Why Greece is the World’s Sailing Playground
Are you dreaming of a week sailing route in the Greek Islands on yacht charter? Make it real. When it comes to dream sailing destinations, Greece is hard to beat. With more than 6,000 islands and islets scattered across the Aegean and Ionian seas, the country is a sailor’s paradise. Historic ruins sit just steps from bustling harbors, quiet coves are hidden behind dramatic cliffs, and friendly tavernas welcome sailors at every port. The variety is unmatched — you can spend one day soaking up ancient history and the next swimming in turquoise bays accessible only by boat.
For first-time charterers and seasoned sailors alike, Greece offers routes to match every skill level and interest. The Saronic Gulf, just south of Athens, is a favorite for week-long charters thanks to its short sailing distances and reliable winds. This makes it perfect for those planning a 7-day sailing holiday in Greece, whether as a bareboat adventure or with a professional skipper.
At Boat.Rent, we make it simple to browse yachts, catamarans, and motorboats. With transparent listings, flexible rental options, and locations across Greece, planning your sailing holiday in the Greek islands has never been easier.
Map & Overview of a 7-Day Greece Sailing Itinerary
This itinerary is designed for a 7-day yacht charter in Greece, starting from Athens and focusing on the Saronic Gulf islands. It’s a popular choice because it combines cultural experiences, beautiful sailing conditions, and authentic Greek island life.
- Route Overview: Athens → Aegina → Poros → Hydra → Dokos → Ermioni → Poros → Athens
- Sailing Distances: 2–4 hours daily, ideal for a relaxing pace
- Who It’s For: Families, couples, or groups looking for a balance of sailing, swimming, and exploring
Unlike the windy Cyclades, the Saronic Gulf is more sheltered, making it perfect for both beginners and those who prefer calm waters. This route is also highly flexible: you can extend stops in favorite places or add nearby islands like Spetses if time and weather allow.
By the end of the week, you’ll have experienced a complete Greek sailing itinerary — from historic temples and bustling waterfronts to untouched anchorages where you’ll feel like you have the sea to yourself.
Your Day-to-Day Saronic Sailing Route
Day 1: Athens → Aegina
Your journey begins in Athens, where most charters depart from Alimos Marina. A short sail brings you to Aegina, famous for pistachios and its ancient Temple of Aphaia, often called the “Greek Parthenon.” Wander through the neoclassical town or enjoy a sunset dinner at a seaside taverna.
Day 2: Aegina → Poros
Poros is a green, welcoming island just 2–3 hours away. The town is built around a lively harbor lined with cafes and shops. Perfect for mooring in the harbor itself to fill up on water and take advantage of the many restaurants and bars. Don’t miss the hike up to the clock tower for amazing panoramic views (especially at sunset!).
Day 3: Poros → Hydra
Hydra is a highlight of any sailing holiday in Greece. The island is car-free, and transport is by donkey or foot. Stroll cobbled streets filled with art galleries and boutique shops before watching the sun dip into the horizon from a chic waterfront café. Note: the harbor is only for those who are very confident captains – it is incredibly tight and busy making docking difficult in peak months. Instead anchor in Mandraki Bay, just east of the town, and get a taxi boat, or walk the 20 minutes into town.
Day 4: Hydra → Dokos
For a change of pace, sail to Dokos, a tiny uninhabited island. Its peaceful bay is perfect for anchoring overnight, swimming in crystal-clear waters, and enjoying a starlit dinner onboard.
Day 5: Dokos → Ermioni
Arrive in Ermioni, a charming fishing town with authentic Greek atmosphere. Enjoy fresh seafood in tavernas and explore pine-covered hills nearby. Ermioni is less touristy, giving you a glimpse into everyday Greek island life.
Day 6: Ermioni → Poros
Sail back toward Poros, giving yourself time to take advantage of one of the most protected bays in Greece. Spend the night at anchor in one of the many coves or beaches. This stop lets you recharge and relax for your final night before heading back toward Athens.
Day 7: Poros → Athens
On your final day, sail north to Athens, perhaps stopping for a last swim in a quiet bay in Aegina or Poros. Hand over your yacht and end your unforgettable 7-day Greece sailing itinerary.
Highlights Along the Route
What makes this route so popular is the variety of experiences packed into one week:
- Beaches & Swimming: Hydra’s Spilia Beach, Aegina’s Marathonas Beach, and hidden bays around Dokos
- Culture & History: The Temple of Aphaia, Hydra’s art galleries, Poros’s historic monastery
- Food & Drink: Fresh seafood in Ermioni, pistachio treats in Aegina, traditional meze in Poros
- Scenic Moments: Watching the sunset in Hydra, snorkeling in secluded bays, stargazing at anchor in Dokos
This itinerary is ideal for those who want both adventure and relaxation. It shows off Greece’s diversity while keeping sailing distances short enough for comfort.
Tips for Renting a Boat in Greece
To make the most of your sailing holiday in the Greek islands, here are a few practical tips:
- Bareboat vs Skippered Charter: If you have a valid sailing license (ICC or equivalent), a bareboat charter gives you full independence. If not, hiring a skipper is easy — and you’ll benefit from local expertise and stress-free sailing.
- Best Time to Sail: The sailing season runs from May to October. July and August are busiest, while June and September offer warm weather and fewer crowds.
- Licensing Requirements: For bareboat rentals, Greece requires at least one licensed skipper on board, plus a co-skipper with basic sailing knowledge.
- Costs to Expect: In addition to rental fees, budget for fuel, marina fees, and provisions. Boat.rent listings are transparent, so you’ll know costs upfront.
Ready to Set Sail?
Exploring Greece by boat is more than just a holiday — it’s a chance to discover hidden bays, timeless villages, and ancient history all in one journey. Whether you’re new to sailing or a seasoned skipper, a 1-week Greece sailing route offers the perfect balance of adventure and relaxation.
At Boat.Rent, we make booking your yacht charter simple. Compare listings, choose between sailboats, catamarans, or motor yachts, and set off on your Greek island-hopping adventure with confidence.
👉 Explore yacht charters in Greece on Boat.Rent and start planning your sailing holiday today.
