Cyprus

Sailing in Cyprus

Embark on a journey of maritime discovery in the dazzling waters of Cyprus, one of the Mediterranean's top sailing destinations. With its enticing blend of crystal-clear waters, consistent winds, and rich history, Cyprus offers a unique sailing experience that attracts seafarers from all over the world.

The Geographical Setting of Cyprus for Sailing

Cyprus, the third largest island in the Mediterranean Sea, is positioned in the eastern basin of the Mediterranean. It is surrounded by a fascinating blend of calm bays, rugged cliffs, and sweeping sandy beaches. Its southern coast is particularly popular with sailors, offering a multitude of anchoring spots and modern marina facilities.

Sailing Conditions in Cyprus: Climate, Winds, and Tides

Cyprus boasts a typical Mediterranean climate, with hot, dry summers and mild, wet winters. The sailing season typically runs from April to October, with the peak in July and August when temperatures can reach up to 30-35 degrees Celsius.

The prevailing winds during the sailing season are northwesterly and range from 2 to 4 on the Beaufort scale. They are typically more intense in the afternoons and die down by evening, making for enjoyable sailing conditions.

As for tides, the Mediterranean, including Cyprus, experiences minimal tidal ranges, generally less than half a meter, which simplifies navigational planning.

Navigation and Sailing Difficulty in Cyprus

Cyprus offers varied sailing experiences suitable for both novice sailors and seasoned mariners. Navigation around the island is relatively easy due to the mild weather conditions, clear signage, and up-to-date nautical charts. However, it is recommended that less experienced sailors charter a yacht with a skipper for a hassle-free sailing experience.

Yacht Charter and Marina Infrastructure in Cyprus

Yacht charter services are widely available in Cyprus, with many companies offering a range of sailing yachts, motorboats, and catamarans. Charter companies generally require proof of competence, such as an International Certificate of Competence (ICC) or an equivalent national certificate.

The marina infrastructure in Cyprus is well-developed, with major marinas located in Larnaca, Limassol, and Paphos. These marinas offer modern facilities including water, electricity, Wi-Fi, fuel, repair services, and 24/7 security.

Rent a Boat in Cyprus

Top 5 Marinas in Cyprus

• • Limassol Marina: Located in the heart of the city, Limassol Marina offers berths for yachts up to 110m, high-end facilities, and a range of residential and commercial services.

• • Larnaca Marina: Situated adjacent to the Larnaca city center, this marina can accommodate up to 450 yachts and provides various amenities such as fuel, water, and electricity.

• • St. Raphael Marina: This luxury marina is located in Limassol and has the capacity to harbor 227 yachts from 6m to 30m long. It offers a comprehensive range of services and amenities.

• • Ayia Napa Marina: This is a new and modern marina located on the southeastern coast of Cyprus. It provides high-class facilities for yachts and also features luxury residences, retail spaces, and restaurants.

• • Zygi Marina: Located between Larnaca and Limassol, this small marina mainly caters to local fishermen but also has facilities for private boats.

Getting to Cyprus for a Yachting Adventure

Reaching Cyprus to enjoy its exceptional yachting scene is relatively straightforward, thanks to its well-connected airports and seaports. Here's a guide on how to get to Cyprus from different parts of the world.

By Air

The quickest and most common way to reach Cyprus is by air. The island has two international airports: Larnaca International Airport and Paphos International Airport. These airports are well-served by numerous airlines, including both full-service and low-cost carriers, offering direct and connecting flights from various locations across Europe, Asia, and Africa. Once you land, you can easily get to the major yachting marinas by taxi or car rental. Limassol Marina is approximately 40 minutes drive from Larnaca Airport, while Paphos Harbour is around 15 minutes from Paphos Airport.

By Sea

Alternatively, if you're already in the Mediterranean region and want to arrive by sea, you can sail your yacht to Cyprus or take a ferry. Cyprus is a popular stopover for Mediterranean cruises and also has ferry connections with Greece and other nearby countries. For sailors, the marinas in Limassol, Larnaca, and Paphos are equipped with modern facilities to accommodate visiting yachts.

Whether you choose to arrive by air or sea, once you reach Cyprus, you will find a range of yachting services, from yacht charter and brokerage firms to sailing schools and tour operators, ready to help you make the most of your Cyprus yachting experience.

Best Sailing Locations in Cyprus

Some of the best sailing locations in Cyprus include the Akamas Peninsula, a region of natural beauty with several anchorages; Limassol, a city with a bustling marina and vibrant nightlife; and Larnaca, a town known for its beautiful marina and palm-lined promenades. The Blue Lagoon, with its turquoise waters, is another must-see spot for sailors.