Greece sailing guide 2025 – Cyclades and Ionian highlights

Choosing the right Greek region

Greece offers very different sailing experiences depending on where you depart. The Meltemi challenges crews in the Cyclades, while the Ionian delivers family-friendly breezes. Charterwerk can match you with a base that fits your comfort level.

Cyclades (Athens/Lavrion departures)

• Wind – Expect Meltemi northerlies up to 30 kn in July/August; reef early.
• Route idea (7 days) – Kea → Syros → Mykonos (reserve a berth) → Paros → Antiparos → Serifos → back to Lavrion.
• Highlights – Serifos Koutalas Bay, Paros Naousa nightlife, Antiparos caves.
• Tips – Plan for fallback anchorages on leeward sides; use Charterwerk’s berth booking concierge for Mykonos.

Ionian (Lefkas/Corfu departures)

• Wind – Gentle afternoon NW breeze (10–16 kn), calm mornings.
• Route idea (7 days) – Lefkas → Meganisi → Kastos → Kalamos → Ithaca → Kefalonia → Lefkas.
• Highlights – Fiskardo pastel harbour, Vassiliki kite scene, secluded bays in Meganisi.
• Tips – Ideal for mixed-experience crews; book stern-to berths via our app.

Seasonal considerations

• May–June – Moderate winds, water warming, smaller crowds.
• July–August – Busy ports, ensure berths are reserved by midday.
• September–October – Warm water, reliable breeze, best time for Cyclades crossings.
• Winter – Limited services but possible with professional crew.

Practicalities

• Transfers – Athens airport ↔ Lavrion 35 min, Preveza ↔ Lefkas 25 min.
• Permits – Charterwerk handles DEKPA/TEPAI paperwork ahead of arrival.
• Fuel & water – Tanker trucks deliver to most Cycladic quays; Ionian marinas provide on-pontoon services.
• Provisioning – AB Vassilopoulos (Athens) and Lefkas super markets offer pre-order with dockside delivery.
• Best price guarantee – Share competing quotes and we will match them with verified operators.

Extend your charter

Add the Saronic Gulf (Hydra, Spetses) or alternate between Cyclades and Dodecanese on a 14-day itinerary. Our specialists provide updated weather routing and can arrange local skippers for tricky passages.