Is Mykonos good for sailing? Are you planning a Cyclades sailing tour from Mykonos? Santorini is the real gem of the Aegean Sea. It is the southernmost member of the Cyclades archipelago of volcanic origins. It is very popular due to its prehistoric ruins and fabulous natural environment. Every year, more and more people come here from all over the world. The romance of the typical Greek landscape fascinates every visitor. If you are looking for an unforgettable holiday, you should definitely go sailing in Santorini!
This article gives you an overview of the following topics:
- When to go sailing in Santorini?
- Where can you sail to from Santorini? – ports and islands
- Sail in Santorini! Santorini sailing and catamaran tours
- Marine gas near Santorini
When to go sailing in Santorini?
Santorini offers exceptional sailing conditions throughout the year. The Meltemi wind – a strong north-northwesterly breeze – dominates the summer months, creating both exhilarating and demanding sailing experiences.
Spring (March to May) :
Air temperatures range from 15-25°C, while sea temperatures stay between 15-19°C. Winds are generally moderate from the northwest (10-20 knots), with occasional southern sirocco gusts. The mild breeze and calm waters make this a fantastic time for relaxed sailing, with fewer visitors compared to peak season.
Summer (June to August) :
Temperatures rise to 25-35°C, and the sea warms up to 22-26°C. The Meltemi wind strengthens significantly, blowing at 20-35 knots and sometimes reaching 40 knots, mainly from the north-northwest. These conditions make sailing challenging, especially in July and August, favoring experienced sailors. However, the southern coast and protected bays offer good refuge from the powerful winds.
Autumn (September to November):
September brings air temperatures between 18-30°C, gradually dropping to 12-20°C by November. Water temperatures remain 20-24°C early in the season before cooling down. The Meltemi starts to weaken, shifting to lighter northerly winds (10-20 knots), with occasional southerly sirocco winds. September is one of the best months to sail, offering warm waters, lighter winds, and fewer crowds. By November, sailing conditions become less predictable, with possible storms.
Winter (December to February):
Air temperatures range from 10-15°C, and sea temperatures hover around 14-16°C. Strong northerly winds, including the Meltemi, continue to influence the region, with occasional gusty Sirocco winds (15-40 knots). The rough seas and high winds make winter sailing in Santorini a thrilling challenge, recommended for seasoned sailors or those seeking adventurous conditions. Check the sailing conditions and wind rose diagram of Santorini
Where can you sail to from Santorini? – ports and islands
There are several ports on the island. Four of them are important for tourists.
Athinios
Athinios is Santorini’s largest port. You can reach it from the caldera, on the western side of the island. It is very busy, they can accommodate all types of vessels from cruise yachts to yachts. There is no village on the coast, so if you drop anchor here, you have to rent a car or ride a donkey to get to Fira. It is fully equipped. Water, electricity, refuelling station, hotels and restaurants are available for the sailors. It can accommodate hundreds of yachts.
Skala Port
Skala is the old port of Fira. It is a smaller port so larger yachts are not allowed to moor here. The passengers of bigger yachts and cruise yachts are transported to the mainland by water taxi. The place is cosy. It has been used for hundreds of years. You can reach the village by climbing 600 stairs. If you do not want to use the stairs, you can use the cable car or ride a donkey to reach the village on top of the cliff.
Ammoudi Port
Ammoudi Bay is next to Oia. It has a small port and can accommodate yachts up to 20 metres in length. There are tavernas and apartments on the coast, but there are no other services. The bay and the village are beautiful. It is one of the most popular places in Santorini.
Vlychada Port
This is the most sheltered port on the island. The Vlychada Bay is protected by a semicircular breakwater. The piers are also in this arch. Water, electricity and fuel are available. There are restaurants and bars along the coast. This is the favourite place of surfers. The port can accommodate boats up to 25 metres in length. yacht rental Santorini, rent a luxury yacht Santorini, catamaran rental Santorini, Santorini sailboat charters
Anafi
Located just 15 nautical miles east of Santorini, Anafi is a hidden paradise with golden beaches and rugged cliffs. The small port of Agios Nikolaos can accommodate a limited number of boats, but the island’s unspoilt beauty and calm waters make it the perfect place to relax.
Ios
Located 25 nautical miles north of Santorini, Ios is famous for its vibrant nightlife, sandy beaches and charming Cycladic architecture. Ios Marina offers excellent mooring facilities and access to the bustling town of Chora. It is a great destination for those looking to combine sailing with fun and beach activities.
