There are five main sailing areas in Greece. The Cyclades south east of Athens. The Saronic Gulf, located directly south of Athens. The Sporades, which are to the north of Athens. The Dodecanese are situated the far eastern side of the Aegean, nearer Turkey, but home to the party islands of Kos and Rhodes. The Ionian islands are on the west side of the main land.

Cyclades

The Cyclades are made up of 220 islands, many uninhabited. Located south-east off the main land, with sparkling clear waters in between. They are home to many Greek mythology tales and have thousands of historical sites dotted across the islands. With stunning weather all year round, May and June provide the perfect mix of weather and greenery. With the summer months being “too” hot for some older visitors, but perfect temperature for most.

The islands main industry is producing food. Some of the best wine, feta cheese, fruit and of course olive oil comes from the Cyclades. It is definitely a destination for a foodie, with each island having its own twist on taste. Family recipes have evolved over hundreds of years and make a truly unforgettable meal. The islands are a great place to get off the boat and explore the many towns. Their volcanic landscape makes an ideal hiking ground, perfect for stretching your legs after a day on the boat and before an evening drink. The views at the top of the extinct volcanos are breathtaking. If an evening walk isn’t your idea of fun, there a numerous moped rentals, a great alternative to explore the entire island without breaking a sweat.

Saronic Gulf

Located to the south of the mainland, shorter distances are required to reach these tranquil islands. Particularly sheltered by the mainland, the Saronic Gulf does not experience the full force of the Meltemi Winds. The winds are a summer phenomenon, produced by the hot weather and can reach Force 7 wind speeds. They are can be an issue for the eastern islands. Because of the closeness to Athens, it is very popular to stay on the islands and get a high-speed ferry into Athens for a day of sightseeing. Good to keep an eye out of these when leaving marinas at speeds up to 30 knots, but usually not to be concerned by them.

Aside from the location, the prolific ancient history also attracts both tourists and sailors to these waters and shores. Notable mentions go to the Theatre of Epidauros, a remarkably well preserved amphitheater built in 4BC, could hold 12,000 people. Closest marina is Marina Epidavros.

Ionian – North

Starting you charter in Gouvia Marina, on Corfu, allows you to explore the serene waters between the island and the mainland. With international flights to Corfu, you can be on your yacht less than an hour after touch down.

Sailing south to the Paxos Islands, you will discover Emerald Bay on Anti Paxos. As the name suggest the bay is some of the clearest waters, crystal clear down to 30m. On the island is one of my favorite restaurants in the world, Bella Vista. High up on the cliff above the bay. You have undisturbed views all across the bay to Corfu, mainland Greece and the beautiful turquoise waters of the Ionian. The food is simple and full of flavor, using local ingredients that they grow themselves, it really is a must go to location.

Ionian – South

Typically setting out from Lefkas or Preveza, which has daily international flights into the local airport, it is one of the quickest transfers from landing to departing on your yacht. Home to one of the most photographed beaches in the world, nicknamed Shipwreck beach, however Navagio beach is on the far south Ionian island of Zakynthos and the complete opposite side compared to the main town and marina making it not a suitable destination for a one week charter.

There South Ionian is made up of 20 or so islands, which create a sheltered area for you to sail and explore the countless picturesque bays and anchorages. The islands are covered with foliage and numerous ports for you to pull into to have a wonder around the local markets and historic sights.

Dodecanese

The most eastern of the Greek islands, there are 12 dotted along the Turkish Aegean coast, with Rhodes being the largest of them. There are cheap direct flights from the Uk to Rhodes, who’s harbour has a stunning backdrop of a venetian fortress, medieval castle and 3 windmills on the sea wall. Being a less trodden path, you can be on your yacht within 2 hours from touching down.

The way they are positioned does not give much in the way of protection if the Meltemi winds blow, however the chance of seeing dolphins and even bluefin tuna are more than enough to justify coming here. Rhodes used to hold one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World, the Colossus of Rhodes, however there are more than enough historical sights and ancient monastery. Nisyros is famous for its extinct volcano where you are sure to find a secluded bay to anchor. Symi is a beautiful harbour, which in contrast, has a busy nightlife of local bars and tavernas dotted around the harbour.

Sporades

The Sporades is the north most Greek sailing area, made up of 3 main islands (Skiathos, Skopedos and Alonissos) and countless smaller isle and rocks. Skiathos the main island and the only one with an international airport. Due to the layout of the land they are not affected by the Meltemi winds like the rest of the Aegean, which enables you to explore the endless bays and anchorages in crystal clear water.

The island of Alonissos is part of the National Marine Park, which is the largest in Europe and home to Mediterranean monk seal, turtles and dolphins to name a few. It is a truly stunning place to sail, however with fewer flights and less tourism there are limited yachts to choose from for your charter, but still a great selection if you book early enough.

Greek Sailing Areas