What is it really like to go on a first sailing holiday with young children?

For families looking for a safe, relaxing and memorable first sailing experience, Greece is one of the best destinations in Europe. One of our returning clients recently set off on a cabin charter aboard a Bali 4.1 catamaran with a skipper. They explored the Saronic Gulf with family and friends and agreed to share their experience with us.

“This was our first sailing holiday as two families, travelling with five children aged between 4 and 8. We were looking for a destination that was easy to reach, affordable and a bit different. Greece exceeded all those expectations.”

Even in April, the temperatures were ideal, between 14°C and 25°C, which made life on board very comfortable with children. We also took the opportunity to visit Athens and the Acropolis, which was a real highlight for the kids who are already learning about Greek mythology at school.

A young child stands on board a boat wearing a bright orange life jacket with yellow and red details. They hold a pair of binoculars up to their eyes with both hands, gazing intently into the distance as if searching for something out at sea. The sunlight highlights their hair, giving it a golden glow. Behind them, parts of the boat’s structure and windows are visible, while an adult’s hand gently supports the child’s arm for balance.

Comfort, safety and a welcoming crew

“As it was our first experience, we chose to sail with a skipper – and it was absolutely the right decision. Our skipper, Riga, had over 10 years of experience sailing in the Greek islands and made us feel completely at ease from the start.

He not only handled all navigation and safety aspects, but also shared his local knowledge, taking us to beautiful anchorages and great spots we would never have found on our own.”

A family-friendly itinerary in the Saronic Gulf

Instead of heading to the more exposed Cyclades, our clients opted for the Saronic Gulf – an excellent choice for families thanks to its short sailing distances and calmer conditions.

“Each day was perfectly balanced between sailing, swimming, exploring and relaxing. We loved the variety of places we visited.”

Two people lie side by side on their stomachs on the deck of a boat, looking out over the railing at the deep blue sea. One is wearing an orange life jacket, while the other has on a grey jumper and a cap. The water sparkles in the sunlight, and soft, distant hills or islands stretch along the horizon. The scene conveys a sense of calm curiosity and shared quiet observation.

Day 1: Alimos Marina (Athens) → Methana (4h30)

30–50 minutes to reach the marina from Athens International Airport.

We discovered the well-stocked Balaskas supermarket, which offers catering, a butcher and a cheese counter. If you call the day before, they will even pick you up from the boat, take you shopping and bring you back – free of charge. Very convenient, especially for larger groups!

Once provisioned and with all the young sailors on board, it was time to set off. Heading south towards Aegina, we learned that a flotilla of 20 boats was heading to Perdika, so we decided to continue on to Methana instead.

Methana is a volcanic peninsula that was popular in the 1960s for its thermal spas. Today, it has a peaceful, slightly nostalgic charm. We walked to a small chapel with a natural hot spring, great fun for the children, who enjoyed their first (hot!) swim.

A single sailing boat rests peacefully on clear, turquoise water. The sea is so calm that the boat appears almost reflected on its surface. In the background, a green, hilly coastline extends beneath a cloudless, vivid blue sky. The atmosphere feels tranquil and timeless, far removed from any rush or noise.

Day 2: Methana → Hydra (3h30)

We set off early the next morning to secure a spot in Hydra’s famous harbour.

The island is stunning. Despite being popular, it has retained incredible charm. There are no cars. Everything is transported by donkey. With cats lounging in the sun, the children were delighted, and we couldn’t resist a short donkey ride.

We then explored the island’s hilly coastline, which becomes wilder as you move away from the port. On the way back, we stopped for a swim near the Sunset restaurant, a perfect spot to admire the sun setting over the Peloponnese. In April, the island was peaceful—far from the summer crowds.

A donkey stands in the foreground of a paved square, wearing a traditional harness decorated with colourful ornaments and small details. Its long ears are upright, and its expression appears calm and gentle. Behind it are light-coloured buildings with wooden shutters and a statue set on a pedestal. Tables and chairs suggest a café setting, giving the scene a relaxed Mediterranean village atmosphere.

Day 3: Hydra → Dokos (anchorage) → Spetses

The next day, we left the harbour to anchor for lunch at Dokos, a wild and uninhabited island between Hydra and the mainland.

Paddleboarding, fishing, sunbathing and simply enjoying time together—this is what family sailing is all about.

We then sailed to Spetses, arriving in the late afternoon. This charming island, named after spices, is full of fragrant flowers. We moored near small fishing boats and wandered through its picturesque alleys.

A person stands on a stand-up paddleboard, moving across clear, deep blue water. A child sits in front of them, and both are wearing life jackets. The surrounding area shows a quiet bay with wooded hills and a few buildings along the shore. Sunlight sparkles on the water, creating a sense of leisure, adventure, and shared outdoor activity.

Day 4: Spetses → Zogeria (anchorage) → Porto Heli

We continued to the beautiful anchorage of Zogeria, perfect for swimming and paddleboarding. Lunch on board included grilled food and a generous Greek salad with feta and olive oil – simple and delicious.

In the evening, we reached Porto Heli, where we enjoyed a relaxed pizza night on board.

The sun slowly sets over the sea, casting warm orange hues across the sky. A small boat moves across the water in the distance, leaving a delicate trail behind it. In the foreground, a narrow path runs along a rocky coastline with low vegetation and scattered flowers. Silhouettes of mountains or islands can be seen on the horizon, enhancing the peaceful, romantic mood.

Day 5: Porto Heli → Ermioni (2h)

A short sail brought us to Ermioni, a charming town set on a small peninsula. It’s ideal for walking with children, with small pebble beaches along the way.

There are plenty of restaurants with sea views serving fresh fish, calamari, grilled meats, souvlaki and other delicious local specialities.

A white-painted table and bench sit on a terrace overlooking the sea. Nearby, a decorative ladder with round elements hangs, and a Greek flag gently waves in the breeze. In the background, the open sea stretches out with a sailing boat passing by and distant islands or coastlines visible. The scene feels peaceful, simple, and distinctly Mediterranean.

Day 6: Ermioni → Poros (4h30)

Our return journey began under rainy skies, the downside of travelling in April! Fortunately, it was the only grey day of the week.

We arrived in Poros just as the weather cleared, revealing the beauty of the narrow channel between the island and the mainland.

We moored in the town center and dined at a local taverna. A marked hiking trail leads through the island to the Clock Tower and a lovely monastery about 2 km away.

Day 7: Poros → Aegina (anchorage) → Athens

On our final day, we enjoyed our last stop at the beach of Klima, south of Aegina. Alone at anchor, we made the most of our final swim and a sunny aperitif.

On the way back, we were lucky enough to encounter four dolphins playing in the bow waves—pure joy for the children!

We returned to Athens in the evening, feeling as though we had been away for a month.

“We’d definitely do it again”

Three children lean over the side of a boat, looking down curiously at the water below. They are dressed in summer clothing such as T-shirts and shorts. The sea is calm and deep blue, while a sailing boat passes in the background and a hilly coastline rises beyond. Their posture suggests excitement and curiosity, as if they are observing something in the water or simply enjoying the view.

Practical Tips for a Family Sailing Holiday in Greece

Athens is easily accessible by plane, then about €40 by taxi to Alimos Marina
Spring is ideal: mild temperatures (14°C to 25°C)
Swimming is enjoyable, with or without a rash vest
Plenty of cultural visits (Athens and the islands)
Great opportunity for children to discover a new culture and language
Safe sailing area with short distances and calm seas
Affordable cost of living
Quiet anchorages and ports in low season
A local skipper is highly recommended

Easy Activities for Children on Board

Fishing (at anchor or while sailing)
Observing wildlife and nature
Simple board games
Audio story box (great during navigation)
Writing postcards
Word games like “categories”

A child sits at a small table on board a boat, drawing or writing in an open notebook. They are wearing a bright orange life jacket, a patterned cap, and sunglasses to shield their eyes from the sun. The child smiles slightly, appearing relaxed and content. On the table beside the notebook is a colourful pencil case. In the background, a picturesque harbour is visible, filled with moored boats and yachts, with clusters of houses climbing up a green hillside. The scene combines a sense of creativity, holiday relaxation, and coastal charm.

Plan your own family sailing holiday in Greece

Inspired by this experience? A cabin charter or skippered yacht in Greece is the perfect way to enjoy a stress-free, authentic and family-friendly sailing holiday.

Our team is here to help you find the ideal itinerary, yacht and crew for your next adventure.

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