For a catamaran charter that combines natural beauty, rich history and Greek island charm, look no further than the Saronic Gulf.
This enclosed sea southwest of Athens is home to some of Greece's most captivating islands and coastlines and a catamaran charter is the perfect way to explore the diverse array of Saronic islands at your own pace.
This idyllic sailing destination is perfect for both novice and experienced sailors, providing calm waters and short distances between islands.
Whether your itinerary emphasises island hopping, touring archaeological sites, relaxing on sun-drenched shores, or simply revelling in the laid-back island lifestyle, the Saronic Gulf offers the quintessential Greek experience.
The Saronic Gulf boasts breathtaking natural beauty, crystal-clear turquoise waters, rugged coastlines, and picturesque landscapes. Sailing through these tranquil waters provides stunning vistas at every turn, creating a truly immersive and memorable experience.
The Saronic Gulf provides generally calm and sheltered waters, creating ideal sailing and yacht charter conditions. Whether an experienced skipper or a first-time sailor, you can enjoy smooth sailing, tranquil anchorages, and comfortable cruising throughout the area.
The Saronic Gulf is home to a collection of enchanting islands, each with its distinct character and charm. From the historic Aegina to the car-free Hydra and elegant Spetses, these islands offer diverse experiences, from exploring ancient ruins to lounging on stunning beaches.
From the lush pine-covered slopes of Poros to the cosmopolitan charm of Hydra and historical significance of Aegina, the Saronic islands have plenty to appeal to all tastes.
The region is steeped in ancient Greek history, mythology, and architecture. Hop ashore to step back in time at remarkable archaeological sites like the Temple of Aphaia on Aegina, built in 480 BC.
The islands boast incredibly pretty harbours lined with traditional neo-classical houses, seafront promenades, and quaint village squares ideal for strolling and soaking up the authentic Greek island atmosphere.
While exploring the Saronic by yacht, drop anchor in remote coves with pristine sandy beaches and enjoy quality time with your holiday companions.
The region is steeped in ancient Greek history, mythology, and architecture. Visitors can step back in time at remarkable archaeological sites like the Temple of Aphaia on Aegina.
Known for its car-free streets, charming architecture, and picturesque harbour, Hydra offers a unique and romantic atmosphere. Explore the town's narrow alleys, visit historic landmarks, and enjoy the island's vibrant arts and culture scene.
With its neoclassical buildings, narrow streets, and clock tower providing panoramic views, Poros is a delightful island to explore. Stroll along the waterfront, visit historical sites, and enjoy the relaxed atmosphere of this charming destination.
Known for its elegant mansions and cosmopolitan ambience, Spetses offers a blend of history and luxury. Explore the island by horse-drawn carriage, visit museums, indulge in waterfront dining, and enjoy the island's beautiful beaches.
A small and peaceful island, Agistri is perfect for relaxation and reconnecting with nature. Enjoy pristine sandy beaches, swim in crystal-clear waters, and embrace the laid-back atmosphere of this hidden gem.
The closest island to Athens, Aegina is rich in history and natural beauty. Discover ancient ruins such as the Temple of Aphaia, relax on sandy beaches, and savour delicious local cuisine, including the island's famous pistachios.
When embarking on a catamaran charter from Athens and Saronic Gulf, timing is everything.
For the ultimate sailing experience, May, June, and September are genuinely the golden moments. During these periods, Greece unveils its charm without the peak season crowds.
The Greek islands also come alive during the summer with a vibrant atmosphere that bustles with life and is hard to beat.
