Sailing on vacation captures the essence of summer bliss. In Greece, renting a boat with friends or family lets you effortlessly check off bucket-list islands. This is island hopping at its finest—and one of the safest travel options available today. Ready to unwind? Discover three standout experiences tailored for every sea lover.
1. Passionate About Sailing? Head to the Sporades
Fly into Thessaloniki and head to Volos, the bustling port where you'll collect your boat. Before boarding, savor lunch at a waterfront Tsipouradika. Volos specialties include shareable mezes and potent tsipouro—a perfect holiday kickoff.
Board your vessel, meet your experienced Sail Aegean skipper, and set sail for the Sporades. Relax and soak in the stunning scenery. You'll visit Skiathos, Skopelos, Alonissos, and Syros. As the sparkling waters dance under the sun and a curious turtle peeks by, witness Greece's mesmerizing 50 shades of blue and green.
Skiathos & Skopelos
Skiathos emerges with its harbor and hillside homes. Closer in, terraced streets buzz with Greek chatter and fresh fish aromas. Wander the charming town and unwind on pristine beaches. Next, Skopelos: Mamma Mia fans, join the film tour. Seek hidden coves? Your captain will navigate you there.
Challenge friends to splash contests, crack open Greek Vergina beers, and toast the orange-pink sunset. Retire to your cabin lulled by the waves.
Alonissos & Skyros
Alonissos, a lush hidden gem, awaits. Dolphin spotters, venture to the nearby National Marine Park—home to rare seabirds, dolphins, and seals.
Divers rejoice: Greece's first underwater museum opens August 3, featuring a 5th-century BC shipwreck laden with wine amphorae.
From there, sail to Skyros—undervisited yet brimming with secluded beaches, epic views, Cycladic architecture, and signature 'spaghetti with lobster'.
2. Mini Cruise Through the Cyclades
Experience Greek waters via an intimate 8-day mini cruise. With a small group of up to 48, uncover the Cyclades' whitewashed villages, golden sands, and azure seas—islands born from ancient giant battles, per myth.
Your Island Itinerary
Join Yacht Cruise Company, experts in small-ship voyages, from Athens. First stop: Poros, twin volcanic isles of Sferia and Kalavria. Explore on foot amid citrus groves and blooms.
Enjoy onboard BBQs, morning swims, and vibrant marine life.
Discover Folegandros' dramatic cliffs and white homes, Delos' archaeological wonders, and Antiparos—Tom Hanks' summer retreat.
Spot stars in Santorini, dance in Paros, bay-hop then bar-hop in Mykonos, and conclude in Syros' pastel houses.
3. Day Sailing in Sifnos or Lipsi
(c) Sifnos Island Cruises
Sifnos
Captain your own adventure: Fly to Santorini, rent from Sifnos Boating, and sail to Sifnos, westernmost Cyclades gem. Revel in blue waters, secret beaches, and total freedom.
Cycladic charm meets culinary heaven: goat/sheep cheeses, chickpea soup in ceramic pots, homemade sweets, and aromatic herbs like sage, chamomile, oregano, thyme, and marjoram.
Lipsi
For adrenaline, speed to Lipsi in the Dodecanese near Kos. Turquoise waters surround 26 mostly untouched beaches—a haven for sailors and adventurers alike.
Mix sailing with watersports, hikes, or bike rides for the perfect blend.
Whichever adventure you choose, Greece's seas will captivate endlessly!
