Best Sailing Routes in Greece

By Peter48 mins read

With a vast coastline and innumerable islands, bays, and little coves, Greece is the ideal spot for a sailing vacation. Not to mention the ancient sites, lovely beaches, wonderful food, and the sea. With numerous secret coves and beaches only accessible by boat, the Greek archipelago is a particularly appealing playground for novice and experienced sailors alike. What’s more, you have a variety of choices; rugged and wild scenery, greenery and sandy coasts, mountainous ranges, rivers, historical and archaeological sites, among others. On top of that, favorable weather and smooth sailing as well as hospitable people and mouthwatering delicacies. So, keep reading in order to discover the best sailing routes in Greece!

Sailing Information and Itineraries in Greece

Greece boasts around 1400 islands and has Europe’s longest coastline. It is situated in the southeast, surrounded by the Ionian, Aegean, and Mediterranean seas. There are innumerable bays and coves to explore along this lengthy and breathtakingly gorgeous coastline. Greece is among the best countries in the world for marine purity. There are more than 400 beaches and nine marinas with the prestigious European “Blue Flag”. These are carefully selected and adhere to strict environmental and other requirements.

Greece’s ideal climate makes it a year-round sailing destination, though the official sailing season runs from April to October. Depending on your vacation destination, you can discover numerous islands and locations according to your itinerary, available time, and preferences.

Because practically all islands are mostly nearby and distances between them are typically short, sailing in Greece allows you to see a lot of them in a short amount of time. Of course, you can visit several Greek islands or other coastal locations that are not accessible by land in a week. Sunlight for the majority of the year, a pleasant climate, and mild winds in the Ionian Sea. Moderate winds in Halkidiki, Sporades Islands, and the northern Aegean. Strong winds and dry scenery are common in the Cyclades. Sometimes also in the Dodecanese islands. In any case, it’s a memorable sailing experience that will make you never want to leave this place!

The Argo Saronic Gulf and Peloponnese

For people spending their first sailing trip in Greece, the Saronic Gulf, Argolic Gulf, and Peloponesse east coast are the preferred sailing areas. You can charter a boat in Alimos (Kalamaki) marina and Lavrion port in Athens. Both are easily accessible from the Athens international airport. Otherwise, you can take your own boat there to explore the area. The location has calm waters, requires some sailing ability/experience, and provides a wide range of amenities. Furthermore, sightseeing, numerous isolated bays and quiet coves to explore.

Aegina, Poros, Angistri, Hydra, Dokos, Spetses, and the Peloponnesian coast offer calm sailing conditions and are protected from high winds. The Saronic route is appropriate for easy and smooth sailing. In particular, during July and August when the strong winds blow in the Cyclades, and for a shorter break of fewer than two weeks. You can find many Cosmopolitan towns, historic temples, Byzantine castles, little fishing ports, and pristine anchorages along this route.

Poros, Hydra, and Spetses, as well as Yerakas, Leonidion, Monemvasia (also known as the Greek Gibraltar). Moreover, Elaphonissos, and Kithira, will all astonish you with their natural beauty, sandy beaches, welcoming tiny ports, and peaceful anchorages. In a week’s sailing, you can see Aegina (Aigina), Epidaurus, Poros, Hydra, Spetses, and Salamis. In two weeks or more, you can sail in Yerakas, Leonidion, Monemvasia, Nafplion, Elaphonissos, and Kithira.

The Cyclades Islands

The Cyclades islands are maybe the most well-known tourist destination on the planet. And this is because they provide a wealth of natural beauty as well as exciting sailing vacations. Apart from the well-known Mykonos and Santorini islands, there are numerous additional Greek islands that belong to the same group. The crystal clear turquoise sea, sandy beaches, and powerful winds are well-known features of the area.

The Cyclades islands need moderate to intermediate sailing abilities and experience. Sometimes, depending on the season you’re sailing, the weather and wind can be challenging. However, what dominates the islands is sunshine, dryness, rocky isles, white and blue colors, and an infinite number of beaches. There are several virgin and undeveloped islands off the usual path which are only accessible by your boat. On many islands, you may rest in a calm bay in the morning and party the night away on a local beach bar.

