Sailing Routes
When it comes to sailing it is always good to have a plan. There are numerous islands to visit in Greece, offering you moments varying from full relaxation to party nightlife.
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Below we have prepared suggested routes for the Saronic and Cycladic Islands. Make your choice on what you desire, and keep in mind the weather forecast to stay safe. If you have a confirmed booking, we will be pleased to give you access to more itineraries.
Routes & Itineraries
Saronic Island Route in Detail
Journey Stage
Distance
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32 NM
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15 NM
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22 NM
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22 NM
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11 NM
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15 NM
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37 NM
Estimated Time to Complete
(average wind & speed)
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5 hours
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2 hours
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3.5 hours
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3.5 hours
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1.5 hours
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2 hours
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5.5 hours
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10 am
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10.30 am
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10 am
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9 am
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4 pm
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10 am
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10 am
Start in Lavrio (Check in 5 pm)
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Lavrio - Aegina
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Aegina - Epidauros
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Epidauros - Poros
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Poros - Ermioni
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Ermioni - Spetses
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Spetses - Hydra
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Hyrdra - Lavrio
Recommended Departure Time
Saronic Islands Itinerary
Day 1: Start in Lavrio
The port of Lavrio is located on the southeast side of Attica, just around the Cape of Sounio. Many use it as a starting point to explore the Cyclades. This quiet and charming port retains a sleepy atmosphere despite being so popular with commercial and private yachts in recent years. Check into Lavrio Marina at 5 pm and go exploring. A little known fact about Lavrio is that it is home to Greece’s largest and oldest amphitheater. The marble columns for the nearby Temple of Poseidon were extracted from this site. The silver mines in the area are believed to be some of the oldest in the world. These mines financed the Athenian defeat of Persia and the building of the Acropolis itself. The residue from the silver mining era has seeped into the sea, creating amazing natural crystals that are washed onto the shore in the winter. Lavrio’s popularity means a whole array of restaurants and bars are now available to choose from for a bite to eat or a drink as you watch the people come and go.
Day 2: Aegina
Depart for Aegina at 10 am. Aegina Island served as Greece’s capital from 12 January to 3 October 1828. The main feature on approach is the rocky composition of the island, with many sheer rock faces dropping directly into the sea, or featuring narrow pebble beaches at the bottom. Aegina is famous for the pistachios grown on the island that have a characteristic teardrop shape and distinct flavor. There is a festival celebrating the local variety every year. Overnight in Aegina town’s port where you can disembark for dinner at one of the many tavernas on the waterfront, or get your meal packed to enjoy onboard.
Day 3: Epidauros
Depart for Epidauros at 10.30 am. Built in the 4th Century BC by Polykleitos, the site still operates today as a working theatre, featuring many famous Greek and international stars and plays. The summer months are the best time to catch a show. In the spring, the entire area is flooded with the scent of orange blossom as the nearby citrus orchards come into bloom. The microclimate of Epidauros makes it ideal to visit all year round. Overnight in Epidauros and enjoy dinner at Ta Klimata in Palaia Epidauros. (restaurant tel: +302753041225)
Day 4: Poros
Depart for Poros at 10 am. Poros town is one of the most picturesque island capitals of Greece. The center features a clock, installed in 1927, which is visible from everywhere on the island. The island is built up in an amphitheater formation, with its neoclassical buildings facing the sea. In the evening, dine at Primasera in the port, a well-known fish tavern where you can try some great seafood (restaurant tel: +30 2298023080)
Day 5: Ermioni & Spetses
Depart for Ermioni at 9 am. This peaceful little town near Porto Heli is a great place to relax and take in some Greek culture. Take a taxi to the nearby Franchthi cave. Paleolithic, Mesolithic and Neolithic populations have occupied this ancient cave.
