SAILING IN ARGO-SARONIC GULF
The islands of the Argo-Saronic Gulf (Aegina, Agistri, Poros, Hydra, and Spetses) and the Methana peninsula, located near Athens, are hidden gems in Greece, often overlooked by international visitors despite their beauty and historical significance.
These destinations boast sandy and pebble beaches surrounded by fragrant pine forests. Due to their small size, these islands have minimal car traffic; in fact, cars are entirely prohibited on Hydra and Spetses, where horse carriages and donkeys are common sights. The Argo-Saronic Gulf islands are conveniently close to the Peloponnesian Coast, allowing easy access to places like Nafplio, Porto Cheli, and Epidavros during your trip.
Sailing in this area is ideal and safe, even for beginners, as the cruising area is well-protected and sheltered from the strong Meltemi wind that affects other Greek island groups. The winds here are mild, typically blowing from the north to northeast with an average force of 3-4 Beaufort. Its sheltered location and proximity to Athens make it an excellent sailing destination throughout the year.
You may start your sailing vacations in the Saronic Islands from different marinas, according to yacht availability, flight schedules, charter duration and desired itineraries:
Marina Alimos (Athens)
Marina Zeas (Athens)
Marina Agios Kosmas (Athens)
Marina Vouliagmeni (Athens)
POPULAR SAILING DESTINATIONS
You will sail on a new and luxuriously equipped yacht. A professional skipper will take you to a different island every day and stop in the most breathtaking beaches and little bays, many of which are untouched and only reachable by boat. Sailing time on board will be between 2-3h per day. At night you will anchor in idyllic ports, explore the vibrant island life, taste delicious locally produced food, and stroll around sheer endless little villages and alleys.
Spetses, a charming island in the Saronic Gulf, is a favorite for sailors with its mix of natural beauty and vibrant maritime history. Anchor at the main port of Dapia, known for its lively waterfront and traditional architecture, or explore the quiet bay of Agia Paraskevi for a peaceful retreat. The secluded cove of Zogeria offers crystal-clear waters, ideal for swimming and relaxing.
SPETSES
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You will sail on a new and luxuriously equipped yacht. A professional skipper will take you to a different island every day and stop in the most breathtaking beaches and little bays, many of which are untouched and only reachable by boat. Sailing time on board will be between 2-3h per day. At night you will anchor in idyllic ports, explore the vibrant island life, taste delicious locally produced food, and stroll around sheer endless little villages and alleys.
Hydra, a jewel of the Saronic Gulf, is a top destination for sailors seeking charm and tranquility. Its car-free main port, surrounded by traditional stone mansions, offers a picturesque and vibrant anchorage. For a quieter spot, anchor at Mandraki Bay, just a short distance from the main harbor, or explore secluded coves like Kaminia and Vlychos, perfect for swimming and relaxing.
HYDRA
You will sail on a new and luxuriously equipped yacht. A professional skipper will take you to a different island every day and stop in the most breathtaking beaches and little bays, many of which are untouched and only reachable by boat. Sailing time on board will be between 2-3h per day. At night you will anchor in idyllic ports, explore the vibrant island life, taste delicious locally produced food, and stroll around sheer endless little villages and alleys.
Poros, a picturesque island in the Saronic Gulf, is a favorite for sailors with its well-protected harbor and scenic anchorages. The main port offers vibrant waterfront tavernas and stunning views of the town's iconic clock tower. For a peaceful retreat, anchor in Russian Bay, known for its clear waters and historical charm, or explore Love Bay, a secluded spot surrounded by lush greenery.
POROS
You will sail on a new and luxuriously equipped yacht. A professional skipper will take you to a different island every day and stop in the most breathtaking beaches and little bays, many of which are untouched and only reachable by boat. Sailing time on board will be between 2-3h per day. At night you will anchor in idyllic ports, explore the vibrant island life, taste delicious locally produced food, and stroll around sheer endless little villages and alleys.
Aegina, a gem in the Saronic Gulf, is a must-visit for sailors seeking stunning spots and rich history. Its main port offers vibrant charm and easy access to the island’s highlights, while Agia Marina provides a peaceful anchorage near sandy beaches. For a unique experience, sail to Perdika, a quaint fishing village with a scenic harbor and excellent seafood.
You will sail on a new and luxuriously equipped yacht. A professional skipper will take you to a different island every day and stop in the most breathtaking beaches and little bays, many of which are untouched and only reachable by boat. Sailing time on board will be between 2-3h per day. At night you will anchor in idyllic ports, explore the vibrant island life, taste delicious locally produced food, and stroll around sheer endless little villages and alleys.
Agistri, a tranquil island in the Saronic Gulf, is a hidden gem for sailors seeking serene anchorages and natural beauty. The main harbor of Skala offers a sheltered spot with easy access to charming tavernas and sandy beaches. Nearby, Megalochori provides a quieter anchorage with crystal-clear waters and lush surroundings. For a secluded retreat, anchor at Dragonera Bay, ideal for swimming and relaxation.
