T
he Greek islands have long
been known as the eastern
Mediterranean playground
for sailing holidaymakers.
Notonlyisthecountryrich
in history and culture, but it also offers
conditions for all sailing abilities and
boasts some of the most spectacular
scenery in the Mediterranean.
Consequently there are plenty of
options in this ever-popular market.
As a holidaymaker, you are spoilt
for choice as a wide choice of sailing
holiday companies operating in Greece
covering both the popular areas and
those off the beaten track, and all
give a choice of itineraries to suit
requirements and experience. To fulfil
yourholidaydream,somewilleven
help prepare a bespoke itinerary to
cover cruising grounds in more remote,
off the beaten track areas, which include
hidden bays and ‘secret’ anchorages.
While at the height of the holiday
season, particularly in the school
holiday period, most companies are
at maximum capacity, you can be sure
with 15,000 kilometres of coastline
around 6,000 islands, many of which
are uninhabited, there is little chance
of being overwhelmed by crowds,
whether on or off the water. The miles
of stunning coastline, clear water
anchorages for swimming and water
sports, quaint harbour towns, cafes
and restaurants, as well as plenty ofWith warm waters, enticingislandsandawelcoming
culture, Greece is hardtobeatwhenitcomestoplanning
your sailing holiday. SUE PELLINGlooksatwheretostart
GREEK ISLAND
INSPIRATION
cultural activities are some of the key
reasons why so many choose Greece
as a preferred sailing holiday location.
For the UK market it is also one of
the most well served destinations
with regular flights and connections
to most major holiday bases.DESTINATION DECIDER
Whether you are a first timer or an
experienced sailor, going solo, or
sailing with friends and family, it is
importanttoconsideryouroverall
requirements to ensure you get the
best from your Greek sailing holiday.
The Greek Islands are widely
spread but, in simple terms, can be
splitintofivemaingroups–Ionian,
Saronic, Cyclades, Sporades, and
Dodecanese–withtheAegeanSeato
the east and the Ionian to the west.
The wind conditions throughout
the Greek Islands vary considerably,
which means some areas will be less
suitable for beginners, families, or
teams with mixed experience.
Generally speaking, the wind
gets stronger as you head eastwards
across the Aegean so ideally you
shouldchooseasailingareatosuit
your experience. These dry northerly
winds known as the Meltemi occur
in the summer months (May to early
October)andcanreachupto30ktin
areas like the corridor between the
Dodecanese and Cyclades Islands.TRAVEL GREECE
IMAGE C/O: NAUTILUS YACHTING/IAN CRANEApril 2018 Yachts & Yachting 71