Sailing, Kayaking & Protecting Greece’s Seas – Our Visit to Mykonos
On August 21–22, as part of the Seal Greece National Information Campaign, our crew sailed to Agios Sostis, Mykonos—a place of wild beauty and a reminder of the deep bond between the Aegean Sea and its marine life.
Our captain Loucas from Aegean Cargo Sailing and ambassador Suzanne, met with Nikos Siopiros and the passionate team of Mykonos Outdoors & Mykonos Kayak who introduced their teenage quests from the local community to the Seal Greece campaign and its mission on the urgent need to protect the Mediterranean monk seal (Monachus monachus). They were also thrilled to be welcomed aboard the Pelago boat! Then, in a symbolic gesture, the kayakers formed a circle around Pelago—a kind of kayak flotilla—embracing the spirit of collective action on the water.
Nikos explained why this mission resonated with him:
“When I read about Seal Greece, I thought: this is so important, to share information about seals and their habitat. I’ve been lucky enough to see monk seals in Mykonos. We try to keep their presence discreet and respect their space—if they visit us, that’s a gift.”
Niko’s mother, Ivanka Siopirou, shares with us her love for wild herbs and the natural beauty of Mykonos, revealing a more romantic and peaceful side of the island while explaining how kayaking helps people discover Mykonos differently:
“By kayak, you slow down. You notice the water, the seagrass, the rocks, the plants. Visitors arrive stressed, but soon they relax and start to see details they would otherwise miss. It’s the stories and the passion that make the difference—campaigns like this truly help.”
Their words echo our belief that awareness is the first step toward protection. The monk seal’s survival depends on safeguarding habitats in the Ionian and Aegean Seas, while also fostering respect among local communities and visitors.
We thank Mykonos Outdoors & Mykonos Kayak for their warm welcome and shared commitment. Encounters like this strengthen our mission to protect Greece’s marine heritage—and ensure that the Mediterranean monk seal continues to find a home in these waters.
Our voyage now heads toward its final stop: Syros, on August 29–30, where we will conclude this journey of awareness, connection, and conservation.
