Author Archives: Allyssa Crew

Sea journey as a way of life

There are many ways to travel to popular destinations, but sailing on Board of a yacht is an amazing pleasure. What better than to feel the wind in their hair, to soak up the gentle rays of the Sun with a cocktail in hand.

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The company for renting of yachts AA Charter gives you a great opportunity to feel these experiences and to relax in the luxuriously designed yacht. Sail catamarans Lagoon 560 S2 Alissa, Lagoon 42 Albertina and Lagoon 39 Kallisti may become your favorite sea guide.Through the renting of any of them will be able to experience the incredible emotions, sunk in luxury and style. In addition, they will reach the wondrous and hitherto unseen places, paradises of the beauty of Greece! The Islands in the Cyclades, Ionian or the Saronic Gulf will take the breath of any adventurer. There are so many beautiful beaches, combined with rich natural vegetation and antique, but preserved settlements. The company even allows you to choose your route and plan your vacation at your request. Hurry up and book a step before the start of the summer season!

Lefkada, Vasiliki, Skorpios, Mykonos and many others waiting to swallow the island atmosphere of Greece. Among the most popular islands of Kea beach with its golden sandy strips and crystal blue-green water. The island of Kimolo’s minerals will seduce you with its incredible volcanic landscape covered by tuffs and hot springs. It is no accident that the island of Amorgos is named “The Blue Pearl of the Cyclades” providing unforgettable views. Here’s the cinema industry prospered and even that is taken from the sea. Andros brings the glory of green jewel among the Islands. It amazing mountainous topography gives life to the many fertile valleys and springs with sandy and pebbly beaches. Andros is also renowned with unusual architecture since the houses are with tiled roofs and prevail over those with white flat roofs.

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No matter which destination you choose, the sail Yachts of AA Charter will ride over the Greek sea to experience the pleasure of a relaxing holiday.

Review of the luxury catamaran Lagoon 39 Kallisti

AA Charter present you the full brilliance of the luxury yacht Lagoon 39 Kallisti which will take you to the mysterious and unknown corners of the beauty of Greece. Whether you choose a destination on the island of the Cyclades group, breathtaking scenery among the Ionian Islands or the picturesque cobblestone streets of the Saronic Islands, it will necessarily enjoy style and luxury at the same time.

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You can rent our sailing beauty and organize yourself the desired route. Get a sea adventure and release your adventurous spirit, because Kallisti has something to show you! The yacht is elegantly designed with production year 2015, with the most modern and contemporary design. Its capacity is large and is suitable also for a family vacation and for parties and business meetings. The main salon is an original wooden paneling, equipped with modern dining room and a kitchen with all necessary appliances. Sit back and experience the comfort and cozy atmosphere, floating among Greek sea. The yacht has two large and separated bedrooms, consisting of a large double bed, a wardrobe and cabinets. There are also two extra places to sleep. The rear outer part can enjoy the wide panoramic views of the sea, housed on the comfortable sofa. This is the right place to relax with a cocktail or simply indulge in the setting sun. At the bottom are provided and stairs to go down and get exciting bath and cool in the summer. If you want to just lie and get a bronze tan the best place for this is the top of the boat, where it discovers and spectacular views.

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For maximum comfort and serenity Kallisti has extras like Radio CD Player MP3 + 2 speakers at the gym; remote control; LED navigation lights; hot/cold shower pilot; waterproof speakers in the cockpit; additional refrigerator 100L etc. There are included in the cruise GPS navigation, motor boat, hotel and kitchen equipment and port fees. Have you selected a desired destination already?

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The underwater wonders of Kea Island

Kea island is hilly part of the Cyclades. It is located 60 km southeast of the capital Athens. The climate is dry and the terrain is mostly hilly. Therefore the island is less frequented and most people inhabit the Gulf of St. Nicola. The only ferry connections are the neighboring Lavrio and Kitnos, which makes it all the more remote and one of the least visited islands of the Cyclades. The capital is Ûlida which is built amphitheatrically. Apart from the hills and sandy beaches are surrounded with warm and bright blue water. Kea hides its charms with its idyllic landscapes, there are numerous lagoons and secluded beaches, suitable for proponents of the natural environment. There is even a large stone in the shape of lion, which dates from around 600 BC.

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During the classical period Kea has been home to many ancient Greek lyrical poets and the physician Erasistratus. During the Byzantine period was built many churches. In 1204 onwards, the island was captured by the Venetians in the wake of the Fourth Crusade. He joined Greece after the war of independence in 1821.

