Our Base: Samos Island
NEW in 2022: ‘Melisandra’ will also partially operate from Athens, offering optimal access to Saronic & Peloponnesus, as well as to Cyclades. CONTACT US to discuss about the best option for you.
Easy international access
‘Melisandra’, our brand new (2020) Sun Odyssey 410 sailboat is decked on the beautiful island of Samos in the North Eastern Aegean. The island is easily accessible from many European cities and daily connected by air with many flights from Athens’ International Airport (55 minutes flight) or Thessaloniki International Airport (1h 10’ flight).
The Samos Marina is comfortably located just half an hour ride from the island’s airport and just 500m from the picturesque village of Pythagorio. Samos Marina is one of the most elegant, modern and fully equipped marinas in the Aegean Sea.
Sailing paradise
Samos is a paradise for sailboat experiences due to the moderate winds’ intensity in the area and the incredibly easy routes to several sailing destinations (Dodecanese, North Eastern Aegean islands and Cyclades). Many travelers make Samos their base from which they can easily sail to the rest of the Greek islands.
Samos belongs to the North Eastern Aegean islands together with the islands of Chios, Lesvos and Limnos in the North, Ikaria and Fourni in the West. Just on its South starts the large group of Dodecanese islands that includes among other the islands of Patmos, Kalymnos, Kos, Symi, Rhodes and numerous smaller and rock-islands in-between. West of Ikaria starts the group of Cyclades with Mykonos at approx. 50 miles away.
Yet the best Greece has to offer
Samos is known for its lush landscapes, endless beaches, blue-green waters, but also for being an important archaeological destination.
The island which was since long famous for its Muscat Doux wine, has been emerging as a gastronomic destination, thanks to the richness of its soil and the purity of its local products. Samian cousine is a unique blend of culinary influences in the Eastern Mediterranean, with its proximity to the Asia Minor coast being reflected in many of its tastes and dishes.
You can combine your sailing adventure with an island tour which our team can arrange to for you
Sailing tips & trips
Sailing trips and tips
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Greek islands constitute an ideal destination for sailing from Spring to Autumn, while each of the islands in the Aegean Sea have something special to offer for any taste. Whether you look for a cosmopolitan tour or opt for more relaxing and lonely sailing itinerary, we are here to advise you with our local knowledge in preparing your sailing routes that will better deserve your wishes.
If you are sailing for the first time in Greece, take a look at our list of trips for a successful sailing experience in the Greek islands.
Tips for a successful sailing experience in Greece
Dream of and plan in advance your sailing holidays! We are here to assist you in every step. It is why we actually meet our customers online to discuss their wishes and to guide them via Skype, especially if they are sailing for the first time in Greece.
- Pack lightly because summers in Greece are hot, however nights could be chilly, especially if you are on a deck. We will send you a ‘must have’ list for your baggage before your trip. Remember that luggage space on a yacht is relatively limited and avoid hard suitcases.
- Don’t worry about provisions: you will find everything you need on the spot. Moreover, our team can take care of that before your arrival, at your request.
- Don’t worry about the boat’s ‘secrets’: a comprehensive handover will be done on the spot and we will be delighted to answer to any other question you may have.
- Make a broad plan for your trip while keeping flexibility: you will always discover spots that deserve a longer stay, or rock-islands and coves that merit a deviation!
- Be prepared not wanting return back home at the end of your sailing vacation!
Northern Aegean
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The Northern Aegean Islands
Probably the most unexplored as a sailing destination in Greece are the islands in the North-eastern part of the Aegean Sea, namely, Samos, Ikaria Chios, Lesvos and Limnos, plus another eight smaller ones, among which Fournoi are the most known to travellers.
Samos
Samos is known for its lush landscapes, endless beaches, blue-green waters, but also for being an important archaeological destination. The island which was since long famous for its Muscat Doux wine, has been emerging as a gastronomic destination, thanks to the richness of its soil and the purity of its local products. Samian cuisine is a unique blend of culinary influences in the Eastern Mediterranean, with its proximity to the Asia Minor coast being reflected in many of its tastes and dishes.
