Are you planning flotilla sailing in Greece? Here is some preliminary fun, as we explain the best places. Greece is ideal for flotilla sailing. It has a lovely warm climate, plenty of islands and bays. But there are also plenty of towns and villages with the warmth of the Greek people.
Flotilla sailing Saronic Gulf or Cyclades
What makes Athens a suitable starting point for flotilla sailing? Among other things, a perfect sailing climate: good wind, plenty of sunshine and beautiful blue water. The temperature in summer is around 30 degrees, although it can certainly be a bit warmer in the big cities. So plenty of reasons to enjoy sailing in Greece! Near the islands, the Meltemi blows in summer, a strong wind that can cause some cooling. Alimos Marina, or also called Kalamaki marina, is about a 25-minute drive from Athens International Airport.
When you join a flotilla sailing from Athens , you will depart from Alimos marina. Athens' largest marina with hundreds of yachts. Perhaps not as cosy, but due to the amount of boats, it does offer a wide range. From Athens, you can sail to the king's favourite holiday destination, Hydra. From Athens, you can also visit beautiful Vathi or enjoy dinner and a terrace in Poros. If you feel like ending the week with a BBQ, you can do so in Russian Bay, a unique experience!
If you sail in a flotilla from the Cyclades, departure from Lavrion is a good option. From Lavrion you sail directly into the Cyclades and it saves the crossing you would otherwise have to make from Athens. By the way, this is an area for the experienced sailor, due to the strong winds that can blow here. Do you recognise the cottages in white and blue? This is a typical image for the islands in the Cyclades. Wonderful area, then, for the experienced sailor!
Ionian Sea
The Ionian Sea is very suitable for novice sailors. If this is your first time flotilla sailing, we recommend taking Corfu or Lefkas as your starting point. The mornings are often calm and some wind comes in the afternoon, but usually not too much. With plenty of beautiful bays and authentic small Greek coastal towns, the Ionian Sea makes ideal for flotilla sailing. In short, a perfect area for beginners and sailing with (small) children.
Corfu
Corfu is a great starting point when you go flotilla sailing in Greece with your family. You fly into Kerkyra airport and within 15 minutes you will be in the marina. Corfu has a fine base, Gouvia Marina, where the kids can enjoy the pool before departure. Corfu is a northern island and almost always green. Besides the beautiful bays with blue waters and lovely (sandy) beaches, this island also lends itself well to hiking. The area feels friendly and somewhat village-like, due to the many small towns. For the wine lover, descend a bit more as you will come to the famous wine region of Paxi and Antipaxi. Beautiful beaches can also be found here.
With a pleasant temperature of 23 to 30 degrees and a NO wind of 3 BF, this area near Corfu is very suitable for families with children or the less experienced sailor. There is something for everyone in this area. You can find shelter along the coast as well as more adventurous routes over open water. Sailing near Corfu is therefore a perfect destination for the less experienced as well as the very experienced sailor.
Lefkas
From the Netherlands, you can fly directly into the airport on Lefkas, Aktion airport. From the airport it is about 20 minutes to the harbour. flotilla sailing from Lefkas, there are plenty of beautiful bays and beaches here too.
The best period for sailing at Lefkas is from May to October. The sailing conditions here are perfect for the somewhat less experienced sailor. The ability to navigate by sight, calm waters and calm winds ensure that you stay within your comfort zone. With a pleasant temperature of 22 to 30 degrees and a WNW wind of 3 BF, this area near Lefkas is very suitable for families with children.