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Depart for Spetses at 4 pm. Spetses island is famous as the much-loved destination of the Greek elite. A nearby private beach boasts white sand shipped in from Asia by its wealthy owner. Each year, the Armata festival is held on the island to commemorate a navy battle in 1822. Dances and events take place across the island, and in the evening, you can enjoy the firework display from the boat. Grab a few supplies from the island’s mini markets and spend the afternoon on Zogeria beach in a secluded cove on the North side of the island. Bekiri cave is also a beautiful, shallow cave that is a must-see. Enjoy dinner onboard or return to the town and grab a bite to eat at Nichtimeron. Try its local specialty of grilled fish with tomato sauce. (restaurant tel: +302298072465)
Day 6: Hydra
Depart for Hydra at 10 am. Hydra has a strong maritime culture and a beautiful crescent shaped bay, which houses a large variety of museums and galleries. There are no cars on Hydra. All transport is by foot, bicycle or donkey. In mid-October, the island hosts its annual Rebetiko festival in tribute to this melancholic and atmospheric branch of traditional Greek music. Arriving in the late afternoon, take a 15-minute walk to Castello (Kamini) bay for a swim. This gently sloping beach is a good option for families with children, though there are plenty of rocky beaches to choose from too. Have lunch at one of the two tavernas in Kamini harbor nearby. In the evening, enjoy the well-preserved neoclassical buildings along the main harbor front. Dinner at Paradosiako Taverna with its exceptional views. (restaurant tel: +30 2298054155)
Day 7: Sailing to Lavrio
Depart at 10 am for Lavrio. The temperate sailing conditions in the Agrosaronic Gulf are a good place to test out your sailing skills before arriving back in Lavrio. Bordering with the Aegean Sea, Lavrio can be home to slightly more challenging sailing conditions. Back in Lavrio, enjoy a stroll along the marina and discover what fresh seafood is on offer at the seafront tavernas. Check out is next day at 9 am.
Cycladic Islands Route in Detail
Recommended Departure Time
Journey Stage
Start in Lavrio (Check in 5 pm)
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Lavrio - Serifos
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Serifos - Milos
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Milos - Kimolos
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Kimolos - Sifnos
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Sifnos - Kythnos
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Kythnos - Lavrio
Distance
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40 NM
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30 NM
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16 NM
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12 NM
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30 NM
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25 NM
Estimated Time to Complete
(average wind & speed)
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6.5 hours
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4.5 hours
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2.5 hours
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2 hours
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4.5 hours
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4 hours
Recommended Departure Time
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9 am
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10 am
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10 am
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10 am
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8 am​
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10 am
Cycladic Islands Itinerary
Day 1: Start in Lavrio
The port of Lavrio is located on the southeast side of Attica, just around the Cape of Sounio. Many use it as a starting point to explore the Cyclades. This quiet and charming port retains a sleepy atmosphere despite being so popular with commercial and private yachts in recent years. Check into Lavrio Marina at 5 pm and go exploring. A little known fact about Lavrio is that it is home to Greece’s largest and oldest amphitheater. The marble columns for the nearby Temple of Poseidon were extracted from this site. The silver mines in the area are believed to be some of the oldest in the world. These mines financed the Athenian defeat of Persia and the building of the Acropolis itself. The residue from the silver mining era has seeped into the sea, creating amazing natural crystals that are washed onto the shore in the winter. Lavrio’s popularity means a whole array of restaurants and bars are now available to choose from for a bite to eat or a drink as you watch the people come and go.
Day 2: Serifos
Serifos has curiously managed to retain its authentic charm, low-key profile and laid-back ambience. You will not find hip bars, fusion cuisines, jet skis and fancy sun beds here. The food in the little tavernas has a homemade quality and the golden sand or colorful pebbles on most of the 72 beaches of all sizes bear few, if any, footprints – just as in the old days as Serifos is sparsely populated (1,400). Avlomonas, near the port of Livadi, is the only beach with sunbeds. Livadakia, Ganema, Psili Ammos (highly rated by The Sunday Times), Aghios Sostis and Sykamia are also excellent, well shaded and popular. To be disappointed by any of the local cuisine and wine is out of the question. Chickpea soup ('revythada') with rosemary is the local speciality but also look for seafood and sausages. Aloni, on the road to Chora, has sea views. Livadi has excellent seafood, especially lobster spaghetti. Manolis in Psili Ammos, is the best option for revythada and has fine traditional Greek dishes. In Chora Karavomylos and Petros, Plakes, fine grill with views. Ganema, on the homonymous beach, offers great value for money and finally end your night at the Yacht Club for drinks.
Day 3: Milos
Milos is famous for its shores. With over 75 large and small beaches, crystal blue waters, colorful carved rocks and white golden sandy beaches, you are sure to love it. Due to the volcanic origin of the territory, Milos has spectacular topography and variety of beaches. We sometimes find sandy beaches with platinum and sometimes bays are surrounded by pebble stones, white, red, yellow or black rocks. Varying colors and depths are found in the sea, and you can swim in a fully equipped beaches or choose one more secluded and wild. The truth is that the clear waters of the island and the infinite beauty of the beaches will offer you an unparalleled experience.
