by
Giannis Makridakis
SailGreeceYachts
Due
to its proximity to the main charter bases in Athens, the Saronic Gulf is
one of Greece’s most well sailed areas.
Common one week routes
include the islands of Aigina, Poros, Hydra and Spetses. Spots to visit
along the mainland are the ports of Methana, Ermioni and Porto Heli and
the archeological site of ancient Epidavros. Two
week routes give more time to explore the above or the chance to head to
the Argolic Gulf and enjoy the green landscape of the eastern
Peloponnesian coast with its famous towns of Monevassia and Nafplio.
In addition to its
proximity to Athens, the Saronic Gulf is also popular with charter firms
and sailors alike for its mild weather and pleasant sailing conditions.
Most destinations are quite close to each other with easy three to four
hour trips the norm and distances rarely exceeding 25 NM.
The
summer winds (meltemia) which usually start in mid July and last through
September are mainly north easterly gusting to force 4-6 and dying down
once nighttime arrives. The island of Poros and nearby Methana often offer
a relaxing shelter to these winds, but the sea of the Saronic Gulf is
generally relatively calm and ideal for relaxed sailing wherever and
whenever you are visiting.
All in all, the Saronic
Gulf is the perfect destination for a laid back sailing holiday with
little to worry inexperienced sailors and enough interesting destinations
to keep more experienced crews happy. The marinas along Athens west coast
offer immediate access to Aigina and the gulf and are within half an hour
by road from the new Athens International Airport. What more could you ask
for?
Our top three tips for
sailing the Saronic Gulf:
Top
Tip #1: If possible charter from Friday to Friday. The early start
will keep you a day ahead of the weekend flotilla and skippered charters
that flock the area and will make your sailing more peaceful and the
mooring less hectic.
Top Tip #2: Seriously
consider sailing slightly off season, so any time before July or after
early September. Yacht charters and tourist numbers in general are lower
and your holiday is usually much more rewarding.
Top Tip #3: If a
strong meltemi is driving you mad try leaving very early in the morning to
get your travelling done before the winds start picking up for the day
towards noon.
Email: sailgreece@ath.forthnet.gr
Website: Sail Greece
Yacht Charters
More
Articles | Submit
Your Article
How-to-Sail
Homepage
Contact Us
|