General information
The islands of the Saronic Gulf are a quick sail from the busy ports of Piraeus and Lavrio and therefore a popular destination, with a sound infrastructure, for Athenians and tourists alike. With almost 100 islands and rocky outlets in the area, it makes for a great trip on your yacht charter.
In the Saronic Gulf there are: the busy and densely populated SALAMINA; AEGINA, home to the famous Temple of Aphai, and the nearby resort island of AGISTRI; alluring POROS opposite the Peloponnese, site of the famous lemon forest; and beyond that HYDRA, with its unique architecture and very busy harbour where it can be difficult to get a berth if you come in late by boat.
At the entrance to the Saronic Gulf is the green and picturesque SPETSES with a great seafaring tradition, and the smaller privately owned SPETSOPOULA. From Spetses you can explore the coast of the Peloponnese by yacht and even stop in at Nafplio. The area abounds with attractive towns, Byzantine castles, little fishing ports, ancient sites and ideal anchorages.
Read more about Argosaronic on Greek National Tourism Organisation page - here
Sailing conditions
Being protected by the Attica peninsula and the Peloponnese, the winds are usually friendly and makes the Saronic routes recommended for easy sailing, especially in July and August when the 'meletmi' blows strongly across the Aegean Sea. The proximity of the islands makes it ideal for a shorter boat charter. During the high season it can be very busy and finding a place for your yacht in the harbour can get difficult. The area is well connected and makes picking up your boat charter easy.
In the Argolic Gulf, the summer wind blows from the South-East, Beaufort Force 3-5. During spring and autumn the winds are somewhat weaker and come from the South.The 'Meltemi' is strong during lunch time and dies down at night. The offshore wind from the Peloponnese mountains, the 'Katabatic', can reach up to 35 knots but only lasts a few hours.