Enjoy sailing around and visiting some of the most beautiful islands in the world

Sailing in Greece is widely considered the gold standard for Mediterranean seafaring, offering over 16,000 kilometers of coastline and 6,000 islands. Whether you are looking for a relaxed family holiday or a challenging offshore adventure, the experience is shaped by the specific island group you choose and the seasonal winds.

Key Sailing Regions

Each region has a distinct “personality” based on wind conditions and landscape:

• The Ionian (West): Best for families and beginners. The waters are typically calm with gentle breezes (5–15 knots). Islands like Corfu, Lefkada, and Ithaca offer lush green scenery and sheltered bays.

• The Saronic (Near Athens): The most accessible region. Protected from strong winds by the mainland, it’s ideal for shorter trips. Highlights include the car-free island of Hydra and the pistachio groves of Aegina.

• The Cyclades (Central Aegean): For experienced sailors. This is home to the famous blue-and-white icons like Santorini and Mykonos. It is beautiful but challenging due to the Meltemi winds.

• The Dodecanese (Southeast): A mix of history and moderate sailing. Located near the Turkish coast, islands like Rhodes and Patmos feature medieval castles and longer stretches of open-sea sailing.

• The Sporades (North): Famed for their pine-tree coastlines and the Marine Park of Alonissos. These islands (including Skopelos, where Mamma Mia! was filmed) offer a quieter, more natural experience.

Understanding the “Meltemi”

The most important factor for any Greek sailing trip is the Meltemi.

• What it is: A strong, dry north wind that blows across the Aegean Sea.

• When: It peaks in July and August.

• Impact: It can reach 7–8 Beaufort (30+ knots), making the Cyclades difficult for novice sailors but exhilarating for those with experience. If you prefer calmer waters during mid-summer, stick to the Ionian.

Charter Options

Depending on your skill level and budget, you can explore Greece in three ways:

1. Bareboat: You rent the boat and sail it yourself. In Greece, authorities usually require two people on board to have a recognized sailing license (or one license and one experienced co-skipper).

2. Skippered: You hire a local captain. This is the best way to find “secret” coves and avoid the stress of navigating unfamiliar ports.

3. Fully Crewed: A luxury experience including a skipper, a hostess, and often a chef.

Tips for the Greek Seas

• Mooring Style: Unlike many parts of the world, Greeks use the “stern-to” method—dropping anchor in the middle of the harbor and reversing the boat until the back (stern) is at the quay.

• The “Short Summer”: In mid-January, Greece often experiences the Alkyonides Days—a week or two of unexpected calm, sunny weather that is perfect for winter sailing enthusiasts.

• Provisions: Small island ports often have “mini-markets” right on the dock that will deliver groceries and fresh water directly to your boat.