Folegandros
Located 30 nautical miles northwest, Folegandros is a quiet and picturesque island known for its dramatic cliffs, whitewashed houses and stunning views. Karavostasis harbour offers a small but well-protected anchorage.
Sikinos
Located just 20 nautical miles northwest of Santorini, Sikinos is a tranquil island with a slow pace of life. Alopronia Port is a small but well-protected harbour, ideal for an overnight stop. With its secluded beaches, hiking trails and charming old town, Sikinos is the perfect choice for sailors seeking peace and nature. 
Milos
Located around 60 nautical miles to the west, Milos is famous for its breathtaking rock formations, sea caves and colourful waters. Adamas harbour is one of the best harbours in the Cyclades, with excellent facilities and a lively waterfront. Don’t miss Kleftiko Bay, a spectacular spot only accessible by boat.Milos sailing, Milos boat rental
Kimolos
Just a short sail from Milos (65 nm from Santorini), Kimolos is a quiet and authentic Greek island with unspoilt beaches and traditional whitewashed houses. Its port of Psathi offers a safe anchorage.
Amorgos
Located 50 nautical miles northeast, Amorgos is known for its rugged beauty, deep blue waters and the stunning Hozoviotissa Monastery. The port of Katapola is well-equipped and offers easy access to charming villages, scenic hikes and spectacular diving sites. Amorgos sailing ,boat rental Amorgos
Port of Parikia (Paros)
Paros, located 48 nautical miles north of Santorini, is the sailing hub of the Cyclades, known for its picturesque villages, sandy beaches and lively atmosphere. Its main port offers good mooring facilities, restaurants and easy access to the island’s attractions. Paros is a charming and lively town. Paros sailing, boat rental Paros, boat hire Paros, catamaran charter Paros, rent a motorboat Paros, rent a luxury yacht Paros, sailing charter Paros
Sail in Santorini! Santorini sailing tours:
1 week sailing itinerary around Santorini
Santorini is a sailor’s paradise! In the summers, thousands of snow-white yachts cover the waters around the island. This region offers you the opportunity to go on exciting adventures. In this article, we will show you a 7-day itinerary if you want to go sailing in Santorini this summer!
Day 1: Fíra (Santorini) – Oia
9.53 km (5.92 nm)
From the port of Fira, go north to Oia. You will soon reach the Ammoudi Port going along the shoreline. Take a dip in the bay next to the port and explore the city on the top of the high cliff. Oia is famous for its amazing sunsets. At dusk, the terraces and streets fill up with people. Everyone looks west, waiting for that magical moment. Check out this fascinating natural phenomenon and have dinner at a local tavern.
Day 2: Oia – Ormos Korfou
3.92 km (2.44 nm)
Leaving Oia, visit the neighbouring island of Thirasia. From the port of Ormos, conquer the mountain and climb up to Manolas! Take a look at the town’s whitewashed little houses with blue windows. The streets are covered in beautiful oleanders. Do not be surprised if you meet donkeys everywhere. Traditionally, locals travel around riding donkeys on this difficult terrain. Have dinner in town and relax because the next day will be quite eventful!
Day 3: Ormos – Nea Kameni – Akrotiri
18.61 km (11.56 nm)
From Ormos, go and visit the island of Nea Kameni. It rises in the middle of the caldera. It used to be the peak of the former volcano. On the north side, there is a bay, functioning as a port. There is also a sulphur-rich spring, flowing directly into the sea. It is worth trying it as it has many healing effects.
Climb the volcano! You will walk around a lunar landscape, among grey and black stones. Reaching the crater, you will find a buffet and handicraft store. Hop on a yacht in the afternoon and return to the west side of Santorini. Drop anchor at Akrotiri, and go on a sightseeing tour the next day!
Day 4: Akrotiri – Pachia island
39.29 km (24.41 nm)
After the hustle and bustle of the first three days, on the fourth day you will sail to one of the uninhabited islands of Greece, to Pachia. Since you will not find a port here, it is worth anchoring further and approaching the shore by dinghy. You should have sun milk, enough food and drink for the whole day with you because there are no restaurants or shops on the island, in return, the whole beach can be yours for 1 day.
Day 5: Pachia – Anafi island
10.04 km (6.24 nm)
Your next stop is the island of Anafi, located east of Santorini. It is a peaceful little island with beautiful sandy beaches. There are few tourists here, so the locals are very welcoming. You can find some Christian churches and monasteries on the island. In summer, the island is home to cultural festivals and events. Many visitors come from Santorini.