The Ionian Islands

The pleasant climate of the Ionian islands has more greenery, rain, and calm waters. And, it has fewer rough winds than any other place in Greece. It is the ideal location for sailing with children, and appropriate for novice sailors. In the Ionian, charter bases are at the Gouvia marina on Corfu island. And, in the new Lefkas marina on Lefkas island. Both are modern marinas with good facilities but with a little higher dock cost. The area is popular not only for charter but also for private boats. Bear in mind that during the high peak season, the Ionian Islands will be full of people. So, it might be extremely difficult to find an anchorage and moor your boat. That’s why it is advisable to prefer sailing in May or September.

You can begin your voyage in the Ionian Sea and stock up on provisions in Zakynthos’ harbor before sailing around small beaches and stopping by small harbors. Don’t miss the Blue Caves and the famed Navagio Beach, which can only be reached by boat. You can then head north to the stunning island of Kefalonia. You will need at least five days to relax and explore the island. The friendly Ithaka and its tiny islets await you next, followed by the magnificent Lefkada. Before arriving in Corfu, stop in at Paxi and Antipaxi, which are known for their beautiful beaches and quiet coves. The rule of thumb is never to be in a rush to reach your destination and just relax. But, you will experience this feeling as soon as you get there!

The Dodecanese Islands

With the exception of Kos and Rhodos, the Dodecanese are mostly devoid of vegetation. However, not to the same extent as the Cyclades. The Dodecanese Islands, off the coast of Greece, are the warmest sailing destination in Greece, with decent weather even in early April and late October, and November. You can find charter boats at the marina on Kos Island and the historic harbor of Mandraki on the island of Rhodos. The prevalent winds are from the northwest and are not as powerful as they are in the open Aegean Sea.

In the spring and fall, southeast winds are usually calmer. The character of the islands is influenced in part by the Venetians. But also by the Knights of St John and the Middle Ages. Yet, the Dodecanese retains its artistic and cultural Greek identity.

Sailing throughout the Dodecanese islands, especially during the summer months, when the Meltemi breeze blows, is an unforgettable experience. Take advantage of the proximity to the uninhabited islets of Agathonisi and Lipsi. Sail to the larger islands of Rhodes, Kos, and Leros, which all have well-equipped marinas. Keep in mind that in order to explore the most out of the islands you might have to stay more days.

>>Also Read: Best Dodecanese Islands Sailing Destinations

Sporades Islands and Evia

The Sporades Islands are located on the Aegean Sea’s northwest coast. It’s a sailing location with a lot of beauty and an astonishing variety of great beaches within a small island region. The islands are located north of Evia, are a series of islands with lush vegetation and steep topography, making them some of Greece’s greenest islands. There are 24 islands in total but only 4 of them are inhabited. These are Alonnisos, Skiathos, Skopelos, and Skyros. They are popular sailing destinations. The Sporades (officially known as the Northern Sporades) is not the best area to visit archaeological monuments, but it is one of the few islands where you can relax aboard or ashore in the natural shade of pine trees that flow down to the water.

Evia, Greece’s second-largest island by area and population, is a seahorse-shaped island that stretches 180 kilometers along with mainland Greece from just above the Northern Cyclades to Thessaly. This is the site of the famous Evripos tide phenomena, which is only 40 meters from the mainland in Halkida. This is a current that may reach speeds of 8 mph and switches directions every 6 hours. The Gulf of Evia, which connects the vast Greek island of Evia to mainland Greece, is not a popular cruise destination. The waters of this gulf are less clean than those of the Aegean. Also, the southern mainland has a significant industrial development. Many boats, however, prefer to cross the more protected gulf on their trip from Athens to the Sporades islands. And, it’s much better than passing the Kafireas Strait, which is known for its fierce northerly winds.

North Aegean

One thing is certain: despite being far from large cities, you’ll find it easy to sail there, but difficult to leave. Each island in the North Aegean has its own distinct personality, with its own natural beauty and cultural legacy. They may appear undiscovered and unattractive to tourists, but that is precisely what adds to their allure. Lesvos (Mytilini), Chios, Samothrace, Thassos, Limnos, Ikaria, Samos, as well as small Agios Efstratios, Fourni, Psara, and Innouses, are all unspoiled and enticing gems.

These islands are less well-known than the Cyclades and Dodecanese, but they are no less beautiful and, in many ways, retain their Greek identity better than the more well-known islands. Sailing in the North Aegean sea means exploring quiet, historical, as well as lively islands. Amazing beaches, secluded bays, wonderful food, and people that are peaceful and welcoming. Thassos, Limnos, Samothraki, Agios Eustratios, Skiros, Zakinthos Marine National Park, Skiathos, Skopelos, Alonnisos, Chalkidiki Coast, and Mountain Athos are among the top locations you should sail.

