Destination
Saronic Gulf Yacht Charter
A short sail from Athens, with calm water, elegant island towns and pine-covered coastlines.
Departure areasLavrio and Nea Peramos
Overview
Discover the Saronic Gulf by yacht
A Saronic Gulf yacht charter starts less than an hour from Athens airport and needs no long crossings. Just a short sail from Athens, the Saronic Gulf offers one of the most accessible yacht charter experiences in Greece. Calm waters, picturesque harbours, pine-covered coastlines and elegant island towns make the region ideal for relaxed island hopping.
Sail between Aegina, Agistri, Poros, Hydra and Spetses, discovering hidden coves, traditional waterfront villages and swimming spots along the way. Routes here leave more time for swimming and for exploring ashore than longer Aegean passages.
Why go by sea
- Easy access from Athens and Lavrio
- Relaxed island hopping
- Sheltered bays and clear water
- Traditional island towns
- Suits families and couples
- Day, weekend or multi-day
Island guide
Explore the Saronic Gulf
The islands that make up most Saronic itineraries.
Aegina
A historic island with a lively waterfront, close to Athens.
Agistri
Small, green and quiet, a short hop from Aegina.
Poros
A narrow channel, a clock tower and sheltered anchorages.
Hydra
Car free, with stone mansions around a natural harbour.
Spetses
Cosmopolitan, with a maritime history and elegant town.
Methana
A volcanic peninsula with thermal springs.
Epidaurus
A sheltered bay near the ancient theatre.
Porto Heli
A protected bay on the mainland opposite Spetses.
Yacht categories
Representative yacht categories
Comparable vessels are sourced from our approved partner fleets. The exact yacht, specifications, price and availability are confirmed after your enquiry.
Representative yacht category
Sailing Yachts
Monohull sailing yachts from our approved partner fleets, suited to couples, families and experienced crews.
- Charter types
- Bareboat, skippered or crewed
- Departure areas
- Lavrio and Nea Peramos
Representative yacht category
Catamarans
Twin hull yachts with wide saloons and generous deck space, stable and shallow drafted.
- Charter types
- Bareboat, skippered or crewed
- Departure areas
- Lavrio and Nea Peramos
Representative yacht category
Skippered Charters
Any of the above with a professional skipper on board, no licence required.
- Charter types
- Bareboat, skippered or crewed
- Departure areas
- Lavrio and Nea Peramos
Representative yacht category
Luxury and Crewed Yachts
Larger vessels with captain and crew, service and catering arranged on board.
- Charter types
- Bareboat, skippered or crewed
- Departure areas
- Lavrio and Nea Peramos
Representative imagery. The yacht shown may not be the yacht offered. Astra Yachting will confirm the exact vessel, photographs, specifications, price and availability in writing before any payment.
Our fleet
Yachts cruising the Saronic Gulf
Specifications are taken from each vessel's own documentation. Exact availability and price are confirmed in writing after your enquiry.
CatamaranCatamaran Lagoon Fly
18 guests45 ft (13,7 m)2015
CatamaranLagoon 420 Catamaran
17 guests15 m
Sailing yachtSailing Yacht 52 ft
12 guests52 ft (16,70 m)2002
Motor yachtBavaria 40 Sport
11 guests1 cabins11,77 m
Motor yachtCranchi Zaffiro 38
8 guests2 cabins38 ft
Motor yachtCranchi 41
8 guests2 cabins41 ft2006
Motor yachtFerretti 53 Flybridge
12 guests3 cabins16,30 m
Motor yachtPrincess V55
10 guests3 cabins55 ft2001Representative imagery. The yacht shown may not be the yacht offered. Astra Yachting will confirm the exact vessel, photographs, specifications, price and availability in writing before any payment.
Charter options
Ways to charter in the Saronic
Four formats that cover most of the enquiries we receive for this region.
Bareboat charters
Take the helm yourself if you hold the required licence.
Skippered charters
A professional skipper handles navigation, mooring and routing.
Crewed charters
Captain and crew on board, with service and catering arranged.
Cabin charters
A single cabin on a shared yacht, with set departure dates.
Guide
Saronic Gulf yacht charter: islands close to Athens
Contents
Why the Saronic is easy sailing
The Saronic Gulf lies between Attica and the Peloponnese, south-west of Athens. The islands are close together and the gulf is partly shielded from the meltemi that dominates the Cyclades in summer, so conditions are often more moderate. That makes a Saronic Gulf yacht charter a good choice for families, short charters of a few days, and anyone new to sailing in Greece.
