Four days in the Greek islands by yacht

There's no more beautiful way to discover Greece than from the water. Instead of crowding onto ferries and changing hotels, you sleep on board, wake up in a quiet cove, and jump into the sea straight off the ladder. Four days is exactly the right length for a first taste of sailing, and the Saronic Gulf, just south of Athens, is the ideal route to start with: the islands are close together, the water is sheltered and calm, and each hop between anchorages takes only two or three hours.

Why the Saronic Gulf

Most people who dream of sailing in Greece picture the Cyclades (Santorini, Mykonos), but for a 4-day trip, and especially for first-time sailors or families, the Saronic Gulf is much better. The distances are short: 2 to 3 hours of sailing between islands, not whole days at sea. The water is calm, because the area is relatively sheltered from the meltemi (the strong northerly summer wind), so there's less seasickness. And most important, everything is close to Athens: you set out from a marina near the city, with no domestic flights or ferries.

How it works: a yacht with a skipper or without

Before you set out, it's worth knowing the two options. The most common, and the one we recommend for most people, is a skippered charter: a professional crew member runs the boat and you just enjoy it, with no license or experience needed. The second, a bareboat charter, is for people with a sailing license and experience: it gives complete freedom but demands real responsibility. For most people, a skipper is the difference between a holiday and a job.

Day 1: Athens to Aegina

Sail from a marina near Athens (Alimos or Lavrio) late in the morning, and within about two to three hours you reach Aegina, the closest island. Anchor for a first swim in clear water, and in the evening go ashore to the harbor promenade, lined with fish tavernas. The island is famous for its local pistachios, so buy a bag, and if there's time, stop at the ancient Temple of Aphaea, one of the best preserved in Greece, with a view of the sea.

Day 2: Aegina to Poros

A short sail south to Poros, a green island covered in pine forest, separated from the mainland by a narrow, shallow channel. The town is picturesque: white houses climbing a hill, and a clock tower at the top with a superb view. The water between Poros and the mainland is calm and ideal for swimming, SUP and kayaking, and the night passes at a quiet anchorage facing the lights of the town.

Day 3: Poros to Hydra

Today you reach the gem of the route: Hydra. It's an island with no cars at all; the only ways to get around are on foot, by donkey or by water taxi. The harbor, shaped like an amphitheater and ringed by 18th-century stone mansions, is one of the most beautiful sights in Greece. Short walking trails lead from here to monasteries and quiet swimming coves along the coast, and the atmosphere is artistic and elegant, with lovely cafes and unforgettable sunrises and sunsets from the deck.

Hydra is small but rich: it's easy to fill a whole day there with swimming, walking and lounging in the harbor.

Day 4: Hydra to Athens, via swimming coves

On the last day you sail back toward Athens, but without rushing. Stop in a secluded cove for a farewell swim and lunch on deck, and reach the marina in the afternoon, in time for a flight or another night in Athens.

Tips for a first sailing trip

• Season: May to June and September to October are ideal: warm water, less wind and fewer crowds. July and August are hotter and busier.
• Seasickness: it's rare in the Saronic Gulf, but bring pills just in case; they're especially handy for kids.
• Packing: a soft bag (not a hard suitcase), light-soled deck shoes, a hat, sunscreen, a microfiber towel and a warm layer for evenings at sea.
• Budget: the charter cost varies with the season and the size of the boat, and the skipper, fuel and food are extra. Splitting it between a few couples or a family makes it good value.
• Food: it's nice to have breakfast and lunch on deck, and dinner at a taverna in the harbor.

Does it work for families too?

Definitely, and especially in the Saronic Gulf. The short distances and calm water suit kids, and the boat becomes a "mobile home" with the same bed every night and no daily packing. Choose a skipper, keep a relaxed pace, and let the sea do the work.

From the first anchorage all the way home

Sailing is only part of the holiday. Before and after it there's Athens, flights and logistics. Diretix builds the frame around the sailing for you: days in Athens, attractions, lodging and an estimated budget, matched to your pace and your family, in minutes. One trip a month is built in full, for free, up to 12 days.