers secluded nooks for dropping anchor.
Planning Your Cyprus Yacht Charter
Advance preparation ensures your sailing adventure goes smoothly. Here are some key steps for arranging a yacht charter in Cyprus.
Choosing the right yacht
Select a well-maintained, modern yacht suited to your group size from a reputable charter company. Consider your sailing ability, desired amenities and if you want a skippered or bareboat charter.
Selecting a certified yacht charter company
Book through an experienced, locally based company that belongs to a national charter association. This helps avoid scams and ensures professional service.
Booking in advance
Reserve your desired yacht at least 2-3 months ahead, especially for peak periods like summer. This gives you the best selection and ensures availability.
Provisioning and supplies
Pre-order provisions so they’re loaded before departure. Pack snacks, drinks, seasickness remedies, sunscreen and other essentials you’ll need.
Sailing Along the Turquoise Coast
Cruising Cyprus’ scenic southern coast rewards with opportunities for swimming, watersports and exploring picturesque towns. Here are some highlights.
Swimming and snorkeling
The calm, clear waters make perfect conditions for swimming and snorkeling. Look for coves and rocky outcrops sheltering colorful reefs and aquatic life.
Secluded coves and beaches
Dropping anchor in secluded coves and beaches lets you enjoy bathing, picnics and watersports away from crowds. Many coves are only accessible from the sea.
Cruising along the coast
Meandering along the coast offers ever-changing vistas of rugged cliffs, sandy beaches, verdant hills and glistening seas. You can stop and explore as you wish.
Dropping anchor in tranquil bays
The indented coastline means you’re never far from a picturesque bay to drop anchor in for the night. You’ll find peace and privacy to unwind after a day of island-hopping.
Inland Sailing on Cyprus
In addition to coastal cruising, don’t miss the opportunity to sail inland on Cyprus’ lakes and reservoirs.
Inland waterways
Cyprus has several large reservoirs and dams providing miles of navigable inland waterways well-suited to sailing. The scenery here is beautiful and serene.
River cruising
Though limited, it’s possible to charter smaller vessels for leisurely sailing along certain slow-moving rivers like the Vasilikos. Expect lush vegetation and tranquility.
Sailing on dams and lakes
Sailboats, dinghies and small cruisers can explore massive reservoirs like Kouris Dam and scenic salt lakes including Larnaca and Limassol.
Experiencing Cyprus By Sea
A yacht charter allows you to immerse yourself in Cypriot culture while enjoying the flexibility to explore secluded spots.
Local cuisine
Each port offers the chance to sample delicious Greek-influenced Cypriot cuisine like fresh seafood, grilled meats, olive oil dishes, cheeses and more.
Cypriot culture and history
Wandering historic coastal villages and ruins gives insight into the island’s rich cultural heritage spanning millennia. Friendly locals welcome visitors.
Underwater sights while snorkeling
Snorkeling Cyprus’ clear waters rewards with sights like sea turtles, octopus, sea bream, moray eels and even ancient pottery shards.
Stunning coastal scenery
Cruising along the coast reveals Cyprus’ diverse landscapes from craggy cliffs to white sand beaches and secluded green coves. It’s constantly picturesque.
Making the Most of Your Yacht Charter
These handy tips help ensure your Cypriot yachting adventure meets your expectations and fulfills your sailing dreams.
Having a plan
Research ports and anchorages in advance and have a loose itinerary for each day. But also allow flexibility to change plans on the fly if desired.
Flexibility for spontaneity
Leave room for spontaneity! One beauty of chartering is the freedom to improvise your route and explore enticing coves or islands along the way.
Booking a skippered charter
Consider booking a skippered yacht so you don’t have to worry about navigation, provisioning, cooking or sailing duties. This allows you to fully relax and focus on fun.
Choosing the right yacht size
Carefully select a yacht size optimal for your group. Overcrowding leads to discomfort while undersized boats lack amenities. Find the right balance!
Packing properly
Avoid hassles by packing essentials like motion sickness remedies, hats, reef shoes, sun protection, snacks, headlamps, documents and other boating gear. Travel light.
Conclusion
Summary of yachting in Cyprus
With its pleasant climate, unspoiled coastline and sights, Cyprus provides the perfect playground for experiencing the freedom and fun of chartering a sailing yacht. Each day presents new possibilities for discovery, from ancient ruins to idyllic anchorages. Sailing allows you to immerse yourself in island life.
Parting thoughts on sailing the turquoise waters
Chartering a yacht provides the ultimate way to explore the real Cyprus, where turquoise waters beckon adventure. Create unforgettable memories with the flexibility to cruise the coast and make spontaneous stops. Return home renewed from revitalizing days filled with swimming, snorkeling, nature and culture.
FAQs
FAQ 1: What types of yachts are available for charter in Cyprus?
You can charter a wide variety of sailing yachts and motor yachts in Cyprus. Popular choices include mono hull and catamaran sailboats from 30 to 60 feet long. Motor yachts range from sleek cruisers to expansive luxury yachts.
FAQ 2: What are the costs for chartering a yacht in Cyprus?
Yacht charter costs depend significantly on the season, boat size/type, and length of rental. On average, expect to pay approximately $2,500-10,000+ per week to charter a 35-50 foot sailboat accommodating 6-12 passengers. Luxury motor yachts cost much more.
FAQ 3: Do I need a boating license to charter a yacht in Cyprus?
If chartering a crewed yacht, you don’t need a license. For bareboat charters, at least one person must demonstrate qualifying sailing experience or complete an on-site training course to sail solo.
FAQ 4: Are there marinas or ports available in Cyprus for docking?
Yes, Cyprus has over a dozen marina facilities and ports dotted along its coast, concentrated around cities like Limassol and Larnaca. These offer docking, amenities and repairs.
FAQ 5: What is the best time of year to charter and sail around Cyprus?
The optimal sailing conditions are from April to November. Summertime brings heat, light winds and crowds. For comfort and fewer tourists, spring and fall are ideal times for chartering a yacht in Cyprus.