>>Also Read: Best Sailing Destinations In The World

Weather in Greece

The Greek islands cover 20% of Greece’s total land area, making it an attractive sailing destination with a coastline of over 15000 kilometers. The climate along this stretch of coast is the Mediterranean in nature, with moderate, damp winters and hot, dry summers. The Meltemi which arrives from the NE in the north and west Aegean and the NW in the south and east characterizes the summer weather in Greece. It is usually a moderate wind of force 4-5 in the early morning hours, but it rises to 5-6 in the afternoon and dissipates by sunset. From mid-June to mid-September, however, the Meltemi can be expected to develop a gale of force 7-8, and occasionally 9. Typically, these gales last 3-4 days.

From October to mid-May, the chances of either northerly or southerly winds are equal. Keep in mind that during the winter, winds of up to ten miles per hour are not unusual. By late October to early May, violent thunderstorms are also a possibility. The winter winds in the south are extremely dangerous and unpredictable.

The long charter season begins in March, when air temperatures increase above ocean temperatures, stabilizing the situation. Around mid-May, the Azores High gradually takes over and the Euro-Asian High fades away, resulting in exceptionally stable weather. The Azores High begins to fade in October/November, and frontal systems, accompanied by cool air masses, begin to approach the East Mediterranean from the north. As a result of the contact with the warmer ocean, an unstable atmosphere and showers typically occur.

Ionian Sea Sailing Itinerary

The best sailing itinerary in the Ionian Sea starts from Corfu, Paxos – Antipaxos, Lefkas, Meganisi, Kalamos, Kastos, Arkoudi, Atokos, Ithaca, Kefalonia, and Zakynthos. There are also some small islets in the surroundings where you can anchor, do some trekking on the islands, and relax on your boat. In order to enjoy this sailing itinerary, you will need at least 15 days.

Corfu – Paxi – Antipaxi (44,80NM)

A Corfu cruise itinerary brings you to the lovely bays and coves of the Ionian Islands, which are located off the coasts of Albania and Greece. They are among Greece’s most beautiful, with emerald carpets of woods strewn across the slopes. The beauty is enhanced by sandy beaches and charming fishing communities. The seas and mild air are enticing, and the atmosphere is tranquil and quiet. The traditional Corfu itinerary includes both the northern and southern Ionian Islands. Visit the fishing village of Kalami on the northeast coast of Corfu, as well as the coastal town of Sivota Mourtos. Then, Petriti, Mandraki Harbor to moor your boat and stroll around the island’s old town.

Paxos is a Greek island located 7 nautical miles south of Corfu in the northern Ionian Sea. Anti-Paxos is a minor island located close to Paxos. The Paxoi (Paxi) islands include Paxos and Anti-Paxos. It’s incredible that such small islands can have so many beautiful beaches. There are several seashore old traditional taverns where you can have fresh fish, and if you’re feeling active, you can hike the historic footpaths that lead to tiny chapels, small communities, and hilltops with incredible sea views.

The island of Paxos’ principal harbor is Gaios. It consists of a long natural inlet that is completely sheltered from the small island of Agios Nikolaos, which is only a few kilometers distant. In most weather situations, the port provides great cover, while high gusts make the southern section uncomfortable. Mongonisi, in the southern extremity of Paxos Island, is a natural harbor for your boat. You can either dock your boat at the inlet’s quays or anchor off, where space for 10-15 sailboats is available. Lastly, on the east side of Anti-Paxos island, there are two bays where you can anchor.

Antipaxos – Lefkada (28NM)

After spending some relaxing days in Corfu, Paxos, and Antipaxos set sail for Lefkas island. Lefkada is an ideal destination to serve as a beginning and stopping point for exploring the western portion of Greece because of its central location in relation to the other islands and the accessibility provided by a floating bridge. If you’re a windsurfing enthusiast consider visiting Vasiliki Bay but be aware of the strong gusts. In Syvota, strong gusts from the NW – NE are also common, therefore instead of anchoring, go stern-to the quays or pontoons. The harbor of Rouda / Mikros Gialos, to the northeast of Sivota, offers more bucolic anchorages, while strong gusts are likely here as well. On the other side of the fishing port is a wonderful cove. You can drag the second anchor onto the shore from the deep anchor.

