Greece

SAILING IN GREECE

Greece, the land of myths and legends, has long been a favored destination for sailing enthusiasts worldwide. With its exceptional geographical location, captivating seascapes, favorable climate, and rich maritime history, Greece offers an unmatched sailing experience. This article explores sailing in Greece, discussing its popularity, geography, water bodies, climate, navigation complexity, yacht charter options, marina facilities, and top sailing spots.

Greece: A Premier Sailing Destination

The allure of Greece as a prime sailing destination is undeniable. Its strategic location in Southern Europe, along with more than 2,000 islands scattered in the Aegean and Ionian Seas, offers a diverse and extensive sailing playground. Coupled with a unique blend of ancient history, cultural richness, and scenic beauty, Greece's popularity among sailors is unsurprising.

Greece's Maritime Landscape

Greece’s geographical diversity provides a plethora of sailing routes, each with its unique characteristics and charms. From the tranquil waters of the Saronic Gulf to the challenging open seas of the Aegean, Greece caters to sailors of all skill levels.

Greece's Favorable Sailing Climate

The sailing climate in Greece is primarily Mediterranean, characterized by hot, dry summers and mild winters. The prevailing summer wind, known as the Meltemi, blows from the north-east and can reach force 7-8 on the Beaufort scale in July and August. However, this wind is less strong in the Ionian Sea. Knowledge of the winds and careful planning are crucial for a safe and enjoyable sailing trip. The tidal range in Greece is minimal, typically less than a meter, posing little challenge to sailors.

Navigating the Greek Waters

Navigating Greek waters can range from moderately easy in regions like the Ionian Sea, to more challenging in the Cyclades due to the stronger Meltemi winds. Well-marked routes, numerous harbors, and modern marinas facilitate navigation and docking.

Yacht Charter Options in Greece

Yacht charter options in Greece are abundant, catering to a range of preferences and budgets. Charter companies typically require an internationally recognized sailing license and a VHF certificate. Depending on the boat's size and type, additional sailing experience might be required.

Development of Marinas and Yachting Infrastructure

The development of marinas and yachting infrastructure in Greece has played a crucial role in making the country a top-notch sailing destination. Despite the economic challenges faced by the country in recent years, the Greek yachting industry has shown remarkable resilience and growth.

 

Marinas in Greece

Greece boasts more than 450 mooring places, which range from well-equipped marinas to simpler docking facilities. Over 50 marinas are scattered across the country, offering more than 21,000 berths. The marinas are strategically located near popular sailing routes and provide essential services to accommodate the needs of sailors.

These facilities offer berths for all sizes of yachts, with many providing electricity, water, fuel, and sewage disposal services right at the dock. Several marinas offer boat maintenance and repair services, ensuring that sailors can address any technical issues that may arise during their journey.

Yachting Infrastructure

The Greek government, recognizing the importance of the yachting sector to the national economy, has undertaken initiatives to improve the existing yachting infrastructure. Investments have been made to expand and upgrade marinas, improve safety measures, and promote environmentally friendly practices.

Apart from physical infrastructure, the Greek yachting industry has also embraced technology. Many marinas now offer online booking systems, allowing sailors to reserve a berth ahead of their arrival. In addition, free Wi-Fi services are often available.

Notable Marinas

Some of the most popular marinas in Greece include Flisvos Marina and Alimos Marina in Athens, Gouvia Marina in Corfu, and Zea Marina in Piraeus. These marinas stand out due to their excellent facilities, strategic location, and high-quality customer service.

In conclusion, the development of marinas and yachting infrastructure in Greece has been key to supporting the country's thriving yachting industry. The combination of well-equipped marinas, strong government support, and a commitment to quality and sustainability make Greece an attractive destination for sailors worldwide.

Top Sailing Destinations in Greece

Notable sailing destinations in Greece include the Ionian Islands, the Cyclades, and the Dodecanese. The Ionian Islands offer a more relaxed sailing experience with moderate winds, while the Cyclades are known for their stronger winds and vibrant nightlife. The Dodecanese islands, on the southeastern edge of the Aegean Sea, offer a blend of cultural experiences and natural beauty.

How to Rent Yacht in Greece

1. Decide on the Type of Yacht: Depending on the number of people, your budget, and sailing skills, you can choose from various types of yachts, such as sailing yachts, motor yachts, catamarans, or luxury yachts.
2. Check the Required Documents: To charter a yacht in Greece, you generally need an internationally recognized skipper license and a VHF radio operator's certificate. Depending on the size and type of the yacht, charter companies may also require evidence of previous sailing experience.
3. Choose a Reputable Charter Company: Research to find a reputable yacht charter company. Check online reviews, compare prices and services, and ensure the company has proper accreditation. Some well-known charter companies operate in Greece, including Istion Yachting, Sunsail, and The Moorings.
4. Plan Your Itinerary: Determine how long you want to charter the yacht and plan your sailing route. Greece offers a plethora of options, from the Ionian Islands to the Cyclades and the Dodecanese.
5. Make a Reservation: Once you've chosen your yacht and the charter company, you can proceed to book your yacht. Most companies require a deposit at the time of booking, with the balance due closer to the charter date.
6. Prepare for the Trip: Make sure to pack necessary items, including sun protection, appropriate clothing, and any preferred food or drink items not included in the charter.