The 7 Best Places To Sail In The Mediterranean This Year

The Mediterranean offers spectacular sailing destinations combining ancient history with stunning seascapes. You’ll find paradise in Athens’ island-hopping routes, Italy’s colorful Procida, Dubrovnik’s medieval walls and Croatian archipelago, Corfu’s Venetian charm, Sicily’s volcanic landscapes, and Agana’s crystal-clear waters. France and Sardinia deliver luxury experiences along the Riviera, while Malta connects Atlantic and Mediterranean sailing routes. Each destination provides unique culture alongside perfect sailing conditions to enhance your maritime adventure.

Good To Know

• Greece offers stunning island-hopping through the Cyclades and Ionian Islands with easy navigation ideal for spring and autumn.
• Italy’s Amalfi Coast, Sicily, and Procida feature colorful harbors, ancient ruins, and volcanic bays with secluded coves.
• Croatia’s UNESCO sites, including Dubrovnik and diverse islands like Mljet and Korčula, blend cultural heritage with natural beauty.
• The French Riviera and Sardinia’s Costa Smeralda provide upscale harbors and luxury sailing experiences.
• Malta and Portugal offer historical sailing routes through Faro marina, making them perfect destinations for first-time Mediterranean sailors.

7 Second-Level Headings

When planning your Mediterranean sailing adventure, how do you choose among so many breathtaking destinations? The Mediterranean offers diverse sailing experiences across Greece, Italy, Croatia, and beyond.

In Greece, explore the iconic Cyclades with their whitewashed buildings or the tranquil Ionian Islands with Corfu’s blend of Greek and Venetian charm. Italy calls with the dramatic Amalfi Coast cliffs and Sicily’s ancient ruins. Don’t miss Croatia’s medieval Dubrovnik or the serene Kornati Islands national park.

For luxury seekers, the French Riviera and Sardinia’s Costa Smeralda provide upscale harbors, while Malta offers fascinating historical sites. Lefkas and Agana are perfect for first-time sailors with their easy line-of-sight navigation and ideal cruising conditions. If your journey includes Portugal, consider staying in Faro’s marina for easy access to both Atlantic and Mediterranean sailing routes. Consider timing too—spring brings fewer crowds, summer guarantees warm waters, and autumn offers pleasant sailing without the peak-season bustle.

Each destination has its unique appeal depending on your sailing preferences.

Athens: Ancient Wonders and Island-Hopping Adventures

Athens serves as the perfect starting point for any Mediterranean sailing adventure, blending ancient history with modern nautical convenience. From Zea Marina, you’re just 30 minutes from downtown Athens, where the Acropolis and Parthenon await your exploration.

Begin your Mediterranean odyssey in Athens, where history meets the horizon at vibrant Zea Marina.

You’ll find endless itinerary options—cruise the Saronic Gulf islands of Hydra, Aegina, and Poros for short sails, or venture to the Cyclades for Santorini’s dramatic cliffs.

Families will love snorkeling in Vouliagmeni‘s shallow bays or riding donkeys on car-free Hydra. The marina provides excellent facilities including pools, bars, ATM, and WiFi access for all visitors.

The region offers adventures for all skill levels, from underwater caves near Athens to challenging Meltemi winds in the Cyclades.

Consider joining the March 2025 sailing academies or September flotillas to the Argo-Saronic islands for a guided experience.

Many travelers find Greece’s island culture more relaxed compared to Italy’s bustling coastal towns, perfect for those seeking a laid-back sailing experience.

Procida: Italy’s Cultural Gem With Colorful Harbor Views

Often overlooked in favor of its more famous neighbors, Procida serves as the Bay of Naples‘ smallest treasure at just 3.7 km². This 2022 Italian Capital of Culture enthralls sailors with its pastel-colored Marina Corricella, where fishermen’s houses cascade toward crystal waters.

Navigate your vessel to one of these must-visit spots:

1. Chiaiolella Harbor – A protected southern mooring perfect for yachts, offering calm waters between Procida and Vivara islet.
2. Terra Murata – Dock near this medieval hilltop village to explore the 16th-century fortress and Abbey of San Michele. The area was originally created as a fortified village during the Middle Ages to protect inhabitants from raids.
3. Hidden Volcanic Bays – Sail along the 16km coastline to discover secluded coves with distinctive dark sand. The clear waters surrounding these bays provide excellent snorkeling opportunities for sailors looking to explore beneath the surface.

You’ll find the best sailing conditions during spring and early autumn when the Mediterranean breezes remain gentle and tourist crowds thin.

Dubrovnik: Medieval Splendor and Adriatic Island Exploration

Dubbed the “Pearl of the Adriatic,” Dubrovnik offers sailors a perfect blend of medieval splendor and island-hopping adventure. This UNESCO World Heritage Site serves as your gateway to crystal-clear waters that often resemble a millpond—ideal conditions for both novice and experienced sailors.

