SAILING IN THE SARONIC GULF:

Sailing in Aegina island

Aegina island is located about 18 nm south-west of Piraeus port and is an island with rough territory (at least for sailing), and a few sheltered bays. The island is famous as a summer resort to the citizens of Athens not only because of its short distance but because of its mild climate and beautiful landscape. Recently it became more popular among foreign tourists as well.

The capital city of Aegina island is Aegina, located at the north end of the west coast, with a population of 5000 citizens. The ground is flat and gentle and the harbour has a view towards the smaller islands of Metopi, Moni and angistri.

The archaelogical Museum exhibits material and pottery from the temples of Aphrodite and

aphaia that are ranged in date more than 3000 years old. Another impressive thing can be found in Kolona hill.

On the Kolona hill you will find an 8 meter high Doric column that according to Pausanias belonged to the temple of Aphrodite that was actually dedicated to apollo. Aegina's port is sheltered by a wavebreaker and the actual city of Aegina occupies the ancient city of Egina.

Aegina has been an important island since its first settlements around the 3rd millenium BCE and ever since it played a significant part in Greek history. The island enjoyed the prosperity for a long time but the competition with rival cities and islands created a less profitable environment for its citizens. It was also the capital of Greece for a short period of time (From 12 of January to 3 of October 1828).

Beautiful sunset in Aegina.

Ag.Nikolaos in Aegina.

Aegina Map

Sailing in Poros island

Poros island is located to the south west of Methana opposite the Argolid in the Peloponnese and is covered with thin woodland and macchia. The name of the island means "crossing" and it is from this that the whole island takes its name. On the end of this crossing built in amphitheater form lies the port of Poros.

10 minutes away by boat you will find the green shores of Peloponnese and the famous lemon forest that is probably unrivalled in Greece. The scent of the lemmon blossom is so strong during may that wafts across the Poros island.

Poros, as a sailing destination, has lots of benefits. It is near Athens, has good facilities and is a beautiful greek island.

The capital city has a naval school and the population is not more than 4300 citizens.

The North side of the island will reveal the natural beauty of the place and the south will most likely keep you up late due to the happy noises from the clubs of the town.

An interesting sight to see is the remains of Poseidon's Sanctuary located to the north east of poros town. It was here that Demosthenes, poisoned himself after fleeing from henchmen of Antipatros in 322 BCE.

Poros sunset.

Poros town.

Poros Map

Sailing in Hydra island

Hydra island is one of the most popular yacht charter areas in Greece, located in the south east of the Argolid. Hydra's citizens live from tourism and selling craft products. One of the most famous products of the island is an almond cake called in Greek "Amygdalote".

hydra port,port hydra,hydra town,hydra city

Hydra was a place of no importance most of the time but became prosperous and wealthy due to trading and shipping. During the war of Greek independence the Hydriots converted all their ships to war ships assisting the fight against the Turkish invaders.

The town of Hydra has a population of 2500 citizens and is a place where painters, writers and intellectuals meet giving the town a romantic atmosphere.

The architecture is unique because you can't find this kind of design in any other complexes.

The harbour is crowded during the summer but really convenient during the low season. Despite the fact of its proximity to Athens the island is tranquil and unspoiled from visitors.

Depending on how you like your sailing vacations you can go to the south side of hydra to find more peace and quiet and qonderful vistas around the hydra gulf.

Beautiful sunset in Hydra.

Traditional mansion.