The 7 Best Places To Sail In Greece: Islands And Mainland

Ever dreamed of sailing through crystal-clear waters while ancient ruins dot the horizon? You’ll find that Greece offers the perfect sailing playground without breaking the bank. From the beginner-friendly Ionian Islands to the windswept Cyclades with their iconic blue-domed churches, there’s a Greek sailing experience for every skill level. The mainland hides secluded coves while major ports provide convenient starting points for your nautical adventure. Ready to discover which Greek destination matches your sailing style?

Key Points

• The Ionian Islands offer calm waters ideal for beginners with crystal-clear turquoise waters and short distances between islands.
• The Cyclades Archipelago features iconic white-and-blue landscapes with popular routes including Mykonos, Santorini, and Naxos.
• The Saronic Gulf provides quick, sheltered sailing escapes close to Athens with manageable distances and protection from Meltemi winds.
• The Dodecanese Islands are rich in ancient ruins and medieval fortresses with over 3,100 hours of sunshine annually.
• The mainland coast around Parga, Vathy, and Preveza offers hidden coves and affordable sailing routes with Caribbean-like waters in Syvota.

The Ionian Islands: Gentle Waters Perfect for Beginners

While many sailing destinations challenge even seasoned captains, the Ionian Islands offer a gentle welcome to those just finding their sea legs. Tucked between Greece and Italy, these islands boast calmer waters than their Aegean counterparts.

Perfect for novice sailors, the Ionian Islands welcome with calm waters where Aegean might intimidate.

You’ll catch reliable northwesterly winds (locals call them “Maistro”) during summer months, with generally smooth seas that won’t overwhelm your crew. The crystal-clear turquoise waters make for excellent snorkeling stops between islands.

Don’t forget to book marinas ahead during peak season and carry proper safety equipment—life jackets for everyone are mandatory. You’ll need a valid sailing license to charter here.

When you’re not sailing, each island offers unique cultural experiences, reflecting centuries of diverse influences. The islands’ rich history includes Venetian occupation from 1204, which significantly shaped the local architecture and culture visible today. The short distances between islands make this area perfect for relaxed exploration. While exploring the Greek islands, many sailors also venture to Ios island for its stunning beaches and vibrant atmosphere.

The Cyclades Archipelago: Iconic White and Blue Island Hopping

When the Meltemi winds kick up in summer, the Cyclades Archipelago becomes a sailor’s playground of iconic white-and-blue vistas that’ll make your Instagram followers green with envy. Located southeast of mainland Greece, this collection of 220 islands offers both challenge and beauty for those willing to navigate its waters. The islands’ peaks are actually the summits of submerged mountainous terrain that creates the dramatic landscapes sailors encounter. Preparing with essential travel tips will ensure you make the most of your sailing adventure through these breathtaking waters.

For the budget-conscious sailor, here’s what you can’t miss:

1. Hop between Mykonos and Santorini for those postcard-perfect views without lengthy sea journeys
2. Dock at Naxos for free beaches and affordable local cuisine
3. Visit UNESCO-listed Delos during off-peak hours to avoid crowds and high fees
4. Sail to lesser-known islands like Amorgos for authentic experiences at half the cost

Ferry connections from Athens make this area accessible even if you’re chartering for just a weekend.

The Sporades: Secluded Green Paradises of the Aegean

Unlike the bustling Cyclades, the Sporades islands offer a quieter sailing experience where dense pine forests meet the azure waters of the northern Aegean. This scattered collection of 24 islands gives you plenty of secluded spots to drop anchor without breaking the bank.

Sail between the four main islands – Skiathos, Skopelos, Skyros, and Alonnisos – each with its own character. Located north of Evia, these islands showcase stunning natural beauty with rich vegetation that extends right to the shoreline. You’ll find hidden coves impossible to reach by land and crystal-clear waters perfect for snorkeling.

Don’t miss the National Marine Park around Alonnisos, where you might spot endangered monk seals and sea turtles. Though far from the historical sites of Athens, these islands offer a different kind of Greek experience focused on nature rather than ancient ruins.

For budget-friendly adventures, explore the traditional villages of Skopelos, hike scenic trails, and enjoy fresh seafood at local tavernas. The Sporades are perfect if you’re seeking natural beauty without the crowds.

