6 of the best sailing destinations in Greece

Discovering the Aegean Sea by boat is probably one of the best decisions we can take this summer. Sailing holidays hopping between islands and exploring beaches, undiscovered bays and wild nature is more accessible than you might have imagined.

If you have already read our article on the 6 safe nautical travel destinations, you already know Greece combines tradition with innovation. Get ready to dive into Greece’s top sailing destinations around the Greek islands this summer! 

Get onboard

If you are ready for your boat adventure, the most popular departure point is the Piraeus port of the marinas on the south coast of Athens: Zea, Flisvos and Alimos. 

Lavrio, on the eastern coast of Greece is also a sailing departure for different sailboats. Moreover, most firms also arrange transfers from the airport or offer full sea itineraries. 

The Cyclades

Considered the crown jewels of the Aegean, they are an attractive sailing destination in Greece as they're relatively close to Athens and offer exciting experiences. With mesmerizing white villages, golden beaches and clear blue waters, they are the most famous island chain in Greece. 

Mykonos

Voted by many tourists as the top summer holiday destination by many, and this is because of a good reason. It has exceptional beaches, award-winning restaurants and dreamy villas. If you want to feel like a celebrity, this is your island. 

What to do: Explore around Little Venice and its iconic windmills, these are one of the most-photographed spots on Mykonos. Built in the 18th century, it is said that pirates stored their treasures here. 

Also, you should practice water sports on the best beaches, we highly recommend Agios Sostis, Kalafatis and Paradise Beach. If you are a foodie, you could try going on an agrotourism tour on the island. Lastly, don’t miss out on the magical sunset at Armenistis lighthouse!

Paros

Ideal for any kind of holiday, Paros has the potential for all you desire. Discover hidden alleyways in Parikia, leisure in the afternoon in Naoussa or write postcards from Paros to remind your family of the incredible destination you are at. 

What to do: immerse yourself in Kolymbithres Beach, the seawater sculptures of golden sand around granite rocks. If you love water sports, this is the perfect spot for those who love kitesurfing or windsurfing due to the strong winds. 

The hidden gems are the monastery of Ai Yiannis Detis, from where you can see the entire bay of Paros and Lefkes, the first capital on the island built up the hill like in an amphitheatre. 

Naxos

With stunning crystal clear waters, medieval towers and delicious cuisine, Naxos is the sailing destination you were hoping for. Moreover, when you visit Paros and enter the harbour, you are greeted by the ancient Portara, a massive marble gateway and the sight of the medieval castle above the town. 

What to do: once in Naxos, you have to visit the kouri - colossal, half-finished statues of young men that rest in a garden at Melanes. Sports lovers will want to head to Mikri Vigla beach for some windsurfing action. 

Nature lovers can head to the Tragea Valley in the middle of Naxos and foodies will love trying the graviera and kefalotiri cheeses. Make sure to also order a glass of kitro, a liqueur distilled from leaves of citron. Very fresh! 

Santorini

Also known in Greek as Thera, the volcanic island of Santorini overwhelms tourists with exquisite beaches, amazing food and an unforgettable sunset. It’s reputation is undisputable for its multicoloured cliffs.

What to do: Once you leave your boat, make sure to swim in its beaches of exotic colours - Kokkini Paralia (Red Beach), Aspri Paralia (White Beach), Perivolos (Black Beach). Moreover, we recommend you visit the islands around the caldera, especially Thirasia, so you understand what Santorini looked like 50 years ago.

For sport lovers, scuba diving in volcanic waters and discovering the shipwreck at Taxiarchis is a delight. We also recommend you enjoy a private intimate experience enjoying the sunset from Skaros or at the lighthouse of Akrotiri. 

If you want to discover in more depth the Cyclades, The Cyclades with Andi Van Zyl explores the islands of Naxos and Ios. Check it out! 

The Dodecanese

In the top list of sailing destinations in Greece we had to include cruising around the Dodecanese during the summer. As with the Cyclades, these islands are all fairly close to one another and have great marinas for all sizes of boats. 

Karpathos

If you spend a day in Karpathos, you can expect to get to know the traditions and people on the island and be amazed at how authentic village life is here. Stroll around the narrow streets, overlook the turquoise waters of the Aegean Sea from a balcony and be surrounded by all the greenery scenery of Karpathos. 

What to do: Hike around the island, Karpathos is one of the most important protection sites in Greece for rare species and ecosystems. The north, above Olymbos, is a great spot to discover species of birds, seals or frogs. 

You will find useful: Watching Discovering Karpathos to get more ideas! 

Rhodes

The beautiful Old Town of Rhodes has been declared a Unesco World Heritage Site for its imposing walls, ancient statues and breathtaking views of the sea.The island combines tradition and modern life, and is an unmissable destination when we sail in Greece. 

What to do: Get mesmerized by the amount of butterflies in the Valley of the Butterflies before heading to the beach in Kiotari, Kallithea or Agathi. If you are looking for some action, Faliraki has plenty of activities such as water sports, bungee jumping or karting. 

We recommend: Watching Discovering Rhodes on Nautical Channel for more spots! 

Symi

If you are looking for a different experience, you will end up in Symi. It is very close to Rhodes but is completely different, as it is the perfect destination for those who want to combine a rich history and expensive yachting. 

What to do: Gialos, Symi’s port, conserves its colour and glamour. It is a great first stop before setting sail to the beaches of Symi like Ai-Giorgi, Dysalona or Fokospilia. If you get hungry, the most famous traditional dish in Symi is the shrimps, try them fried at one of the tavernas of Horio. 

If you want to find out more spots, make sure to watch Discovering Symi.