From the twinkling blue sea to the blissfully relaxed pace of island life, the Saronic Islands of Greece are, quite simply, very special. Enjoy a warm welcome at whitewashed tavernas, stroll endless beaches and relish the calm. For history fans, this is a treasure trove of incredible ancient culture, where alluring ruins exude spellbinding appeal. Mythology and legend thrive in this extraordinary region where your imagination can run wild. There is no better way to explore the glorious clusters of velvet beaches, clear seas and secluded coves than by yacht; wherever you sail, the Saronic delivers an intoxicating blend of fascinating lifestyle and seductive exploration that will result in an unforgettable experience.
Embark in Athens, one of the most renowned Mediterranean harbours and an ideal destination to begin a yacht charter. Take a leisurely cruise to nearby Salamina, an unassuming and wholeheartedly authentic location formed from a small suburb of Athens that broke away into the sea many years ago. Not offering commerical shops or busy tours, it is merely dotted with quaint summer cottages, traditional tavernas and stunning beaches. As there are few hotels, Salamina’s secluded bays are filled with idyllic, sheltered anchorages providing complete tranquillity for yachts to drop anchor. Adventurous explorers will enjoy visiting the Cave of Euripedes, located near Peristeria Beach, featuring 10 cavernous sections that have been used through a range of eras. In August, the Byzantine monastery of Panagia Faneromeni holds an enormous feast in honour of the Virgin Mary – a social event celebrated by locals and visitors alike, featuring plenty of food, wine and entertainment.
In the charming isle of Aegina, immerse your senses in every aspect of typically Greek life. Cruise into the bustling port of Aegina Town, bordered by the small white church of Saint Nikolas, and soak up the view. The amphitheatrically shaped harbour is dotted with colourful fishing boats, fruit filled caiques and glamorous yachts that sit alongside each other. Take your pick of beaches to suit the mood; the east-coast resort of Agia Marina has a popular beach that is ideal for families, while tranquil sandy spots, such as Marathonas, are found coast-side between Aegina Town and Perdika. History aficionados must visit the most famous archaeological site on Aegina – the Temple of Aphaea. Perched majestically on the pine-clad hill above the seaside resort of Aghia Marina, it also affords a mighty view of the seascape.
Nearby Poros is a highly popular sailing destination: hardly surprising with so much here to experience. Paired islands of Sferiá (Póros Town) and larger Kalávria (meaning ‘gentle breeze’) connect by a bridge over a channel, thereby creating the island of Poros; translated as “the narrow strait”. This is undoubtedly one of the most beautiful yacht entries to a Greek island and in turn provides extensive and convenient mooring. The waterfront atmosphere is contagious; a picture-perfect spot to sip a casual cocktail whilst the famous swathes of golden sand nearby bustle with life. Poros is great for beaches, nightlife, shopping and restaurants plus a smattering of cultural finds. Built into the hillside, fine examples of neoclassical architecture are set amongst slender Aegean streets, speckled with effervescent bougainvillea and great for a stroll.
One of the most romantic destinations in the country, often dubbed the St Tropez of Greece, Hydra is home to a fabulously charismatic port. The crescent-shaped waterfront is lined with bustling boutiques and vibrant restaurants while a mix of traditional mansions are backed by rows of red roof-topped houses with blue windows and doors. Either side of the harbour, cannons from days gone by face to sea and statues of the heroes of independence give a nod to history. Hydra is the only town on the island – motorbikes and cars, even bicycles, are forbidden, and instead, transport is by donkey. Expect warm hospitality from the residents who gather harbourside in the early evening, casually sipping espresso freddo’s and cold Mythos beers as they peacefully indulge in the fascinating pastime of people-watching.
One of the Saronic Gulf’s best kept secrets is the Methana peninsula, surrounded by the Aegean Sea and connected to the mainland by a narrow road. The steep slopes here are formed from an underwater volcano where today the pretty landscape is packed with dense vegetation, scenic hiking trails and rustic coastal villages. Providing good shelter from any prevailing winds, the Methana peninsula provides an easily accessible harbour pier, able to accommodate large superyachts, together with a great choice of deserted bays in which to anchor and enjoy watersports equipment at leisure. In 1870 Methana became a celebrated spa town, with a popular hot spring’s spa complex and volcanic beaches; today these still pack an exclusive punch. Take your pick from rejuvenating sulphur pools, tonic mud baths and volcanic rock massages.
A short coastal cruise takes you to Palaia Epidavros (meaning Old Epidavros), located on the north eastern side of the Peloponnese, in the Argolis region. This small fishing village is superbly picturesque, strewn with olive and orange groves, while in port gleaming yachts bob alongside colourful fishing boats. Revered in ancient days as a place of miraculous healing, the Sanctuary of Asclepius attracted those needing ailments cured. Modern-day guests are now drawn to the World Heritage amphitheatre where the first performances were given some 2000 years ago. The 4th century BC limestone theatre at Palea Epidavros is an epic highlight. One of the best preserved Classical Greek structures in existence today, it is still used for performances during the Hellenic Festival and is renowned for its amazing acoustics – if a coin is dropped centre stage, this can be heard from up high.
Exuding simplistic Greek charm and graceful beauty is the serene paradise of Agistri, festooned with lush vegetation where pine trees tumble hillside to the translucent waters. Some of the most pristine beaches in Greece are found here with warm, shallow waters while the fragrance of locally grown herbs is carried on the gentle sea breeze. Choose your own azure cove: secluded Aponissos has a small offshore island plus an excellent taverna. Limenaria beach is rich with deep green waters perfect for diving and local shops selling handmade fabrics and olive oil. Alternatively, total privacy can be found at Xekofti beach, exceptionally remote and ideally accessed by yacht – one to claim as your own and bathe in the serenity.
Take a leisurely cruise back to Athens, passing the tiny island of Nisida Kyra close to Agistri, with small bays offering pretty anchorages. Disembark your yacht in Athens to meet onward transport or take the opportunity to explore this fascinating ancient city in greater detail.
Nicholas Dean is Managing Partner of Ocean Independence. Ocean Independence is a global leader in luxury yachting, providing a bespoke experience across yacht charter, sales and management.If you would like to be a guest blogger on A Luxury Travel Blog in order to raise your profile, please contact us.
Global full-service superyacht brokerage company Ocean Independence specialise in yacht sales, charter, new build and management. One of the fastest-growing companies in the luxury-yachting sector, Ocean Independence operates the largest crewed charter fleet in the world and a team that combines more years of marine expertise than any other brokerage company globally. Founded in 2005, Ocean Independence now has approximately 115 employees, operating from 15 offices around the world, speaking 24 different languages.
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10 Comments
I’m sure that it’s not just my appalling lack of geography but I would put good money on very people knowing that the Saronic Islands are Greek. For British BBC television viewers the Saronic Islands are the sort of answer you’d give for a “pointless” answer on the quiz show “Pointless” and be optimistic that no one knew about them helping you to win the jackpot.
Thanks Carolyn, duly noted and title has been changed accordingly.
Greece is such a charming place in my mind. I really like the fact that these places seem so remote yet accessible. And the lack of commercialization – or the fact that Hydra island doesn’t allow cars, motorbikes or even bicycles – is really special, I think. There’s a certain peaceful beauty about Greece and the Mediterranean that’s especially appealing. I was in Antalya, Turkey last year, and I found it stunning there in the south of the country. I really hope to visit Greece and some of these beautiful places sometime soon.
Thank you. Turkey and Greece are indeed extremely relaxing and very beautiful at the same time, with so many local treasures to discover. The Greek islands hold a magical charm of their very own for sure – hope you do have the chance to visit them soon.
I think I agree with Carolyn. Not sure whether it’s our geographical knowledge that is at fault or the fact that there are just so many beautiful Greek Islands to explore. Whatever the cause it is tragic that I didn’t know about the Saronic Islands before. That has to be part of their charm. They look completely unspoilt by tourism. Would be brilliant to charter a yacht and moor up in some of these idyllic looking bays.
Thank you Kenny, there are some lesser known groups of islands in Greece that are simply idyllic and offer a totally secluded charm. Often these are only accessible by private yacht, which definitely adds to the appeal of chartering when looking for your own adventure. Do contact us if we can be of assistance at Ocean Independence.
So many choices… Greek islands really can be particularly photogenic. What would you need to do if you wanted to sail around any of these, can you easily rent something for a few hours or the day perhaps? I’m not sure what kind of insurance and licensing you might need as it’s rather different doing it yourself than getting aboard a tourist charter with someone else doing the sailing.
Thanks Mark – we would be delighted to help you with yachting options in the Greek islands and beyond. Having a dedicated captain and crew who know the area ensure that your time spent on board is fully maximised. Do get in touch if Ocean Independence can assist you.
It seems like a lot of sailing is really needed when visiting Greece. For a first timer it is really overwhelming to know that there are so many beautiful places to see in Greece. Now I really don’t know where to start! I’ve planned Athens, Mykonos, and Santorini — I know, the usual touristy places. Also planned to charter a sailboat for a day but haven’t decided where to go still. This new post just makes my head spin as I’ve also read another Greece sailing post a while back and have taken notes. I guess it really depends on what you want to see.
A private yacht charter has surely got to be the holiday of choice this year. You get to enjoy all the freedom and independence you could possibly want, as well as be able to be socially distant from the tourist masses. I will be seriously looking at this for not only later this year, but for next Summer also.
