Saronic Gulf – 1 week Itinerary

The islands of the are the most easily accessible islands by sailing yacht from . The Saronic Gulf and the nearby prefecture of the mainland are an ideal destination for shorter trips from Athens and are also recommended for less experienced sailors due to the short distances involved and the relatively mild winds in comparison to other sailing areas in .

You can start your sailing trip from marina and visit the islands of Aigina, , and with two more stops in and Epidavros located on the adjacent Peloponnese coast. This itinerary is ideal for a week long sailing charter. For those with only a few days any of the above destinations may be included or omitted as time permits. For those looking for a longer two week charter in the same area the historic cities of and Nafpleio on the second leg of the Peloponnese are easily included. More details on this extended charter itinerary are available here: Saronic & Eastern Peloponnese Itinerary

A brief description of the islands and their highlights are included below along with a relevant map with sailing distances and some suggested links for further information. Happy sailing!

The islands in detail

Aegina

Some 18 nautical miles from Athens, is a popular first and/or last port of call for sailing charters starting and ending in Athens. A site not to miss is the impressive Temple of built in the 5th century BC. Aegina is also famous for its fantastic pistachio nuts, the island's soil being considered perfect for their cultivation, so be sure to pick up a bag or two to take with you!

Poros

Poros is a cosmopolitan island and very popular with the sailing crowd with many choices for good eating and drinking in the main town's promenade and side roads. A short climb up to the main clock tower is well worth it for the lovely views of the port and the opposite mainland. For those who love ancient sites the Temple of in the north of the island is in a lovely spot with some views, although there are no standing structures anymore. The Archaeological Museum of Poros has a display of relevant finds from the site.

Spetses

Along with Hydra and Poros, Spetses played a defining role in the Greek war of independence in the early 1800's. Spetses was the home of famous Greek heroine Laskarina Bouboulinas and her house has now been converted into a museum documenting her life and contibution to the independance struggle.

Hydra

Hydra is a historically wealthy island and this is continued into modern times with it being known as a weekend getaway for Athenians and something of an artist's haven with many local art galleries showing exhibitions of well known and upcoming artists. Hydra is also known for its architecture and the main town is filled with beautiful houses. Hydra is also well known as an island with no cars or motorbikes, so enjoy the peace and quiet while you are there!

Ermioni

Opposite Hydra is the tourist town of Ermioni. The town is popular for its pleasant beaches and a number of historical buildings including the Church of Taxiarchon. To the east is the ruins of the ancient port of Ermioni in a nice setting right on top of the sea.

Epidaurus

The port of Epidavros gives visitors access to the famous Ancient Theatre of Epidavros which is a UNESCO World Heritage Site (and rightly so!). Ancient Epidavros should not be missed, there are many plays put on during the summer months, if you are lucky enough to get some tickets it is highly recommended!

Saronic Gulf Islands – 2 week Itinerary

A two week charter in the Argolic and Saronic Gulfs opens up a range of possible destinations on the second leg of the Peleponnese, the area encompassing the . While the Saronic Gulf islands can be a bit busy during the sailing high season for those with extra time to cruise the Argolic Gulf is much more quiet and relaxed. Well worth the visit, highlights include the historical cities of Monemvasia and and the ports of Leonidio, Kiparissi and Porto Heli along with a swing by the famous temple at Sounio on the way back!

The Eastern Peloponnese in detail

Porto Heli

Porto Heli is a pleasant fishing village/summer resort on the western side of the Argolid penisula which is well known for its lovely beaches and active nightlife. Ververonta Lake is about 5kms from Porto Heli and worth a look.

Nafplio

Nafplio is an historically important city on the northern shores of the Argolic Gulf. It was the seat of Greece's first independant capital following the War of Independance. Nafplio has a number of historical sites worth exploring including the famous Fortress built by the Venetians in the 17th century and located on a hilltop overlooking the town and the fortress of Bourtzi on a small island of the same name just opposite Nafplio. The town itself has many architecturally significant buildings and the main Constitution square is a lovely place to relax and anjoy a drink while watching the world go by.

Leonidio

Leonidio and its nearby port Plaka are situated in a beautiful setting between two imposing mountain peaks with the river Dafnona running through it. The lovely beach and many tavernas make Leonidio a perfect half way point between Nafplio and Monemvasia.

Kiparissi

Kiparissi is another popular point to stop and relax on the way between destinations in the Argolic Gulf. Relaxed cafes, tavernas and bars with a nice beach and those impressive mountains in the distance, what more do you need!

Monemvasia

The beautiful town of Monemvasia is a popular tourist destination. Situated on a tiny spit of land and on top of what is in essance one huge piece of rock the old town is full of small cobbled pathways and medieval buildings and the entire town is surrounded by a fortified wall. There are many points of interest including the upper castle, various museums and a number of churches dating back hundreds of years. Monemvasia is truly a unique destination and well worth the visit.