Where is the best place to sail in Greece in September?

Where is the best place to sail in Greece in September? What is the weather like to sail in Greece in September? Are you planning a sailing trip in Greece in September? The weather in Mediterranean Greece is very pleasant, even in September. The popular tourist destinations are not too crowded, the prices are more reasonable, and the sea is still warm. Read our article on why it is great to go sailing in Greece in September! We help you with itineraries, ports, yacht rental options & other useful information. We are happy to help!
This article gives you an overview of the following topics:

• Advantages of sailing in Greece in September
• What route to choose?
• Where is the best place to sail in Greece in September?
• Sailing in Greece in September

Advantages of sailing in Greece in September

Greece is a particularly popular holiday destination. The high season runs from early June to the first week of September. From mid-September fewer tourists and sailors come here, making it easier to find a berth in marinas. The restaurants and taverns are also less crowded, you can sit down basically anywhere without a reservation. The prices are more reasonable, you can moor 20-30 percent cheaper than in the high season. The hot summer heat is over, but you can still swim in the sea.

What is the weather like to sail in Greece in September?

In terms of sailing, Greece can be divided into two parts: the Ionian Sea to the west and the Aegean Sea to the east. Meltemi winds still dominate the Aegean Sea in September. Therefore, you should plan cruises from north to south this time of year. Towards the end of the month, rainy periods become more frequent. At the same time, the southern sirocco wind arrives. Because of this, it is better to plan a south to north cruise in late September if you do not want to sail against headwinds. In the Ionian Sea, the northern maestro wind blows that is weaker than the Meltemi. Thus, you should plan a north to south cruise in September.
The coasts and islands have a Mediterranean climate. In September, the temperature ranges from 25 to 27 degrees, and the sea’s temperature is 22-24 degrees, which makes it perfect for swimming. Towards the end of the month, the rainy periods become more frequent. sailing conditions and wind rose diagram of Greece.

A peaceful environment

By mid-September, the high season has mostly ended, and tourists begin to head home, transforming Greece into a quieter destination. Even the busiest marinas have available berths, and the most popular towns take on a more relaxed atmosphere. In September, you can enjoy sunsets in a tranquil setting. During summer, the island capitals are lively both day and night, with numerous bars and clubs filling the air with music. In autumn, however, these capitals settle into a more peaceful rhythm, and the nightlife becomes quieter.

Events in September

September in the Greek archipelago brings a variety of unique events, from charming village festivals to major celebrations. On the island of Spetses, the Armata Festival is a highlight, commemorating the 1821 naval battle in the strait between Spetses and Kosta. The festival features theater performances, traditional Greek dancing, and an exciting reenactment of the historic battle. In Santorini, the Santorini International Music Festival spans the first three weeks of September, showcasing popular musicians from around the world. Over on Aegina, visitors can immerse themselves in the island’s famous pistachio festival, celebrating this local delicacy.

Extra expenses

The official currency in Greece is the euro. If you’re coming from a non-euro country, it’s wise to exchange some currency before you arrive. Marina fees vary widely, with some locations offering free mooring, while others typically charge €30-50 per berth, depending on the length of your yacht. Outside the high season, you can often moor for 20-30% less, though some marinas maintain consistent pricing year-round. It’s a good idea to check marina fees in advance to avoid surprises during your trip.

Where is the best place to sail in Greece in September?

The best sailing spots in Greece in September offer great weather and fewer crowds.

• Ionian Islands Calm sea, gentle winds and lush green landscape, perfect for relaxing sailing. Ionian sailing routes
• Saronic Gulf Close to Athens, with calm waters, historic towns and ideal for short trips. Saronic-gulf sailing itineraries
• Dodecanese Islands Good sailing conditions with pleasant temperatures and moderate winds. Dodecanese yacht routes
• Cyclades Less intense Meltem wind than during the peak summer season, but still ideal for experienced sailors. Cyclades sailing routes

What route to choose?

Of course, your route also depends on what places you want to visit. If you want easy sailing in terms of wind, we recommend the Ionian Sea. Wherever you want to sail in Greece, only go on a round trip in September if you are ready for some challenges. Be aware of the changes in the direction of the winds towards the end of the month, which can cause some inconveniences in the Aegean Sea.

Sailing in Greece in September

1-week one-way sailing trip from Lefkas to Zakynthos

This is a 1-week southeast cruise from Lefkas to the island of Zakynthos. First, you visit the eastern towns of Lefkada, then, after a longer sea cruise, you arrive in Kefalonia and Zakynthos.

Day 1. Lefkas (Lefkada) – Meganisi

20, 59 km (12, 79 nm)
Meganisi, located southeast of Lefkada, is a lush, evergreen island perfect for swimming and hiking in serene natural surroundings. It’s never overly crowded, so you’ll find peace and quiet year-round. The island’s long southern isthmus is home to several hidden caves, the most famous being Papanikolis Cave. Named after the WWII submarine that once hid there, this cave is a fascinating historical and natural attraction.

