Sailboat Charter in Athens

Three Reasons to Charter a Sailboat in Athens

1. Ancient City of the World

Athens is famed for its ancient monuments which are pillars in our understanding the origins of Greek culture. A sailboat charter in a revered city like this will leave you in awe, after discovering sites such as the ancient Acropolis, which dates back to the 5th century, and the Temple of Poseidon. Spend some time exploring these impressive remains and truly understand why Athens is considered to be one of the – if not THE most historically important city in the world.

2. A Sailor’s Dream

There’s a reason Greece is so popular with sailors, and Athens’ location in the Saronic Gulf gives it even more appeal as the shelter of the gulf makes for an even easier navigation! Protected from any more extreme weather conditions, you will enjoy sunny, blue skies, with warm, Mediterranean temperatures during your sailboat charter. The prevailing wind is the Meltemi, which blows from north to north-east between the months of July and September.

3. Glorious Riviera

Greece’s Apollo coastline gives us the Athenian Riviera: the perfect destination for a charter holiday. With an alluring array of hidden coves and sandy beaches looking out onto the crystal-clear, turquoise waters of the Aegean Sea. A sailboat charter here will give you the chance to enjoy this magnificent coastline with plentiful waterfront bars and restaurants, as well as the close proximity to historic sites such as the Temple of Poseidon. Situated at the top of Cape Sounion, the temple is the place of Greek myths and legends; it’s where Aegeus, King of Athens allegedly jumped to his death. The Riviera is also home to other unique destinations which should not be missed during your sailboat charter, such as Lake Vouliagmeni, a Natura 2000 protected hot spring, boasting breathtaking emerald waters of 20-29 °C.

Athens: Live like a local

Whilst most people will visit Athens and just see the main historic sites, it’s worth exploring the neighbourhoods around the ancient remains to see how everyday city life looks. A sailboat charter here gives you the opportunity to spend some time soaking up the atmosphere of city life, away from the main crowds of tourists.

Plaka is the oldest neighbourhood in Athens, located below the Acropolis hill, it’s a picturesque hub of life and culture with neoclassical houses and a traditional layout giving it an authentic ambience. Wander the charming narrow streets, Byzantine churches, cafes, restaurants and independent shops; a favourite with locals and visitors alike.

In walking distance from Plaka is the area of Thissio, located south of Monastiraki, close to central Athens. Famous for its trendy bars and cafes, there are incredible views of the Acropolis from every corner of this enchanting neighbourhood. It is a fusion of history, neo-classical buildings and modern ideas; making it a popular spot for young people; with increasingly funky, bohemian cafes the further you get from the Acropolis.

If you’re looking to discover the chic quarters of Athens, a sailboat charter from Marina Alimos – one of the largest in Greece - will set you off to a good start! Then venture into the city and locate the neighbourhood of Kolonaki, one of the most elegant areas in the city, with plush stores, up-market open-air cafes and restaurants to really give you a taste of the lavish life of some Athenians!

Where to EAT and DRINK in Athens...

Athens is the best spot in Greece to find diverse, vibrant and authentic cuisine, so a boating holiday here won’t leave you short of culinary satisfaction. If you’re looking for the crème de la crème of Athenian cooking, head to Varoulko Seaside, a Michelin-starred restaurant, widely regarded as the finest in the city. Specializing in seafood, Varoulko is located on the waterfront, looking out onto Mikrolimano marina, and it will be sure to be an unforgettable experience during your sailboat charter.

If you fancy something less pricey and more typical of authentic Greek cuisine, head to Psarras, located in on the white step leading up to the Acropolis, in the more touristy area of Plaka. It still however, serves up food of equal splendor; proven by the many locals that frequent the restaurant, and former guests include Brigitte Bardot!

Getting There

Athens is home to Greece’s busiest International Airport, so will make a sailboat charter from here very easy. Airport to marina transfers can be organized for you at an extra cost, just contact your GlobeSailor advisor!