Sailing in Greece

Cyclades

Made up of 220 islands in the central Aegean, the Cyclades is the largest and most renowned cruising area for sailing in Greece. Must see islands: Syros, Delos, Mykonos, Milos, Paros, Ios and Santorini.

Sailing yourself: Ideal for intermediate to advanced sailors. Conditions are more challenging due to longer open passages and potential for larger seas with stronger summer winds.

Saronic / Argolic Gulf

South of Athens, the Saronic and Argolic Gulfs offer more historic sites per sq mile and calmer conditions for sailing in Greece. Must see islands: Aegina, Poros, Hydra, Spetses.

Sailing yourself: Great for novice sailors offering line of sight navigation and short passages. The region is protected by the mainland of Attica which limits strong winds and larger seas.

Ionian Sea

Off the west coast of Greece, the Ionian region boasts forested hills and miles of sandy beaches. Must see islands: Corfu, Lefkas, Kefalonia, Ithaki, Zakinthos.

Sailing yourself: A good choice for first time sailing in Greece, with short passages, line of sight navigation and lighter sailing conditions.

Dodecanese

Sailing in Greece adjacent to the Turkish coast, the Dodecanese islands are steeped in history and known for their welcoming ports. Must see islands: Samos, Patmos, Kalymnos, Kos, Rhodes and Symi.

Sailing yourself: Perfect for intermediate sailors, this area features upwind and downwind passages of varying distance. Larger seas and stronger summer winds may occur.

Sporades

Located in the north central Aegean, the Sporades are in striking contrast to the Cyclades with their bleached stone and thick green pine forests. Must see islands: Alonissos, Skiathos and Skopelos.

Sailing yourself: Good for intermediate level sailors, the island proximity and line of sight navigation make for easy passages but larger seas and stronger summer winds can develop.