The islands and mainland harbours
Aegina – the closest island to Athens, known for pistachios and the Temple of Aphaia. Agistri – small, pine-covered and good for swimming. Poros – separated from the Peloponnese by a narrow channel, with Galatas opposite. Hydra – no cars, a picturesque stone harbour and limited space for yachts, so arrive early. Spetses – captains' mansions and pine forest. On the mainland, Ermioni, Methana and Palea Epidavros, which is the stop for the ancient theatre of Epidaurus.
Practical tips
Harbours in the Saronic are often busy in July and August, especially at weekends, when boats from Athens come out. Mooring is usually stern-to on the town quay, so anchoring skills matter. On a bareboat charter, plan to arrive in the early afternoon. For a longer trip, the eastern Peloponnese coast and the Argolic Gulf (Nafplio) are a natural extension.
Sample 7-day route
This sample route is an example of a relaxed week. The real route is always set by the skipper and the weather forecast on the day.
| Day | Route | Highlights |
|---|---|---|
| Day 1 | Alimos – Aegina | Harbour and Temple of Aphaia |
| Day 2 | Aegina – Agistri | Swim stop |
| Day 3 | Agistri – Poros | Poros channel |
| Day 4 | Poros – Hydra | Arrive early |
| Day 5 | Hydra – Spetses | Mansions and pine forest |
| Day 6 | Spetses – Palea Epidavros | Ancient theatre |
| Day 7 | Epidavros – Alimos | Return to Athens |
For each day in detail, with approximate distances and a gentler alternative finish, see our 7-day Saronic sailing itinerary.
How booking works
Booking a Saronic Gulf yacht charter with Astra Yachting follows the same steps every time. You send your preferred dates, the number of guests, the type of charter you want (bareboat, skippered or crewed) and any must-see stops. We check live availability with the yacht owners and charter fleets we work with, and come back with the yachts that are actually free for your dates, their exact specifications and a written quotation.
Once you choose a yacht, you receive the charter agreement and the payment schedule; our Booking Terms & Conditions and charter FAQs set out each step, from the crew list to embarkation day.
On embarkation day you meet the yacht in Athens (usually Alimos Marina), go through the check-in and safety briefing, and set off. During the charter you can reach us by phone or WhatsApp on +30 693 918 6245.
What is included and what is extra
Every quotation for a Saronic Gulf yacht charter lists what the charter fee covers, so there are no surprises. As a rule, the fee covers the use of the yacht for the agreed period, its standard equipment and the yacht's insurance. On skippered and crewed charters it also covers the skipper or crew wages.
Fuel, marina fees, the final cleaning, optional extras and the security deposit are usually charged separately. The FAQs explain each item, and your written quotation lists them for the yacht you choose.
We do not publish fixed prices on these pages because rates depend on the yacht, the week of the season and the charter format. Ask for a quotation and you get the real price for your dates.
In depth
More about chartering in the Saronic Gulf
Saronic Gulf Yacht Charter
Discover the Saronic Gulf by Yacht
Just a short sail from Athens, the Saronic Gulf offers one of the most enjoyable and accessible yacht charter experiences in Greece. Calm waters, picturesque harbours, pine-covered coastlines and elegant island towns make the region ideal for relaxed island hopping.
Sail between Aegina, Agistri, Poros, Hydra and Spetses, discovering hidden coves, traditional waterfront villages and beautiful swimming spots along the way. Whether you are planning a private day cruise, a romantic escape or a week-long sailing holiday, the Saronic Gulf combines authentic Greek character with effortless comfort.
Astra Yachting offers carefully selected yachts and personalised itineraries, allowing you to explore the islands at your own pace.
Explore the Saronic Gulf from the Sea
The Saronic Gulf is an excellent destination for travellers who want to combine easy sailing distances with diverse island experiences. In a single itinerary, you can visit lively harbours, peaceful bays, historic towns and secluded beaches.
Unlike longer passages through the Aegean, routes within the Saronic Gulf allow more time for swimming, dining by the waterfront and exploring each destination ashore. Its proximity to Athens also makes the region suitable for both short charters and extended sailing holidays.
From the historic atmosphere of Aegina to the car-free elegance of Hydra and the cosmopolitan charm of Spetses, every stop offers a different side of Greece.
Why Charter a Yacht in the Saronic Gulf?
Start your sailing holiday near Athens and reach the first island in no time.
Visit multiple islands on a single itinerary.
Sheltered Bays and Clear Waters
Anchor in peaceful coves for swimming, snorkelling and relaxing onboard.
Explore charming waterfront towns and historic streets.
Ideal for Families and Couples
Perfect for families, couples and private groups.
Choose from day, weekend or multi-day charters.
Why Choose a Yacht Charter in the Saronic Gulf?
A Relaxed Sailing Experience Close to Athens
A yacht charter in the Saronic Gulf offers the freedom to experience several Greek islands without depending on ferry timetables. Your itinerary can be adapted according to your interests, whether you prefer swimming in secluded bays, exploring historic towns or enjoying long lunches beside the sea.
