Wondering which Saronic islands to visit around Athens in your next sailing holidays in Greece? We have the answer! This is a Saronic sailing guide that has everything you need to know for 7-day or 14-day itineraries from Athens. Set sail from Alimos ( Kalamaki ) marina and enjoy the beauties of the Saronic & Argolic Gulf.
Let's dive right in!
Athens, being the gateway to both the Saronic Gulf and the Cyclades, has a long sailing season, but timing is key depending on whether you aim to explore the relatively sheltered Saronic Islands or venture into the windier Aegean. Generally, the best time to sail from Athens is between April and October, with a prime period in late spring (May-June) and early autumn (September) for milder conditions. During July and August, Athens basks in very hot weather (often 33-38°C) and the Meltemi winds in the nearby Cyclades are at their strongest (Force 5-7 regularly).
However, if you stick to the Saronic Gulf (Aegina, Poros, Hydra, etc.), you’re somewhat shielded from the Meltemi and sailing is quite manageable even in mid-summer plus you get the lively summer ambience at islands like Hydra and Spetses.
In May and June, the weather is warm (mid-20s to low-30s°C as June progresses), the sea is warming up, and winds are moderate. The Meltemi usually starts in late June or early July, so June is often a sweet spot with steady but not overpowering breezes. It’s also before the big tourist rush, so ancient sites (if you plan a cultural detour to, say, Cape Sounion’s Temple of Poseidon or the theater at Epidaurus) are slightly less crowded and marinas have more availability.
September is another excellent choice: after late August, the Meltemi typically weakens significantly or becomes less frequent, so Cyclades trips (to Mykonos, Santorini etc., from Athens) become more feasible for a broader range of sailors, and the air/sea remain warm (sea temps in September are ~24-26°C). Also, Athens and its surrounding islands see fewer crowds after the Greek summer holiday peak, making for a more relaxed voyage.
April and October are shoulder months. April can be gorgeous with spring blossoms on the islands and cooler temperatures (18-22°C), but the sea is still chilly for swimming and you might get some spring showers. October often starts warm (low to mid-20s°C) but as the month goes on, the chance of rain increases. Many charter companies operate until mid or late October because conditions can remain good. Therefore, May, June, September stand out for great balance; July-August is best if you crave hot sun and don’t mind stronger winds (and you plan accordingly).
You can truly sail from Athens almost all year, but for holiday-making, April to October is the window, with June and September often offering the most reliably pleasant sailing conditions in the Athenian seas.
Absolutely, to charter a bareboat out of Athens, you will need to provide evidence of your sailing qualifications. The requirement is the same across Greece: one licensed skipper and one competent co-skipper. The skipper should have an ICC or a national equivalent (RYA Day Skipper, ASA 104, etc.).
The Athenian charter companies won’t release a boat to you until they see those credentials. Additionally, they will want a second person on board to sign the declaration of sailing competence or ideally show a lesser qualification. This is because Greek port police require a statement that at least two people on a bareboat can sail the boat in case one is incapacitated.
The Athens area marinas (like Alimos/Kalamaki Marina or Lavrion port) are very busy charter hubs. They have a standardized process: you’ll do a short briefing and check of papers usually right at the dock office. If you don’t have a license, you have the option of a skippered charter, extremely common.
Many holiday-makers charter with a professional captain from Athens so they can just enjoy the ride. Athens has a large pool of professional skippers who are well-versed in multi-lingual hospitality. One more scenario: some experienced sailors might have miles but no formal certificate. Greek authorities are stricter nowadays and usually demand the official paper, so it’s best to get an ICC or recognized license. Also, it’s recommended that at least one crew hold a VHF radio license or certification, since local marinas and port authorities may communicate via VHF.
In short, no official sailing license = no bareboat charter from Athens. So come prepared with your ICC or equivalent, plus your passport and charter contract, and you’ll be off to the Saronic or Cycladic isles in no time.
An Athens yacht charter uniquely combines the thrill of sailing with the opportunity to soak in one of the world’s richest cultural tapestries and enjoy Greek cuisine at its finest. While the voyage often quickly takes you to the nearby islands, starting in Athens allows you to witness the cradle of Western civilization before or after you set sail.
Culturally, Athens itself is unmatched: the iconic Acropolis with the Parthenon perched atop is visible even from some Athens marinas on a clear day. Many sailors plan a day or two before sailing to explore Athens’ ancient sites – walking among the ruins of the Agora, climbing Philopappou Hill for that perfect Acropolis view, or visiting the stunning Acropolis Museum.
If time permits, seeing the sunset from Cape Sounion where the Temple of Poseidon stands is a moving experience for any sailor; many charters from Athens actually sail to Sounion as a first or last night (anchoring in the bay below the temple). There’s nothing quite like toasting Apollo as the sun sinks beside Poseidon’s columns.