Monthly weather for the area *
| Avg. High Temp | Avg. Low Temp | Avg. Daily Rain (mm) | Avg. Wind Direction | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| JAN | 14.5°C (58°F) | 5.4°C (42°F) | 1.9mm |  S |
| FEB | 12.8°C (55°F) | 3.2°C (38°F) | 0.5mm | S |
| MAR | 17.3°C (63°F) | 7.5°C (45°F) | 0.8mm | SW |
| APR | 19.1°C (66°F) | 9.9°C (50°F) | 0.9mm | SW |
| MAY | 23.5°C (74°F) | 14.4°C (58°F) | 1.0mm | SW |
| JUN | 29.5°C (85°F) | 18.8°C (66°F) | 0.4mm | SSW |
| JUL | 35.4°C (96°F) | 23.8°C (75°F) | 0mm | SSW |
| AUG | 33.6°C (93°F) | 23.9°C (75°F) | 0.0mm | SW |
| SEP | 28.8°C (84°F) | 19.6°C (67°F) | 1.1mm | WSW |
| OCT | 25.1°C (77°F) | 15.2°C (59°F) | 0.1mm | S |
| NOV | 20.8°C (69°F) | 11.0°C (52°F) | 0.9mm | SSW |
| DEC | 16.1°C (61°F) | 6.9°C (44°F) | 1.8mm | S |
For the Saronic Gulf, you fly to Athens Airport (ATH), a major international hub and one of the busiest airports in Europe, with over 80 different airlines flying to it.
US and non-European visitors are usually well served flying directly to Athens Airport, but you can also fly to one of the main European hubs and pick up a connecting flight from there.
The official language of Greece is Greek with English being widely understood in the tourist areas.
The official currency of Greece is the Euro.
Tipping is a common practice in Greece and very much appreciated for good service, typically you leave 10%.
A catamaran charter from Athens and Saronic Gulf is all about comfort, luxury and convenience, with their twin hulls making them extremely stable. Expansive open decks allow for spacious seating, socialising and sunbathing, while below deck each hull typically contains its own cabins, complete with ensuite bathroom.
This layout is particularly good for couples or families travelling together as it offers more personal space. Our catamarans are available as either bareboat or skippered charters, with a host or hostess if needed, or fully crewed.
A power catamaran combines the stability and spaciousness of a sailing catamaran with the speed and convenience of a motorised yacht. The twin-hull design ensures a smooth ride even in choppy waters, while the absence of sails allowing for more expansive, unobstructed deck spaces perfect for lounging and entertaining.
One of the key advantages of a power catamaran is its ability to cover greater distances in less time, allowing you to explore more destinations during your charter. These vessels also have shallower drafts than a traditional sailing yacht, granting easier access to tucked away coves and beaches that larger yachts can't reach.
Available as bareboat for experienced boaters or with a skipper or professional crew, power catamaran charters offer the ultimate blend of luxury, performance, and versatility.
Luxury Catamarans have state-of-the-art amenities, spacious master suites, gourmet galleys, and cutting-edge entertainment systems. The expansive flybridge provides panoramic views and alfresco dining areas, perfect for sunset cocktails. The high-performance engines and double hulls ensure power and stability for seriously smooth sailing.
You’ll have a professional crew to cater to your every need from superb meals to water sports or trips ashore. Whether exploring tucked away lagoons or hosting a lavish on-board party, a luxury catamaran charter delivers an unforgettable five-star experience for the discerning traveller.
Catamarans have two hulls, making them more stable than a regular monohull boat, both while sailing and at anchor. So if you don't like heeling over while under sail, a catamaran is the ideal choice.
The split-hull design allows for better separation of living spaces, with cabins in each hull providing more privacy for guests. A perfect option for two families or larger groups.
Catamarans have a shallower draft (less boat below the water), allowing them to access shallow anchorages and get closer to beaches than a typical monohull.
With easy access from the rear deck to the water, swimming and water sports activities are a cinch - not to mention getting in and out of the tender to go ashore.
Catamarans sail differently from monohulls. They don't heel (tilt) as much, which can be more comfortable for some passengers but may provide less of a "sailing feel" for purists.
Catamarans often feature a raised helm station with excellent visibility, and many have a flybridge for additional outdoor living space.
Catamarans offer more living space both above and below deck due to their wide beam. This means they tend to have larger common areas and more spacious cabins.