Embark in Athens, one of the most renowned Mediterranean harbours and an ideal destination to begin a yacht charter. Take a leisurely cruise to nearby Salamina, an unassuming and wholeheartedly authentic location formed from a small suburb of Athens that broke away into the sea many years ago. Not offering commerical shops or busy tours, it is merely dotted with quaint summer cottages, traditional tavernas and stunning beaches. As there are few hotels, Salamina’s secluded bays are filled with idyllic, sheltered anchorages providing complete tranquillity for yachts to drop anchor. Adventurous explorers will enjoy visiting the Cave of Euripedes, located near Peristeria Beach, featuring 10 cavernous sections that have been used through a range of eras. In August, the Byzantine monastery of Panagia Faneromeni holds an enormous feast in honour of the Virgin Mary – a social event celebrated by locals and visitors alike, featuring plenty of food, wine and entertainment.
Embark in Athens, one of the most renowned Mediterranean harbours and an ideal destination to begin a yacht charter. Take a leisurely cruise to nearby Salamina, an unassuming and wholeheartedly authentic location formed from a small suburb of Athens that broke away into the sea many years ago. Not offering commerical shops or busy tours, it is merely dotted with quaint summer cottages, traditional tavernas and stunning beaches. As there are few hotels, Salamina’s secluded bays are filled with idyllic, sheltered anchorages providing complete tranquillity for yachts to drop anchor. Adventurous explorers will enjoy visiting the Cave of Euripedes, located near Peristeria Beach, featuring 10 cavernous sections that have been used through a range of eras. In August, the Byzantine monastery of Panagia Faneromeni holds an enormous feast in honour of the Virgin Mary – a social event celebrated by locals and visitors alike, featuring plenty of food, wine and entertainment.
In the charming isle of Aegina, immerse your senses in every aspect of typically Greek life. Cruise into the bustling port of Aegina Town, bordered by the small white church of Saint Nikolas, and soak up the view. The amphitheatrically shaped harbour is dotted with colourful fishing boats, fruit filled caiques and glamorous yachts that sit alongside each other. Take your pick of beaches to suit the mood; the east-coast resort of Agia Marina has a popular beach that is ideal for families, while tranquil sandy spots, such as Marathonas, are found coast-side between Aegina Town and Perdika. History aficionados must visit the most famous archaeological site on Aegina – the Temple of Aphaea. Perched majestically on the pine-clad hill above the seaside resort of Aghia Marina, it also affords a mighty view of the seascape.
Nearby Poros is a highly popular sailing destination: hardly surprising with so much here to experience. Paired islands of Sferiá (Póros Town) and larger Kalávria (meaning ‘gentle breeze’) connect by a bridge over a channel, thereby creating the island of Poros; translated as “the narrow strait”. This is undoubtedly one of the most beautiful yacht entries to a Greek island and in turn provides extensive and convenient mooring. The waterfront atmosphere is contagious; a picture-perfect spot to sip a casual cocktail whilst the famous swathes of golden sand nearby bustle with life. Poros is great for beaches, nightlife, shopping and restaurants plus a smattering of cultural finds. Built into the hillside, fine examples of neoclassical architecture are set amongst slender Aegean streets, speckled with effervescent bougainvillea and great for a stroll.
One of the most romantic destinations in the country, often dubbed the St Tropez of Greece, Hydra is home to a fabulously charismatic port. The crescent-shaped waterfront is lined with bustling boutiques and vibrant restaurants while a mix of traditional mansions are backed by rows of red roof-topped houses with blue windows and doors. Either side of the harbour, cannons from days gone by face to sea and statues of the heroes of independence give a nod to history. Hydra is the only town on the island – motorbikes and cars, even bicycles, are forbidden, and instead, transport is by donkey. Expect warm hospitality from the residents who gather harbourside in the early evening, casually sipping espresso freddo’s and cold Mythos beers as they peacefully indulge in the fascinating pastime of people-watching.
One of the Saronic Gulf’s best kept secrets is the Methana peninsula, surrounded by the Aegean Sea and connected to the mainland by a narrow road. The steep slopes here are formed from an underwater volcano where today the pretty landscape is packed with dense vegetation, scenic hiking trails and rustic coastal villages. Providing good shelter from any prevailing winds, the Methana peninsula provides an easily accessible harbour pier, able to accommodate large superyachts, together with a great choice of deserted bays in which to anchor and enjoy watersports equipment at leisure. In 1870 Methana became a celebrated spa town, with a popular hot spring’s spa complex and volcanic beaches; today these still pack an exclusive punch. Take your pick from rejuvenating sulphur pools, tonic mud baths and volcanic rock massages.
