Greece is quickly becoming one of Europe’s best spots for holidays, particularly sailing holidays. Tourism now contributes to more than 25 percent of the country’s Gross Domestic Product (GDP) and visitor numbers reached as high as 33 million people in 2019.
Out of all of the Greek islands, Mykonos and Rhodes are two of the top islands increasing in popularity, as are Chania and Heraklion. The island of Santorini has always been a favourite, particularly with those looking for a luxury experience.
There are many different holiday types to choose from for international visitors, from all-inclusive hotel bookings or rented villas to cruise ship tours or independent sailing breaks. Sailing breaks are far easier to organise than many may think, go to sites like borrowaboat for more information on booking your next dream break!
You can now find and book yachts, catamarans and other vessels online for destinations around the world, including many parts of Greece. You can either sail yourself if you have the experience or hire a skipper to sail on your behalf.
Greece has more than 200 inhabited islands and so sailing is one of the best and most efficient ways of visiting new locations. Sailing also gives you the opportunity to get out on the water and manage your own itinerary.
If you are thinking of a sailing getaway in Greece, here are just some of the best destinations that it is recommended you sail to during your trip:
Crete
Crete is one of the sunniest spots in the Mediterranean and is famous for its sandy beaches. The Gulf of Mirabello is located to the north east of the island and most often has excellent conditions for sailing, here you can find the city of Agios Nikolaos.
There is also the island’s capital Heraklion, where you will find the National History Museum and interesting mediaeval relics like the Koules Fortress on the coast. You can also sail to Rethymnon to see the lighthouse in the harbour and to explore the caves near the Triopetra beaches.
Zakynthos (or Zante)
If you are looking for evening entertainment and lively music then sailing to the island of Zakynthos (better known as Zante) should be planned into your trip. The infamous Laganas nightlife strip attracts crowds of young people having a good time and partying.
There are plenty of great options for eating, dancing and live music. However, the natural beauty of this island should not be overlooked, the sheer white cliffs can be seen from passing boats and Shipwreck beach is a great site to explore.
While in Zante you should make time to visit the Marine Park, here you can see plenty of aquatic life, including seals and turtles. Be sure to follow all rules in the area to prevent any harm being done to the park’s delicate ecosystem.
Zante is a popular place to visit so if you are sailing there in the summer months, be aware that it is a busy tourist hotspot.
Naxos
For somewhere a little more relaxed and undisturbed by the crowds, sail over to Naxos. While Naxos is one of the biggest of the Cyclades islands, it is probably the least well known.
On this island you will find Portara, which is one of the remaining gates of an ancient temple that was built in dedication to the God Apollo. This is one of the best places in Greece to watch the sun set.
You can also walk to the ancient Kastro in the oldest part of the town and visit the unique boutique stores in the area. For watersports and sunbathing there is the sandy Plaka beach with crystal blue waters.
Rhodes
Rhodes is one of the most visited islands in Greece and has some of the best weather. There is a rich cultural history of this island and many historical sites to explore.
For example, there is the Acropolis of Lindos which houses a temple dedicated to Athena, high ancient walls and battlements. Rhodes Old Town was designated a World Heritage City by UNESCO in 1988 and is the largest mediaeval city in the whole of Europe.
While in Rhodes, making the most of the traditional Greek food on offer is a must. The Mama Sofia restaurant is said to have some of the best locally sourced seafood on the island.
Other islands that are accessible to those sailing around the Greek isles include Corfu and Mykonos. Both are popular with travellers and have a great combination of historical sites, natural beauty spots and entertainment destinations.
A sailing holiday is all about getting to visit as many destinations as you want and making the most of being out on the open water. A sailing break is great for solo travellers, groups of friends and families with children.
Sailing is a great alternative to a typical hotel-based holiday and these are great some of the many destinations you can easily access by yacht or catamaran while sailing around Greece.
