Sailing the hidden gems of Saronic gulf: A week of adventure

Experience the beauty and adventure of Greece's Saronic Gulf from a whole new perspective. Sailing through its turquoise waters, you'll discover hidden coves, breathtaking islands, and charming seaside towns. If you're looking for a sailing trip that's not too challenging, a one-week itinerary in the Saronic Gulf could be just what you need. Set your sails and embark on the journey of a lifetime in this stunning seafarer's paradise.

Keep in mind that this is just inspiration for the cruise. Each itinerary must be planned with the current weather conditions and other factors in mind.

Embark on an exciting sailing journey that begins at Kalamaki on a Saturday afternoon. The first destination on this adventure is the picturesque Agia Marina cove situated in Aegina island, approximately 12 nautical miles away. The cove is a safe haven in the presence of north-east winds; however, south-southwest winds can pose a problem, so it's important to exercise caution. To ensure a safe and comfortable stay, it's recommended to anchor on the north side of the bay, at a distance of 50-70 meters from the small dock and rocky shore where hotels are located. Anchoring is a breeze, thanks to the ample space available, with depths of up to 10 meters and a mostly sandy sea bed.

It is suggested to opt for free anchorage on the first night to fully appreciate the natural beauty of the Greek islands. However, if the group prefers a port or south winds are not in favor of the Agia Marina cove, the Poros port is an excellent alternative. It's the only port with enough space to accommodate berthing and is protected from all wind directions. However, it's important to note that Poros is quite a distance away from the Alimos marina, which could mean arriving there after sunset.

Embark on a sailing journey from Agia Marina to the island of Hydra, a small island with a rich history that boasts a charming sunset over the Aegean Sea. The trip spans a distance of 23 nautical miles, so it's recommended to start early from Agia Marina in order to arrive in Hydra early and secure a spot in the port. However, if you cannot find a berth in the port, you can anchor in the cove of Mandraki, just a mile north of the port, which is easily accessible to the town of Hydra via a 30-minute walk or 10-minute sea taxi ride.

The port of Hydra can be quite crowded, with yachts often berthing in second or third rows, and speed ferries creating turbulence in the harbor. On the other hand, in the cove of Mandraki, yachts can anchor a few meters from the shore and use a line to remain stable, as well as a dinghy to travel to the land.

For those looking to unwind for a bit longer, Hydra offers plenty to see and do. Guests can spend a romantic evening in the Old Town, dining at a restaurant or enjoying drinks at one of the many bars. Alternatively, the Mandraki bay provides an opportunity to swim and relax by the yacht.

If you find yourself desiring a change of pace, feel free to adjust the itinerary according to your preferences. The port of Ermioni is located opposite of Hydra along the Peloponnesian coast, and offers a beautiful destination. Additionally, the island of Spetses, though 15 miles from Hydra and with a limited number of spots to berth, is a viable option.

The following day, you set sail from Hydra to explore the neighboring Dokos Island, which is about an hour's journey away. Once you arrive at Dokos, you'll discover a stunning sailing destination that's fully protected from the winds.

You can easily anchor your yacht just a few meters from the shore and use a line to maintain a stable position. With plenty of space in the cove, you'll have ample privacy and can relax onboard your vessel for a day and night of peaceful solitude. It's the perfect opportunity to soak up the tranquility of this idyllic island and recharge your batteries for the next leg of your journey.

The following day, you set sail to Poros Island, marking the start of your journey back to Athens. However, the entrance to the port requires a high level of caution, as small rocks protrude from the waterline. When navigating through the canal in the port, it is important to maintain a safe distance from other yachts docked at the island. The water depth can become quite shallow at certain points, making it a challenging passage.

Poros boasts the largest port of any island in the Saronic Gulf, offering a range of berthing options throughout the day. During peak summer periods, the port can fill up quickly, particularly on windy days when yachts seek refuge.

Poros caters to all preferences, from picturesque ports with traditional restaurants, fish taverns and bars, to serene coves where one can drop anchor and enjoy a night under the stars. The Russian Dockyard cove is highly recommended, as it is a historical monument that offers a beautiful natural landscape. From the anchored yacht, you can swim ashore to a small sandy beach and explore the ruins of the old building.

On your final day of sailing in the Saronic Gulf, we recommend making your way to the stunning island of Agkistri. Located on the southwestern coast of Agkistri is the charming islet of Doroussa, which attracts many yachts that use a line ashore to hold their position. With its lush pine trees and rocky coastline, Doroussa is considered one of the most beautiful destinations in the area, offering excellent shelter from almost any wind direction.

For those who prefer to spend their final night in a port, Agkistri offers a fantastic solution. Alternatively, you could also consider the main port of Aegina or Perdika on Aegina Island. Regardless of your choice, you are sure to have a memorable end to your Saronic Gulf sailing adventure.

On your final day, it's time to return to Kalamaki marina. As you sail by Agkistri and Aegina, be mindful of shallow waters and stay at a safe distance. Soon, the coast of Athens will come into view, signaling the end of your sailing adventure.

If you have an early start and the weather allows, consider a visit to the charming islet of Moni, located near Aegina. The cove boasts a stunning landscape, with crystal-clear turquoise waters and verdant trees covering the hillsides. Take a refreshing swim before setting sail back to the Alimos marina.

The following morning, it will be time to disembark from the yacht and bid farewell to the beautiful Saronic Gulf.