Athens & The Saronic Islands
Sat 11th - Sat 18th September 2027

Overview

For our final trip to the Med this summer, we’re heading to Athens to cruise the unspoilt islands of the Saronic Gulf and the Peleponese. 

The yachts are located at Alimos Marina in Kalamaki, which is about 6km south of the city itself. We’ll be setting sail on Saturday afternoon so you’ll need to arrive on Friday or take an early flight on Saturday.

This week in September is one of the most popular as the weather is warm and sailing conditions are good.

Porch of the Maidens

Athens

The city is dominated by the Acropolis with the Parthenon and the Temple of Athena Nike. At the foot of the Acropolis is Plaka, probably the most atmospheric part of central Athens. Its narrow, winding streets contain neoclassical houses, Byzantine churches, ancient monuments, cafés, tavernas and small shops.

Hydra

Arguably the most picturesque of all the Greek Island ports, Hydra is impressive and a favourite of Hollywood A-listers. There are no cars there and donkeys are the only form of transport, weaving their way through the myriad of back streets and alleyways. In the 50’s and 60’s the port became a fashionable artists’ colony attracting, amongst others, Leonard Cohen. His relatives still retain his house there.

Hydra
Spetses

Spetses

We will also visit the island of Spetses is where superyachts bob up and down next to traditional wooden fishing boats and where the super-rich rub shoulders with the locals in quayside tavernas.  The shipbuilders of Spetses still do things the traditional way and the shore is dotted with the hulls of emerging caiques and other sailing vessels.  All are drawn to this pine-covered island for its secluded coves and clear waters and the glories of Spetses Town, the island hub, untainted by package tourism.

Epidaurus

A short taxi ride from the port of Epidaurus is it’s magnificent amphitheatre.  Offering a capacity of 14,000 spectators, this ancient monument is regarded as the best preserved Greek amphitheatre in the world. We’re planning an excursion to this landmark.

Epidaurus © O.Mustafin
Nafplion

Nafplion

Nafplion was the capital of Greece before Athens took on the role in 1834.  The Old Town sits around a sheltered harbour and is largely pedestrianised. Its narrow streets are lined with neoclassical buildings, small squares, cafés, tavernas, boutiques and ice-cream shops. The waterfront promenade is particularly pleasant in the evening, with views across the Gulf of Argolis.

The city has a distinctly Venetian feel with its architecture reflecting the centuries when the area was controlled by Venice.

The Palamidi Fortress is spectacularly positioned on the 216-metre-high hill above the town. There are around 900 steps to climb, with spectacular views over Nafplion and the sea.

A night at anchor

On the Northwest shoulder of Spetses lies Zogeria bay.  Largely undeveloped and framed by dense Aleppo pines, this anchorage offers clear turquoise waters and a safe haven for the night.  Star gazing will be the after dinner attraction.

 

Zogeria Bay © dronepicr

The Route

Day 1 Saturday – Aegina

Day 2 Sunday – Hydra

Day 3 Monday – Spetses

Day 4 Tuesday – Nafplion

Day 5 Wednesday – Zogeria Bay, Spetses

Day 6 Thursday – Poros

Day 7 Friday – Alimos Marina, Kalamaki

September Weather
Average Temperatures
25C
High Temperature
27C
Low Temperature
23C
Rainfall
17mm in month
Rainfall Days
2 Days

Sailing Conditions

This is a sheltered area so challenging sailing conditions are not expected.

The weather is usually pleasant for sailing at this time of year with daytime temperatures reaching 27 degrees. Winds are generally light but may reach F5.

Important Trip Information

Embarkation: 1700 onwards on Sat 11 September 2027

Set sail: 1500 on Sat 11 September 2027

Arrival Back in Athens: 1700 on Fri 17 September 2027

Disembark: 0900 on Sat 18 September 2027

The Sundowners member price of the trip for the yacht charter is:

 Standard Berth £500  (£50 discount if booked before 1st Dec 26)

Single Occupancy Preferred £750 Click for details
(£50 discount if booked before 1st Dec 26)

which includes the following: 

Basic Yacht Charter

Not included in the sailing event price are:  flights, transfers, outboards, personal insurance, victualling, meals ashore, diesel, service pack (270 euros/boat) water, mooring fees, excursion to amphitheatre and any personal expenditure.

Yacht Deposit Indemnity Insurance should we take it. 

The Club’s standard terms and conditions apply.  In summary:

  • Paying your deposit commits you to the trip and to paying all payments as and when required.
  • If you withdraw from an event you are still liable for the full cost unless a replacement participant is found.
  • If a replacement is found there will be an admin charge made for the change of participant.
  • You agree to bear the shared cost of any security deposit loss levied by the charter company for loss or damages.

The full cost of the deposit is £3,000 per boat.

HOW TO GET THERE

There are a number of airlines flying direct to Athens from the UK including British Airways, EasyJet, Aegean, Sky Express and Wizz Air. Prices with a cabin bag start at £245 or £355 including hold baggage.

Do not book flights until advised to do so by the event organisers.

Payment Schedule

Payment Due Date Shared Cabin Single Cabin

Deposit

Immediately

£150*/£200*

£150*/£250*

Mid Payment

1 Mar 2027

£150

£150

Final Payment

1 Jul 2027

£150

£350

   

Total Cost

£450*/£500*

£700*/£750*
* Lower price for bookings up to 30 Nov 26
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