A bareboat charter with Pure Yachting gives you the freedom to create your own itinerary and explore The Athens and Saronic Gulf and beyond at your own pace. Tailor your trip to match your preferences, and if you need advice or inspiration our charter experts will always be on hand to suggest areas to explore.
We select our fleet of yachts from trusted operators, chosen by us for the quality of their boats and the fact they offer a high level of service. To charter a yacht you'll typically need a qualification such as the RYA Day Skipper, the AS104 Bareboat Cruising, ICC certification or be able to demonstrate relevant experience.
With a professional skipper at the helm to confidently navigate around The Athens and Saronic Gulf and beyond, you’re free to relax and enjoy every moment. The skipper's expertise ensures smooth sailing, allowing you to immerse yourself in the beautiful surroundings.
However, if you fancy getting more involved, our fully qualified skippers will be more than happy to show you the basics, or help you brush up your sailing skills.
On skippered charters, there's also the opportunity to add a host or hostess who can prepare meals and help with tasks such as childcare, concierge services and housekeeping.
Crewed yacht charters from The Athens and Saronic Gulf come in many shapes and sizes, ranging from sleek superyachts to luxury catamarans, contemporary motor yachts to classic yachts and more, all with crews who are committed to ensuring your comfort, safety and enjoyment.
Each trip offers the opportunity to create a unique journey and our charter experts will guide you through choosing the perfect boat and customising the itinerary to your specification. Whatever your preferences, we take care of all the details, ensuring you and your party have a unique and unforgettable holiday.
Greece is one of the most popular charter destinations in the Mediterranean. Therefore, it is best to book your dream boat in advance, typically six months ahead, to secure your preferred dates in this perfect destination.
You can search for your dream catamaran via the the link, or if you want one of our charter experts to do the searching for you, click the build your trip link to get them working on creating the perfect trip.
Hydra, Poros and Aegina have their own unique character and attractions.
Hydra, with its stunning harbour and amphitheatre-like town, has been a favourite among artists and the jet-set for decades. The pine-clad island of Poros features a picturesque capital and the remains of ancient temples and Aegina's historical significance dates back to ancient times when it was a powerful maritime force.
Apart from Hydra, Poros and Aegina, the lesser-known destinations in the Saronic Gulf are equally enchanting and worthy of discovery. Not to be missed include Spetses, known for its maritime heritage and elegant ambiance and Epidavros where you can anchor near the quaint town of Palaia Epidavros to visit the ancient theatre of Epidaurus, one of Greece’s most significant archaeological sites.
Methana's therapeutic hot springs are perfect for a relaxing day, visit the Monastery of Faneromeni on Salamina, or cruise to the uninhabited island of Dokos to get away from the crowds.
A catamaran charter in the Saronic Gulf, focusing on these lesser-known gems along with the main hotspots provides a perfect blend of relaxation adventure, and cultural exploration.
There are typically five main types of boats and yachts you can hire in Greece, which are Sailing Yachts, Catamarans, Motorboats, Gulets and Luxury Yachts (including Superyachts)
If you are doing a bareboat charter, you need to consider if you have the relevant sailing licences. If you are on a skippered or crewed charter, it's good to understand the weather conditions for the trip so you can bring the appropriate clothing and think about which locations you would like to visit so as you can let the skipper know.
For the ultimate sailing experience, May, June, and September are genuinely the golden months, but the summer months are also popular, though the anchorages are busier.
The good news is we spend a lot of time vetting who we work with, so this rarely happens, but if there is a problem, you can contact your charter company or ourselves who will be available to sort out any issues.
The typical times for a yacht charter are either 7 or 14 days, but you can charter boats longer if you wish. Most charters, particularly in high season, start on Saturdays and finish seven days later.
Once you've found your perfect yacht, you will typically pay an upfront deposit fee for holding the boat (these vary from 20% to 50% of the charter fee), and then you will pay the rest one month before departure.
When chartering a yacht from Athens and Saronic Gulf, consider factors such as budget, yacht size and type, along with the crew when relevant to make sure they're a good fit for you and your party.