Athens Yacht Charter Itinerary
7 days
Sailing The Saronic Gulf from Athens
The Saronic Gulf is one of our most popular destinations. Begin your charter in Athens, Europe's oldest city, and gaze in wonder at the magnificent Acropolis and iconic Parthenon temple, before setting sail to explore the beautiful Saronic Islands of Aegina, Hydra, Spetse and Poros.
Lying on the eastern coast of the Peloponnese Peninsula, these islands offer unspoiled anchorages, quaint fishing harbours, Byzantine castles, archaeological treasures, and quayside bars and taverns.
A Week Sailing
DAY
Day 1: Athens to Poros (29nm)
DAY
Day 2: Poros to Spetses (27nm)
DAY
Day 3: Spetses to Porto Heli (4nm)
DAY
Day 4: Porto Heli to Hydra (19nm)
DAY
Day 5: Hydra to Epidavros (34nm)
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Day 6: Epidavros to Agistri to Athens (32nm)
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Day 7: Athens
7 Days in the Saronic Gulf
Poros is a vibrant little island, famous for its beautiful beaches, emerald bays and bustling bars and restaurants.
Nautical week - a festival with sailing exhibitions, concerts and artistic events - takes place every other year at the beginning of July.
- Explore the remnants of a Russian Dockyard, a symbol of the military co-operation between Greece and Russia in the war against Turkey.
- View the Monastery of Zoodochos Pigi, an 18th century monastery set on the slopes of a pine forest.
- Take a quick trip across to Lemonodasos (Lemon Forest) on the mainland to walk through the region's many watermills, springs and more than 30,000 citrus trees which bloom in the spring.
- Bask in the turquoise blue waters of the “Love Bay”, a beach surrounded by verdant pine trees that dip their needles into the sea.
The trip to Spetses is around 4-5 hours, so we suggest stopping off in one of the sheltered bays along the way for a dip in Aegean sea and some brunch. Lying in the southeast of the Saronic Gulf and named 'Isola Di Spezzia' - 'Island of Scents' by the Venetians, Spetses is a beautiful island where cars are banned and people get around by bus, scooter and bike. So pretty and so accessible, Spetses has become a favourite weekend getaway for Athenians escaping the city heat. Take in the grand neoclassical architecture and captains' mansions from the revolution in 1821.
In July, the locals hold a commemorative feast which lasts till the early hours with wonderful food, drinks, live music and dancing.
- Armata Festival in mid September is a must see. It celebrates the naval victories of Spetses, Hydra and Psara against the Turks in 1822 with a week of feasts, festivities and fireworks.
- The Cave of Berkiris is difficult to reach and requires you to swim through the entrance, but you are rewarded with stunning green water and a small sandy beach surrounded by dramatic stalagmites and stalactites.
- Explore the town of Dapia and enjoy the neoclassical houses with quaint cafes and stylish boutiques.
Porto Heli is a beautiful town built around a picturesque natural harbour in the southern Peloponnese. Surrounded by pine covered hills, this is one of the safest harbours in Greece and has plenty of traditional charm.
- Explore the ancient city of Alieon or the fishing village of Kranidi.
- Take a dip in the former pirate haunt of the lake of Ververoda where locals believe the water has healing powers.
- Enjoy the musical performances and the art at the international culture festival in July and August
- Rent windsurfers and race your crew around the bay.
- Enjoy a night at the world renowned Nikki Beach
Hydra's charms have long been appreciated by the Greeks. There are no cars and transportation around the tiny marble cobbled lanes is provided by donkeys and mules. Exquisite architecture, history and tradition as well as a lively waterfront, banked by an 18th century marble-quayed harbour make Hydra the true gem of the Saronic Gulf.
Miaoulia, a festival taking place late in June, to honour an important figure in the Greek Revolution of 1821, set over three days is full of dancing, fireworks and other festivities.
- With few vehicles crossing the island, there are excellent hikes along winding footpaths leading to old monasteries, deserted beaches and breathtaking views.
- The first Merchant Marine Academy in Greece in the Tsamadou Mansion, overlooks the port town and makes for a beautifull viewing spot
- Jump off the rocks and into the cool Saronic Gulf!
Epidavros is an oasis in Argolida. This area plays host to one of the most famous ancient theatres in Greece. Built in phases through the Hellenistic times, the stadium is still in excellent condition and through the summer plays host to many performances.
- Snorkel the Sunken City of Epidavros off Kalymnios beach, lying 50m off-shore, in 10m of water.
- Take a day to learn to hang glide amongst the beautiful hillsides.
Take a leisurely sail north to Agistri, a tiny island set in the middle of the Saronic. Known as one of the most unspoiled Greek islands, surrounded by azure waters and lush vegetations, it's an idyllic spot to relax on the last day. Once you've taken in the last of the sun, enjoy a leisurely sail back to Athens as your adventure comes to a close.
- Visit the surrounding islands Metopi, Dorousa, Kyra, Spalathronisi and enjoy the pristine water away from other revellers.
- Stroll through Megalocho, the capital village of the island and take in its traditional architecture, possibly with a tour of the island.
Return to port and enjoy your last final evening onboard before checking out in the morning.
Begin your Greek Adventure
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