Athens is not only the historic heart of Greece but also one of the Mediterranean’s top starting points for a sailing adventure. With modern marinas, excellent flight connections, and immediate access to spectacular island destinations, yacht and catamaran charters from Athens offer travelers the freedom to explore Greece in the most authentic way — by sea.
From relaxed island hopping in the Saronic Gulf to the iconic scenery of the Cyclades islands, sailing from Athens allows you to design your own journey, combining beautiful beaches, traditional villages, and unforgettable sunsets.
Whether you seek a peaceful family holiday or an adventurous sailing experience with friends, Athens is the perfect gateway.
Athens hosts several well-organized marinas such as Alimos Marina and Lavrio Marina, both conveniently located near Athens International Airport. This makes arrival, provisioning, and embarkation simple and efficient.
One of the biggest advantages of chartering from Athens is flexibility. Depending on weather conditions and travel style, you can choose between two fantastic sailing regions:
• The protected and relaxed Saronic Gulf
• The adventurous and iconic Cyclades islands
You can also enjoy a few days in Athens before or after your sailing trip, exploring the Acropolis, enjoying Greek cuisine, and experiencing the vibrant city atmosphere.
The Saronic Gulf is ideal for families and travelers who prefer shorter sailing distances and calmer waters. It offers charming harbors, authentic Greek island life, and plenty of swimming opportunities.
Popular stops include:
Aegina – Famous for pistachios, waterfront cafés, and ancient history including the Temple of Aphaia.
Poros – A beautiful harbor town surrounded by pine forests, welcoming sailors with its relaxed atmosphere and scenic waterfront.
Hydra – One of Greece’s most unique islands where cars are forbidden. Stone mansions, narrow alleys, and donkeys replacing vehicles create timeless charm.
Spetses – Elegant architecture, vibrant nightlife, and historical charm make Spetses a favorite among sailors.
The short distances between islands allow plenty of time for swimming, sightseeing, and enjoying local tavernas.
For sailors seeking adventure and dramatic scenery, the Cyclades islands offer unforgettable cruising experiences. Famous worldwide for whitewashed villages, blue-domed churches, and deep blue seas, the Cyclades combine natural beauty with lively island culture.
Depending on itinerary and sailing duration, routes may include:
Kea and Kythnos – The closest Cycladic islands to Athens, offering quiet bays and authentic villages.
Syros – A cultural center with elegant architecture and lively waterfront life.
Mykonos – Known for its cosmopolitan atmosphere, vibrant nightlife, and stunning beaches.
Paros and Naxos – Perfect for combining beautiful beaches, traditional villages, and watersport activities.
Summer winds known as the Meltemi provide exciting sailing conditions, especially appreciated by experienced crews.
Athens yacht charters offer a wide fleet suitable for different group sizes and holiday styles.
Sailing Yachts
Sailing yachts provide the most authentic connection to the sea. Ideal for couples or smaller groups, they offer enjoyable sailing performance combined with comfortable onboard living.
Catamarans
Catamarans are increasingly popular thanks to their spacious layouts and stability. Large decks, comfortable cabins, and easy access to shallow bays make them ideal for families or groups seeking comfort and relaxation.
Motor Yachts
Motor yachts are perfect for travelers who want to explore multiple islands quickly while enjoying luxury amenities and premium comfort.
Travelers can choose the charter type that best matches their experience and desired level of service.
Bareboat Charter
Licensed sailors can charter a yacht without crew, enjoying full freedom to create their own route and schedule.
Skippered Charter
A professional skipper can take care of navigation and safety, allowing guests to relax while benefiting from local knowledge and hidden spot recommendations.
Fully Crewed Charter
Fully crewed charters provide maximum comfort, including skipper and crew services, sometimes with onboard chef, offering a worry-free luxury sailing experience.
Life onboard quickly becomes the highlight of the holiday. Days often start with a morning swim in a quiet bay followed by breakfast on deck. Sailing usually takes place late morning or early afternoon, with stops along the way for snorkeling and relaxing.
Afternoons bring arrival at new islands or villages where guests explore local culture, enjoy waterfront dining, or simply relax onboard watching the sunset.
Each day offers a new destination without packing or changing hotels — your floating home moves with you.
The sailing season in Greece runs from April through October.
Spring offers mild weather and fewer visitors. Summer brings lively island life and warm sea temperatures. Autumn offers warm waters and relaxed sailing conditions with quieter ports and anchorages.
Each period offers wonderful sailing opportunities depending on preferences.
Exploring Greece by yacht gives access to hidden beaches and secluded coves unreachable by land. Sailing provides privacy, flexibility, and the freedom to travel at your own pace.
Instead of staying in one place, you wake up each morning in a new island setting while enjoying comfort and adventure combined.
Whether you choose a sailing yacht, catamaran, or motor yacht, chartering from Athens opens access to some of the Mediterranean’s most beautiful cruising grounds. With bareboat, skippered, and fully crewed options available, every traveler can enjoy the ideal Greek sailing holiday.
Once you experience the warm Aegean breeze, crystal-clear waters, and unforgettable island sunsets, sailing Greece quickly becomes a journey you’ll want to repeat again and again.
SEVEN – Sailing & Tourism Services is authorised by:
Ministry of Culture and Tourism
Greek National Tourism Organization
License No : 0458E60000094101
Member of HYBA:
