Best Times to Sail in Greece

Sailing in Greece is possible from early spring to late autumn. Each month brings different winds, temperatures, marina conditions, and regional characteristics. This guide reflects real sailing experience across the Ionian, Saronics, Cyclades, Dodecanese, Sporades, and North Aegean.

March – Early April

Weather: 14–20°C (57–68°F) | Winds: 15–25 kt (4–6 Bf)
Prices: Lowest | Marinas: Empty
Notes: Cold water; great for quiet anchorages and low-cost charters.

Regional Notes:
• Ionian: Mild, good early-season option.
• Saronics: Sheltered and predictable.
• Cyclades & Dodecanese: Rough, stormy.
• Sporades & North Aegean: Cold, windy.

Late April – May

Weather: 18–25°C (64–77°F) | Winds: 10–20 kt (3–5 Bf)
Prices: Low–Medium | Marinas: Plenty of space
Notes: Comfortable sailing, early swimming, great landscapes.

Regional Notes:
• Ionian: Calm and ideal for beginners.
• Saronics: Smooth sailing.
• Cyclades: Great before Meltemi.
• Dodecanese: Warm early.
• Sporades: Mild and green.
• North Aegean: Quiet.

June

Weather: 24–30°C (75–86°F) | Winds: 12–20 kt (4–5 Bf)
Prices: Medium–High | Marinas: Filling but manageable
Notes: Warm seas, steady winds – one of the best months.

Regional Notes:
• Ionian: Light maistros breeze.
• Saronics: Excellent conditions.
• Cyclades: Friendly winds.
• Dodecanese: Steady, not extreme.
• Sporades: Perfect weather.
• North Aegean: Uncrowded.

July – August

Weather: 28–36°C+ (82–97°F+) | Winds vary by region
Cyclades/Dodecanese: 20–35 kt (6–8 Bf) – Meltemi peak
Ionian: 8–18 kt (3–4 Bf) | Saronics: 10–20 kt (3–5 Bf)
Prices: Highest | Marinas: Crowded

Regional Notes:
• Ionian: Best region in peak season.
• Saronics: Reliable, calmer.
• Cyclades: For experienced sailors only.
• Dodecanese: Windy but manageable.
• Sporades: Moderate northern winds.
• North Aegean: Windy yet quiet.

September

Weather: 24–30°C (75–86°F) | Winds: 12–22 kt (4–6 Bf)
Prices: Medium | Marinas: Easier
Notes: Warm seas, fading Meltemi – arguably the best month.

Regional Notes:
• Ionian: Calm and warm.
• Saronics: Relaxed and smooth.
• Cyclades: Perfect conditions.
• Dodecanese: Steady breezes.
• Sporades: Warm and vibrant.
• North Aegean: Peaceful.

October

Weather: 18–25°C (64–77°F) | Winds: 10–18 kt (3–4 Bf)
Prices: Low | Marinas: Open
Notes: Quiet, cooler evenings; good for hikers and photographers.

Regional Notes:
• Ionian: Soft end to the season.
• Saronics: Very comfortable.
• Cyclades: Light winds, possible rain.
• Dodecanese: Warmest region.
• Sporades: Calm but closing down.
• North Aegean: Scenic and quiet.

November

Weather: 15–20°C (59–68°F) | Winds: 15–30 kt (4–7 Bf)
Prices: Lowest | Marinas: Empty
Notes: Unpredictable; for experienced sailors only.

Regional Notes:
• Ionian: Still possible.
• Saronics: Best late-season option.
• Other regions: Mostly closed or rough.