Day 6: Anafi – Vlychada
30.37 km (18.87 nm)
Continue along the south coast of the island and make your destination Vlychada! The port is located behind a breakwater, forming two arches. If you drop anchor here, make sure to try one of the restaurants. The city of Exomitis lies nearby. The rocks around the city hide ancient burial sites and caves.
Day 7: Vlychada – Kamari (Santorini) – Fíra
37.89 km (23.54 nm)
Kamari is located under the shade of Mesa Vouno. It is the eastern side of the island. The Kamari beach is the largest in Santorini. The sandy beach stretches comfortably for several kilometres. Enjoy the sunshine from a sun lounger! If you want to take a walk, make sure to visit the ancient village of Thera. Life does not stop at night, there are many nightclubs in Kamari.
Return to the starting point. If you can, spend one or two days in the village.
7days Santorini catamaran sailing cruise
Day 1. Fira (Santorini) – Oia 9.53 km (5.92 nm), Day 2. Oia – Karavostasis (Folegandros island) 42.34 km (26.31 nm), Day 3. Folegandros – Alopronia (Sikinos island) 19.87 km (12.35 nm), Day 4. Sikinos – Chora (Ios island ) 12.80 km (7.95 nm), Day 5. Chora – Ag. Georgios (Iraklia island) 38.18 km (23.72 nm), Day 6. Iraklia – Keros island 16.29 km (10.12 nm), Day 7. Keros – Vlychada – Santorini 82.37 km (51.18 nm)
Sailing from Athens to Santorini: 14 days sailing cruise
Day 1. Athens – Selinia Salamis (Salamina island) 9.42 km (5.85 nm), Day 2. Salamina – Aegina 26.25 km (16.31 nm), Day 3. Aegina Lavrion ( Olympic Marine) 68, 02 km (42, 26 nm), Day 4. Lavrion – Merihas (Kythnos Island) 45, 95 km (28, 55 nm), Day 5. Merihas – Livadi (Serifos Island) 47, 76 km (29, 68 nm), Day 6. Livadi – Milos island (Adamantas) 51, 33 km (31, 90 nm), Day 7. Milos – Folgerandos (Karavostasis) 67, 01 km (41, 64 nm), Day 8. Folgerandos – Santorini (Thira) 50, 25 km (31, 22 nm), Day 9. Thira – Vlychada (Santorini) 15, 83 km (9, 83 nm), Day 10. Vlychada – Ios 52, 81 km (32, 81 nm), Day 11. Ios – Sifnos island (Kamares)67, 61 km (42, 01 nm), Day 12. Kamares – Siros 88, 45 km , Day 13. Siros – Kea 69, 63 km (43, 27 nm), Day 14. Kea – Glifada – Athens75, 68 km (47, 02 nm).
More about sailing from Athens to Santorini
Catamaran sailing tour from Crete to Santorini
Day 1. Heraklion – Agia Pelagia 16, 30 km (10, 13 nm), Day 2. Agia Pelagia – Vlychada 110, 01 km (68, 36 nm), Day 3. Vlychada – Anafi 30.37 km (18.87 nm), Day 4. Anafi – Monolitos 26, 60 km (16, 53 nm), Day 5. Monilitos – Oia 17, 10 km (10, 63 nm), Day 6. Oia – Fira 9, 36 km (5, 82 nm), Day 7. Fira – Black Beach – Heraklion 121, 75 km (75, 65 nm).
More information about catamaran Crete to Santorini.
Marine gas near Santorini
- Riva Tirasia, Santorini: Depth: 5m, Working time: 0-24, GPS Coordinates: 36.452705, 25.344247
- Thira New Port, Santorini: Depth: 4.5m, Working time: 0-24, GPS Coordinates: 36.386354, 25.428268
- Adamantas Milos, Milos: Depth: 5m, Working time: 0-24, GPS Coordinates: 36.721797, 24.444774
- Riva Tirasia, Santorini: Depth: 5m, Working time: 0-24, GPS Coordinates: 36.452705, 25.344247
- Thira New Port, Santorini: Depth: 4.5m, Working time: 0-24, GPS Coordinates: 36.386354, 25.428268
In this article, we have shown you why it is worth to go sailing in Santorini. According to some, this place used to be Atlantis known from the legends. It is one of Europe’s most extraordinary places. You can experience the Greek lifestyle, the history and the refreshing atmosphere of summer. Rent a yacht now so you do not miss it! Find more Cyclades sailing routes
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