You will sail on a new and luxuriously equipped yacht. A professional skipper will take you to a different island every day and stop in the most breathtaking beaches and little bays, many of which are untouched and only reachable by boat. Sailing time on board will be between 2-3h per day. At night you will anchor in idyllic ports, explore the vibrant island life, taste delicious locally produced food, and stroll around sheer endless little villages and alleys.
Ancient Epidavros, located along the Saronic Gulf, is a unique destination for sailors combining history and natural beauty. The small port offers a picturesque anchorage with easy access to the famous Ancient Theater of Epidavros (a short taxi ride away) and nearby archaeological sites. Sailors can also explore the charming Little Theatre Bay or anchor in the tranquil waters of Kalymnios, ideal for swimming and snorkeling.
AEGINA
AGISTRI
ANCIENT EPIDAVROS
Ancient Epidavros is a beautiful ancient city right by the Saronic Gulf. It's harbor is very idyllic with a lush green forest climbing down from the mountain up to the water. Located just 30 minutes drive away from the port, is the ancient's world most famous Epidavros theater. Being acclaimed for its excellent acoustic it has served as a stage for legends such as Maria Callas. Nowadays, the theater is still regularly used for drama performances.
SAILING ITINERARIES IN THE SARONIC GULF
The Argo-Saronic Gulf is one of the most popular sailing destinations in Greece. Its' proximity to Athens make it easily accessible from Marina Alimos, which is Athens' biggest yacht charter base. There are numerous beautiful destinations in the Saronic Gulf, the Argolic Gulf and the mainland in Peloponnese that can be easily combined during a one-week charter. Distances between those destinations are rather short and relatively stable wind conditions of 3-4 BFT make sailing time on sea usually less than 4-5h.
Popular sailing routes might include the following stops: Aegina, Agistri, Poros, Galatas, Epidavros, Hydra, Spetses, Ermioni, Porto Cheli, Nafplio, and Monemvasia (Monemvasia lies quite south and is usually reachable during a two-week trip). Be aware that the ports of the islands are quite small, especially in Hydra. Therefore, we advise you to make mooring arrangements in advance.
If you are an experienced sailor, you may also combine the Argo Saronic Gulf and the Cyclades in a one-week trip. However, distances on such an itinerary are considerably greater.
Discover below a couple of one-week route options, staring from Athens.
You will sail on a new and luxuriously equipped yacht. A professional skipper will take you to a different island every day and stop in the most breathtaking beaches and little bays, many of which are untouched and only reachable by boat. Sailing time on board will be between 2-3h per day. At night you will anchor in idyllic ports, explore the vibrant island life, taste delicious locally produced food, and stroll around sheer endless little villages and alleys.
ARGO SARONIC GULF
Aegina | Poros | Hydra | Spetses | Agistri | Ermoini
You will sail on a new and luxuriously equipped yacht. A professional skipper will take you to a different island every day and stop in the most breathtaking beaches and little bays, many of which are untouched and only reachable by boat. Sailing time on board will be between 2-3h per day. At night you will anchor in idyllic ports, explore the vibrant island life, taste delicious locally produced food, and stroll around sheer endless little villages and alleys.
ARGO SARONIC GULF & CYCLADES
Poros | Hydra | Kythnos | Milos | Serifos | Kea | Sounio
CHARTER A YACHT TO SAIL IN THE SARONIC GULF
Monohull sailing yacht or Catamaran? Bareboat, Skippered or Crewed Charter? No matter what is your preferred sailing yacht and charter type, we can offer plenty of options, so that you can tailor your sailing vacations in the Saronic Islands to your needs.
You will sail on a new and luxuriously equipped yacht. A professional skipper will take you to a different island every day and stop in the most breathtaking beaches and little bays, many of which are untouched and only reachable by boat. Sailing time on board will be between 2-3h per day. At night you will anchor in idyllic ports, explore the vibrant island life, taste delicious locally produced food, and stroll around sheer endless little villages and alleys.
MONOHULL SAILING YACHTS
Monohull Sailing Yachts are beautiful classic sailing yachts that are characterized by their one hull. Since they are smaller in width than catamarans, it is easy to find them a room to moor in Greek ports, even in the peak months July and August. All our monohull sailing yachts can be chartered bareboat and with a professional skipper.
You will sail on a new and luxuriously equipped yacht. A professional skipper will take you to a different island every day and stop in the most breathtaking beaches and little bays, many of which are untouched and only reachable by boat. Sailing time on board will be between 2-3h per day. At night you will anchor in idyllic ports, explore the vibrant island life, taste delicious locally produced food, and stroll around sheer endless little villages and alleys.
CATAMARANS
Catamarans are characterized by their two hulls, which provide significantly more pace than classic monohull sailing boats. They are an ideal choice if you are planning a cruise with a group of friends or family. Our catamarans can be chartered either bareboat or with a professional skipper.