Day 2. Meganisi – Kalamos

23, 57 km (14, 64 nm)
Head east from Meganisi to arrive at Kalamos Island. Go around the island and moor your boat at Port Kalamos. You can stop at beautiful beaches along the way. Some of them are only accessible by boat. You can visit the ruins of a monastery near Episkipi. Next to Agios Konstantinos there is a privately owned chapel. There are windmills here and there on the island, and you should definitely explore the caves of Agrapidia.

Day 3. Kalamos – Kastos

7, 45 km (4, 63 nm)
Sail south to the tiny island of Kastos. You can see old stone houses in the only tiny village of the island. Check out the olive trees and vineyards that cover most of the island. Kastos is famous for its wineries and viticulture.
On the east coast, you will find beautiful beaches. Visit Fokotrypa, which has a beach hidden in a cave! The island has many archaeological and architectural attractions. You can discover old monasteries, mills, and archaeological sites. Have a look around if you are interested in history!

Day 4. Kastos – Fiskardo (Kefalonia)

34, 56 km (21, 48 nm)
Sail southwest to arrive in the northern marina of Kefalonia, Fiskardo. Interestingly, Fiskardo was the only village that the earthquake of 1953 did not affect when it destroyed much of Kefalonia. Thanks to this, most of the old buildings remain untouched. From the protected port, you can walk to the promenade where several restaurants and taverns welcome you. The village is characterised by Venetian-style architecture with the sea rippling in front of the buildings.

Day 5. Fiskardo (Kefalonia) – Ithaka

28, 71 km (17, 84 nm)
Your next stop is the island of Ithaca to the east, more specifically the marina of Vathi. You know this island from the Odyssey-legends, but it has been an on-going argument among historians if it really was the home of Odysseus. Since there is no airport, most tourists come here as part of a round trip. Thanks to this, Ithaka is the island of peace and quiet, even in the high season. It has a 100 km long coastline, and you can visit several bays.

Day 6. Ithaka – Argostoli (Kefalonia)

84, 73 km (52, 65 nm)
You can find the largest marina of Kefalonia in Argostoli. You can quickly get to the city centre from here where many restaurants, taverns and shops await you. The city is home to the largest theatre building and an archaeological museum. If you are interested in medieval history, you can find the remains of the 12th-century St. George’s Castle 8 km from the city. Visit the Lighthouse of Saint Theodori south of the city. It is astonishing! If you are near Sami, do not miss out on the Melissani Lake Cave that you can discover by boat! It is very popular, so you may have to wait a few hours to get in.

Day 7. Argostoli (Kefalonia) – Agios Nikolaos (Zakynthos)– Zakynthos (Zakynthos)

69, 03 km (42, 89 nm)
Finally, you arrive at your last stop, the island of Zakynthos. If you feel like it, you can sail around the island. There are many beautiful, hidden beaches. The most popular is Navagio Bay which is a very unique place as there is an old shipwreck on the beach. We recommend visiting the island of Marathonisi that is shaped like a turtle. It is south of Zakynthos and you can see sea turtles here.
Agios Nikolaos is a very popular seaside town. It has a great beach where you can try several water sports. If you get hungry, there are many taverns and bars to choose from.
Then, you arrive in the capital of Zakynthos, which has the same name as the island. You should definitely visit the Venetian Fortress near the city, at least for the great panoramic view. If you are interested in the history and memories of the city before the earthquake, check out the Byzantine Museum! You can see the model of the city pre-earthquake and many memorabilia.

1-week sailing tours from Athens

The Saronic Islands are an interesting addition to the Greek archipelago, we recommend visiting them. You leave from Athens, visit some of the Saronic Islands, and after that you can return your boat in Athens.

Day 1. Athens (Kalamaki-Alimos Marina) – Selinia Salamis 14, 52 km (9, 02 nm), Day 2. Selinia Salamis – Aegina (Egina) 25, 14 km (15, 62 nm), Day 3. Aegina (Egina) – Egistri 7, 80 km (4, 85 nm), Day 4. Agistri – Methana 17, 89 km (11, 11 nm), Day 5. Methana – Poros 10, 79 km (6, 71 nm), Day 6. Poros – Agia Marina (Egina) 33, 01 km (20, 51 nm), Day 7. Agia Marina (Egina) – Glyfada (Agios Kosmas) – Athen (Kalamaki-Alimos Marina) 27, 33 km (16, 98 nm)
In Greece, the beginning of September is still the high season, but there are much less tourists from the middle of the month. If you want a more peaceful and less hot holiday, plan a September holiday in Greece! Rent a boat from us:
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