Kea is famous for its rich marine life. You can enjoy the amazing water diving due to the fresh and clear water with excellent visibility. The temperature is perfect for bathing-ranges from 20 °-26 °. The curious fact is that in 1916 the largest ship HMHS Britannic and RMS Titanic’s twin is sunk in World War I near Kea island. Therefore the diving is more than attractive for divers because they can glimpse the remains of this great ship, as well as the unique paddle from the sunken in 1868 steamer Patris, etc. findings.

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In addition to diving, Kea is attractive for tourists to yachting. Accommodation on the island is extremely diverse and designed for every wish and taste. The settlements have turned into small towns and resorts with whitewashed buildings and houses with tiled roofs. Ypu can rent a room from cheap hostels to luxury five stars hotels.

Amorgos – the Blue Pearl of the Cyclades

organized-yacht-sailing-tours-greece-amorgos-lThe Greek island of Amorgos is located in the southern part of the Aegean Sea. It is the easternmost of the islands of the Cyclades archipelago, relatively close to Dodecanese archipelago. The island is extracted bauxite representing aluminium ores, sometimes mixed with clay minerals. The capital of the island bears the same name and is in the typical Cycladic style. He is built on a Venetian castle the high of the Hill.

Over the time Amorgos was known by many names as: Patagy, Platagy or Yperia, Pagali, Psichia and Karkisia. On the island there are many remains of ancient civilizations. During archaic Greece existed three independent city-States. It was thought that are included in the autonomous constitutions with the same currency. Amorgos is distinguished by the size and quality of the walls of the ancient towers around the city whose ruins are scattered around the island, ancient tombs, stone tools, vases, inscriptions and other Antiquities.

In the summer of 322 BC is held a great sea battle off the island Amorgos between Macedonians and Athens. The Macedonians with Commander Admiral Cleitus Wise (with 240 ship) defeated the Greeks (with 170 ship) with Commander Ûtion (Euetion).

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The island was conquered during the Fourth Crusade in 1204 by the Venetian family Gizi. In 1260 was taken from Byzantium, but in 1269 family Gizi taking it back. In 1310 the fleet of ionians breaks to the island of Amorgos Turkish fleet of the new Ottoman Empire. From 1370 is run by Venice. Conquered by the Ottomans was in 1537.

At the present time is a wonderful addition to Amorgos tourist resort with numerous beautiful and improved roads, paths and infrastructure. It is renowned for its cinema popularity. The island was included in the movie by Luc Besson-The Big Blue (“endless sinevina”). In the movie you can see footage from the beautiful beach of Agia Anna and the monastery of Panagia Hozoviotica. In 2002 the island also became part of the movie of Giorgos Kordelas – “Ariadni”. Thanks to this cinematic glory Amorgos is visited by a host of curious tourists wanting to experience the magic of the seaside resort.

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The monastery of Panagia is also a favorite place to visit. It is located on a cliff, built at the beginning of the second millennium, in order to protect religious icon from intruders. The icon is of a public display inside the monastery and dates from 812. Other attractions worth a visit is the architectural Museum, which is set out in the Venetian castle and can be found from all over the island. The island is also suitable for water sports enthusiasts due to the wonderful beaches and crystal clear water. A great way to explore the Amorgos is by renting a boat day cruise, to see all the beaches and the charm of the Islands and Gramvusa Nikuriâ.

Kimolos – the island of minerals

Kimolos is a Greek island in the Aegean Sea. It lies on the southwest of the island group of Cyclades near the bigger island of Milos. Kimolos is the administrative center of the municipality of Kimolos, which also includes the uninhabited islands of Polyaigos, Agios Efstathios and Agios Georgios. The island has a land area of 36 square kilometres, while the municipality’s land area is 53.251 square kilometres and it reported a population of 910 inhabitants in the 2011 census.

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Kimolos lies to the northwest of larger Milos island, separated from it by a 1 km wide channel. It is round-shaped, approximately 7 km in radius. The island has a total area of 36 square kilometres. The highest point is mount Paleokastro, at 364 metres. The only town is Chorio, located on a hill on the west of the island. There are also smaller settlements of Psathi port, Goupa, Kara, Prasa, Aliki, Bonatsa and Dekas.

