MAP & INTRO
The Greek archipelago and the Ionian Sea are an attractive playground for novice and experienced sailors alike. There are countless secret coves and beaches that are only accessible by boat. Additionally, a chartered yacht can be a floating base for many other summer activities such as fishing, diving, and windsurfing. And when you get tired of the sea and want to get your feet back on dry land, all you need to do is point your boat in the direction of the nearest bay or harbor.
The itineraries in this section are the result of my extensive experience sailing in this area. If you are in need of special recommendations, quiet anchorage, unspoiled beaches, best beach bars, etc. feel free to send us a message. And if you have some interesting places that you want to share with us, feel free to post them on our Facebook or Instagram page with the #sailwithskipper and @ocean_Nomads tags.
Itineraries for the Greek sailing areas:
- The Cyclades
- The Argo-Saronicos and the east Peloponnese
- Ionian Sea
- Dodecanese islands
- The Argo-Saronicos and the east Peloponnes
- The Sporades and Evia
- North Aegean and Crete (still to come)
Yachting and Sailing Itineraries in the Cyclades
When sailing the Cyclades you have a couple of choices where to start.
You can start from Athens Alimos/Kalamaki Marina or Lavrion (Port Marina and Olympic Marina). The biggest selection of quality yachts in Greece can be found in Athens Kalamaki – Athens Alimos Marina. Lavrion Port Marina or Olympic Marina are situated further south on Attica and thus much closer to the Cyclades, but the downside is that there are fewer quality yachts available from Lavrion. Starting from Lavrion or Alimos/Kalamaki Marina also gives you an alternative in case of bad weather (Strong winds/Meltemi). With the Meltemi sailing the Cyclades can be challenging to dangerous, and alternatively, you can sail the Argo-Saronicos from Alimos or Lavrion instead.
The second option is starting in Mykonos or Poros. These islands are lying in the middle of the Cyclades so you start right in the center! If you only have one week and want to explore the Micro-Cyclades or want to visit the islands of the South Cyclades this is the place to start. The downside of these ports is that there is limited availability of quality yachts. When its “to”-windy there are no alternatives and you can only stay and wait for better weather.
The Ultimate Greek Cyclades Sailing cruise - 2 weeks: 390Nm
The Greek west Cyclades Sailing island tour - 1 week: 240Nm
The relaxing Micro-Cyclades yacht cruise - 1 Week: 132 Nm
The Cyclades and Argo-Saronicos cruise - 2 Weeks: 450 Nm
Yachting and Sailing Itineraries in the Argo-Saronic and East Peloponnese
There are several very nice 1-week cruises or itineraries in the Argo-Saronic. However, a 2-week itinerary opens up many more possibilities. And if the weather window for the Cyclades is challenging, I can even suggest a two weeks Cyclades-ArgoSaronic tour. When the Meltemi is blowing the Argo-Saronic is a nice alternative, although it can get a bit busy.
Central Argo-Saronic island tour - 1 week: 130Nm
The Argo-Saronicos Archaeological Tour - 2 Weeks: 282 Nm
Yachting and Sailing Itineraries in the Ionian Sea
Sailing in the Ionian sea means crystal clear water, beautiful beaches, and green islands. To explore it all you need three weeks minimum, but you with one week you can explore the Southern or the North Ionian islands. Lefkada and Preveza are located in the middle and from these two yacht bases you can explore either the North or the South in one week. If you start in Corfu, I would advise circumnavigating Corfu island and visiting Erikousa and Orthoni to the North and Paxos to the south while doing so.
The winds in the Ionian Sea are remarkably consistent in the summer months. From late May to the end of September the Maestro wind blows down onto the Ionian Islands from the North West. Generally, it arrives in the early afternoon, blows between F3-6, and dies down again in the evening. The Ionian does not suffer from the very strong Meltemi winds which impact more eastern parts of Greece.
July, September, and especially August are very busy months in this area with lots of flotilla fleets.
North Ionian Sea tour - 1 week: 160Nm
Yachting and Sailing Itineraries in the Dodecanese
Sailing in the Dodecanese offers a unique and captivating experience, with a blend of stunning islands, rich history, and clear waters. Located in the southeastern Aegean Sea, the Dodecanese comprises over 12 islands, each with its own charm, from the larger and more popular Rhodes and Kos to smaller, more tranquil spots like Patmos, Symi, and Nisyros.
The sailing conditions in the Dodecanese are generally favorable, with warm, sunny weather and moderate winds, especially during the summer months. The meltemi winds, though strong at times, are typically less intense here compared to other parts of Greece, making it an attractive destination for both experienced sailors and those new to cruising.
Starting from Rhodes, the largest and most developed island in the group, you can explore a wide range of routes. From the medieval Old Town of Rhodes to the lush shores of Symi, there’s something for everyone. Kos, with its vibrant nightlife and ancient ruins, is another popular starting point, offering easy access to nearby islands like Kalymnos, known for its dramatic cliffs and sponge diving history.
Patmos is a spiritual hub, famous for its Monastery of St. John and its role in the writing of the Book of Revelation. The island offers quiet anchorages and charming villages perfect for a relaxing stop. Nisyros, with its active volcanic caldera, provides a more off-the-beaten-path experience with stunning landscapes and secluded beaches.
The Dodecanese is perfect for island-hopping, and the distances between islands are manageable, allowing for leisurely cruises. You’ll find calm, sheltered bays for anchoring, clear blue waters ideal for swimming, and quaint harbors where you can enjoy fresh seafood and local delicacies.
Whether you’re seeking vibrant nightlife, historical exploration, or peaceful seclusion, sailing the Dodecanese offers an unforgettable adventure amidst some of Greece’s most beautiful islands.
The best place to start is in Kos or in Rhodos. Bother islands have a large charter base with plenty of Yachts to choose from. If you want to explore the northern part of the Dodecanese with a sail boat its best to start in Kos. If you want to sail the Southern Dodecanese islands you can start in Kos or Rhodos.