Sailing in Mediterranean (Greece)
Complete Guide 2026
overview
3 expert articles about sailing in Mediterranean (Greece). Explore guides, routes, and tips from verified yachting industry suppliers.
best routes
The Saronic Gulf Circle: Athens and Back in 7 Days
A 100 NM loop from Athens through Aegina, Poros, Hydra, and Spetses. Greece's most sheltered sailing, perfect for first charters.
Athens to Mykonos in 7 Days: The Sailing Route
Cover 130 NM from Lavrion to Mykonos in a week, stopping at Kea, Kythnos, Syros, and Delos. Here's the day-by-day plan.
when to go
The Mediterranean sailing season typically runs from May to October, with peak season in July and August.
costs
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frequently asked questions
Is the Saronic Gulf good for beginner sailors?
Yes, it is widely considered the best beginner sailing area in Greece. The gulf is sheltered from the Meltemi, daily passages are 10-18 NM, land is always visible, and well-equipped harbours are spaced closely together. Wind conditions are typically Force 3-4 (7-16 knots), manageable for novice crews. Holders of an RYA Day Skipper or equivalent can bareboat here; those without a licence should book a skippered charter at EUR 150-200 per day.
How far is Hydra from Athens by yacht?
Hydra is approximately 45 NM from Alimos Marina in Athens by the most direct sea route. Sailing directly in Force 3-4 conditions, this takes 9-11 hours. Most itineraries break this into two legs, stopping at Aegina or Poros overnight, reaching Hydra on Day 3 of a week-long route.
What is the best time to sail the Saronic Gulf?
May to October offers reliable sailing conditions. June and September provide the best balance: warm weather (25-30°C), steady Force 3-4 breezes, fewer crowds, and lower charter prices (EUR 1,800-2,500 for a 38-40 foot monohull). July and August are hotter and busier, with harbours like Hydra and Poros filling by early afternoon. April and late October are possible but bring cooler evenings and occasional rain.
Do you need a licence to sail in Greece?
For bareboat charter, yes. Greek authorities require at least one person aboard to hold a recognized sailing certificate such as the RYA Day Skipper, IYT Bareboat Skipper, or an equivalent national licence, plus a VHF radio operator certificate (Short Range Certificate). If nobody in your group holds these qualifications, you must hire a professional skipper.
Is the Saronic Gulf affected by the Meltemi?
No. The Meltemi, which blows Force 6-7 through the Cyclades from June to September, does not significantly penetrate the Saronic Gulf. Cape Sounion at the southeastern tip of Attica acts as a natural windbreak. Inside the gulf, summer winds are typically a manageable Force 3-4, occasionally reaching Force 5 on the more exposed stretch between Spetses and Epidaurus.
How far is it from Athens to Mykonos by sailboat?
The sailing route from Lavrion (Athens) to Mykonos covers approximately 130 NM via Kea, Kythnos, and Syros. With 4–5 sailing days and 2 rest days, the trip fits comfortably into a 7-day charter. The longest single passage is 25 NM from Syros to Mykonos.
What is the Meltemi and how does it affect this route?
The Meltemi is a strong northerly wind blowing across the Aegean from late June through mid-September, typically F4–F7 (11–33 knots) in the Cyclades. It builds from mid-morning and peaks in the afternoon. Early departures (by 06:00) and south-coast anchorages are key tactics. Outside peak Meltemi season — May, early June, and September — conditions are significantly calmer.
How much does it cost to sail from Athens to Mykonos?
Budget approximately €115–€185 per person per day for a crew of four on a bareboat catamaran, covering charter share, food, fuel, mooring, and extras. A one-way drop-off fee of €300–€600 applies. The total for one person over 7 days ranges from roughly €800 to €1,300.