As you sail, each island offers its own cultural highlights. The Saronic Islands (Aegina, Poros, Hydra, Spetses) are steeped in modern Greek history: Hydra and Spetses were key players in the 1821 War of Independence, while Aegina was briefly the first capital of modern Greece. Hydra has no cars – donkeys and water taxis are the transport. If heading into the Cyclades from Athens, cultural stops might include Delos (near Mykonos), the entire island a vast archaeological site.
Now, the culinary delights: Athens and the islands offer a cornucopia of Greek gastronomy. In Athens, one can dine in fine restaurants with Acropolis views or hit up a humble taverna in Piraeus for the freshest grilled fish. Greek cuisine is regional, so as you sail, taste the specialties of each place.
Around Athens,
Athens itself is a food lover’s heaven. You can explore modern Greek cuisine in Psirri or Plaka, or enjoy traditional tavernas in Monastiraki. If your yacht provisioning includes Greek staples like feta, olives, fresh bread, and local fish, you can dine al fresco on deck as you glide between islands.
The blend of ancient ruins and modern Greek life in Athens, combined with the Saronic or Cycladic idyll just offshore, makes for an unforgettable cultural and culinary journey.
Sailing out of Athens means dealing with some of the busiest waters in Greece, but as long as you follow established regulations and navigate considerately, it’s straightforward. Key points include:
In essence, Athens is a busy maritime hub; plan carefully around ferry routes, keep your paperwork updated, and follow normal Greek maritime laws. By doing so, you’ll enjoy safe and culturally rich sailing from the historic capital to whichever Aegean or Saronic destination you choose.
7-day Saronic Gulf Sailing Itinerary
Day 1. Athens (Kalamaki Marina) (check-in)
Once you arrive at Kalamaki Marina and check-in for your charter, you’ll want to ensure your yacht is well stocked for your trip. Luckily, Kalamaki Marina is well situated and is close to many stores where you can find all your provisioning needs. There is a large supermarket nearby, less than a 5 min walk from the marina, which does door-to-door deliveries for yachts.
You can order at the market, then head back to the boat and wait for your items to arrive. Additionally, there is a smaller supermarket within the marina, as well as some small kiosks for snacks and drinks when you arrive. If you’d like to spend some time in Alimos, you can shop around, sampling the rich fruits and vegetables at local markets. Greece is well known for its delicious tomatoes and melons. Yacht4Less recommends stocking up on produce so you can cook delicious meals right onboard. If desired, Yacht4Less can also arrange for provisions to be delivered to the boat to save you some time and allow for a more leisurely first day.
Day 2. Athens - Aegina (Agia Marina) 14NM - Poros 16 NM
Now, you’re off! Sailing from Athens to Aegina should take around two hours. Yacht4Less recommends the Aegina Marina, where you will find one of the longest stretches of sandy beach on Aegina island. With beautiful, crystal-clear, shallow waters, you can spend the day wading around in the water or strolling along the shore. All over the island you will find beaches for swimming and sunbathing.
If you’re ready to come ashore, you can explore Aegina town, the biggest community on the island. While there are many charming villages, each with their own unique vibe, Aegina town has the most activities year-round. Tour the Agios Nektarios, a church, and monastery, built for a Greek saint who performed miracles. For food - try Avli in the Aegina town.
With breakfast, lunch, and dinner options, you can enjoy deliciously fresh food, after all - “Avli” does mean garden! On to Poros, where you can take advantage of some great water sports! Many enjoy wakeboarding, waterskiing, or even parasailing - flying high above the boats for the best view of the Saronic Gulf. You could also take a scooter around the islands, cruising over the hilly landscape.
Day 3. Poros - Tselevinia 7 NM - Dokos 11 NM
On Day Three, head to Dokos for some tranquility amidst untamed nature. With about 50 inhabitants, you can surely find peace on this hidden gem. Small and mountainous, this is the perfect spot for those who like to hike and explore. Yacht4Less recommends climbing the castle ruins on the hill of Kastro.
For a more aquatic adventure, swim in the waters surrounding the island where, at a depth of about 98 ft, the oldest cargo shipwreck ever discovered was found. Supposedly all the treasures were sent to the Spetses Museum, but you might get lucky!
Day 4. Dokos - Porto Cheli 12 NM - Spetses (Zogeria) 3NM
Often considered, “the best-kept secret” of Greece, Yacht4Less loves Porto Heli. With a protected harbor for easy mooring, it’s well set-up for yachts. This stop is a great time to enjoy the beautiful beaches, as you’ll find both small intimate coves and stretches of sandy beaches, where you can lay out and enjoy some privacy, or you can wander to search for shells.
