Sailing in Greece provides a perfect blend of adventure, relaxation, and cultural exploration. Whether you're navigating the vibrant Cyclades, the lush Ionian islands, or the historical Dodecanese, there’s something for everyone.
Greece
Explore Greece's Timeless Beauty
Greece’s timeless beauty lies in its blend of stunning landscapes, rich history, and vibrant culture. Whether you’re wandering through ancient ruins, relaxing on a sun-drenched beach, or enjoying a meal at a local taverna, every experience in Greece offers a glimpse into the country’s enchanting past and present.
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A Sailor's Paradise
Greece is a sailor's paradise due to its stunning archipelago of over 6,000 islands, offering crystal-clear waters, picturesque harbors, and diverse sailing routes that cater to all levels of experience. The combination of favorable weather conditions, vibrant coastal towns, and rich cultural heritage creates an unforgettable experience for sailors exploring the breathtaking beauty of the Greek coastline.
A Journey Through History
Greece's history is marked by its role as the cradle of Western civilization, with ancient city-states like Athens and Sparta pioneering concepts of democracy, philosophy, and the arts during the Classical era. Following centuries of conquest and foreign rule, Greece gained independence in the 19th century, leading to the establishment of the modern Greek state while retaining a rich cultural legacy that continues to influence the world today.
Island-Hopping Adventures
Island hopping in Greece offers a thrilling adventure through its diverse archipelago, allowing travelers to explore stunning islands like Mykonos, Santorini, and Naxos, each with its unique charm and breathtaking scenery. From pristine beaches and vibrant nightlife to ancient ruins and traditional villages, each stop presents new opportunities for cultural immersion and unforgettable experiences.
Set Sail Along Greece’ Stunning Coastline and Islands
When is the Best Time to Visit Greece?
The best time to sail the Greece is typically from late spring to early autumn, specifically from May to October.
Late Spring (May to June) offers mild temperatures and fewer tourists that makes this a pleasant time to sail. Average temperatures range from 20°C to 28°C (68°F to 82°F). This period sees fewer crowds compared to the peak summer months, allowing for a more tranquil sailing experience.
What are the Mooring Fees in Greece?
Greece has a mix of modern marinas and traditional anchorages. While larger towns offer well-equipped marinas, many smaller islands have quaint harbors where you can moor.
Anchorages: Many beautiful coves and bays allow for free anchoring, but it's essential to check local regulations and ensure you're not anchoring in protected areas.
Mooring fees in Greece are generally low in the public ports on the islands. These cannot be pre booked, so arrive before 3pm as berths are limited. The port officers will come to your boat and ask you to pay at the port office. Mooring fees in Greece range from €5 to €15, depending on the island and boat size.
Things to do in Greece
A yachting holiday in Greece offers an enchanting experience, sailing through the crystal-clear Aegean Sea and exploring secluded coves, historic towns, and lush islands scattered along its stunning coastline.
Visit historic sites
Step into a time machine. Greece is famous for its rich history and countless historic sites. Explore Delos, a UNESCO World Heritage site and the mythical birthplace of Apollo and Artemis, filled with ancient ruins or visit Knossos on Crete, this Minoan palace is steeped in mythology and history.
Explore unique beaches
Greece boasts an array of unique beaches, each with its own distinct charm, from the stunning turquoise waters of Navagio Beach in Zakynthos to the pink sands of Elafonissi in Crete. With it's hidden coves, dramatic cliffs, and vibrant marine life, Greece creates a paradise for beach lovers and adventurers alike.
Try local cuisine
Greece offers a vibrant culinary scene, with dishes that celebrate fresh ingredients, traditional recipes, and regional specialties like moussaka, souvlaki, and fresh seafood. Dining at a local taverna often includes regional wines and olive oil, turning each meal into a true celebration of Greek culture.
What are the Sailing Conditions in Greece?
Greece offers excellent sailing conditions for most of the year, making it a popular destination for sailors of all levels. However, the best time to sail in Greece is during the shoulder seasons of April-May and September-October. The temperatures are mild, and the winds are less intense, making it ideal for sailing. You can enjoy the islands without the crowds of the peak season.
In summer, the Meltemi winds, can create challenging conditions, especially in the Cyclades and Dodecanese islands.
Sailing conditions in Greece include the westerly mistral, a pleasant summer wind that blows in from the sea, reaching its peak force in early afternoon. It refreshes the air and chases away any mugginess.
The wind systems in Greece have different characteristics between the distinct island groups.
Ionian Islands: The wind and sailing conditions in the Ionian Sea are ideal and predictable, blowing NW at Force 3 to 5 between May and September. In spring and autumn, the wind is less strong and blows usually SW.
Saronic and Argolic Gulfs: The Saronic and Argolic Gulfs are generally a protected cruising area, with north to NNE winds averaging Force 3 to 4. In the Argolic Gulf during summer, the wind is mostly from the SE and averages Force 3 to 5. During spring and autumn, the winds are normally weaker and blow from the south.
Cyclades: The prevailing wind meltemi blows from the north during summer, peaking in July and August at 10-45 knots, occasionally reaching Force 9. During spring and autumn, winds can also blow from the south. Experience is needed to sail the Cyclades.
Dodecanese: The prevailing wind meltemi blows from the north-east during summer, peaking in July and August at Force 4 to 6. During spring and autumn, winds are calmer and blow SE.
Useful Information for Yacht Charter in Greece
Immerse yourself in the crystal-clear waters, and vibrant islands. Stunning natural beauty, rich cultural heritage, variety of sailing options all together with welcoming atmosphere and culinary delights make this region a top sailing destination.
What language is spoken in Greece?
The official language is Greek, but many people in the main cities and islands speak good English.
How do I get there?
Greece has several key airports that provide convenient access to its major marinas and ports, making it easier for sailors and travelers to reach their sailing destinations. Athens International Airport (ATH) is gate to Saronic Gulf, Cyclades can be reached via Mykonos Airport (JMK) or Santorini Airport (Thira Airport) (JTR), Ionian islands can be reached via Corfu International Airport (CFU) or Kefalonia Airport (EFL). For more connections check the specific regions.
Don't be afraid to get to Greece by car. Greece is well-connected by road to neighboring countries and has a network of highways and scenic routes that make it accessible for travelers coming by car.
What is the Wi-Fi like?
Wi-Fi access in Greece is generally good, especially in urban areas and popular tourist destinations. Almost all charter operators offer Wi-Fi on board.
Local Sim Cards: If you need reliable internet access while on the go, consider getting a local SIM card. Major providers include Cosmote, Vodafone, and Wind. Many shops in cities and airports sell prepaid SIM cards with data plans.
What is the currency in Greece?
The currency in Greece is the Euro.
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FAQ
Find answers to common questions about sailing in Greece
Set sail along Mykonos stunning coastline and immerse yourself in the crystal-clear waters, vibrant islands, and historic coastal towns that make this region a top sailing destination.