We would like to take a day trip or possibly even an overnight to the Lesser Cyclades south of Naxos. How does one arrange besides patching it together from the regular ferries? We would like to swim/snorkel along deserted coast/beaches so would like an excursion. I saw the SwimTrek weeklong trips go to those few small islands,and swim with dolphins, monk seals, etc, and would like a similar day or overnight trip (shorter swim perhaps!) Any suggestions re reliable reasonably priced operators much appreciated.
1
travelerjan
No Problemo! A great day-excursion set up for you here http://visit-cyclades.com/day-cruises/naxos-cruises -- I think you hve your choice of • Schinousa & Iraklia day cruise • Koufonisi-Rina Day Cruise • Southern Beaches of Naxos Day Cruise -- all these on a double-mast sailboat (w. power motor when desired) also • Small Cyclades 2x week on either Naxos Star or MV Alexander, the larger day-cruise vessels. Not all of these will operate in May/early June, but all will in High Season. HINT: it always helps us give best advice if you will share your trip dates.
2
ouzo
Hi,
I have been thru and stayed on the 4 Small Cyclades several times. The ferry is the way to go and stay on each island, the minimum stay would be about 2 nights each.
The most efficient routing is to come from the Amorgos(Katapola, Egiali) direction initially as the ferries are early morning going through those islands to Naxos. Then make your way towards Naxos.
The 'Express Skopelitis' is the classic ferry which is based in Amorgos(Katapola) and goes 6 days a week at about 06:00 or 07:00 through the small Cyclades to Naxos except Sun when it does a little round trip of Santorini and Ios.
In addition are some Bluestar ferries some days, also early morning in that direction and the odd catamaran.
The 4 islands:
Koufonisi is by far the busiest and most popular island and you won't find deserted beaches there anymore, it is developing fast.
Of the other 3 islands for empty beaches the best would be 1st Schinoussa or 2nd Donoussa.
You often see dolphins on the Express Skopelitis in going from Amorgos to Donoussa.
3
Thorn Tree
This topic has been automatically locked due to inactivity. Email community@lonelyplanet.com if you would like to add to this topic and we'll unlock it for you.
Pro tip
Lonely Planet
trusted partner
trusted partner