A short coastal cruise takes you to Palaia Epidavros (meaning Old Epidavros), located on the north eastern side of the Peloponnese, in the Argolis region. This small fishing village is superbly picturesque, strewn with olive and orange groves, while in port gleaming yachts bob alongside colourful fishing boats. Revered in ancient days as a place of miraculous healing, the Sanctuary of Asclepius attracted those needing ailments cured. Modern-day guests are now drawn to the World Heritage amphitheatre where the first performances were given some 2000 years ago. The 4th century BC limestone theatre at Palea Epidavros is an epic highlight. One of the best preserved Classical Greek structures in existence today, it is still used for performances during the Hellenic Festival and is renowned for its amazing acoustics – if a coin is dropped centre stage, this can be heard from up high.
Exuding simplistic Greek charm and graceful beauty is the serene paradise of Agistri, festooned with lush vegetation where pine trees tumble hillside to the translucent waters. Some of the most pristine beaches in Greece are found here with warm, shallow waters while the fragrance of locally grown herbs is carried on the gentle sea breeze. Choose your own azure cove: secluded Aponissos has a small offshore island plus an excellent taverna. Limenaria beach is rich with deep green waters perfect for diving and local shops selling handmade fabrics and olive oil. Alternatively, total privacy can be found at Xekofti beach, exceptionally remote and ideally accessed by yacht – one to claim as your own and bathe in the serenity.
Take a leisurely cruise back to Athens, passing the tiny island of Nisida Kyra close to Agistri, with small bays offering pretty anchorages. Disembark your yacht in Athens to meet onward transport or take the opportunity to explore this fascinating ancient city in greater detail.
Nicholas Dean is Managing Partner of Ocean Independence. Ocean Independence is a global leader in luxury yachting, providing a bespoke experience across yacht charter, sales and management.
If you would like to be a guest blogger on A Luxury Travel Blog in order to raise your profile, please contact us.
I’m sure that it’s not just my appalling lack of geography but I would put good money on very people knowing that the Saronic Islands are Greek. For British BBC television viewers the Saronic Islands are the sort of answer you’d give for a “pointless” answer on the quiz show “Pointless” and be optimistic that no one knew about them helping you to win the jackpot.
Thanks Carolyn, duly noted and title has been changed accordingly.
Greece is such a charming place in my mind. I really like the fact that these places seem so remote yet accessible. And the lack of commercialization – or the fact that Hydra island doesn’t allow cars, motorbikes or even bicycles – is really special, I think. There’s a certain peaceful beauty about Greece and the Mediterranean that’s especially appealing. I was in Antalya, Turkey last year, and I found it stunning there in the south of the country. I really hope to visit Greece and some of these beautiful places sometime soon.
Thank you. Turkey and Greece are indeed extremely relaxing and very beautiful at the same time, with so many local treasures to discover. The Greek islands hold a magical charm of their very own for sure – hope you do have the chance to visit them soon.
I think I agree with Carolyn. Not sure whether it’s our geographical knowledge that is at fault or the fact that there are just so many beautiful Greek Islands to explore. Whatever the cause it is tragic that I didn’t know about the Saronic Islands before. That has to be part of their charm. They look completely unspoilt by tourism. Would be brilliant to charter a yacht and moor up in some of these idyllic looking bays.
Thank you Kenny, there are some lesser known groups of islands in Greece that are simply idyllic and offer a totally secluded charm. Often these are only accessible by private yacht, which definitely adds to the appeal of chartering when looking for your own adventure. Do contact us if we can be of assistance at Ocean Independence.
So many choices… Greek islands really can be particularly photogenic. What would you need to do if you wanted to sail around any of these, can you easily rent something for a few hours or the day perhaps? I’m not sure what kind of insurance and licensing you might need as it’s rather different doing it yourself than getting aboard a tourist charter with someone else doing the sailing.
Thanks Mark – we would be delighted to help you with yachting options in the Greek islands and beyond. Having a dedicated captain and crew who know the area ensure that your time spent on board is fully maximised. Do get in touch if Ocean Independence can assist you.
It seems like a lot of sailing is really needed when visiting Greece. For a first timer it is really overwhelming to know that there are so many beautiful places to see in Greece. Now I really don’t know where to start! I’ve planned Athens, Mykonos, and Santorini — I know, the usual touristy places. Also planned to charter a sailboat for a day but haven’t decided where to go still. This new post just makes my head spin as I’ve also read another Greece sailing post a while back and have taken notes. I guess it really depends on what you want to see.
A private yacht charter has surely got to be the holiday of choice this year. You get to enjoy all the freedom and independence you could possibly want, as well as be able to be socially distant from the tourist masses. I will be seriously looking at this for not only later this year, but for next Summer also.