Greece is one of the most popular sailing areas in the Mediterranean. Over 1400 islands and 13,500 km's of coastlines waiting to be explored.
Sailing is a great pastime and the perfect way to experience Greece and the Greek islands. Because of the sheer number of Greek islands, it is of course almost impossible to call one of those islands the most beautiful, or even to say what the loveliest sailing trip would be between islands. The only way to really narrow down the choices is to decide among which groups of islands you wish to sail. The most popular sailing areas are: the Ionian Islands, the Cyclades, the Saronic Islands, The Dodecanese, and the Sporades Islands. The Ionian Islands are an ideal place for beginners. Corfu and Paxos are the two main starting points for sailing in the area, and other interesting islands in the group are: Lefkada, Kefalonia, Meganisi, Ithaca and Zakynthos. Fascinating mythology surrounds these islands, and both lively resorts and traditional fishing villages can be found in the Ionian Islands. These islands are known for their lush landscapes, turquoise waters, and a more relaxed and laid-back atmosphere. Additionally, Lefkas Marina is indeed a significant hub for yacht charters in the Ionian region. It serves as a starting point for many sailing adventures, providing easy access to the surrounding islands. The marina offers various amenities and facilities to cater to sailors and yacht enthusiasts who wish to explore the beauty of the Ionian Islands from the sea.
Setting sail through Greece's island gems is a voyage of discovery. Athens is the starting point from which to explore the Saronic Islands, and the islands of Aegina, Poros, Hydra and Spestus are easily accessible from the capital. These islands have pebbly beaches and picturesque harbors, and are popular escapes for Athenian city dwellers during the weekends. Greece's wind-swept waters offer a sailor's paradise, though challenging for beginners. Meet the Meltemi winds in the Aegean and conquer its wild beauty.
Seeking sun, sea, and sand? Greece's beaches and islands beckon, adorned with charming cities and historic sites. The distances between the islands are small, and the Meltimi blows from the Northeast at around 4 - 6 Bft in the area. Rhodes is at the center of the Dodecanese and has an attractive medieval old town. From here, one can easily reach Kos, Patmos, Astipalea, Kalimnos, Karpathos, Kasos, Leros, Nisyros, Symi, Tilos and Kastelorizo. Sailing conditions in the Dodecanese during summer can be challenging, and will appeal to sport sailors. The Sporades islands host some of the best beaches in Greece and combine cosmopolitan culture with a relaxed way of life. For those looking to explore this enchanting archipelago, the Sporades offer various options for sailing enthusiasts. Skiathos, Skopelos, Alonissos and Skyros are wonderful places to sail to. The bustling harbor of Skiathos serves as a starting point for many sailing adventures, providing easy access to the surrounding islands. Skiathos is known for its lively atmosphere and stunning beaches, Skopelos for its lush green landscapes and picturesque villages and idyllic bays, beckons sailors to anchor in its crystal-clear waters, and Alonissos known for its natural beauty and serenity, is a destination of choice for those seeking an immersive escape. Visitors to the Sporades can expect to encounter a range of experiences, from vibrant nightlife to tranquil retreats, all within this beautiful island group. Each of these islands has its own unique charm and features that make them stand out among the Greek islands. Near the coasts of Euböas and Thesaaliens in mid-Greece, the northern Sporades islands are grouped together. Alonissos, Skiathos, Skopelos Thrakiens and Skyros are in the north, while the northern Aegean islands Amouliani, Xeronisi, Thasos, Thasopoula, Samothraki, Ladoxera, Limnos, the island group Drenia, and Agios Efstratios, which is mostly made up of tiny uninhabited islands, are near the central Macedonian coast.
Cyclades Islands: Mykonos, Santorini, and Paros are popular yacht charter destinations. These islands are known for their stunning landscapes, picturesque villages, beautiful beaches, and vibrant nightlife. Many charter companies offer options for sailing and yacht rentals in these areas, allowing visitors to explore the Cyclades' unique charm and beauty from the perspective of the sea. Paros is a good starting point for exploring the Cyclades. and the islands of Naxos, Mykonos, and Santorini are popular destinations within this island group. Further east you will find the islands Ikaria, Lesbos, Chios, the Inousses, and the Fourni archipelago with Thymena, Psara, Andipsara, Samos, Samiopoula. Smaller islands such as Little Cyclades and Andros are quieter and less crowded during the summer months. The best times to sail in the Cyclades is during spring and autumn, as strong Meltimi winds occur during July and August that can blow at 8 Beaufort.
The Greek marinas cater to a wide range of vessels, providing berths for everything from small boats to sizable yachts. These facilities are well-equipped with essential mooring points and secure docking spaces, ensuring that every vessel, regardless of size, finds a suitable spot. Some marinas even offer specialized moorings for larger vessels, catering to the needs of more substantial yachts.
A significant aspect of these marinas is their focus on safety and security. With measures like round-the-clock surveillance, controlled access points, and in some cases, security patrols, they offer peace of mind. The affordability of mooring fees in many municipal harbors is a pleasant surprise, making it accessible for those of us on a tighter budget. However, it's worth noting that the lower fees often mean basic facilities.
Good Marina's to start your charter: Gouvia, Lefkas, Athens, Parikia, Skiathos, Kos City, Rhodes City, Lavrio, Preveza, Zakynthos, Mykonos
Become inspired for your next yacht charter in Greece and check out some of our recommended sailing itineraries below:
Greece boasts a comprehensive network of airports, serving both international and domestic travel.
International Airports in Greece include: Alexandroupolis International Airport, Athens International Airport, Chania International Airport, Corfu Island International Airport, Heraklion International Airport, Kalamata International Airport, Kavala International Airport, Kefalonia Island International Airport, Kos Island International Airport, Lemnos Island International Airport, Mytilene Island International Airport, Rhodes Island International Airport, Samos Island International Airport, Skiathos Island International Airport, Thessaloniki International Airport, and Zakynthos Island International Airport
Greece has a Mediterranean climate and the sailing season lasts from April to October. It is hot, dry and sunny during the summer. Temperatures can exceed 40°C inland, but stay in the mid-30s on the islands and coasts. The predominant wind is the Meltimi, which blows at different strengths depending on the area.
Aegean: Greece's wind-kissed waters are a sailor's dream, but can challenge beginners. Experience the wild beauty of the Aegean and the invigorating Meltemi winds. Short distances between islands and winds from the Northeast (4 - 6 Bft) welcome sport sailors. Saronic Islands: Aegina, Poros, Hydra, and Spestus are ideal for easy exploration. Frequented by Athenians on weekends, these islands offer pebbly beaches and charming harbors. Dodecanese: Sailing here during summer offers thrilling challenges, appealing to those seeking sporty experiences. Sporades: Skiathos, Skopelos, Alonissos, and Skyros in the Sporades blend cosmopolitan culture with relaxed vibes. These islands boast Greece's finest beaches and an inviting atmosphere for sailors.