A typical 7-day itinerary takes you through the South Dalmatian archipelago, with stops at Mljet’s saltwater lakes, historic Korčula (Marco Polo’s purported birthplace), and the tranquil Elaphiti Islands. Sailors can explore the charming bay of Okuklje on Mljet, where you can drop anchor and enjoy snorkeling activities in the pristine waters. You’ll discover secluded beaches at Lastovo and Saplunara while enjoying fresh seafood at local konobas.

Between sailing legs, explore Dubrovnik’s ancient city walls, vibrant markets, and cultural festivals. As you walk through the historic streets, you might encounter some of the friendly Turkish-style cats that have become beloved fixtures throughout Mediterranean coastal towns. With flexible routes based on weather conditions and your interests, you’ll experience the perfect mix of nature, culture, and Mediterranean relaxation.

Corfu: Venetian Charm in the Ionian Paradise

While Dubrovnik charms with medieval allure, Corfu calls sailors with its distinctive Venetian character set against the stunning Ionian backdrop. You’ll discover ideal sailing conditions with the consistent Maistro wind providing perfect 10-20 knot breezes throughout summer. Sailing enthusiasts can benefit from expert instruction from Captain Dimitris Bampakos, a former Greek Navy Captain with over 26 years of maritime experience. The island’s rich cultural heritage reflects European capitals with architectural influences similar to Vienna and Prague.

Gouvia Marina serves as your well-equipped base, offering extensive services while providing easy access to Corfu Town, a UNESCO World Heritage Site where Greek, Italian, and British influences blend seamlessly.

Three reasons Corfu should be on your sailing itinerary:

1. Secluded golden beaches and breathtaking caves only accessible by water
2. Protected anchorages with crystal-clear waters perfect for swimmers of all levels
3. Easy island-hopping opportunities to Paxos, Antipaxos, and the Sivota Islands

Sicily: Volcanic Landscapes and Gastronomic Delights

Sicily enthralls sailors with its dramatic volcanic silhouettes rising from azure waters, offering a perfect blend of natural wonders and culinary excellence in one magnificent destination.

Base your sailing adventure from Portorosa, Milazzo, or Marsala, where you’ll find numerous charter options starting from just $718 weekly. From these ports, you’ll easily access the Aeolian Islands with their active volcanoes, including Stromboli and Vulcano, or explore the Egadi archipelago from Trapani. While Athens may attract more travelers, Sicily provides a safe haven for sailors seeking Mediterranean beauty without the crowds.

After a day on the water, indulge in Sicily’s gastronomic treasures at waterfront restaurants serving fresh seafood, Marsala wine, and local specialties like arancini and cannoli. Don’t miss Taormina’s beautiful beaches, the lush landscapes of Salina, or the exceptional snorkeling in the crystal-clear Mediterranean waters. Experience the therapeutic benefits of mud grottos at Vulcano’s Faraglione della Fabbrica, where volcanic thermal springs have long been claimed to offer healing properties.

Agana: Croatia’s Premier Sailing Hub for Crystal Waters

Nestled on Croatia’s breathtaking Dalmatian Coast, Marina Agana serves as the perfect gateway for sailors seeking crystalline waters and island-hopping adventures. You’ll find this charming marina in the town of Marina, conveniently positioned near Split and Trogir—both UNESCO World Heritage Sites worth exploring.

Marina Agana beckons sailors to Croatia’s dazzling coastline, where ancient heritage meets azure waters perfect for island exploration.

From here, you can chart a course through the Southern Islands with their diverse landscapes and tranquil ancient towns. The sailing conditions couldn’t be better, with:

1. Med-style mooring facilities with all essential amenities
2. Easy access to stunning destinations like Šolta, Vis, and Hvar
3. Proximity to natural wonders including Krka National Park’s waterfalls

While Croatia offers tremendous value compared to other Mediterranean destinations, be prepared for seasonal price variations during peak summer months when tourism reaches its height. Whether you’re chartering bareboat or joining a flotilla, you’ll enjoy the perfect blend of cultural exploration and natural beauty along the Dalmatian Coast. On weekends, visitors can enjoy the town’s vibrant atmosphere with regular weekend festivals that showcase local culture and traditions.

The Sum Up

The Mediterranean offers you endless nautical experiences, from Greece’s historical coastlines to Croatia’s hidden coves. Whether you’re a seasoned captain or first-time sailor, these destinations deliver unforgettable adventures. Last summer, the Jensen family chartered a 42-foot catamaran in Corfu, discovering secluded beaches unreachable by road and dining at waterfront tavernas. Don’t wait—book your Mediterranean sailing escape and create your own sea-bound memories.