Sailing the Saronic Islands: Aegina, Hydra, Spetses, and Poros

The Saronic Gulf is the sailing ground closest to Athens. An hour from Piraeus, you are in a different world — clear water, pine-covered islands, and harbors that have welcomed travelers since antiquity. The Saronic islands are the perfect introduction to Greek sailing.

Aegina

The closest of the Saronic islands, Aegina is just 90 minutes from Athens by ferry or sail. The harbor town is lively, with a pistachio harvest that produces some of the best nuts in Greece. Anchor off the town quay or use the marina. The Temple of Aphaia, a 5th-century BC temple, is worth the walk uphill.

Poros

Poros is actually two islands connected by a causeway. The town of Poros rises in a cascade of neoclassical buildings on Sferia, while Kalavria is pine-covered and home to the ancient Temple of Poseidon. The channel between Poros and the Peloponnese is narrow and sheltered — one of the best all-weather anchorages in the Saronic.

Hydra

No cars allowed on Hydra. Only donkeys and water taxis. The harbor is a horseshoe of 18th-century mansions built by shipping magnates. The water is deep right up to the quay, so you can anchor close to town. Hydra is expensive but unforgettable.

Spetses

The furthest of the Saronic islands, Spetses has a pine-covered interior, elegant mansions, and a lively harbor. The Old Harbor (Palio Limani) is quieter and more atmospheric than the new harbor. Spetses was the home of Laskarina Bouboulina, the only female admiral in Greek naval history.

Route Recommendation

Start from Athens, spend the first night in Aegina. Day 2: sail to Poros and explore the Temple of Poseidon. Day 3: sail to Hydra for the harbor views. Day 4: continue to Spetses. Day 5: sail back to Athens via a direct passage or stop at Poros again. Five days, four islands, no long passages — the Saronic Loop is the most accessible Greek sailing trip you can take.