Sailing the Aegean Islands is the oldest form of yacht charter in Greece, and the region’s reliable summer winds make it one of the most rewarding. The meltemi blows from the north-northwest across the Cyclades from late June through August, delivering consistent force-three to force-five conditions ideal for passage-making under canvas. Eight sailing yachts currently charter in the Aegean, ranging from elegant classic ketches and modern carbon sloops to ocean-going performance cruisers.nnGulets and traditional timber sailing yachts offer a particular draw here: the Dodecanese and Saronic Gulf have long hosted wooden vessels built in Turkish and Greek yards, and several of these historic craft now charter with full crews and contemporary amenities below decks. Modern monohulls in the 24 to 30 metre range dominate the fleet, offering four or five guest cabins, a professional skipper and hostess, and deck plans designed for relaxed passage-making.nnWeekly rates for Aegean sailing yachts typically run from 15,000 to 120,000 euros depending on length, age and specification. Add an APA of around 30 percent to cover provisions, berths and any fuelling during motoring legs. June and September often see the most settled conditions; the August meltemi can produce exhilarating sailing but also rough anchorages on exposed shores.nnThe Aegean is best explored by sail from a base in the Saronic Gulf or northern Cyclades, with Rhodes and the Sporades providing longer-range alternatives for vessels with more time.
