12 Reasons the Greek Islands Are a Sailor's Paradise

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Despite more than 30 million people visiting Greece annually, only some people consider sailing around the Greek islands, which is a shame considering how much it offers. Sailing in Greece is a memorable experience that deserves to sit at the top of your list of things to do before you die.

The Greek islands are famous for their ancient history, natural beauty, turquoise waters, and vibrant seaside towns, and sailing allows you to see it all while traveling in unparalleled luxury. To show you what sailing in Greece has to offer, here’s a list of 12 reasons the Greek islands are a sailor’s paradise.

Variety of Islands To Explore

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Arguably, the most captivating aspect of sailing in the Greek islands is the sheer volume to explore. With more than 6,000 islands and islets in the Aegean Sea to visit, it’s almost as if the term island hopping was created for the Greece. From iconic ones such as Santorini and Crete to hidden gems like Folegandros and Tilos, the they have it all.

What makes things even better is that every isle has a unique charm. On some, you can visit historical landmarks, while on others, you’ll likely spend most of your time relaxing on the beach or snorkeling in the sea.

Close Together Islands

Aside from having thousands of islands and islets to visit, another advantage of sailing around them is that most are close together. Usually, sailing from one to the next doesn’t take very long, so you don’t always have to have long days at sea.

Many of Greece’s islands are within two to five nautical miles (3.7 to 9.26 kilometers) of one another. Therefore, on a leisurely 20 nautical-mile (37-kilometer) sailing day, you’ll have plenty of options for finding somewhere to stop, stay the night, or explore. Even on longer sailing days, it’s uncommon that you won’t come across places to visit during your journey.

Perfect Sailing Conditions

The Greek islands are as close to perfect sailing conditions as possible. The country offers ideal sailing conditions throughout the year. You can expect wall-to-wall sunshine, a pleasant wind that’s not too weak or too strong, calm waters, and little to no rain.

Better still, Greece offers mild to hot temperatures almost all year. August is the hottest month, with temperatures regularly hitting 84°F (29°C). Meanwhile, January is usually the coldest month, but temperatures rarely drop below 50°F (10°C). These conditions make it much easier to explore more islands, spend more time on the water, and enjoy a hassle-free experience.

Hidden Gems

Finding hidden gems is one of the best things about exploring the Greek islands on a sailing trip. While sticking to the most popular places can be tempting, the most authentic Greek experiences can be found on smaller, lesser-known isles.

Some of the best-hidden gems in the Greek islands include Ikaria, Alonnisos, Milos, and Kefalonia. They offer authentic Greek vibes, sunshine, rich culture, and pristine coastlines, perfect for boat exploration.

Breathtaking Scenery and Wildlife

Nestled in the heart of the Mediterranean, Greece and its islands boast some of the most impressive coastal landscapes in the world. Sailing from one to another offers sailors a front-row seat to the Aegean Sea’s unparalleled beauty. Sailors can expect rugged volcanic landscapes, long sandy beaches, turquoise waters, traditional white-washed houses, and much more.

Better still, the Aegean Sea is home to an underwater world filled with diverse wildlife. On a sailing trip in the Greek isles, sailors often spot dolphins, whales, and stingrays. Whale sightings have also been spotted from the shoreline. With this in mind, it’s a good idea to pack your snorkeling gear and a pair of binoculars.

Fascinating Historical Sites

Greece is a museum of ancient mythology and history. As a result, you’ll likely come across historic landmarks, ancient towns, and unique myths almost everywhere you sail. Sailing from one historic location to another allows sailors to immerse themselves in Greek culture.

Some of the most iconic historical sites sailors can visit include the archaeological site of Knossos, famed for the myth of the Minotaur, the sacred island of Delos and its UNESCO World Heritage Site, and Rhodes Old Town. Each place has a story to tell, and sailing provides an excellent insight into the region’s historical wonders.

Delicious Food and Drink

Of course, another advantage of sailing in the Greek islands is the incredible food and drink. No sailing adventure is complete without local cuisine, and Greece has some of the best food and drink in the world. Picture it now: dropping anchor at a colorful Greek port after a day of sailing, finding a traditional taverna, and tucking into a beautiful Mediterranean dinner.

We don’t know about you, but it doesn’t get much better! While traditional cuisine can be found on most Greek islands, there’s something special about finding it on a smaller isle, where the food has likely been provided by local producers. Foods you should try in Greece include souvlaki, moussaka, and fresh seafood, but keep in mind that each place has its own specialties as well.

Excellent Sailing Infrastructure

According to Yacht Rent, people have been sailing in Greece since the Minoan age, almost 4,000 years ago. The ancient Greeks worshiped the gods of wind and sea, with sailing routes becoming essential to trade across the islands. Ever since, sailing has been a part of everyday life in Greece, so unsurprisingly, the sailing infrastructure across the Aegean Sea is excellent.

Almost all the larger Greek islands have vast harbors and quays where sailors can drop anchor. However, sailing is so popular that even smaller isles with few villages and smaller populations also have well-built ports and harbors. As a result, sailors very rarely need help finding somewhere to drop anchor.

Experienced Charter Companies

The popularity of sailing in the Greek islands has led to a thriving charter industry. Since the early 1960s, sailing vacations in Greece have only increased in popularity, and with that comes more charter companies with a wealth of experience. As such, it’s now incredibly easy for wannabe sailors to find an experienced charter company that will take them around the islands.

Better yet, with so many experienced charter companies to choose from, sailing enthusiasts have more variety when it comes to choosing a charter that suits them. They can choose between smaller, more traditional boats, large modern sailing yachts, catamarans, and more.

Safety

Generally, Greece is one of the safest countries in the world to travel to. Tourists are unlikely to fall victim to crime, and there are no dangers in the sea. According to Global Finance, Greece is the 58th most safe country in the world. As such, sailors can enjoy their trip around the Greek islands, knowing they likely won’t run into trouble.

Greece is also a very reliable place to visit regarding medical centers. Almost every island has a medical center and pharmacy, should you require it. The only exception is the tiniest isles, where such facilities are more challenging to come by.

Flexible Itineraries

Another factor that helps make the Greek islands a sailor’s paradise is the ability to travel with more freedom. Tying in nicely to having 6,000+ islands and islets to explore, sailing offers you the freedom to plan your own itinerary and travel at your own pace.

Unlike land-based travel, you’re not confined to specific routes. Instead, you can chart a course based on your passions and preferences. Whether you seek the most iconic attractions, secluded coves, or lively nightlife, you can sail wherever you please. Better yet, you aren’t governed by flight times and traffic delays like you are with more conventional modes of travel.

Reasonable Prices

It isn’t an exaggeration to say that Greece is one of the cheapest sailing destinations in Europe. In fact, according to Sunsail, you won’t find a cheaper sailing destination anywhere in Europe. In Greece, everything from the boat you charter and the marinas where you dock to prices at restaurants and grocery essentials are more affordable than in other destinations.

Of course, prices vary depending on where you decide to moor and the type of boat you choose to charter, but that’s the beauty of it. The Greek islands offer sailing trips suited to everyone. If you dream of traveling on a luxury yacht, that’s great; if not, choose a smaller, less expensive charter.