As the third largest island in the Mediterranean, Cyprus presents a fascinating melting pot of Western and Eastern cultures to be explored during your superyacht charter. Lying between Turkey, Greece and Egypt, Cyprus is affectionately known as the ‘Island of Love’ in the East Mediterranean, and it is easy to see why. This is, after all, the ancient birthplace of Aphrodite, the goddess of love, who allegedly sprang from the waves just 15 miles off the coast of Paphos.
A yacht charter here is perfect for both laid-back beach lovers and thrill seekers looking to climb mountain ranges, bask in the beauty of ancient architecture, or scuba dive in the bluest of lagoons. For party lovers and the young at heart, Ayia Napa awaits as a top destination in the Mediterranean for a night in town before heading back aboard to relax and recover. The island’s coastline of golden sand beaches and glittering sea remains largely undisturbed as the majority of civilisation is found inland, within the hills and mountains.
Due to its proximity to Asia, Cyprus enjoys one of the hottest climates in the Mediterranean. For serious sun worshippers, the peak summer months offer temperatures of around 35 degrees Celsius, but apart from this, visitors will find a favourable heat for sightseeing and adventures.
With its convenient international airport, Paphos is the perfect place to begin your Cypriot cruise. A UNESCO World Heritage site, Paphos is famed for its ancient ruins, and The Archaeological Park of Kato Pafos has beautifully preserved Roman villas with breathtaking mosaics. After exploring the cultural side of the island, why not head for a dip in the crystal-clear waters at the nearby Coral Bay or Lara Beach.
Cruise up the coast from Paphos and you will reach the Akamas Peninsula National Park, where you may wish to spend a day or two at anchor. The spectacular scenery at this national park is a mix of vast wooded mountains and sandy coves beneath towering cliffs, and it’s home to nesting turtles and friendly dolphins.
Further to the north, the coast is rocky. A stop in Kyrenia is worthwhile for a visit to the 12th century castle and the nearby Abbey of Bellapais, where you can soak in the atmosphere of your surroundings whilst enjoying a fabulous meal on the veranda at the Kybele Restaurant.
A highlight in North Cyprus has to be the Karpaz Gate Marina, which offers excellent facilities for visiting superyachts, with a wealth of modern facilities, designer shops, restaurants and bars, as well as a chic beach club and a spa, offering a variety of hammam treatments.
Once you have rounded the northeast point of Cyprus, take in the beautiful beaches of Karpass National Park before heading south around Cape Greco towards Larnaca, with its picture-book town and fort. Inland adventure seekers may wish to take a day trip to explore the Troodos Mountains, with the famous painted churches, displaying astonishing Byzantine frescoes that must be seen to be believed. From here, head back to meet your boat in Limassol Marina, an elegant resort catering for superyachts and offering all the luxury amenities you could wish for.
Despite being a predominately European Island, influences from Turkey, Syria and Lebanon can be found weaved through the heart of Cyprus, ensuring a charter that’s packed with romantic charm, gastronomic delights, and a fascinating lesson to mythological history.