At Porto Heli, you can also immerse yourself in Greek culture and visit Halieis, a major archeological site. Investigate what was once a deeply important city center during the 6-4th centuries B.C. Also, situated in Argolida, Porto Heli is a prime spot to try the bountiful fruits of the land. Renown for its rich agriculture, try the wine, cheese, fish, olives, honey - you won’t regret it. Across the straits, you’ll find the island of Spetses, which is steeped in tradition, and will be your next stop!
Day 5. Spetses (Zogeria) - Spetses (Old Port) 4 NM - Hydra 15 NM
Once called “Piteoussa” (covered with pines), on the island of Spetses, you can revel in more sunny beaches, but this time with deep green foliage as your backdrop. Waking up to a different island, enjoying new scenery every day, you might not want to leave! If you’re interested in snorkeling, you will enjoy a kaleidoscope of colors underwater with gorgeous pink and mauve patterns on cave walls.
Sailors, visiting Spetses in September, might get to catch the annual Armata event right from your yacht. In honor of the Spetses Naval history, they reenact their victory during the Greek revolution. Sailing on to Hydra, you venture into one of the Saronic’s more jet-set locales, which means you’ll have to head ashore to admire the town’s architecture, featuring magnificent stone structures, and winding cobbled streets, laces with brightly colored bougainvilleas.
Interestingly, cars are not allowed on Hydra. To get around this fantastic island, you’ll need to rent a donkey! Yacht4Less recommends To Piato, a traditional Greek restaurant, situated on the port. Enjoy the freshest selection of seafood, meats, and salads, for a very reasonable price.
Day 6. Hydra - Aegina (Moni) 21 NM - Aegina Town 7 NM
You’ll spend Day 6 on Moni, an uninhabited island, which is just a short sail to Aegina. For nature-lovers, this is a can’t-miss stop. With gorgeous crystal waters, you can enjoy a secluded cove beach on the island. The ocean floor is quite rocky, so for those with sensitive feet, Yacht4Less recommends water shoes.
On land, you’ll find a number of different species such as the Chamois Cretan goat-antelope, deer and peacocks. They roam free on the island and are very friendly. Back in the water, on the Perdika side of the island, you can do some seal watching, as well.
Day 7. Aegina Town - Salamina 7 NM - Athens (Kalamaki Marina) 14 NM
On your last day, you should stop at Salamina on your way back to Kalamaki. Considered a “gateway” to Athens, Salamina is just a hop, skip, and a jump back to base. Not much of a tourist destination, your last stop will be relaxed and casual.
Enjoy southern beaches, best with a limited time-frame, like Selenia, Saterli and Kaki Vigla. You could also explore the Cave of Euripides, where the famous Greek playwright wrote his tragedies. You can also stop for one last authentic Greek meal at an iconic tavern, Bakothanassis!
2-week Saronic sailing route from Athens
Day 1: Athens (Kalamaki Marina) - Check-in
Arrive at Kalamaki Marina in Athens and step aboard your yacht for the start of your Aegean adventure. Stock up on provisions, explore the Alimos area, and enjoy a relaxed dinner on deck as you prepare for departure.
Day 2: Athens - Aegina (Agia Marina, 14 NM) - Poros (16 NM)
Your first sail brings you to Aegina’s eastern coast, with its sandy beaches and charming coastal village. Continue on to Poros, where pine-covered hills meet neoclassical architecture and inviting anchorages.
Day 3: Poros - Tselevinia (7 NM) - Dokos (11 NM)
Enjoy a swim stop at the small islet of Tselevinia before sailing to the unspoilt island of Dokos. Anchor near the historic hilltop ruins and bask in the peaceful seclusion of this hidden gem.
Day 4: Dokos - Porto Cheli (12 NM) - Spetses (Zogeria, 3 NM)
Sail into the natural harbour of Porto Cheli, ideal for provisioning and exploring the nearby ruins of ancient Halieis. Then hop across to Zogeria Bay on Spetses, known for its pine-shaded coves and crystal-clear waters.
Day 5: Spetses - Tolo (20 NM) - Nafplio (5 NM)
Cruise north to Tolo for a swim or lunch stop, then continue to Nafplio, one of Greece’s most romantic coastal towns. Wander its Venetian alleys, climb the Palamidi Fortress, and dine in the historic Old Town.
Day 6: Nafplio - Astros (10 NM) - Leonidion (16 NM)
Sail along the eastern Peloponnesian coastline to Astros, a traditional town backed by olive groves and gentle hills. Continue to Leonidion, a quiet port framed by dramatic cliffs and known for its authentic charm.
Day 7: Leonidion - Fokianos (9 NM) - Kyparissi (7 NM)
Discover the hidden coves of Fokianos with its white pebbled beach and turquoise waters. Then sail to Kyparissi, a breathtaking bay with a village untouched by mass tourism - ideal for a tranquil overnight anchorage.
