Greece is a sailing paradise that attracts sailors from all over the world with its diversity. Each area has its character, weather, and history. Choosing a route is not just a decision about which islands to visit, but also about what kind of sailing experience to expect – whether it will be calm and relaxing or full of excitement and challenges with the wind.
The easiest and most predictable sailing area is the Saronic Gulf. The waters here are sheltered from strong winds, making sailing a pure pleasure, especially for those just starting their sailing adventure. Departing from Athens, within a few hours, you can find yourself in charming ports on islands such as Aegina, Poros, or Hydra. The main charter base is Alimos Marina in Athens, easily accessible from Athens International Airport. In this region, there is no need to worry about strong Meltemi winds – the wind is milder, and the distances between islands are short. This makes both monohulls and catamarans comfortable to sail in this area – there are no high waves, and the ports offer good infrastructure. It is an excellent option for a week-long cruise, where you can enjoy leisurely sailing and the Greek atmosphere.
For those looking for more of a challenge, the Cyclades are the heart of Greek sailing, where the Meltemi wind reigns supreme. In the Summer, it can reach 6-7 on the Beaufort scale or even more, meaning strong winds and high, short waves. The main charter base is Athens (Alimos Marina or Lavrio), from where you can reach the first islands within a few hours. Athens Airport is well-connected, and Lavrio is about a 40-minute drive away. Sailing in these conditions is a true adventure – demanding but extremely rewarding. Monohulls handle the waves well, but, in strong winds, they can heel significantly, which might be challenging for less experienced crews. Catamarans provide greater stability, but their wide structure makes it harder to maintain course in side gusts. Each island has its unique charm: Mykonos is lively and attracts party lovers, Santorini captivates with breathtaking views, and Milos offers wild beaches and turquoise coves. In the Cyclades, careful route planning is essential, as not every port provides shelter from strong winds.
For people who prefer greener landscapes and calmer conditions, the Ionian Islands are the perfect place. Here, the wind is gentler and more predictable – usually picking up in the afternoon, providing ideal conditions for relaxed sailing. The main charter bases are Corfu, Lefkada, and Preveza. Corfu Airport handles numerous international flights, and Lefkada is connected to the mainland by a bridge, making transfers from Preveza Airport easier. Corfu, Lefkada, and Kefalonia are islands full of greenery, charming bays, and sandy beaches. Italian influences are evident everywhere, from architecture to cuisine.
Unlike the Cyclades, the Ionian waters have no strong currents or high waves, making them a great destination for families and those who value comfortable sailing. Catamarans perform excellently here, as their spacious decks allow for full enjoyment of the scenery, and the gentle breezes ensure a smooth journey between islands.
Then there are the Sporades – lesser-known but equally stunning. The climate here is different – more humid, resulting in lush pine-covered islands. Skiathos and Skopelos are famous for their beautiful beaches, while Alonissos is home to a marine reserve where you can encounter Mediterranean monk seals. The main charter base is Skiathos, where there is an airport with international flights. Sailing here is not difficult, although the wind can sometimes pick up. In the Summer, stable conditions prevail, and the waves do not reach significant heights. Monohulls perform well, but catamarans also have advantages – especially for longer anchor stays in quiet bays.
Finally, we have the Dodecanese, an archipelago near the Turkish coast. This region is a mix of Greek and oriental cultures. Kos, Rhodes, and Symi – each island has its unique character. The main charter bases are Kos and Rhodes, both with international airports handling numerous flights from Europe. The wind in this region is moderate, and the weather is stable, making the Dodecanese an attractive destination for a relaxing cruise with a touch of history – after all, this is where you can find medieval castles and ancient ruins. For sailors, this means comfortable conditions, especially for catamarans, which can manoeuvre freely in warm waters and tranquil bays.
When choosing a sailing trip in Greece, it is worth considering what you are looking for – relaxation or challenge, short passages or long tacks, bustling tourist islands, or quiet hidden coves. Weather conditions, wind characteristics, and the nature of the sailing area all influence the experience. Regardless of the choice, one thing is certain – Greece never disappoints the sailors. □