You can set sail from Lefkas Marina and head towards Pefkoulia beach, situated between the village of Tsoukalades and Agios Nikitas, a sand-covered beach with clear blue waters and pine trees. Swim in Milos, a splendid beach in idyllic surroundings situated on the northern part of the island next to the village of Agios Nikitas, the only village at sea level on the west coast. Nearby Agios Nikitas, there’s a must-see beach, Ammoudoula, and the magnificent cave Fokotrypa. Another gorgeous long sandy beach after Milos is Kathisma, surrounded by wooden cliffs, hills and lidos, as well as a variety of local tavernas where you can have your lunch. Don’t omit to visit Desimo cove just outside of Vlicho Bay. On the east side, near the coast, there is a little cove with prominent white cliffs and a small sandy beach where you can cast a line.

Meganisi – Kalamos – Kastos – Arkoudi – Atokos (26,80NM)

Meganisi, a sailor’s paradise off the southeast coast of Lefkas, has a Chora, sandy beaches, fishing ports, sea caves, and many anchorages. The first port in Spilia bay, Zampati, is suitable in all winds except NNE, in which case you should relocate to Spartochori, the second port in Spilia bay. The deep Vathy bay offers several mooring options: the old harbor in the southeast, the marina directly west, and the short quay at Taverna Karnagio. Vathy is Meganisi’s main ferry port. The old port and marina provide all-around protection and, more importantly, are suitable for the summer mistral/maestro winds, which blow from the northwest.

Continue sailing to the east and swim in Kalamos’ beaches in the northeast. Kalamos is a Greek island where you may marvel at the lush greenery. Visit the town of Kalamos, which is also a safe port with a decent anchoring area. Continue on to Kastos, which is still a pristine island. Kastos, a picturesque southern Ionian island with a small population and only one hamlet, offers the ultimate tranquility. There are a few Greek tavernas and restaurants where you may enjoy the delicious Greek cuisine. The coves to the south of Kastos are equally amazing and in some of them you may find an overnight mooring.

Arkoudi is a small island off the coast of Greece in the Ionian Sea. It is located near the island of Atokos, north of Ithaca and south of Lefkada. Although both islands are still untouched and boast pristine nature, several yachts visit its beautiful beaches throughout the summer months. You can, of course, find a remote anchorage but please keep in mind to be quiet so as not to disturb the regional fauna species.

Ithaca – Kefalonia (11NM)

Continue sailing from Atokos to Ithaca which is only 6,90NM away. The sheltered port of Vathy, which was originally founded by the Romans and is delightfully placed on a bay. Note that severe gusts can be seen turning from the SW in Aetou bay to the NW – NNW in Vathy bay or W over the Cave of Nymphs hills. The harbor of Vathi is regarded as one of Greece’s safest natural harbors. Modern Ithaca is basically Homer’s Ithaca, the home of Odysseus, whose delayed homecoming to the island is one of the Odyssey’s central story points.

Continue north and make a stop at Frikes, a stunning stretch of white sand and a bay on the north of Ithaca. Keep in mind that the best anchorage is west of Lazareto islet. If you have the time and the energy it’s advisable to visit the island on foot; have your lunch or dinner in a local taverna, meet the hospitable locals, and take deep breaths as walking through the greenery of Ithaca.

Then, after spending some days in Ithaca, set sail to Kefalonia. The largest of the Ionian Islands, Kefalonia is made up of stark limestone hills that rise to 1628 meters at Mount Ainos and are cut by fertile valleys with lush subtropical vegetation. You will definitely want to visit the cosmopolitan harbor of Fiskardo. It’s on the island’s north-eastern tip, and it’s famed for its 19th-century Italianate architecture that’s still standing. The charming waterfront is lined with stores, boutiques, tavernas, and nightclubs. Fiscardo is a good base for exploring the northern section of the island’s fortresses, monasteries, museums, and hiking routes. It’s also close to a number of lovely isolated coves with crystal clear seas, perfect for an afternoon of swimming, snorkeling, and relaxation.

Of course, don’t omit to visit Argostoli, Lixouri, and Atheras where you will find a sheltered mooring despite being open to the north. Meaning that even in prevailing NW winds the tiny island of Atheronisi guards the anchorage against the waves. You can anchor near the sandy beach with a line to the mole. Assos, Kalo, and Platy Limani, as well as Poros offer sheltered anchorages and are amongst the most beautiful and quiet places to visit on Kefalonia.

