Getting Oriented
With nearly 8,500 miles (13,676 km) of coastline, it's actually quite challenging to visit Greece and not spend some time on a boat! Sailing is a popular activity in the country, whether you're spending time on the Peloponnese, exploring Crete or Corfu, hanging out near Thessaloniki, or island hopping in the Cyclades. One of the most beloved excursions is a sunset cruise—nothing beats a Greek sunset!
If you're looking for idyllic beaches and archeological ruins, head to the Aegean Sea. If you need a little glitz, glamour, and luxury, opt for metropolitan Mykonos or stunning Naxos. The Ionian Sea offers just as much scenery and history but fewer crowds, including the islands of Kefalonia, Lefkas, Paxos, and Antipaxos. Discover the best time of year to visit the islands and enjoy a sailing excursion in Greece!
Chasing the Sunset
Although most visitors head to the islands for maritime adventures, one of our favorite sailing excursions happens to be off the coast of Nafplio. Greece's mainland provides plenty of opportunities to enjoy the coast, especially at sunset with the surrounding mountain peaks.
Sunset Sailing Tour from Nafplio
Explore Nafplio's coastline, from the town's harbor to the village of Xiropigado during sunset. You'll chase the light while relaxing on board with hearty snacks, stopping at Nekrotafio Beach to swim or snorkel in the clear, turquoise waters. Continue toward the village of Tolo and pass the famed Karathona Beach, then drop anchor at the islets of Romvi and Daskalio. Enjoy some free time to swim and savor a traditional lunch on board. As the sun starts to melt into the Argolic Gulf, sip on a refreshing glass of wine and head back to Nafplio. Read More
Chat with a local specialist who can help organize your trip.
Discovering Greek Geography
For sailing adventures in the Greek Islands, look no further than the Cycladic cluster. With crystal-clear water, dramatic coastlines, and gorgeous caves and coves, you'll easily soak in the true essence of Greece's unique geography.
Catamaran Cruise in the Caldera Lagoon of Santorini
Cruise along Santorini's famed caldera, learning about how the island's past volcanic eruptions shaped its unique terrain and coastline. Onboard a stylish catamaran, you'll stop at the scenic Red Beach, where you can swim or snorkel in the sea. Continue through the crater and enjoy views of White Beach, Indian Rock, and the Venetian Lighthouse. Other highlights include lava caves, black-sand beaches, charming villages, and the colorful ports of Oia and Fira. Your final stop is one of Santorini's best-kept secrets: Mesa Pigadia Beach. Here, you'll enjoy a freshly prepared Greek BBQ. Read More
Sailing Day Cruise around Naxos
Relax onboard a catamaran as you cruise around the coast of Naxos, passing sandy anchorages, rocky coves, and picturesque seascapes. Your captain knows all the best swimming spots on Naxos, so sit back and enjoy the scenery as you head to famed beaches, secluded pools, and the area's best cliff jumping. Swim in the open sea, soak up the sun on board the boat, or snorkel in sheltered coves. Before heading back, you'll enjoy a traditional Greek spread with local wine and Greece's signature liqueur, raki. Read More
Sailing Day Cruise around Milos
Milos is a favorite amongst Greeks and visitors, thanks to its world-famous crystal-clear turquoise waters. The perfect way to explore the island's dramatic coastline is by sailboat. You'll start in the Bay of Adamantas, passing the first Christian catacombs and the colorful villages of Skinopi, Klima, Areti, and Fourkovouni. Head toward Cape Vani and view the bear-shaped rocks of Arkoudes before taking a swimming break in the picturesque Bay of Kalogries. Other highlights include the massive sea cave of Sykia, the old pirate lair of Kleftiko, and Gerakas Bay, home to one of the island's best beaches. Read More
Finding Beaches & Ruins
No trip to Greece is complete without some beach time and sightseeing ancient ruins. The Greek Islands are perfect for this must-see combo.
Delos & Rhenia Day Cruise
Together with Mykonos, the nearby islands of Delos and Rhenia make up the "Cycladic Sisters." Although both are uninhabited, they still deliver, with Delos providing some of the most important ancient ruins in Greece and Rhenia a scenic coastline and exceptional beaches. First, explore the ancient ruins on Delos, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. With a professional guide, you'll pass through the foundations of prehistoric mansions, temples, and landmarks such as the Terrace of the Lions. Then sail to Rhenia and swim in its famed crystal-clear waters. Enjoy lunch onboard the boat and free time to stroll the uncrowded beaches. Read More
Day Cruise to the Northern Beaches of Syros
Like many Greek islands, Syros is quite popular with tourists. But you can escape the crowds and head to the northern side of the island, where you'll find some of the best and quietest beaches, perfect for swimming or sunbathing. Enjoy views from the boat as you pass rocky cliffs, white-washed churches, and traditional villages. Your first stop is the wild and secluded Lia Beach, covered in pebbles and best accessible by boat. Other highlights include Marmari (a sandy and secluded beach), Gria Spilia (a beach surrounded by greenery), and Gramata Beach (scenically set in a cove and sheltered from the wind). Choose your favorite, and your captain will drop you off for the rest of the afternoon! Enjoy snacks and drinks on board, and savor the sunset as you return to the port. Read More
How to Craft a Perfect Sailing Itinerary in Greece
You can pair sailing with nearly any Greece itinerary, including visits to charming villages, food tours, trips to nearby wineries, and more. Many visitors opt to blend mainland Greece with the Cyclades, an ideal combo for any sailing itinerary. It's best to focus on one or two regions, such as Corfu and the Ionian Sea islands, or the Peloponnese and Cyclades, or mainland Greece and Crete. If you have more time, feel free to add a third region!
Start with at least one week and work your way up depending on how much you want to see and do. If you prefer a luxurious yacht trip, learn a bit more about what to expect and how to create an itinerary. Our local travel specialists are happy to help you coordinate the perfect sailing excursion in Greece.
Past kimkim travelers have enjoyed the following trips that include a mix of sailing excursions: