A RELAXING ONE-WEEK SAILING ROUTE IN THE SARONIC ISLANDS

Our first destination is Agkistri, a small and remarkably green island covered with pine trees that in many places grow almost down to sea level. Around the coast, the combination of large trees, rocky coves and exceptionally transparent water creates some of the most beautiful swimming spots in the Saronic Gulf. In light conditions, Aponissos and the southwestern coast are wonderful places to spend the afternoon, while Doroussa and Megalo Bali give us alternatives according to the wind. The southern side of Doroussa is particularly useful with a northerly, although the considerable depth requires attention when anchoring. Megalo Bali, on the eastern side of Agkistri, is another beautiful choice with northern or western winds.

Day 2: Agkistri - Ancient Epidavros (8nm)

With only eight nautical miles ahead, there is no need to leave Agkistri early. Enjoy the morning while the water is still quiet, have another swim and then make the short crossing to Palaia Epidavros. I would suggest reaching the harbour reasonably early if you want to arrange a visit to the Ancient Theatre of Epidaurus. Built in the 4th century BC, it is one of the finest surviving ancient Greek theatres, famous for its proportions and extraordinary acoustics. More importantly, it remains a living theatre rather than simply an archaeological monument: performances are normally staged on Friday and Saturday evenings in July and early August. Even without a performance, visiting the theatre adds something completely different to a week otherwise centred around sailing and the sea.

Day 5: Agkistri - Port of Vathi, Methana (7 nm)

From Agkistri we cross to the Methana peninsula and the tiny harbour of Vathi. The approach itself reveals a completely different landscape, with the volcanic hills of Methana rising behind the coast. Vathi is small, quiet and pleasantly uncomplicated: a handful of yachts inside the little harbour, fishing boats, houses and tavernas only a few steps from the water. Space is limited, so arriving reasonably early is worthwhile. Once the yacht is secure, this is a good afternoon to walk along the coast or through the surrounding countryside and combine the walk with a swim from a small beach or directly from the rocks. By evening, everything leads back to the waterfront and dinner beside the yacht.

Day 7: Return to the Home Port (19nm)

The final crossing takes us back towards the Athens coast and Alimos, Pachi or Nea Peramos, depending on the yacht's base. Very little changes in the overall route whichever marina we return to. With a good breeze, the last passage can give us one more enjoyable sail before reaching Athens; in stronger conditions the more open waters can also produce some waves and make the return considerably more energetic.

It is a nice way to finish a week that has never been about collecting destinations. We have sailed relatively few miles, returned twice to Agkistri and spent several nights without a port at all. Instead, the week has been about clear water, small harbours, sailing when the wind invites us to sail, swimming when it doesn't, and having enough time to actually enjoy where we are.