Greece offers sailing lovers a unique and enchanting experience in October. While the peak tourist season has passed, the beauty of the country is combined with a more relaxed atmosphere. Sailing in Greece in October is a dream for those looking for peace and adventure. 
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:
- Sailing destinations in Greece in October
- Weather in Greece in October
- How to get to these regions
- Sailing in Greece in October: itineraries
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:
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 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, the Ionian Islands are the perfect choice. Corfu, Lefkada and Kefalonia offer stunning landscapes, charming villages and opportunities to explore. On Kefalonia, Paxos, Lefkada, Ithaca there are many hidden bays and caves that 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.
Weather in Greece in October
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.
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.
How to get to these regions
There are direct flights from most major European cities to all 4 regions. You can easily find a plane to Corfu and Lefkada (Ionian), Santorini, Paros or Mykonos (Cyclades), Athens, or Lavrion (Saronic) and Rhodes (Dodecanese). The Athens International Airport (ATH) provides easy access for those arriving from overseas, from where you can continue to the islands with frequent domestic flights.
Sailing in Greece in October: itineraries
A Saronic-gulf sailing itinerary
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
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)
An Ionian sailing itinerary
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)
A Dodecanese sailing itinerary
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).
HELP ME TO CHOOSE THE PERFECT BOAT
Need to find the right boat with the help of an expert? Send us your needs and we will find the most suitable yacht for you!
We offer only boat rentals, 1-day cruises NOT!
We send a newsletter only 1-2 times a month