Ikaria
Ikaria is part of the so called “blue zone” - comprising of countries and locations where inhabitants live longer than usual. Ikaria is holding the key to longevity for centuries whether is the laid back lifestyle of its inhabitants or the purity of its environment and food. Ikaria distinguishes through its wild beauty with dense vegetation, mountain lakes and paradisiac beaches.
Chios
The island of Chios is a jewel of sandy and volcanic stone beaches, extraordinary caves and remote medieval stone villages with houses featuring unique decorations. It is known worldwide for its production of mastic, so here you can actually see how this essence is extracted from the mastic trees that are growing only on that island and only in its southern half!
Lesvos
Lesvos is large island with a mosaic of attractions: medieval castles, picturesque villages, rare geological formations such as the petrified forest, a variety of landscapes including endless olive trees fields, and a must try local cuisine and ouzo drink. Although it has quite a developed infrastructure, many beautiful spots remain secluded even during the high season.
Limnos
Serenely floating in the north of the Aegean Sea, Limnos is a destination for a peaceful holiday close to nature. Sheltered gulfs, extensive beaches and landscapes of volcanic rocks, alternate with small hills and traditional villages of stone houses. Limnos has emerged recently as a gourmet destination especially among Greeks. Its sweet wine and tasty cheeses are just starting to become known beyond borders.
Dodecanese
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Sailing in the Dodecanese
Probably with the ideal sailing conditions among all Greek seas, the Dodecanese are the perfect choice if you look for diversity and for a real Eastern flavour, very different from that of mainland Greece. The name Dodecanese literally means Dodeka- twelve, nisia- islands. Each of the island have their own cultural identity, history and natural beauty worth exploring.
Rhodes
The island of Rhodes is famous for its beautiful Medieval Town (a UNESCO World Heritage Site) and its rich history throughout ages (seat of the Knights for two centuries before their move to Malta). Being the capital of the Dodecanese, the island is quite developed. You will find all the touristic facilities and attractions you need there. The Acropolis of Lindos (a natural citadel founded by Greeks in the 10th century BC and occupied successively by Romans, Byzantines, the Knights and Ottomans) is worth a visit also because of the beautiful landscape and the very picturesque nearby village. Beare in mind that as a world-famous destination in Greece, Rhodes can be quite crowded in the summer.
Symi
This little charming island was once famous for its shipbuilding and sponge diving activities. Symi Town is known for its colourful neoclassical architecture. You will love strolling around the narrow streets and spotting church domes while sipping on a Greek coffee at a local kafenio. Around the island you will discover beautiful and unspoiled coves and beaches with deep-blue and blue-green waters inviting you for endless swimming and snorkelling.
Patmos
Patmos is probably the most beautiful island in the Dodecanese. Mostly known for its Monastery and the Cave of the Apocalypse where it is believed that the Apostle John had the vision and wrote the Book of Revelations. The historical capital of the island, Chora, just below the Monastery is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Besides the spiritual significance, the island’s natural beauty with numerous coves and islets nearby, constitutes a highlight in Greece that can better be explored with a sail boat.
Kos
The island of Kos is where Hippocrates, the father of Medicine, was born. The tree where it is believed he once taught under, the Hippocrates Plane Tree, still stands in the Kos Town. Modern delights are the order of the day although you will find Italian architecture in Kos Town and Greek-Roman ruins elsewhere on the island. The island has an outstanding variety of beaches, from very organised ones with vibrant beach-bars to almost unspoiled ones.
Kalymnos
Very close to the island of Kos, but extremely different in many ways, Kalymnos is a small island with a laid-back atmosphere, not a favourite spot for mass tourism. It emerged recently however as a top destination for climbing adventurers due to its impressive cliffs offering a fantastic view on the Aegean Sea. You will find a variety of beaches and coves, as well as welcoming locals.
Cyclades
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The Cyclades
These are the iconic Greek islands of countless posters, films and postcards, with their white-washed villages, sugar-cube houses and blue domed churches. The Cyclades lay in a circle (Greek: kyklos) around the sacred island of Delos, the birthplace of God Apollo, and consists of 23 large islands and some hundred smaller ones.
