Greece
The best sailing regions in Greece include the Saronic Gulf, perfect for short passages close to Athens, the Cyclades with their iconic scenery and steady winds, the sun-drenched and historic Dodecanese, the green and tranquil Sporades, the spacious and authentic Peloponnese, and the Ionian Sea with Corfu, known for relaxed sailing and turquoise waters.
Saronic
The Saronic Gulf is a highly diverse and comfortable sailing region, with easy departures from Athens or Lavrio and short passages between islands such as Hydra, renowned for its elegant atmosphere, exclusive Spetses, lively Poros, and green Aegina. The area combines iconic cultural sites like the ancient theatre of Epidaurus and Nafplio, the first capital of modern Greece, with a wide range of activities including water sports, water skiing, tubing, sheltered swimming bays, and an exceptional choice of tavernas and atmospheric harbours.
Cyclades
The Cyclades are Greece’s most distinctive and raw sailing region, offering wide open waters and often strong winds that deliver a true sense of sailing, balanced by days of calm seas and striking beauty.
The main starting bases are Lavrio, conveniently located near Athens, or Paros as a central island of the Cyclades, with routes leading to iconic islands as well as dramatic destinations like Amorgos and cliff-lined Folegandros.
Dodecanese
The Dodecanese is a sun-drenched sailing region located very close to Turkey, known for its oriental atmosphere and wide open spaces between islands. The main starting base is Kos, from where routes lead to the spiritual Patmos with the Cave of the Apocalypse, the stunning and colourful port of Symi, the volcanic island of Nisyros, and Kalymnos, a world-famous destination for rock climbing, making this one of Greece’s most distinctive sailing areas.
Ionian
The Ionian Sea is the greenest and most tranquil sailing region in Greece, ideal for comfortable cruises with short passages, sheltered waters, and crystal-clear seas. The main starting bases are Corfu and Lefkada, from where routes lead through turquoise bays and picturesque islands such as Ithaca and Kefalonia. The region is renowned for excellent waterfront tavernas and a relaxed, laid-back atmosphere.
Sporades
The Sporades are among the greenest sailing regions in Greece, highly valued by Greeks themselves, with Volos as the main starting base. The area is world-famous for the film Mamma Mia!, shot on Skiathos and Skopelos, including the iconic cliffside church. Nearby lies the Athos peninsula on Chalkidiki, dominated by Mount Athos and its remarkable, closed monastic community.
Peloponnese
The Peloponnese route leads through the Saronic Gulf toward wild, unspoiled coasts, offering silence and a truly authentic sailing experience. The highlight of the voyage is Monemvasia, a spectacular medieval fortress town rising above the sea. Along the way, sailors pass forgotten harbors such as Gerakas and Leonidio, as well as numerous natural bays perfect for peaceful stops.
