The Cyclades Islands are located to the South East when sailing from Athens.  When looking at the map you’ll see a small cluster of islands in the centre of the map, these are the Cyclades Islands.

The animated snap shot above is taken from the windiest period in the Cyclades Islands which is in August, as this is when the meltemi blows through from July right through until September.

A typical day in August shows that the meltemi blows right through the day and evening, with the winds remaining at a constant speed.  The islands which are closer towards the Saronic Gulf are somewhat more protected, with the outer eastern islands experiencing the strongest winds.

This sailing area is not for the inexperienced sailor, it really is an area for the more experienced sailor as its exciting sailing which is also extremely challenging.  When sailing here you’ve to be exceptionally prudent by checking your weather forecasts, as in the past we’ve had yachts that have been storm bound for several days.

Beaufort Wind Scale:
Force 5 – fresh winds
Force 6 – strong winds
Force 7 – near gale
Force 8 – gale (which is generally on the outer most eastern islands)