During July - August, the seasonal North wind “Meltemi” can be rather strong, so sailing in the Cyclades often means sailing a rough sea.
Picturesque tiny houses and flower-filled narrow alleys are typical in all Cyclades, while in some of them the harbour is not the main settlement (called Chora), which is hidden up-hill. Beaches are clean and sandy, the light dazzling, the colours vibrant, and the food is good. You would be amazed at how such barren lands produce some of the best wines i.e. in Santorini or the tastiest of tomatoes and honey.
Mykonos and Santorini are the stars of these islands being among the most known Greek destinations. Photogenic, trendy, picturesque and (especially for Santorini) offering a unique landscape. Early and late season are recommended since the weather is calmer and they are less crowded.
Mykonos famous for its wind-mills, beaches and night-life. Is expensive, but also offers the most premium services in the Cyclades. You will see there several celebrities and jet-setters, but it can ultimately be an amazing experience for anyone who loves an animated island day and night. It can get so crowded that you need to book a sunbed and umbrella in advance during the top season.
Santorini (Thera) is indeed unique being the remnant of a huge still active volcano that collapsed (approx. 1600 BC) forming the caldera. You will be amazed by the colours of the soil, the extraordinary red and black crater and cliffs set in dark, deep waters against the background of white houses. The island settlements are all picturesque although almost always crowded in summer with tourists. It is believed that the sunset in the village of Oia is one of the most dazzling worldwide. Beware that there are steep steps everywhere and limited car access, so walking a lot is part of the lifestyle here. Shopping, dining and sightseeing are unrivalled in Santorini.
Naxos is the largest of the Cycladic islands and it prides itself with a thriving rural and agricultural life, supported by its fertile and mountainous landscape. If you are in for local traditional treats and food, Naxos is a good choice. The island has an equally beautiful port town and also many long sandy beaches for every taste: from lively to lonely. There are also many unspoiled villages on the island that are worth visiting.
Paros is a very popular island while retaining its local character. The village of Naoussa and the surrounding bay is definitively a spot to visit, especially when sailing. Very close to Paros lies Antiparos which is quiet and secluded, with a cute town, beautiful beaches, rather an island of private villas ideal for a taste of quiet, laid-back island life. Combining the two islands, as well as a stop to the uninhibited islet Despotiko is a good option.
Syros is the capital island of the Cyclades and it prides itself with a different island architecture. The town port of Ermoupoli is a jewel of neoclassic buildings, renovated mansions and boutique hotels and it has a busting life all year round.
The group of the so called Small Cyclades (Iraklia, Schoinousa, Koufonisi) are the ideal alternative route for sailing with stunning scenery, crystal clear waters and paradisiac locations with total privacy to anchor for a dive. You can enjoy the quiet life on these islands, small tavernas with delicious local food, nothing fancy, but purely authentic.
Serifos is another Cycladic jewel, yet to be discovered when sailing. You will be charmed by how the whitewashed houses and churches blend with the naturally arid landscape. The capital ‘Chora’, perched on the slopes of a hill above the large bay of the harbour, is without doubt one of the most beautiful pieces of Cycladic architecture. Iron ore mines are part of Serifos’ history (18th – early 19th century) and ship loading bridges and other facilities can still be seen in the South Easter part of the island. Serifos means idyllic beaches, many off the beaten track spots, breath-taking views of the Aegean, delicious local food and a very relaxed atmosphere.
Sifnos although chic and cosmopolitan, remains a lovely low-key Cycladic island, perfect for people who seek tranquillity. Sifnos is known for its very clean and sheltered beaches, postcard villages, quite developed local cuisine restaurants with probably the finest cooks in the Aegean. Sifnos is a good choice for families with kids, honeymooners and romantic couples.
