Greece. Route to the three islands of the Saronic Gulf

Athens is a wonderful place to start your trip over Greece. On the first day, you’ll have an opportunity to see the best-known sights of the city, but arrival at the marina will be the main event. Be sure to discuss the route with the manager and check the weather forecast.

No connection here between the island’s name and the mythological goddess, but rather, deriving from the Greek word Ύδρα meaning “water.” Historically living up to its name, it used to be a site for plentiful fresh-water springs which would later facilitate naval glory, Hydra’s golden age began in the 15th century, when the population of the neighbouring Peloponnese began fleeing the islands from the advancing Turkish invasion. The rocky local terrain was difficult for growing crops, so the inhabitants were forced to turn to the sea. Gradually, the talented fisherman began distinguishing themselves as outstanding mariners and the island wound up giving Greece dozens of admirals and fleet commanders. But Hydra’s cultural life was not to be outdone. Despite its relatively small size, the island counts roughly 300 churches, six ancient monasteries, numerous captains’ houses turned museums, and a handful of monuments to prominent local figures and milestone events. The Greeks decided that the locally shot film, Boy on a Dolphin (1957), was one such milestone event. It dramatically enhanced the locality’s tourist attraction, making Hydra a high-end resort for international celebrities. The monument to the film was erected on the island in 2006.

The little Island of Poros lies in the shadow of ultra-popular Athens and the neighbouring Peloponnese. Yet, in a certain way, this plays to its advantage – you’ll surely find other tourists here, but certainly fewer than in Greece’s other resort towns. According to written sources, Poros was considered the island of Poseidon, God of the Sea. There was once a temple to him here – the ruins of which remain today. The temple used to house numerous statues, including one of Poseidon himself. Unfortunately, over the years they’ve all been plundered; only a fragmented base of the Sovereign of the Seas statue remains. It can be found in the local archaeological museum. A visit to this museum is worth your time as many of its artifacts date back to the Mycenaean and Roman eras. Poros’ natural surroundings are also worthy of admiration. It boasts a lemon forest, sandy beaches lined by tall pines, turquoise water, and a genuinely idyllic atmosphere. Incidentally, one of the island’s coves has a Russian name – it was once home to Count Orlov’s naval squadron.

The little Island of Poros lies in the shadow of ultra-popular Athens and the neighbouring Peloponnese. Yet, in a certain way, this plays to its advantage – you’ll surely find other tourists here, but certainly fewer than in Greece’s other resort towns. According to written sources, Poros was considered the island of Poseidon, God of the Sea. There was once a temple to him here – the ruins of which remain today. The temple used to house numerous statues, including one of Poseidon himself. Unfortunately, over the years they’ve all been plundered; only a fragmented base of the Sovereign of the Seas statue remains. It can be found in the local archaeological museum. A visit to this museum is worth your time as many of its artifacts date back to the Mycenaean and Roman eras. Poros’ natural surroundings are also worthy of admiration. It boasts a lemon forest, sandy beaches lined by tall pines, turquoise water, and a genuinely idyllic atmosphere. Incidentally, one of the island’s coves has a Russian name – it was once home to Count Orlov’s naval squadron.

A pearl in the waters of the Saronic Gulf – that’s the Aegian Island. It’s a perfectly appropriate comparison – after all, Aegina has virtually no shortcomings. A rich historical past, an abundant cultural heritage, and charming little villages, manicured shores and magnificent beaches – Aegina has it all. Speaking of Aegina’s history, it would be hard not to mention the myths and legends, so, without delving into long and drawn-out tales, we’ll just say that it has something to do with Zeus. But interestingly, the main local attraction was not built in his honour at all, but for the Goddess Aphaea, the island’s protector. The Doric temple has survived largely intact, and today is one of the island’s main landmarks. Also noteworthy are the Monastery of Agios Nectarios, the archaeological museum next to the ruins of the Temple of Apollo, and the nature preserve on the Island of Moni. In the interests of ensuring a comfortable and relaxing vacation, the island has arranged roughly 20 beaches, the most popular of which is Agia Marina. Within the vicinity of the Town of Aegina are the sandy beaches of Avra, Kolona and Panagitsa, each of which boast fabulous amenities and cozy restaurants close nearby.

A pearl in the waters of the Saronic Gulf – that’s the Aegian Island. It’s a perfectly appropriate comparison – after all, Aegina has virtually no shortcomings. A rich historical past, an abundant cultural heritage, and charming little villages, manicured shores and magnificent beaches – Aegina has it all. Speaking of Aegina’s history, it would be hard not to mention the myths and legends, so, without delving into long and drawn-out tales, we’ll just say that it has something to do with Zeus. But interestingly, the main local attraction was not built in his honour at all, but for the Goddess Aphaea, the island’s protector. The Doric temple has survived largely intact, and today is one of the island’s main landmarks. Also noteworthy are the Monastery of Agios Nectarios, the archaeological museum next to the ruins of the Temple of Apollo, and the nature preserve on the Island of Moni. In the interests of ensuring a comfortable and relaxing vacation, the island has arranged roughly 20 beaches, the most popular of which is Agia Marina. Within the vicinity of the Town of Aegina are the sandy beaches of Avra, Kolona and Panagitsa, each of which boast fabulous amenities and cozy restaurants close nearby.

Your voyage is coming to an end. Prepare the yacht for transferring back over to the charter company, assess the equipment’s operation, and resupply water and fuel. After handing the vessel over successfully, take leisurely walk through Athens and don’t forget to pick up souvenirs for your friends.