Why Sail from Athens?
- Ideal For New and intermediate Sailors
- Great Sailing Breezes
- Close to Athens
- Historical and cultural highlights
- Shorter Sailing Distances
The Saronic Gulf is the best sailing area for those who enjoy easy and relaxing sailing. The total route of this itinerary is 110NM and 20 hours.
The islands there stand out for their natural beauty and remarkable historical monuments. In this route you can enjoy both the islands in the Saronic Gulf and mainland Peloponnese.

Day 1 - Athens to Aegina 18,6NM | 2H 40M
Check in at 17:00
Athens is a fantastic stepping stone to the Saronic Islands. Even if the check – in begins at 17:00, there is no need to spend the night at the marina. In a 7-day trip, every day counts. Take advantage of the evening and begin sailing towards the island of Aegina which is the island closest to Athens.
Aegina is known for its pistachios and is home to the temple of Aphaia Athena. It offers a variety of wonderful beaches and great local tavernas.Aegina Town, on the west coast, is the island’s main capital and port.
Spend the night at its harbor and explore the town. You will find beautiful neoclassical buildings as well as the house where Nikos Kazantzakis wrote the worldwide known Zorba the Greek.
Alternatively, you could head towards Vourkari or one of the numerous other coves suitable for anchorage. Try one of the delicious taverns in the harbours serving freshly grilled fish among other appetizing dishes.
Day 2 - Aegina to Poros 15,6NM | 2H 30M
Heading directly south of Aegina you will sail past Methana island where the dormant volcano can still be seen; and moving on you’ll reach the entrance of the huge, sheltered Poros lagoon. Once in the lagoon, there are many pretty anchorages where you can stop for a lunch break or swim in the clear waters. Poros was the island of Poseidon, God of the sea.
The town of Poros is 2 miles east from the entrance to the lagoon. Take an evening walk, up the hill where you will be rewarded by a wonderful panoramic sunset. Stay overnight and enjoy a drink with your friends or chill onboard while you enjoy a glass of wine and your favorite book.
Day 3 - Poros to Porto Heli 30,4NM | 4,5H
This route is long but beautiful. Begin your day by sailing past Dhokos island. Dokos is situated between Hydra, Spetses and the mainland coast of Ermioni. This island is ideal for those who love nature, tranquility and stunning sunset views! It is also the resting place of the oldest known shipwreck (1500 B.C.), discovered by Jacques Cousteau. What makes Dokos (or Dhokos) so popular among yachters is the picturesque Skintos bay which offers clear waters and shelter from all winds.
Continue sailing towards Ermioni and enjoy the beaches. In Ermioni, you can moor your boat in the town’s port or anchor at Kapari beach. A scuba diving club in Kapari beach is strongly suggested!Continue sailing and spend the night in Porto heli, a famous summer resort which is well known for its lovely beaches and active nightlife.
Day 4 - Porto Heli to Spetses 7NM | 1H
After your layover in Porto Heli it’s time to begin sailing towards Spetses. Spetses is an island with rich history and naval tradition. This island has forever been a favorite destination for high society as luxury and local tradition coexist in every corner. Visit Zogeria beach with pine trees that stretch down to the beach and enjoy the beautiful azure waters. Return back to the old port and spend the night. It is highly recommended to taste the food in one of island’s exquisite restaurants or enjoy a drink with your friends at one of the many local bars.
Day 5 - Spetses to Hydra 15NM | 2H 10M
After your breakfast at the aristocratic island of Spetses, begin sailing towards Hydra. You can stroll through the cobblestone alleys, visit one of the island’s many museums, and browse the shops of local artisans before enjoying dinner on the island. Overnight in Hydra and enjoy the magical sunset and picturesque town with the beautiful neoclassical buildings.
Day 6 - Hydra to Aegina 23NM | 5H 30M
On your way back to Aegina, sail south to Perdika, where you will find pontoons, or you could anchor in the marina. The water gets quite shallow towards the east, so watch the depth carefully when anchoring. Perdika is a very pretty fishing village, with cute traditional whitewashed houses. The area attracts many visitors from Athens. There are many tavernas and fish restaurants on a raised terrace overlooking the waterfront.
Day 7 - Aegina to Athens 19NM | 2H 45M
Before you leave Aegina, make sure to buy their wonderful pistachio nuts and to taste some of the local dishes on one of the many traditional Greek restaurants. On your way back to Athens do not forget to visit Moni island which is home to wild deer, pigs and peacocks. The area is excellent for scuba diving and snorkeling. It is perfect for your last stopover and swim.
Day 8 - Disembarkation