Sailing Greece

Greece is the classic Mediterranean sailing ground, and most charters begin at one of a few large hubs. Around Athens, Alimos Marina is the biggest charter base in the country, with direct access to the Saronic Gulf and the Cyclades. On the Ionian side, Gouvia Marina on Corfu is the main starting point for the sheltered island chain that runs south to Lefkada and Kefalonia. If you want the Dodecanese, Rhodes Marina puts you close to Symi, Kos, and the Turkish coast.

The Aegean offers longer passages, meltemi winds in summer, and the famous white-washed islands of the Cyclades. From Athens you can head to Mikonos Marina or Tinos Marina in a day or two, then work your way through Paros, Naxos, and Ios. The Ionian is more forgiving: lighter winds, green hills, and short hops between Palaiokastritsa Marina, Argostoli Marina, and the small harbours of Ithaca and Meganisi.

Crete is a different kind of sailing. The south coast has fewer marinas but wild scenery and quieter anchorages, with Marina of Chania on the north-west and Marina of Agios Nikolaos on the east. The north coast is more exposed to the meltemi, so most cruisers pick a side based on season and route. The island is large, so plan a one-way charter if you want to cover both ends.

Charter companies are spread across all these regions, so your choice of base really sets the tone of the trip. If you want nightlife and easy provisioning, Athens or Corfu are the practical picks. If you prefer smaller ports and local character, bases like Naoussa Marina on Paros or Kos Marina give you a different pace. The Greek sailing season runs from April to October, with July and August the busiest and windiest months.