Sail Greece

Where sailing was born

Greece offers the most diverse sailing in the Mediterranean. From the gentle Ionian Sea to the challenging Meltemi-swept Cyclades, there's a cruising ground for every skill level. Thousands of islands, ancient ruins at every turn, and some of the best food in the world.

Season

April – October (peak: June–September)

Charter bases

Athens (Lavrion), Lefkas, Corfu, Kos, Rhodes

Avg. wind

Ionian: 8–15 kn / Aegean: 15–30 kn (Meltemi)

Water temp

20–27°C

Fly into

Athens (ATH), Corfu (CFU), Rhodes (RHO), Kos (KGS)

Why Sail Greece

Two distinct sailing areas — gentle Ionian for beginners, Aegean for experienced sailors
Over 6,000 islands and islets — a lifetime of exploration
Incredible food culture — tavernas on the waterfront everywhere
Rich ancient history visible from the water — temples, amphitheatres, fortresses
Affordable compared to France or Italy, with equally stunning scenery

Popular Routes

Ionian: Lefkas → Ithaca → Kefalonia → Zakynthos

7–10 days

The Ionian is Greece's most forgiving cruising ground. Light, predictable winds, sheltered anchorages, and lush green islands. Perfect for a first Mediterranean charter. Ithaca's harbour towns and Kefalonia's dramatic coastline are highlights.

Nidri waterfalls (Lefkas)Ithaca — Odysseus' homelandFiskardo village (Kefalonia)Shipwreck Beach, Zakynthos

Cyclades: Athens → Kea → Syros → Mykonos → Paros → Naxos

10–14 days

The Cyclades are the iconic Greek islands — whitewashed villages on wind-swept hilltops. The Meltemi (northerly) blows 15–30 knots June through September, making this a genuine sailing challenge. Beam reaches between islands, with some demanding upwind legs.

Syros — the 'lady of the Cyclades'Mykonos town and beachesParos and AntiparosNaxos — largest Cycladic island

Dodecanese: Kos → Kalymnos → Leros → Patmos → Lipsi

7 days

Less crowded than the Cyclades, with a fascinating mix of Greek and Ottoman-Italian heritage. The Meltemi is present but less aggressive than further west. Short hops between islands and plenty of deserted anchorages.

Kalymnos — the sponge divers' islandLeros — art deco Italian architecturePatmos — Monastery of St JohnLipsi — tiny and tranquil

Sailing Conditions

Wind

Ionian: thermal sea breezes 8–15 kn, typically NW in afternoon. Aegean: the Meltemi blows from N/NE June–September, 15–30 kn, sometimes more. It funnels between islands and can build rapidly. The Meltemi is the defining feature of Aegean sailing — respect it.

Sea State

Ionian: calm to moderate. Aegean: can build to 2–3m in the Meltemi, especially in open passages between Cycladic islands. Short, steep seas are common.

Tides

Minimal — Mediterranean tides are negligible. Some current in narrow straits.

Navigation

Generally well-charted. Watch for ferry traffic (high-speed ferries in the Cyclades). Some anchorages have poor holding on weed. Greek buoyage follows IALA A.

Practical Info

DocumentsICC required for bareboat. Greek authorities are stricter than average — carry all crew passports, boat papers, and VHF license.

CurrencyEuro (€).

LanguageGreek, but English is spoken widely in tourist areas and marinas.

ProvisioningMajor islands (Corfu, Rhodes, Mykonos, Naxos) have supermarkets. Remote islands — bring supplies. Fresh fish and local produce available everywhere.

MarinasMix of modern marinas (Lefkas, Gouvia/Corfu, Lavrion) and traditional town quays. Med-mooring (stern-to) is the norm. Many quays are free but basic.

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Charter in Greece

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