The Saronic Gulf is the most accessible cruising ground in Greece — sheltered waters, short passages, and a concentration of historical sites within an hour's sail of Athens. This 67-nm route covers two stops in three days: Aegina and Epidavros, returning to Athens. It is ideal for a long weekend, a first-time yacht charter, or as a short add-on to a longer Greek itinerary.
Your VoyageAthens (Vouliagmeni) to Aegina
A gentle 13-nm opening sail to the largest island in the Saronic Gulf. Aegina has been continuously inhabited since the Bronze Age and was a significant naval power in antiquity. The Temple of Aphaia — a remarkably well-preserved Doric temple on the eastern hillside — is one of the three corners of the so-called "Sacred Triangle" of ancient Greek temples (with the Parthenon and the Temple of Poseidon at Sounio). On the southern coast, the fishing village of Perdika has a waterfront lined with fish tavernas, views to the island of Moni, and some of the best fresh seafood near Athens. Aegina town is the centre of Greece's famed pistachio production — the island's volcanic soil gives the nuts a distinct flavour.
Aegina to Epidavros
Twenty-four nautical miles across to the eastern Peloponnese coast. The ancient theatre at Epidavros is one of the most celebrated monuments of classical Greece — its acoustics are so precise that a coin dropped on the central orchestra stone can be heard from the highest row of seats, 60 rows up. The theatre dates to the 4th century BCE and is part of the larger Sanctuary of Asklepios (UNESCO World Heritage Site), which was the most important healing centre of the ancient world. The small harbour below the site provides a pleasant overnight anchorage. During summer months, the Athens & Epidavros Festival stages performances of ancient Greek drama in the theatre itself — an extraordinary experience if timing allows.
Tip: The archaeological site and theatre are a short taxi ride from the harbour. Performances during the Athens & Epidavros Festival (June–August) are ticketed and in high demand — book well in advance if interested.
Epidavros to Athens (Vouliagmeni)
A 30-nm return passage to Athens, with options for a swim stop en route. The coastline between Epidavros and the Attic peninsula offers several protected bays. Vouliagmeni, just south of Athens, has a thermal lake (Vouliagmeni Lake) and beach clubs that make for a relaxed final stop before disembarkation.
Season
The Saronic Gulf is more sheltered than the open Cyclades, extending the comfortable season from April through October. The Meltemi has less impact here than in the central Aegean, making the Saronic a reliable option even in mid-summer.
Embarkation
Vouliagmeni, Flisvos Marina, or Zea Marina (Piraeus). Vouliagmeni is closest to the Saronic cruising ground and offers a more relaxed departure than central Athens.
Provisioning
Athens has everything. Aegina has good local markets. Epidavros is a small harbour with limited supplies — provision fully before departure.
Extensions
This route combines naturally with a longer Saronic itinerary (Poros, Hydra, Spetses, Porto Heli) or as the opening segment of a Cyclades charter.
This itinerary is a suggestion.
Your captain will adapt the route based on weather, wind conditions, and your preferences.
| Day | From | To | NM | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Athens (Vouliagmeni) | → | Aegina | 13 |
| 2 | Aegina | → | Epidavros | 24 |
| 3 | Epidavros | → | Athens (Vouliagmeni) | 30 |
| Total | 67 | |||
