The Legendary Meltemi
The Legendary Meltemi – The Meltemi winds of Greece, also known as the Etesian northern winds, blow from mid-May to mid-September and are dry, strong winds coming from the North Aegean Sea. If you make a luxury yacht charter to this region next summer 2020, then definitely read the blog below.
Perfect surfing with Meltemi wind
The name of this legendary Greek wind sounds quite romantic and strangely soothing. But the reality is that this dry wind can sweep from the north over Greek waters that engulf small vessels, challenge ferries and shut down hydrofoils. It can also churn the water, making them dangerous for swimmers, and blowing sand at sun worshipers on beaches on the north.
The meltemi comes from the balkan and that can turn things upside down for days. They cool the temperature and are therefore a huge relief on the enormous hot July and August days. Just dealing with the wind is a completely different story. That is quite a challenge.
Splashing
The Meltemi is an afternoon phenomenon that most water sports enthusiasts adapt to, especially the strong Meltemi, which lasts for days, can do great damage to Greek ferries, shipping and pleasure craft. You think of rain and drizzly weather when the wind is strong, but this is not the case with the Meltemi. On the contrary, the weather is beautiful, the sky is clear and you have the most beautiful views.
The Legendary Meltemi
Of course the name Meltemi comes from Myhtology as often in Greece.
The ancient name for the Meltemia was the Etesian wind. Mythologically they are under the control of Boreas, the god of the North Winds, who can also cause problems in the winter.
Mysterious & stubborn Meltemi
The Meltemi wind had a huge effect on Greek history. Philip of Macedon, the father of Alexander the Great, used his knowledge of the wind to time his naval operations, enabling him to secure the victory over less clever opponents.
So you understand when you make a luxury yacht charter to and around the Greek islands you have to take into account the Meltemi wind.
