SAILING CONDITIONS IN THE SARONIC GULF AND EASTERN PELOPONNESE

Enjoy carefree sailing holidays with mild weather conditions

The Saronic Gulf is renowned for its tranquil bays and the historic ports of the islands. The sailing area is located conveniently close to Athens, Greece's gateway to international travel, and charms sailors with its favorable weather conditions, making it one of the country's most popular sailing destinations. Any sailing cruise in the Saronic Gulf starts from Athens marinas, and you can enjoy happy and relaxing sailing in awesome destinations, rich in natural beauty and historic interest. Winds are mild, destinations among islands are small, so a typical sailing itinerary in the Saronic Gulf is calm and highly enjoyable.

Chart of the Saronic Gulf and Eastern Peloponnese Coast

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The Chart is based on Navrionics.com

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Although the Saronic Gulf is part of the Aegean Sea, it is located southern of Athens peninsula and its southern coast. The dominant conditions during summer months, especially July to August / September are the northern winds. However, the elements do not have the force of the open Aegean Sea, as the area is protected and close to the mainland.

Sailing trips start from Athens marinas, and usual conditions do not surpass 25 knots of wind speed, while waves reach up to two or three meters in height. The relatively calm conditions create an ideal environment for chartering a catamaran too, contrary to the rough seas where catamarans are not so convenient.

During the rest of season (April to June and September – October) winds may change direction to southern, or southwestern. Winds may also have considerable force, and sometimes they may be accompanied by clouds and sudden showers.

The Coast of Hydra island

Northern side of the port of Poros islands

The northern islands of the Saronic, Aegina and Agkistri are protected the most from the northern winds, while they compose a small heaven, thanks to the natural beauty and the serene islets surrounding them. These islands however can be impacted by sudden and strong western winds, and shelter becomes problematic in both islands. In case of strong western winds, probably only the bay of Agia Marina on Aegina is safe.

Poros island offers a large and safe port, as well as fully protected coves against most wind directions. Other safe ports in the Saronic Gulf include Korfos, Epidavros, Methana and Ermioni ports, all situated on the coast of Peloponnese.

Most sailing routes in the Saronic Gulf extend however to the historic ports of Spetses and Hydra. The strait of Hydra can be quite challenging, either with northern or southern winds. The northern winds become milder around Spetses island and Porto Heli (another port on Peloponnese coast). The uninhabited islet of Moni is an ideal destination for spending the night on anchor; it is exposed to the northern winds but offers very good shelter in southern or western wind directions. Similarly, the ports of Spetses and Hydra offer great protection from southern winds.

Heading further south, on the southern coast of the Argolic Gulf, and then farther to the Peloponnese coast, e.g. sailing to Monemvasia or Kithira island, you get more exposed to the winds and larger waves. Winds might come from different directions, so it is necessary to check the weather forecast often, before heading farther south on the coast of Peloponnese.

Amazing Elafonissos island

The port of Hydra

In general, the southern part of the eastern coast of Peloponnese offers limited protection to the strong winds, so it is not suggested to sail there during windy days.

Based on our experience in these waters, we offer constant advice when required, if weather conditions are challenging. On the other hand, enjoying a sailing trip with skipper woud waive any concerns, since our trusted skippers can create the ideal conditions for a sailing cruise in the Saronic Gulf.

All in all, the Saronic Gulf is the sailing area that you can combine calm weather conditions with a vibrant sailing adventure, while enjoying the wonderful natural landscape and historic ports.

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SAILING CONDITIONS IN THE SARONIC GULF AND EASTERN PELOPONNESE

Chart of the Saronic Gulf and Eastern Peloponnese Coast

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