Zakynthos (23NM)

From Kefalonia (Argostoli) continue sailing to Zakynthos and moor your boat in the port of Zakynthos which provides a great shelter. If you’re a history lover, then keep in mind that the Sanctuary of Olympia is located on Peloponnese. It is best explored from the remote Katakolon port, 23 nautical miles to the south. Many guidebooks recommend Porto Roma as a lovely anchorage for calm weather, but it can get quite crowded. This is because multiple resorts and tourists visit the area. The bay is close to the Marine National Park’s at the NE edge. The Zakythnos Marine National Park encompasses both the southern capes and the bay of Lagana. It protects many endangered species such as sea turtles, monk seals, and Posidonia, as well as their ecosystems.

Porto Vromis is one of the island’s greatest anchorages, with a sheltered location and pleasant surroundings. The Stamatis cave is about halfway in, and there are further sea caves north of Giannaki rock outside the bay. Sail to the popular Navagio bay as well as to Agios Nikolaos bay where you can have your lunch in the lovely taverna Mandrakia. Lastly, Xigia is a tiny mephitic anchorage with a ringed beach and crystal clear waters beneath a canopy of vivid green pine trees. Because the area (including the open beaches further south) is a natural sulfur spa, you’ll have to put up with the foul sulfurous odors. There are also several grottos nearby to explore. For example, the “White cave,” which is wonderful for snorkeling, by taking the dinghy around the lush cape.

Cyclades Sailing Itinerary

The best sailing itinerary in Cyclades islands starts from Paros, then Naxos, Iraklia, Schinoussa, Koufonisi, Donousa, Amorgos, Ios, Folegandros, Santorini, Anafi, Milos, Kimolos, Sifnos, and Serifos. Of course, if you have plenty of time available you can explore the other 200 islets and islands, but this will take you more than 2 months.

It is recommended to sail the Cyclades outside of the period of about 10 July and 7 September. Like this, you will avoid the enormous crowds and the Meltemi winds. Because the Cyclades are not shielded by the hilly mainland, they are more vulnerable to the Meltemi winds than the Argolic Gulf and the Saronic sailing grounds. The best months to sail in the Cyclades are May to June and September to October. As aforementioned, there are fewer people and less likelihood of encountering Meltemi winds. Furthermore, the generally dry Aegean soil is noticeably lusher and greener in June and May as a result of the spring showers. On the isles, you can even expect to see enormous fields of colorful flowers in April! The days are becoming shorter in September, but the water temperature is still great.

One or more rest days/stopovers/onshore excursions are possible on the 2- or 3-week itineraries. Santorini, Amorgos, Kythnos, and Sifnos are just a few of the islands that must be visited, preferably by motorbike or scooter. Sifnos, Paros, Naxos, Amorgos, Santorini, Milos, and Folegandros are among the Cyclades’ highlights. If you choose a longer itinerary it will take you another two weeks: Sifnos, Santorini, and Amorgos, for example, are worth more than 2 days.

Best Anchorages in Cyclades

Fjord bay, or Megali Vlychada, on Amorgos island.
For the geology: south bays and the coast of Milos island.
The flooded caldera of Santorini island: Thira, Thirasia, and Kammeni.
Ayios Ioannis bay on Naxos island.
Poleis bay on Kea island.
Kastro, Platis Gialos and Faros bays on Sifnos island.
Sand bar bay on Kythnos island.
Naoussa bay on Paros island.
Manolonisi bay on Polyaigos island.
The anchorages in the Little Cyclades: Karos, Schinoussa, and Koufonisia.

Paros – Naxos – Iraklia – Schinoussa – Koufonissia – Donousa (49NM)

Paros is known for its magnificent architecture, stunning beaches, and vibrant nightlife. Parikia is the capital of Paros and one of the most well-known boating destinations in the Cyclades. This picturesque village attracts a large number of visitors each year. This is thanks to its local restaurants, taverns, small cobblestone roads, stores, and a 4th-century church. Naousa is a great marina but you can also anchor in Kolimpithres or in the bay of Filizi. Naxos is located in the middle of the Aegean Sea, in the Cyclades islands group. It is the Cyclades’ largest and greenest island, with a breathtaking natural landscape. The rich history of the island is reflected in the numerous archaeological sites that dot the landscape. Just keep in mind not to moor in Naxos marina as it is full of yachts. Instead, prefer Azala or Moutsouna Bay.

Iraklia, Schinoussa, Koufonissia, and Donousa are called “Small Cyclades”. This is because these islands are inhabited but still too small. However, this is what makes them charming, less crowded, and exceptionally unique. The inhabitants are kind, and they are eager to get to know you in their own special way. The natural beauty of the little Cyclades sets them apart from the rest of the Aegean islands. The numerous leeward beaches, where you can relax and swim in crystal clear waters, will fascinate you with their various shades of blue and turquoise. There are many paths lead to wonderful views and locations. Also, delicious local dishes and tasty natural products will make your mouth water! You can enjoy seafood by the sea or in villages, next to picturesque white houses and small churches.

Amorgos – Ios – Folegandros – Santorini – Anafi (87NM)

From Donousa continue sailing to Amorgos, Aegiali Bay. The bare rocky island of Amorgos with extremely clear turquoise waters, picturesque white and blue alleys, but sometimes rough winds will take your breath away. Anchoring in the Fjord Bay is a must as well as visiting and swimming in Kalotaritissa Bay. Moreover, you can anchor in the nearby Gramvousa islet. Also, visit the famous and iconic monastery of Panagia Hozoviotissa and stroll around Chora, the island’s main “town”.

The touristic island of Ios is a steep, cliff-fringed island located halfway between Paros or Naxos and Santorini. Ios offers a relaxing vibe outside of the busy sailing season. You can roam around, explore the island by scooter, and the island won’t be full of tourists. Agios Theodotis, Manganari, and Tris Kleises are the best locations to drop anchor.

From Ios, you can continue sailing to Folegandros, then Santorini, and Anafi. Folegandros is a small Santorini, a charming rocky island surrounded by turquoise beaches and wonderful pathways to stroll around. You can drop anchor in Karavostasi port or in Vathy. And, of course, the gem elegant island Santorini. As you enter the caldera from the northwest, you’ll notice the Kameni islets in the center. These are the cones of subsequent volcanoes that erupted during historical periods. Volcanic activity can be seen in the form of hot springs and gas emissions. If you happen to be there during the Meltemi wind the only safe place to moor is the Vlychada marina. Otherwise, there are other delightful anchorages as well. The best ones are Finikia, Ammoudi, and Kammeni.

Anafi is on the southeastern tip of the Cyclades island complex, near Santorini. The island’s golden beaches and emerald waters provide a tranquil holiday in nature for its visitors. Chora is the only organized settlement with a view of the Cretan Sea. It’s built in the traditional Cycladic style but with its own distinct traits. Anafi, as the mount, has a high altitude in comparison to its size. With a height of 460 meters, Kalamos is one of the largest rocks in the Mediterranean, giving the island an almost conical form.

Milos – Kimolos – Sifnos – Serifos (105 NM)

This route isn’t at all a direct route but more like a detour in order to explore as many islands as possible. Of course, according to your preferences, you can omit sailing to some of these islands. As a matter of fact, it will be quicker to sail directly from Anafi to Astypalaia or from Santorini directly to Milos and Kimolos. Another option is to sail from Amorgos to Ios, Folegandros, and Milos, etc.

Milos is the Cyclades group’s southwesternmost island. Volcanic activity in the past has provided this island with an interesting diversity of beautiful landscapes. Therefore, this offers visitors a diverse selection of activities. One representation of Mlos’ volcanic traits is the strange shapes of the rocks and their fantastic hues on the magnificent white sandy beaches; another is the commercial activity, where minerals such as obsidian, sulfur, kaolin, etc are dug. For this reason, one of the oldest mines in the Mediterranean is in Milos. Dimitrios Cove, Megali Ammos, and Fatourena are among the best anchorages. Also, the bays of Tsigrado and Fyriplaka on the south coast have stunning seascape and good holding from the northerlies.

Kimolos is a tiny Milos and popular island among free campers. Prasonisi anchorage is preferred to Psathi main port but you will have to walk a bit in order to get to the main village of Chorio.