To the east of Kimolos lies the island of Polyaigos, half its size. Polyaigos is the largest uninhabited island of Aegean. It is also part of the municipality of Kimolos.

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Kimolos, Milos and the smaller islands that surround them belong to the Aegean volcanic arc and consist mainly of acidic volcanic rocks. In some places, the pre-volcanic bedrock can be observed. Large areas of Kimolos are covered by tuffs and the volcanic activity can be obvious from the hot springs, existence of a notable geothermal field, the characteristic landscape and strange landforms. The island is also rich in minerals of the silica group and in significant industrial minerals.

One of the most famous geologic formations on Kimolos is Skiadi. Skiadi is a huge mushroom-shaped stone that dominates the middle of a small valley in the interior of the island. It is created by a process called ablation, in which the dust carried by the wind continuously scratches the rock, eroding the softer layers at the bottom much more than the harder layers at the top. Through centuries, the stone has been shaped into a characteristic, unique form.

According to the last censuses, the population of Kimolos is decreasing, and no more than 600 residents (mostly elderly) remain during winter. The underage population is no more than 100, according to the school records. Most of the working population is involved with the tourist industry of the island (hotels, restaurants) in combination with agriculture activities, mainly during winter.

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On the island all vehicles are permitted, but during the summer months, the lack of parking space is the most important problem in populated areas, such as Chorio Kimolou and Psathi. Common kinds of fuels are available at the local fuel station. There are also public means of transport, such as bus and taxi, performing routes to popular beaches.

Kimolos is an island with rich history records. According to tradition, it is named after Kimolos, the very first resident of the island. Since the ancient era, it was a battlefield between Ancient Athens, the ruler of the island, and Sparta, the ruler of Milos. In the Middle Ages it was known as Argentiera, because of the silver-colored rocky lands of its southern coast. Since those times, these rocky lands provided Kimolia Gi-Kimolian Earth, a valuable trade good, which made the island a major trade hub. Along with the rest of Greece, it was ruled by the Ottoman Empire until 1829, when it was annexed by the Greek state along with the rest of the Cyclades.

Poros – beauty with aromate of pine forest and sea breeze

Poros Island is located in the Saronic Gulf and it’s located about 48 kilometers south of Piraeus. It is separated from the Peloponnese by a 200-meter sea channel. It consists of two separate islands – Sferia in the southern part, which is of volcanic origin, where is located the present town, and Kalavriya (which means “gentle breeze”) in the northern and largest part. This two islands are connected by a bridge across the narrow strait. The old name of Poros is Pogon and was considered the island of god of the sea Poseidon.

Poros island is attractive with it’s nature vegetation. Much of northern and western sides  are thick, but in the southern and central part there are old pine forest. There are good roads and adequate tourist infrastructure, making it a popular resort for short breaks and entertainment. There is no airport and island is easily accessible from Athens by ferry or boat. There is also a local bus from the port to nearby towns Neorio and Monastir. The small town of the island is built in tiers on the slopes of the hill. Poros is surrounded by 15 beaches which are located on the Aegean coast. Axel is the most famous among them. It is surrounded by pine forests and offers all the necessary conditions for a pleasant holiday. Although there is no transport line, the beach is easily accessible by water.

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In the northeastern part of the island at a place called “Kavos Basil”, archaeologists have found remains of a settlement from the early Bronze Age. This village is the oldest of the wider area of  Peloponnese and is believed to be associated with the remains found on the nearby island of Dokos. Over the years, Poros was under the influence of the Roman and Byzantine Empire. Then he was often attacked by pirates. During the Ottoman rule remains independent. First Greek naval base was established in Poros in 1828 during the Greek Revolution. Then meet ambassadors from different countries to determine the boundaries of a future Greek state, which was established two years later – in 1830.

The island is built in tiers on the slopes of the hill with many neoclassical buildings and interesting sights. The most famous among them is the Clock tower built in 1927. The Archaeological Museum is located in Plaza Korizis where they can meet artifacts and remains of the Sanctuary of Poseidon. The date of construction of the temple with Doric style, not yet specified, although some researchers believe it comes about 520 BC. The temple has six columns on each short side and twelve on each long side.

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In the early 20th century among the main activities of the residents of Poros are agriculture – mainly wheat, grapes and olives, also and farming, fishing and shipping.

