Greek islands may share their sun-drenched beauty, rich culture, and timeless history, but not all regions are the same. In this guide, we compare the Dodecanese, Cyclades, and Sporades – three of the most popular sailing areas in Greece. From strong Cycladic winds and lively nightlife, to the family-friendly Sporades and the warm, sheltered Dodecanese, this breakdown will help you choose the perfect sailing destination for your Greek yacht charter holiday.
Key Takeaways:
- Cyclades: Adventure, nightlife, iconic islands (Mykonos, Santorini) but stronger winds.
- Sporades: Calm seas, family-friendly atmosphere, lush landscapes, national parks.
- Dodecanese: Warmest weather, sheltered bays, fewer crowds, ideal for longer charters.
- The best choice depends on your group type, sailing experience, and holiday style.
Groups of Islands
The islands in the Aegean sea are divided into three groups:
1. The Cyclades – The central and southern part of the Aegean sea.
Santorini, Mykonos, Naxos, Paros, Milos, Sifnos, Syros and Koufonisia.
This is the most adventurous area for sailing offering lots of fun things to do and lots of possibilities for watersport activities. However, this area is also known for it’s stronger winds. The Cyclades requires an experienced captain and the crew with good knowledge of the area so strong winds and high waves can be completely avoided.
The distances between islands are longer so you will spend more time cruising and exploring bays before without stopping in major cities or islands. During those longer cruising periods, don’t be afraid of being bored since this place hides away the most beautiful treasures, landscapes, and hidden gems. If you want to visit the Cyclades, we will help you to find the perfect cruising route so you can avoid strong winds and get the most out of your holiday.
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2. The Sporades – Northeast part of the Aegean sea.
Skiathos, Skopelos, Alonissos, Skiros
The Sporades islands are positioned between the Greek mainland and the Greek islands of North-Eastern Aegean. These four little islands have a unique style and spectacular surroundings. The most attractive island of Sporades is Skiathos. Skopelos and Alonissos have a more family-friendly atmosphere but still beautiful shores, secluded beaches, and interesting sightseeing.
Even when the winds become the strongest, the waves are still very moderate and do not affect cruising at all. Gulets are generally large ships that are stable and comfortable so sailing will be smooth.
Waves caused by wind are easy to handle, but also can be fully avoided if you pick the calmer months and protected bays.
This destination also offers a combination of lush green hills and magical beaches that create majestic scenery. The islands are also home to many national water parks in which many marine organisms find refuge, including the Mediterranean monk seal. This activity is especially fun for families with kids.
During the summer climate is quite hot with low chances of rain to spoil your holidays. As opposed to the Dodecanese islands, the winters here are very warm, with little rain. So if Sporades islands sound like a better option for you we can help you with more information and the whole process of finding the perfect cruising route and personalized activities.
3. The Dodecanese islands – Southeast part of the Aegean sea.
Rodos, Kos, Patmos, Agathonisi, Astypalia, Halki, Kalymnos, Karpathos, Kasos, Leipsoi, Leros, Nisyros, Symi, Tilos, Kastelorizo
Dodecanese islands stretch across the Aegean Sea consisting of 12 main gorgeous islands. This destination is perfect for those who want to enjoy privacy away from crowds where you can explore islands, visit beaches, and absorb an interesting local culture. Furthermore, numerous bays offer safe shelter and beautiful landscapes ideal for anchoring and enjoying watersports and swimming in crystal clear sea.
This area is less affected by winds too, therefore warmer than Cycladic islands (except for the most western islands, such as Astypalaia). In the Dodecanese wind is actually most ideal for a sailing adventure.
However, one of the most popular areas with the sunniest days in a year is Rhodos. Dodecanese islands generally enjoy the longest period of nice weather and sunshine, because of all this, those islands are the perfect destination for your cruising almost without any risks of bad weather.
Whether you are planning a cruise to the Dodecanese or some other islands, it is well worth researching all the island groups to see which one would suit you the most.
If you are not sure or have any more questions our gulet experts can help you choose the right island, help you charter gulet of your dreams, and plan everything according to your wishes. To be one step closer to your holidays fill out the inquiry below and be one step closer to your holiday.
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