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Kleftiko
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Don't miss a stop at Kleftiko! The cluster of these original volcanic rocks, is a magical landscape worthy of admiration, but also a place to enjoy the sensation of clear blue-green water and sun. Kleftiko was where old pirate ships anchored for protection in the small coves and under the majestic cliffs. Today, these unique geological formations, creatures of air and sea, ideal for swimming and exploring. Access is only by sea to this beautiful landscape.
Day 4: Kimolos
The island has a dual character: a rugged and rocky northern part and a tamer south, with long sandy beaches shaded by trees and meadows stretching right down to the water’s edge. Kimolos has kept a discrete distance from its more cosmopolitan Cycladic peers and prices are among the lowest in the island group. Free camping, despite a ban, is still possible – but be circumspect and tidy. The port of Psathi, with an authentic Cycladic look, has evidently rejected any temptation to grow with tourism. It comprises just a handful of tavernas, a coffee bar and a few houses. Only the arrival of ferries interrupts the tranquillity. Recommendations: in Chora, Bohoris (tel +30 22870 51329), classic Greek dishes and ouzo appetizers; Panorama (tel +30 22870 51531), excellent dishes with local produce and wonderful sea views; Nikos (tel +30 22870 51455), some of the best Greek dishes, especially meat-based; Samplos, In Kampos tel +30 22870 51666), fine grilled meat dishes and house wine; in Psathi, Kyma (tel +30 22870 51001), specializes in beef with tomato sauce, imam baildi, pumpkin pie and stuffed cuttlefish. At Ventouris’ bakery, ask for pitta ladenia – pie stuffed with sun-dried tomato, onion, dill and capers.
Day 5: Sifnos
One of the most traditional islands in the Cyclades, it is home to ancient forts, long beaches, picturesque churches, unique local festivities, a long standing pottery tradition and excellent cuisine. Walk along the cobblestone streets and admire the beautiful Cycladic houses, the gardens full of flowers, and the small shops with local ceramic products, elegant silverware and handicrafts. In the square 'Platia Heroon' visit the Folklore Museum and learn about the traditional life of the islanders, as well as the church of 'Panagia Uranophora' with its rare icons and gold plated chancel screen. You can visit a pottery workshop where local tradition is continued in creating pot plates and the famous 'flaros,' placed on house rooftops. Majestically built on the tip of a rock and washed by the waves, the ancient capital of Kastro has been inhabited since prehistoric times. The view from the edge of the settlement is breathtaking. At the base of the Kastro hill lies the beach of Seralia, where you swim among the ruins of medieval dock constructions. Finally, you can visit the landmark church of 'Panagia Chrysopygis' which stands isolated from the shore. You can swim here or venture further to Plati Yalos, one of the most appealing beaches of the Cyclades.
At the Kamaras port, a surprising great restaurant is the Absinthe Restaurant Bar (tel: +30 2284 031202), up the steps right next to Andonis Kalogeros pottery shop and across from the Old Captain Bar, which is a great for beers and cocktails on a long night out. In Aghia Marina in Kamaras Port, you can find Isalos restaurant (tel: +30 2284 033716). This is a great restaurant by the seaside when it is not windy. One can enjoy a swim and a drink, lunch or a magnificent dinner at sunset.
Day 6: Kythnos
Kythnos is also known as Thermia due to its natural hot springs. Arrive in the early afternoon, for a chance at the natural springs; head to the spa center of Loutra to sample the healing properties for yourself. The warm waters have attracted visitors for hundreds of years, if not thousands. If a refreshing dip is more your style, Loutra beach offers a well serviced beach that doesn’t get too busy. Once suitably refreshed, enjoy dinner at Katerina’s taverna in Loutra (+30 22810 31418). Sip on a drink at the stylish Sofrano Yachting Club before heading back to your boat docked in Loutra Bay.
Day 7: Sailing to Lavrio
Depart at 10 am for Lavrio. Keep your eyes peeled for dolphins that often play in these waters! Check out is next day at 9 am.
Nautal accredits that ND Sails is an expert in Lavrio Port and will recommend the best sailing routes for you.