Is October a good month to sail in Greece? October is one of the most beautiful times to sail in Greece, but it also requires careful planning. The summer crowds are gone, the seas are still warm, the ports are calmer – but the weather is also more variable, and not every region is ideal for every level of experience. This guide will help you decide where, what route and what experience level to sail in Greece
in October, and what to look out for in terms of weather, distances and sea exposure.

In this article, we look at the appeal of sailing in Greece in October, highlighting ideal sailing destinations, weather conditions and the many benefits of exploring this Mediterranean paradise at this magical time of year. The article is about:

• Is October a good month to sail in Greece? – the weather
• The best sailing destinations in Greece in October
• How to get to these regions
• Sailing in Greece in October: itineraries

Is October a good month to sail in Greece? – the weather

In the regions we recommend, the temperature is warmer, and the sunny period is longer than in the northern regions. The average daily temperature ranges between 20°C and 25°C. Although you can still enjoy the warm days, the evenings can be cooler, so packing a light jacket is recommended. October offers plenty of sunshine, making it ideal for outdoor activities. Compared to summer, however, there is a higher chance of rain, especially towards the end of the month. The sea is still pleasantly warm for swimming, with temperatures ranging from 21°C to 23°C. Compared to the summer months, the sea and wind are often calmer, which makes sailing more comfortable.

What are the sailing conditions in Greece in October? The wind season (Meltemi) that lingers in the summer will end at the end of September and the beginning of October. In this case, the sea wind gets space from the directions between SE and SW. A particularly southerly wind, the sirocco usually blows with a strength of 2-4 in spring and autumn.

The best sailing destinations in Greece in October

October in Greece marks the transition from the hot summer months to the milder autumn. Although the weather is usually pleasant, be prepared for more varied conditions. The most ideal destinations. Rent a boat in Greece and let the island’s hidden coves and crystal clear waters enchant you – without stress, at your own pace.

The Saronic Gulf

The Saronic Gulf, located south of Athens, is a popular choice among sailors due to its proximity to the capital and the diversity of islands. This region is ideal for those who want to combine sailing with cultural exploration. Spetses and Hydra are car-free islands. Its picturesque harbor and surrounding waters offer a unique and peaceful sailing experience.

The Cyclades

While the Cyclades are famous for their summer charm, October offers a quieter but equally enchanting experience. Islands like Mykonos, Paros, Naxos and Amorgos are less crowded so you can really appreciate their beauty. In addition to the popular islands, you will find the islands of Folegandros, Amorgos, Sikinos, and Kythnos, which have traditional villages and untouched beauty.

The Ionian Islands

For a more secluded and relaxed sailing vacation the Ionian Islands are the perfect choice. Corfu, Lefkada and Kefalonia offer stunning landscapes, charming villages and opportunities to explore. On Kefalonia, Paxos, Lefkada, and Ithaca, many hidden bays and caves can only be discovered at sea.

The Dodecanese

For those looking for a longer sailing adventure, the Dodecanese Islands offer plenty of options. Rhodes, Kos and Simi are just some of the gems waiting to be discovered. Since this is the southernmost region of Greece, the warm weather lasts the longest, the prices are lower, so you should book a boat in time. Often already in July, the selection of the best yachts is limited.

How to get to these regions

In October, there are no longer direct flights from all major European cities to all 4 regions, but you will always find a flight with a transfer in Athens.

Sailing in Greece in October: itineraries

A Saronic-gulf sailing itinerary

This route is a stable choice in October, with little wind, sheltered waters, short daily distances, many ports – a good learning ground. Recommended level: Intermediate, advanced. Open sea sections: no.

Day 1. Athens – Glyfada (4 nm), Day 2. Glyfada – Salamis – Aegina (25 nm), Day 3. Salamis – Aegina – Hydra (Ermioni) (21 nm), Day 4. Hydra (Ermioni) – Dokos (15 nm), Day 5. Dokos – Poros (12 nm), Day 6. Poros – Epidaurus (23 nm), Day 7. Epidaurus – Athens (30 nm)

More Saronic-gulf sailing itineraries, boat rental Saronic

A Cyclades sailing itinerary

Less crowds in October, but variable winds, so experience is required – longer crossings, exposed sea sections. Recommended level: Intermediate, advanced. Open sea sections: yes.

Day 1. Paros – Kamares (Sifnos island) 54.85 km (34.08 nm), Day 2. Kamares – Livadi (Serifos island) 22.85 km (14.20 nm), Day 3. Livadi – Merihas (Kithnos island) 45.85 km (28.49 nm), Day 4. Merihas – Ermoupoli (Siros island)69.19 km (43.00 nm), Day 5. Ermoupoli – Tinos (Tinos island) 22.15 km (13.76 nm), Day 6.Tinos – Agios Stefanos(Mykonos)17.17 km (10.67 nm), Day 7. Mykonos – Stefano beach – Paros 55.48 km (34.47 nm)
More Cyclades sailing itineraries, boat rental Cyclades islands

An Ionian sailing itinerary

The route is ideal for calm sailing in October. Protected coastal sailing, with many anchorages. Recommended level: Beginner, intermediate Open sea sections: no.

Day 1. Corfu Town – Kassiopi (20 km / 11 nm), Day 2. Kassiopi – Avlaki (10 km / 5.5 nm), Day 3. Avlaki – Agios Stefanos (12 km / 6.5 nm), Day 4. Agios Stefanos – Paleokastritsa (15 km / 8 nm), Day 5. Paleokastritsa – Liapades (5 km / 3 nm), Day 6. Liapades – Barbati (59,5 km / 37 nm), Day 7. Barbati – Corfu Town (20 km / 11 nm)

More Ionian sailing itineraries, Ionian yacht charter

A Dodecanese sailing itinerary

Warmer climate in October, but experienced crew recommended. Long daily distances, less shelter. Recommended level: Advanced. Open sea sections: yes.

Day 1. Rhodes – Ano Symi 45.66 km (28.37 nm), Day 2. Ano Symi – Mandraki 72.02 km (44.75 nm), Day 3. Mandraki – Livadia (Tilos Island)36.33 km (22.57 nm) , Day 4. Livadia – Chalki (Chalki island) 34.47 km (21.42 nm) Day 5. Chalki – Lindos 83.93 km (52.15 nm), Day 6. Lindos – Antony Quinn Beach 28.24 km (17.55 nm) Day 7. Antony Quinn Beach – Faliraki – Rhodes 17.14 km (10.65 nm).

More Dodecanese sailing itineraries, yacht charter Dodecanese

How to choose?

Greece offers itineraries for all levels – if you choose consciously. The good decision in October is not “where”, but “with what experience and for what purpose” you set off.

• If this is your first time chartering or you want a relaxed experience: choose the Saronic Gulf or the Ionian Islands – sheltered waters, short stages, predictable conditions.
• If you already have experience and want fewer tourists: the Cyclades in October are special, but only with conscious route and weather monitoring.
• If you also undertake longer sea crossings: the Dodecanese offers a warm climate and a real maritime challenge – for advanced sailors.