Sailing the Saronic Islands and Peloponnese: A Greek Yacht Charter Adventure

Planning the Greek Sailing Trip

• 💡 The idea for a sailing trip in Greece originated years ago for a milestone birthday but was delayed by life events and the pandemic.
• 🎯 The trip was finally realized through a partnership with Navigare Yachting, which provided a yacht charter.
• 🔑 Key decisions involved choosing between a monohull (for experienced sailors) and a catamaran (for comfort and space with a crew), with the latter being chosen for this trip.

The Catamaran Experience

• 🚀 The chosen catamaran, the Oceans 12, offered ample space with multiple seating areas, a well-equipped interior, and four cabins plus crew quarters.
• ⚓ Parking a boat in Greece involves dropping anchor offshore and backing into the dock, often requiring a plank walk to get on and off the boat, which demands good balance.
• ⛵ While on a sailboat, actual sailing time can vary; the trip primarily involved motoring due to the itinerary's length and weather conditions.

Itinerary and Destinations

• 🗺️ The one-week itinerary, departing from Athens, focused on the Saronic Islands and parts of the Peloponnese, avoiding longer trips to more distant islands.
• 📍 The first stop was the port of Pira on Aegina island, offering waterfront tavernas for a meal.
• 🏝️ Hydra, a well-known island with no cars, was a picturesque stop with a tiny harbor.
• 🏛️ The journey included sailing to Karyes on the Peloponnese coast and the historic fortified city of Monemvasia, a highlight of the trip.
• 🎭 The itinerary also included a stop at Epidaurus to see the ancient theater known for its acoustics and a healing center.
• 🏛️ The final stop before returning to Athens was Aegina town, exploring the Temple of Apollo and a museum with pottery spanning 7,000 years.

Crew and Costs

• 👨‍✈️ The trip included a captain for navigation and a host who prepared breakfast and lunch, with the option for a full cook.
• 💰 The total cost for six people for one week was approximately $11,400, or about $1,900 per person, covering the yacht, crew, food, fuel, and other fees.
• 🤝 The crew, particularly the captain and host, significantly enhanced the experience by knowing locals and tailoring meals to preferences.

Reflections and Recommendations

• ✨ The trip was described as relaxing and a luxury experience, offering stunning views and a unique way to experience the Greek islands.
• ⛵ The author highly recommends sailing in the Saronic Islands and Peloponnese, emphasizing the beauty of the rugged coastlines and the welcoming sailing culture.
• 🧑‍🤝‍🧑 Choosing the right travel companions is crucial for a successful and enjoyable small-boat sailing trip.