Greece
The cradle of Mediterranean sailing. A dichotomy between the benign, protected waters of the Ionian and the ferocious, demanding conditions of the Cyclades.
The Two Theatres
Greece cannot be treated as a single sailing destination. You must choose your theatre based strictly on crew competency and tolerance for heavy weather.
| Factor | The Ionian (West) | The Cyclades (East) |
|---|---|---|
| Base Ports | Lefkas, Corfu, Preveza | Athens (Lavrion/Alimos), Paros |
| Wind Conditions | Predictable NW thermals (10-15kts). Calm mornings. | The Meltemi (N/NW). Routinely blows 25-35+ knots in July/August. |
| Sea State | Flat. Protected by islands. | Short, steep waves. Violent crossings between islands. |
| Target Audience | Families, beginners, flotillas. | Experienced sailors, thrill-seekers. |
The Meltemi (Cyclades)
If you charter in the Aegean (Cyclades, Dodecanese) during July or August, you will encounter the Meltemi. It is a dry, katabatic wind that funnels between the islands. It blows hardest during the day and can persist for a week without dropping below 25 knots. It requires a robust vessel, early reefing, and a flexible itinerary (be prepared to stay in port for 2-3 days). Convert wind speeds using our Wind Speed Converter.
Mooring: The Town Quay
Unlike Croatia, where you pay €150+ for a marina, Greece operates on the "Town Quay" system. You Med-moor (stern-to with an anchor dropped off the bow) to a municipal concrete wall. The cost is often negligible (e.g., €10-€20 for a catamaran), and you step off the boat directly into a taverna.
However, this requires precise anchor work. You must know your Anchor Scope, ensure the chain doesn't cross your neighbor's (a daily occurrence in Greece), and reverse straight in crosswinds. If you are not confident in Med-mooring, hire a skipper via our Budget Calculator.
Licensing and the Port Police
Greek Port Police are notoriously pedantic. You must present an original ICC or recognized equivalent. A "Sailing Resume" is completely useless here. Read our protocol on Sailing Qualifications to avoid being detained at the base.