Close to mainland Greece, the Saronic Gulf offers easy sailing, sheltered from the stronger winds of the Aegean. Saronic gulf islands charter itineraries usually begin from Athens’ Kalamaki marina. Of the six inhabited islands, Aegina, Agistri, Hydra, and Poros are popular weekend retreats for Athenians. While Salamis is somewhat industrial, and Dokos is home to just a dozen monks.
Aegina
The largest island and closest to Athens is Aegina. Sail to Agia Marina, where you can safely spend a night at anchor below the impressive fifth-century BC Temple of Aphaia. The local specialty is pistachio nuts, which are on sale across the island. Nearby, tiny Angistri is known for its fragrant pinewoods and low-key vibe.
Temple of Aphaia, Aegina
Agistri
Located near Athens,Agistri offers crystal-clear beaches, picturesque villages, and lush nature for a perfect weekend getaway. There’s no shortage of swimming spots, from Skala and Aponissos to Dragonera and Megalochori. Moreover, the island has a handful of secluded beaches. Explorers seeking an immersive adventure may want to rent a bike and traverse the meandering paths beneath the shade of the tall pines.
Hydra
But for many visitors, the highlight is Hydra. Singer-songwriter Leonard Cohen lived here during the 1960s when the island became a magnet for international artists and bohemians.
Historically, Hydra’s wealth was from shipping, hence the elegant pastel-colored neo-classical mansions above the lovely harbor. Hike up to the hillside monasteries (there are no cars on Hydra – locals use donkeys instead) and later visit the Deste Foundation Project Space to see the contemporary art exhibition.
Poros
North of Hydra, pine-scented Poros sits close to the mainland Peloponnese. In particular, Poros Town has a pretty harbor lined with lively cafes and restaurants. Poros also offers an abundance of exciting water activities to all age groups. From banana boat slides to waterskiing, there is something for everyone. Notable centers of activity are present in the organized beaches of Askeli and Neorio, as well as less-traveled beaches.
Moreover, the Greek island is widely known for its excellent sailing. Companies throughout Poros offer journeys and educational programs to traverse the Saronic Gulf and the surrounding coast of the Peloponnese.
Poros, Greece, in the Saronic Islands.
Methana Peninsula
While sailing the Saronic Gulf, you might also visit the volcanic Methanapeninsula with its sulfur springs and the impressive third-century BC Epidaurus Theater with superb acoustics on the Peloponnese.
A seven-night yacht charter from Athens to Monemvasia to Athens takes you to stunning Greek Islands. The itinerary combines the Saronic Gulf, Peloponesse, and Cyclades Islands. Please note that this is only a sample itinerary. Your Captain will work with you to design an itinerary that suits your interests and desires. You may want to arrive in Athens a day before your charter. You will have time to see the city and rest before your yacht departs. Day 1 | Athens to Poros - 29 NM Board your yacht and set sail for Poros after a brief safety meeting. Poros offers a lovely combination of pine tree forests and small bays. The island consists of two parts, connected by a narrow piece of land. The first one, called Sferia, is the capital Town. The other one, Kalavria, is the mainland, with forests and beaches. Poros, Greece. Photo by Peter Boccia...
This sample Athens to Nafplion 14-Day Itinerary highlights the beautiful Saronic Islands. Please note that this itinerary is only a sample. You and your Captain will decide the best itinerary based on your preferences and desires and the weather at the time of your charter. Acropolis in Athens at night. By taking a 14-day charter rather than a 7-day, you will have ample time to visit those out-of-the-way islands that most visitors miss. Day 1 | Alimos Marina (Athens) Athens is a fantastic place to begin your Athens to Nafplion to Athens Itinerary. Once you board your yacht and your Captain reviews the safety procedures, set sail, and enjoy lunch on board. Day 2 | Aegina - 16 NM Aegina Island welcomes you with extensive sandy beaches and shallow waters suitable for families. Perdika Harbour in Aegina Places to see Temple of Aphaia. Formerly known as the temple of Jupiter...
Athens to Saronic Islands Itinerary takes you to magnificent islands of the Greek Saronic Gulf. Discover these beautiful islands' rich history, nature, traditions, and local cuisine. Note that this is only a sample itinerary. Your Captain will work with you to create a personalized itinerary based on your preferences. Athens, Greece. Photo by Takis Kolokotronis on FreeImages. Day 1 | Alimos - Epidaurus 36 NM Begin your journey in Alimos, Athens. After a brief safety meeting with the Captain, he will sail for Epidaurus. Epidaurus, Greece. Photo by Kostas Vrouvas on Unsplash. Places to see Archaeological Museum of the Asklepeion at Epidaurus. The Archaeological Museum of Epidaurus is one of the oldest museums of ancient Greek architecture. It is home to an extensive collection of essential finds discovered in the Sanctuary of Asklepios (1881-1928). Ancient Theatre of the Asklepieion at Epidaurus. This amphitheater, known for its excellent acoustics, was built...
This Athens to Saronic to Cyclades Itinerary highlights some amazingly scenic Greek Islands. Please note that this itinerary is a sample. Your Captain will connect with you to create a personalized itinerary based on your preferences and desires. Day 1 | Athens – Poros (overnight) Poros is separated from the mainland of the Peloponnese by just a few hundred meters. Poros Town is the city's center. Beaches, seafront tavernas, and watersports can be found on the larger Kalavria, which is covered in olive groves, pine forests, and vineyards. Day 2 | Poros – Spetses, Zogeria Bay | Spetses, Zogeria Bay – Spetses Port (overnight) Even though Spetses is located just a few kilometers away from the Peloponnese mainland, it has maintained its secluded charm. By island standards, Spetses Town is a large, vibrant town. The island's nightlife centers around the Old Harbour, a famous harbor for yachts. There are plenty...
A one-week Lavrion to Saronic Islands Itinerary takes you to some of the most beautiful islands in the Saronic Gulf. It is an accessible itinerary as the local sea is protected from strong winds and big waves. The itinerary comprises relatively short sailing trips, with one or two exceptions. So, if you and your guests prefer relaxed holidays, then one week in the Argosaronic Gulf can be ideal. Aegina Island. Photo by Emily Karakis on Unsplash. Day 1 | Aegina - 35 NM Depart from the Lavrion-Olympic marina on day one of your Lavrion to Saronic Islands Itinerary. The first destination is the cove of Agia Marina on Aegina island. Places to see Temple of Apollo Tower of Markellos Temple of Athena Aphaia Aegina Agios Nektarios Monastery Aegina Archaeological museum. The museum has findings from all the ancient sites on the island. Church Isodia Theotokou Things to do The port...
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