The Dodecanese Islands: Ancient History Meets Sailing Adventure

The Dodecanese Islands offer sailors a chance to journey through time, with ancient ruins and medieval fortresses dotting these southeastern Aegean gems. You’ll find 165 islands here, though only 26 are inhabited, giving you plenty of secluded anchorages to explore on a budget. The region enjoys over 3,100 hours of sunshine annually, making it ideal for extended sailing seasons. Much like Athens’ timeless allure, the Dodecanese Islands captivate visitors with their rich historical significance and natural beauty.

Drop anchor at these must-visit spots:

Island gems await your discovery, each offering unique treasures without demanding your fortune.

1. Rhodes – Moor near the medieval Old Town without paying fancy marina fees
2. Kos – Enjoy ancient ruins right next to free anchorages with crystal waters
3. Patmos – Visit the Monastery of St. John without the crowds by arriving on your own boat
4. Kalymnos – Watch local sponge divers practice their traditional craft

Island-hopping here is easy on your wallet, with short distances between islands and plenty of protected coves to anchor overnight instead of paying for marinas.

The Saronic Gulf: Weekend Escapes From Athens

In striking contrast to the far-flung Dodecanese, the Saronic Gulf sits right at Athens’ doorstep, offering time-strapped sailors a perfect quick escape without emptying your wallet. Just 1-2 hours from the city, you’ll discover sheltered waters ideal for beginners with manageable 15-20 NM daily distances.

Island-hop between Aegina’s pistachio groves, vehicle-free Hydra with its stone mansions and donkeys, or pine-covered Poros with its narrow channel. Most anchorages use stern-to mooring techniques, and you won’t face the fierce Meltemi winds found elsewhere. The area is perfect for new sailors due to its sheltered waters and consistently shorter sailing distances between beautiful destinations. While exploring the Greek Islands, consider extending your journey to experience Kefalonia’s allure, one of Greece’s most captivating destinations.

Base yourself at Alimos marina and choose a simple 3-cabin yacht. The short distances mean you can create fantastic 3-5 day itineraries combining swimming in turquoise coves, exploring ancient sites, and enjoying fresh seafood in harbor tavernas.

Sailing the Mainland Coast: Hidden Coves and Pristine Beaches

Sailing along Greece’s mainland coast rewards adventurous sailors with treasures many island-hoppers miss completely. The Epirus Riviera offers affordable 7-day itineraries where you’ll find crystal-clear waters and limestone cliffs without the crowds of more famous destinations. The mainland provides a perfect alternative to island hopping routes that can become congested during peak tourist seasons.

Don’t miss these mainland gems:

1. Parga – Drop anchor near the historic castle for panoramic views that don’t cost a penny.
2. Vathy – A quiet bay where you can experience authentic Greek village life away from tourist prices.
3. Hidden coves near Preveza – Perfect spots to swim and snorkel that are only accessible by boat.
4. Vassiliki – Catch consistent winds for great sailing without expensive equipment rentals.

The mainland coast also offers more protected anchorages—a practical consideration when those Ionian winds kick up unexpectedly! Sailors will find Syvota particularly enchanting with its Caribbean-like crystal waters and lush green surroundings for an unforgettable Mediterranean experience.

Chartering From Major Ports: Athens, Thessaloniki, and Volos

When choosing your departure port in Greece, you’ll find three major hubs that offer distinctly different experiences without breaking the bank. Athens dominates the scene with 8% of global bookings and Alimos Marina hosting the lion’s share of available yachts. It’s your best bet for variety and competitive prices.

Thessaloniki serves as a wallet-friendly gateway to the northern Aegean. Though less developed for yacht charters, you’ll face fewer crowds and can easily reach Limnos and Thasos.

Volos offers a practical middle ground, especially if you’re eyeing the Sporades islands. Skiathos and Skopelos are just a short sail away. The average weekly charter runs about €508 per person—quite reasonable for accessing some of the world’s most stunning sailing grounds. With Greece ranking as the second most popular sailing destination worldwide according to Google searches, these ports provide excellent starting points for your Mediterranean adventure. Many travelers find Greece to be surprisingly budget-friendly when planning sailing trips outside the peak summer season.

The Sum Up

You’ve now got the whole scoop on Greece’s sailing treasures without breaking the bank. Whether you’re dipping your toes in the Ionian’s gentle waters or dancing with the Meltemi winds in the Cyclades, Greece delivers bang for your buck. Like a perfect gyro, each destination offers a different flavor but the same satisfying experience. Chart your course, catch those breezes, and sail away!