Sifnos, or Apollo’s Island, is a magnificent mountainous island in the western portion of the Cyclades group of Greek islands. Sifnos is a lush island with many olive trees, which blend beautifully with the gleaming white of the flat-roofed houses, the deep blue and turquoise sea, and the bright red and fuchsia of the bougainvilleas. Kastro is a wonderful place for anchoring as well as the southeast bay across the north tip of Kitriani. Vathy also offers a fully protected anchorage.

Serifos is an island of stark contrasts, with an active magnetic field created by its metalliferous rocks. Leeward coasts are embraced by steep rocks, almost all of them benefiting from the thick natural shade provided by salt cedars growing in the sand. Moreover, its crystal blue waters, golden beaches, and villages with small white houses are just a few of the island’s features. With views of Kithnos to the north, Syros to the northeast, Paros to the east, Sifnos to the southeast, and Milos to the south, the entire island serves as a balcony to the Aegean Sea. The broad harbor of Livadi offers plenty of space for anchoring. But, due to the regular powerful katabatic winds from the north, it’s best to stick to the marina. On the south coast in Koutala bay, the anchorages of Vagia, Ganema, and Maliadiko are great for shelter and provide good holding grounds.

Options for a Dodecanese Sailing Itinerary

In case you’re sailing directly from the Cyclades: Astypalaia – Kalimnos – Pserimos – Kos – Nisyros – Tilos – Rhodes – Karpathos – Kasos (200 NM)
If you’re sailing from the North Aegean Islands, e.g. from Ikaria: Patmos – Arkoi – Marathos – Lipsi – Leros – Kalymnos – Kos – Symi – Rhodes (105 NM)
If you’re sailing from Turkey, e.g. from Bodrum: Kos – Gyali – Nisyros – Tilos – Symi – Chalki – Rhodes – Kastellorizo (177 NM)

Options for a Sporades and Evia Sailing Itinerary

If you’re sailing from the North Cyclades (Andros or Tinos): Skiros – Mantoudi Port (Evia) – Skiathos – Skopelos – Alonissos – Kyra Panagia – Gioura – Piperi (114 NM)
If you’re sailing from Athens (Alimos or Lavrio): Karystos – Megalonisos – Then cross the Petalioi Gulf and the South Euboean Gulf to get to cross the sliding bridge in Chalkis – North Euboean Gulf – drop anchor in Lichadonissia – cross the Strait of Artemisium – Skiathos – Skopelos – Alonissos – moor in Porto Carras marina in Chalkidiki, Neos Marmaras (225NM)

Options for a North Aegean Sailing Itinerary

If you’re sailing from the Cyclades: Ikaria, Fournoi, Samos, Chios, Daskalio, Lesvos, Agios, Efstratios, Limnos, Samothraki, Thasos (311NM)
If you’re sailing from the Dodecanese or from Turkey: Samos, Fournoi, Ikaria, Chios, Oinousses, Lesvos, Limnos, Thassos, Halkidiki (300NM)

The Best Routes in the Aegean

You can start your voyage from Athens and spend around 10-14 days in the Saronic and Argolic gulfs, cross to Kea or Kythnos through Hydra and begin exploring the Aegean. Paros, Sifnos Naxos, Amorgos, Santorini, Milos, and Folegandros are the must Cyclades islands to visit and enjoy sailing. You can then sail from Astypalea, and travel north to the Dodecanese via Kasos, Karpathos, Rhodes, Symi, and the islands of Tilos, Nisyros, and Kos, as well as Leros and Kalymnos, Patmos, Fourni, Arki, Lipsi, and Samos.

Sailing north means beating the prevailing winds. But, the beauty of this anticlockwise route is that the winds are at their weakest here. This applies especially on the east coasts of the Dodecanese and the southern Sporades Islands, which are protected by a slew of Aegean islands and Turkish promontories. If you’re in the North Cyclades (Andros, Tinos, Mykonos, Delos, Syros, and Kea) or in the Southern Sporades (Skiros, Skantzoura) you can sail to Ikaria, Chios, and Daskaleio.

You can also do a few extra loops in order to enlarge this itinerary. For instance, the Peloponnese’s south coast, particularly near the infamous Cape Maleas, is worth at least an extra week. In addition, you can sail to Crete from Santorini (about 62NM). From the Northern Sporades, you can continue sailing to Limnos and Thassos or alternatively to Chios and Lesvos. Lastly, you can cross the border to explore the Carian, Ionian, and West Lycian beaches of Turkey through the Corinth Canal, the Corinth Gulf, and the Patras Gulf.