Review of the luxury catamaran Lagoon 42 Albertina

Why don’t you spend your sunny holiday with a cocktail in hand, riding a smooth wave? Hurry up and make your reservation to AA Charter Yacht Company and experience the true enjoyment and relaxation of your dream vacation! The Sailing catamaran Lagoon 42 Albertina is the right choice for your dream yacht vacation on the Greek sea!

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Albertina is the production year 2017, luxuriously designed to satisfy the desires of every visitor. With a length of 12.80 m and a width of 7.7 m, here you will find all modern amenities of the new generation. The design of the Hall is of high quality wooden material, which gives a cozy atmosphere and spaciousness. There is also extremely comfortable corner sofa. Windows and sidescuttles are fitted with curtains to keep out direct sunlight.

accomodation-catamarans-charters-greece-l The next level is the big double bed which will provide you with a more romantic views of the stars. Total equipped beds are 4 plus 2 extra, so this makes our luxury boats really relevant except for a family vacation, and for spretvane of the party. In the cabins also can be found as 100L freezer volume and 4 USB Sockets. Of course this kind of large yacht has a modern electric toilets, storage tank and storage room under the helmet of the station. For safety the pilot cabin is equipped with waterproof speakers, additional tank of fuel 300L in the engine room. Outer rear part on the boat have spaces for recreation where you can make beautiful sunny tan. Most families combine a pleasant relaxation with fresh bathing in the water. For those who don’t want to jump, there’s a ladder for descent.

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Another important plus of the Albertina catamaran is its hospitality. Our crew is courteous and will cater for your maximum comfort. The kitchen is also in a high level and offers a variety of local delicacies and tasty food. You can rent a boat without a crew, everything depends on your preferences. You should keep in mind that in the price are: autopilot, GPS navigation, motor boat, hotel, and kitchen equipment, bed linen, towels, etc. Make your booking to see an unfamiliar place and views, make your own route and get unforgettable experiences among the Greek sea.

Tinos – the religious center of Greece

Tinos is a Greek island located in the Aegean Sea. It is in the Cyclades archipelago. The closest islands are Andros, Delos and Mykonos. The island has an area of 194,464 square kilometers and a population of nearly 9,000 inhabitants. Located three ports – one for speed boats and two ferry and high-speed boats carrying passengers and cars to other ports, including Mykonos (35 minutes), Piraeus, Rafina, Andros and Syros. Transport of the region includes regular buses connecting Tinos city with other villages on the island.

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For the Greeks people this island is sanctuary. It has become a religious center of an annual pilgrimage, which is held on the day of the Assumption on August 15. In the church of Panagia Evangelistria (the most famous place on the island) has an old miraculous icon of the Virgin Mary, which according to legend is the supreme source of miracles and healings. This makes the pilgrimage perhaps the most remarkable and still ongoing in the area of the Eastern Mediterranean. According to tradition, as a sign of devotion, many pilgrims fall on hands and knees and make their way 800 meters from the ferry to the church.

In addition to the church of Panagia Evangelistria the island is known among the Greeks with: 80 windmills; 1000 artistic friezes; 50 active villages and architectural Venetian fortifications of towering mountains. The island is also well known for its famous sculptors and artists such as Nicholas Gisis, Yanoulis Chalepas and Nikiforos Lutras. For visitors are very interesting and dovecotes – homes to pigeons which are scattered throughout the island and are more than 600. Their houses are two-storey buildings with geometric ornaments and holes to allow pigeons to enter and exit. The monastery of the Ursuline Convent can also be visited. Nowaday it is located in the folklore museum. In the middle of the island rises also majestic rocks with heavy past of the fortress town. Today on the way to the rock can be seen only ruins. In the area of Panormos are beach Agia Thalassa and Planitis rock that looks like a peninsula. This picturesque location is ideal for visits, but only when there is no wind, because of the small rock pieces. In good weather people dive and swim around them.

In ancient times Tinos was also known as Ophiussa and Hydroessa. He was in possession of the Venetians until 1715. Then the Ottoman Empire conquered the island until 1821 when started the Greek War of Independence. The tumult to this period led to an increase in piracy in the region. Summer in 1826 Cambrian boats captured pirates who managed to bomb and burn Místico of Tinos. Victims are five pirates, there are also several injured.

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The cultural heritage of the islands of Paxos and Serifos

  • Paxos

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The Greek island of Paxos is the smallest group of the Ionian Islands. It is part of a small group called Paxi. The smallest island is known for good wine and sandy shores. Paxos beaches are pebbly except Mongonisi, which is only in sand. Inside the island there are small villages with houses that give the spirit of the locals. The water is crystal clear, while walking along the shore you will experience the fragrance of the many pine and olive trees.

