Beneteau Oceanis 46.1
From €2,800 / week
Destination
Athens/Piraeus
Greece · AegeanAthens and the port of Piraeus are the gateway to the Greek islands and one of the most important charter bases in the Aegean. From Alimos Marina, south of Athens, you reach the Saronic Islands within a few hours, and from there the Cyclades.
Athens as a charter base: the gateway to the Aegean
Alimos Marina (also known as Marina Kalamaki) is the largest and most widely used charter base in Athens. It lies 10 kilometres south of the city centre and is well connected by public transport. Visiting the Acropolis, the National Archaeological Museum and the Plaka lanes before casting off is a must.
The Saronic Islands
The Saronic Gulf, immediately south of Athens, is an ideal training ground for beginners and a relaxed warm-up route for experienced sailors. Aegina with the Temple of Aphaia, Poros with its romantic town channel, Hydra (car-free, with only donkeys and boats) and Spetses with its history as a shipowners' island make up the classic Saronic circuit.
To go further into the Cyclades, sail around Cape Sounion with the Temple of Poseidon and set course for Kea or Kythnos. The summer Meltemi winds call for experienced helmsmen; April, May and September are ideal for beginners.
Logistics and getting there
Athens Eleftherios Venizelos International Airport is one of Europe's best-connected airports, with daily direct flights from Berlin, Frankfurt, Munich, Vienna and Zurich. Alimos Marina is reached by metro (Line 2, Neos Kosmos station plus a taxi) or directly by taxi.
Highlights
Highlights in Athens/Piraeus
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Travel time
Best time for Athens/Piraeus
Best time to travelApril–May, September–October
Charter seasonApril–October
Departure portAlimos Marina
Price from€1,800 / week
FAQ
Questions about Athens/Piraeus
Which sailing licence is required in Greece?
In Greece, a recognised boating licence is required for boats with more than 5 kW of engine power. The ICC, the German SKS and the Greek ILEN are accepted. A VHF radio certificate (SRC) is also mandatory.
How strong is the Meltemi in the Aegean?
The Meltemi is a dry northerly wind that blows regularly at Force 5–7 on the Beaufort scale from July to August, with stronger gusts. It is reliable but powerful, so sailors should have experience handling winds of Force 5 and above.
Can I sail from Athens to the Cyclades?
Yes, the first Cycladic islands (Kea, Kythnos) are about 30–50 nautical miles from Athens. Santorini is about 130 nautical miles away, a multi-day trip with stopovers along the way.
More destinations
More destinations in Aegean
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