Milos, the most Western of the Cyclades, is home to a dormant volcano which makes the location rich in minerals, but also stunning in landscapes. The island has it all more than 70 beaches for all tastes to choose from, picturesque villages like the rainbow coloured Klima, famous sunsets spots in Plaka rivalling the Oia of Santorini, and a local cuisine with a unique Cycladic character. The Venus (Aphrodite in Greek) of Milo, one of the most famous ancient Greek sculptures (currently at Louvres Museum in Paris) was found here and a copy can be seen at the local museum. If you reach Milos, then sailing also to the nearby small island of Kimolos and to the uninhabited island of Polyaigos is really worth it!
Saronic & Peloponnesus
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Saronic and Eastern Peloponnesus
The Saronic Gulf includes the islands of Aegina, Poros, Hydra, Spetses. Sailing trips in the Saronic Gulf are usually connected with beautiful mainland locations in the Eastern Peloponnesus such as the cities of Nafplion, Porto Heli and further south the castle of Monemvasia.
Hydra and Spetses are calm islands, quite wealthy and very well preserved with limited access to cars. You will see many lovely mansions built by merchants and sea captains in the 18th century, on steep hillsides and water fronts which have now become weekend or summer homes to elegant Athenians and artists from all over the world.
Spetses are covered with pine trees in mild landscapes, with a relaxed and elegant social life. Hydra is a completely car-free island while its harbour is a postcard picture with rich history being currently an artists colony (Leonard Cohen lived here). Dominated by a great, rather barren mountain, it has limited beach life, but definitively easy boating, charm, beauty and style of the island makes up for this.
Porto Heli
A small town of the Eastern Peloponnesus in a land-locked bay, once a fishing village, and now quite popular as a holiday destination, with hotel facilities and a vibrant night life. It is also a great gathering point for yacht owners. Many crystal-clear swimming spots can be found in the bay or can be reached by boat nearby.
Nafplion
Nafplion the lovely town of Peloponnese is a favourite weekend destination for Athenians. With the Palamidi medieval fortress overlooking it, the old town of Nafplion bursts with narrow alleys and lovely squares. A visit to Palamidi is a must to do in Nafplion, as well as the Bourtzi Fortress which is located in on an islet vis-à-vis the port. If you reach Nafplion, then at a very short driving distance you can visit the Archaeological Site of Mycenae.
Monemvasia
The fortress of Monemvasia is located on a rock that was cut off from the coast of the Peloponnese by an earthquake in 375 AD, making it naturally isolated and a strategic point claimed at different times by the Byzantines, Franks, Venetians and Ottomans. Build in limestone, with beautiful cobbled streets, traditional mansions and Byzantine churches, offering stunning views to the sea, the Medieval village and fortress of Monemvasia is a must when you sail of the South-eastern Peloponnesus coast.
Sporades
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The Sporades
The Sporades islands are located between the Greek mainland and the Greek islands of North-Eastern Aegean, almost in the centre of the Aegean Sea. These islands have a special character each, lush vegetation and nature. The most popular islands of the Sporades are Skiathos, Skopelos and Alonissos, while several uninhabited islands are also part of the group.
Skiathos
Just off the Pelion Peninsula, Skiathos is a compact island enveloped in a pine forest and beaches to die for. On the west and south coasts of Skiathos is a constant chain of postcard-worthy bays. Skiathos attracts a younger crowd, which gives many beaches a party vibe, but privacy isn’t hard to find either.
Skopelos
Skopelos is a more relaxed atmosphere location, also rich in green landscapes, virgin beaches and impressive views to the Aegean. Skopelos is ideal for couples and families looking for calm holidays. Do not miss a walk around Skopelos Town and a visit to the Byzantine Monasteries of the island. The island became famous when scenes of the Hollywood movie Mamma Mia were filmed at the Church of Agios Ioannis Kastri.
Alonissos
Blessed with rugged natural landscapes and surrounded by several small islands scattered around it, Alonissos is an island ideal to unwind and enjoy leisure walks in pine forests, olive groves and orchards. The island is the most remote of the Northern Sporades island group and hosts the National Marine Park, a very large area encompassing several rock-islands, refuge for rare seabirds, dolphins and the Mediterranean monk seal.