The region is particularly well suited to guests who want a balanced holiday combining sailing, relaxation, culture and Greek island life.
- Short sailing distances between islands
- Easy departure from the Athens area
- Protected anchorages and picturesque harbours
- Flexible itineraries for short or extended charters
- Traditional villages and excellent local cuisine
- Beautiful beaches accessible directly from the yacht
- Options for sailing yachts, catamarans and motor yachts
Discover the Islands of the Saronic Gulf
Aegina is often the first destination on a Saronic Gulf itinerary. The island combines a lively harbour, historical sites, sandy beaches and waterfront restaurants. It is also widely known for its pistachio production and relaxed island atmosphere.
Small, green and peaceful, Agistri is ideal for swimming and quiet escapes. Its clear waters and sheltered bays make it a wonderful anchorage for guests seeking nature and relaxation.
Poros is known for its green landscape, charming harbour and narrow sea passage facing the Peloponnese. The island offers beautiful bays, waterfront cafés and a welcoming sailing atmosphere.
Hydra combines historic stone mansions, an elegant harbour and a distinctive car-free character. It is ideal for walking, dining by the waterfront and experiencing one of Greece’s most atmospheric island towns.
Spetses offers elegant architecture, pine-covered scenery and a lively waterfront. Its combination of beaches, history and refined island life makes it a popular stop on longer Saronic itineraries.
Suggested 7-Day Saronic Gulf Itinerary
Depart from the Athens area and sail to Aegina. Explore the harbour, enjoy a waterfront dinner and begin your island-hopping experience.
Cruise to Agistri and spend the day swimming in peaceful bays surrounded by green landscapes.
Sail towards Poros and arrive at its picturesque harbour. Walk through the town and enjoy dinner overlooking the waterfront.
Continue to Hydra, one of the most distinctive destinations in the Saronic Gulf. Explore the harbour and historic streets on foot.
Sail to Spetses for beaches, elegant architecture and a lively evening atmosphere.
Day 6: Spetses – Perdika or Aegina:
Begin the return journey with an overnight stop near Perdika or another quiet anchorage around Aegina.
Enjoy a final swim before sailing back to the Athens area.
Yacht Charter Options in the Saronic Gulf
Astrayachting offers several charter options to suit every traveler
Relax while an experienced skipper manages the navigation and helps you discover the best anchorages and island stops.
Enjoy a premium sailing experience with a professional crew taking care of navigation, service and onboard comfort.
Ideal for qualified sailors who want complete freedom to create and follow their own itinerary.
Romantic escapes through some of Greece’s most beautiful islands.
Our Fleet for Saronic Gulf Charters
Choose from sailing yachts, catamarans, motor yachts and fully crewed vessels for your Saronic Gulf adventure.
M/Y SYMPATICO – POSILLIPO
Frequently Asked Questions
Is a Saronic Gulf yacht charter suitable for a weekend?
Yes. Aegina, Agistri and Poros are within reach for a two or three-day trip from Athens.
Is the Saronic windy?
It is usually calmer than the Cyclades because it is partly sheltered from the meltemi, but conditions vary, and afternoon breezes are normal.
Where do Saronic charters start?
Most start at Alimos Marina on the Athens Riviera. See yacht charter Athens.
How far in advance should I book a Saronic Gulf yacht charter?
For July and August it is best to start looking several months ahead, because the most popular yachts are booked early. Outside peak season there is usually more choice at shorter notice. Send us your dates and we will tell you what is actually available.
Can I have a skipper on a Saronic Gulf yacht charter?
Yes. Most yachts can be chartered with a professional skipper, and larger motor yachts and catamarans can come with a full crew. See skippered yacht charters and crewed yacht charters.
Which islands can I visit?
Popular destinations include Aegina, Agistri, Poros, Hydra and Spetses.
Is the Saronic Gulf suitable for a short charter?
Yes. Its proximity to Athens and the relatively short distances between destinations make it suitable for day cruises, weekend escapes and longer holidays.
What is the best charter duration?
A 4 to 7-day charter is recommended. Thanks to the short sailing distances, you can comfortably explore several Saronic islands while enjoying a relaxed and flexible itinerary.
Can the itinerary be customised?
Yes. Your Saronic Gulf itinerary can be tailored to your preferred islands, sailing pace, and activities, creating a personalised charter experience.
Plan your route
Tell us how you want to sail the Saronic
Send your dates, group size and departure area. We come back with the yachts that are actually available, their exact specifications and a written quotation.
Keep exploring
Where to go next
Compare this region with the other cruising areas, pick the charter format that fits your crew, or go straight to the yachts that match your dates.
Request availability