It is assumed that the Paxos was inhabited in prehistoric times. Traditionally, the Phoenicians are considered the first inhabitants. The name of the island supposedly comes from the word Pax which means Slate of Phoenician language. The island was part of the Roman Empire until the 2nd century AD. During the Byzantine Empire and the Middle Ages, it was constantly attacked by pirates. In the late 14th century power over the island belonged to the Venetian Republic. This contributes to the architecture of the island in Venetian style. According to Greek mythology, it is believed that Poseidon created the Paxos by striking Corfu with his trident, because to have a quiet place to relax with his wife Amphitrite.

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  • Serifos

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Serifos is a Greek island in the western Cyclades. It is located 74 miles from Piraeus islands between Kythnos and Sifnos. The area of the island is 73 square kilometers. Serifos combines exceptional beauty and provides many sunny beaches with crystal clear and transparent water. The beach Psili Amos was even awarded for the best European beach in 2003. The picturesque town of Chora overlooks the harbor and attracts attention with its fossil mines. The land on this island are rich in minerals. Serifos was an important economic center in the last century for its mines, but today they are exhausted after deposits. Traces of mining will be found in various places, including in a small museum with monument.

In ancient times Serifos was inhabited by Ionians. In ancient Greek myths and legends the island is mentioned as the place where the sea throws a little Danae Perseus. Serifos is partner with Athens and starred in the wars with the Persians. Crusaders conquered the island in 1204, Turks in 1537 which had rule until the liberation in 1821.

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Andros – The green land of the Cyclades

Andros is a Greek island in the northernmost of the Cyclades islands. It is located approximately 10km southeast of the island of Euboea and about 3 km north of the island of Tinos. Andros is almost 40 km long and has the greatest width of 16 km. Its terrain are green mountainous and is famous fertile valleys, springs and sandy/rocky beaches. Its architecture is unusual even for the Cyclades group – the houses with tile roofs and prevail over those with white flat roofs.

The main town on the island is also named Andros and is situated on the east coast. In 1900 the island’s population is about 18 000 inhabitants, but data from the census in 1991 recorded only 8781. The larger settlements on the island are: Andros, Gabriel, Bazzi and Ormos Kortiu. Bazzi is the most popular resort among them, because it’s surrounded by numerous beaches and bays which is located near the main port.

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The beaches of Andros are stunning with breathtaking views. It has a beach for any preference. Beaches dominated by sand bars, lounges and umbrellas. The most famous beach Grias Pidima is located on the east coast near Ormos Kortiu. The meaning of his name is “Leap old woman” due to its southern end where a narrow vertical rock emerging from the sea, as if going to jump. Among the long and deserted beaches are Pesa, Kalamitsi, Vlychada and Zorkos.

As in most places and Andros is famous for its local culinary dishes. Among the most famous is the “Fruittila”, resembling an omelet with meat and potatoes. Typical for this area are local pastry with almonds, homemade jams, pastries filled and more.

Besides its amazing beaches and delicious food, the island of Andros is attractive for lovers of nature walks. The Archaeological Museum is located in the central square in Cairy city. One of the most famous artifacts in the museum is a statue of Hermes by the 2nd century BC – a copy of the original bronze statue of the 4th century. In the building can be seen more and artifacts from the 10th century BC, the statue hostess of Herculaneum, also and large collection of ceramics. The Museum of Modern Art is highly visited because of its magnificent paintings from the 20th century as painters by Picasso, Marriage, Michalis Tompros and others. Another historic building of the island’s is the Sea Museum, where you can see photographs and collections of nautical instruments and ship models. Near the city center lies the church of Panagia Teoskepasti built in 1555 in honor of the Virgin Mary. The name means “shelter of God.”

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More interesting places and attractions in the area are: Venetian fortress in the town of Andros; the LighthouseTurlitis; the Church of Agia Talasini; the Tower of Agios Petros from 3-4 century; Panahrantos old monastery with its impressive sea views; the ancient capital of Andros – Paleopolis, today you can see only remnants of it and sunken pier into the sea; Fortress Faneromeni (upper fortress) near Corti; The Temple Agios Ioannis Kremidis that hides nice and secluded beach.