The
Wind and Sea
Charter sailing can be affected by the
weather. The seas in the Saronic and Aegean are generally
calmand
offer exceptional sailing conditions. Sporadically, Poseidon
(God of the sea and storms) is responsible for the famous
'Meltemi' wind. This is typically a northerly which can develop
into 30-40 mph and is more common during the hotter times
of year (July, August and September). The Meltemi is created
by high and low pressure systems at opposite ends of the Mediterranean.
The 'Sirocco' or southeast wind can also blow hard but for
the last two seasons we have experienced more south westerly
or 'Ostra' than any other wind. This southwest wind rounds
the bottom of the Peleponese and is an excellent wind to sail
heading east out to the central Aegean. The sea can be as
flat as a mirror, but a short chop of 1 meter is common. When
the God Poseidon gets restless 3 to 5+ meter swells can develop.
This is a challenge but not a problem for the larger yachts
used for the 'Aegean Adventure Cruises and Flotillas
Program'.
Ferries,
high-speed catamarans and hydrofoils connect almost all of
our island circuit directly, which is a nice option or those
who would rather not experience the wild Aegean Sea when it
gets windy. Occasionally some guests opt to ferry certain
legs of the circuit and meet the yacht/s at the next port
of call. As in all sailing holidays, rough weather conditions
may alter the proposed itinerary and stop flotillas. Bad weather
combined with longer crossings can make for fatigue so longer
passages are broken up by several day stops (Hydra, Milos,
Ios and Mykonos). Captains and program Directors inform the
guests of rougher conditions before setting out. It is rare
that heavy wind or bad weather affects the itinerary as only
10% of the trips were delayed for a day or two in the last
two full sailing seasons. There are three long crossings in
the two-week trip: 50, 60 and 80 mile days are required to
travel out into the Aegean and back, so guests must appreciate
that this trip can be both relaxing and challenging if the
wind and seas are rough. The itinerary may be added to with
additional swim stops if the weather and time allows and may
also be reduced as a result of bad weather.
Marine
Life
Dolphins often swim at the bow while we sail. Hawksbill and
Loggerhead turtles sun themselves on the surface in Greek
waters. Sardines, tuna, swordfish, rays and mackerel are also
often seen on the surface. Scuba diving is available at Hydra
and Mykonos and divers and snorkelers can see moray eels,
eagle and sand rays, octopus, kalamari, crayfish, rock lobster,
crabs, triton and nautilus shells, nudibranchs, jellyfish,
scorpion fish and many other colorful fish -but this is not
the tropics. As a result of the high salt content (3.8% salt)
the ecosystem has far fewer species than the tropics but the
water is much more buoyant and offers incredibly clear visibility.
There are no sharks so the only danger is stepping on a sea
urchin! Sea sponges are incredibly colorful coral encrustations
cover rocks and caves. Fantastic archaeological treasures
can be seen on many dives.
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