Day 8: Kyparissi - Monemvasia (20 NM)
Make your way south to Monemvasia, a dramatic medieval fortress town carved into a towering rock. Moor beneath the ancient walls and explore stone mansions, cobbled alleys, and Byzantine churches.
Day 9: Monemvasia - Gerakas (10 NM)
Sail to Gerakas, Greece’s only fjord-like inlet, where a narrow entrance leads to a lagoon-like harbour. This is a hidden gem, perfect for a peaceful anchorage and a traditional meal by the waterfront.
Day 10: Gerakas - Dokos (35 NM) - Ermioni (4 NM)
Enjoy a longer sail north to revisit Dokos for a midday swim, before continuing to the elegant harbour town of Ermioni. Walk its pine-covered peninsula or dine at a waterfront taverna with views across the bay.
Day 11: Ermioni - Soupia (9 NM) - Hydra (4 NM)
Sail past unspoilt anchorages and stop at Soupia for a final secluded swim before reaching the car-free island of Hydra. Moor in its historic port and explore its stone mansions, art galleries, and bougainvillea-lined streets.
Day 12: Hydra - Russian Bay (14 NM) - Methana (6 NM)
Drop anchor in Russian Bay near Poros for a swim in sapphire waters backed by pine forests. Continue to Methana, a volcanic peninsula with sulphur springs and quiet village life - perfect for your penultimate evening.
Day 13: Methana - Agistri (7 NM) - Athens (Kalamaki Marina, 22 NM)
Enjoy one last island stop at Agistri for a final dip or coffee ashore before your return sail to Athens. Arrive back at Kalamaki Marina and spend your final night aboard reminiscing on two unforgettable weeks.
Keep on reading: The Ultimate First-Time Sailing Guide: Tips for New Sailors
Athens is the gateway to some of Greece’s best sailing routes, and from here you can embark on a bareboat, skippered, or crewed yacht charter tailored to your desires. Many confident sailors choose a bareboat charter from Athens to explore the nearby Saronic Islands on their own - these waters are relatively gentle, making it fun to hop between Aegina, Poros, and Hydra under your own command (and maybe even venture to the Cyclades if you’re experienced with the Aegean winds).
If you’re new to sailing in Greece or simply want to relax, hiring a skipper for your Athens yacht charter is a popular option; your skipper will manage the yacht through the Athens marina bustle and onto idyllic routes, whether that’s a leisurely circuit of the Saronic Gulf or an adventurous sail toward Mykonos, all while you enjoy the ride.
Athens also hosts a fleet of luxury crewed yachts ready to whisk you away - step aboard a fully crewed yacht charter for a private yacht cruise that begins in the shadow of the Acropolis and soon has you dining on deck under the stars in a secluded bay, completely taken care of by your professional crew.
Similar Greek Islands to discover
Sailing holidays in Corfu
Sailing holidays in Lefkas
Sailing holidays in Kos
Sailing holidays in Rhodes
Sailing holidays in Sporades
The yachting community's most-asked questions, answered by our experts.
The Saronic Islands offer short passages, sheltered waters, and easy access from Athens, making them ideal for beginners, families, and cultural explorers.
April-October is best, with May-June and September offering warm weather, moderate winds, and fewer crowds. July-August brings hotter weather and stronger Meltemi winds nearby, but the Saronic remains relatively sheltered.
Yes. Bareboat charters require an ICC or equivalent (RYA Day Skipper, ASA 104). Greek law also requires a co-skipper with sailing competence. If you lack qualifications, book a skippered charter.
Most charters start from Alimos (Kalamaki) Marina near Athens. Lavrion port is another option, offering quick access to both Saronic and Cyclades islands.
Explore the Acropolis, Cape Sounion’s Temple of Poseidon, and the car-free island of Hydra. Culinary highlights include grilled fish, meze, pistachios from Aegina, and almond cookies from Spetses.
Yes. Greek port authorities require valid licenses and crew lists. Anchoring restrictions apply in some protected bays, and mooring fees may apply in popular harbors.
Calm mornings with 10-15 knot afternoon breezes are typical. The Saronic is shielded from the strong Meltemi winds, making it suitable for relaxed island-hopping.
Typical stops include Aegina, Poros, Hydra, Spetses, and Epidaurus. These combine ancient history, scenic anchorages, and lively waterfronts.
Bareboat charters start around €2,800/week, while luxury catamarans or fully crewed yachts can exceed €12,000/week depending on season and yacht type.
Yes, you should dock at Palaia Epidavros on the Peloponnese coast. From the harbour, it is a twenty-minute taxi ride to the world-renowned sanctuary. This is a perfect cultural detour to witness the incredible acoustics of the 4th-century BC theatre, especially if your itinerary allows for a half-day break from the open sea.
