Greek Island Hopping by Sailboat

The Greek Islands Await

Greece offers over 6,000 islands and islets, making it a paradise for sailors seeking variety, beauty, and adventure. If you're new to sailing in Greek waters, our complete guide to sailing Greece as a first-timer is a great place to start planning your trip.

Cyclades vs Ionian: Which to Choose?

Cyclades

Stronger winds (Meltemi), dramatic landscapes, iconic whitewashed villages. Best for experienced sailors. A classic Cyclades adventure is the Athens to Mykonos 7-day sailing route, which takes you through some of the archipelago's most stunning scenery.

Ionian Islands

Calmer waters, lush green landscapes, gentle breezes. Perfect for families and beginners.

Essential Tips

1. Wind awareness: The Meltemi can blow strongly in July-August
2. Mooring fees: Budget for marina costs, especially in popular ports
3. Provisioning: Stock up at larger islands
4. Documentation: Have your sailing license ready

Timing your trip is just as important as planning your route — check out this month-by-month breakdown of the best times to sail the Mediterranean to find your ideal window.

Our Recommendation

For first-time Greece sailors, we recommend the Ionian Islands. Start from Lefkada and explore Ithaca, Kefalonia, and Zakynthos for a perfect week of sailing. Alternatively, if you're based in Athens, the Saronic Gulf circle route back to Athens offers a fantastic week-long itinerary without straying too far from the capital.