The Top Sailing Clubs in Athens, Greece

Established in 1933, the Yacht Club of Greece is the leading organisation of its kind in Greece. Counting around 1,250 members – including Olympic medalists, as well as international and Greek sailors – YCG’s mission is to promote sailing training for young people and adults, along with organising races. It’s a great place to learn to sail offshore by joining one of their sailing courses. YCG’s headquarters are located in Piraeus, in the picturesque Mikrolimano.

Tucked away inside the Marina Delta Kallithea, you’ll find the Nautical Club of Tzitzifies – Kallithea (NOTK). Like the Yacht Club of Greece, they have a number of Olympic champions among their members. Every year, they host the international Cyclades Regatta, as well as the Poros Race and Korfos Race. Beginner sailors can join their English-speaking sailing programmes – which include dinghy lessons for children aged 6 upwards – as well as offshore courses for adults. Once qualified, you can set off on one of these top day trips from Athens.

Sailing is just one aspect of the popular Nautical Club of Vouliagmeni, founded in 1937 in the seaside resort of Vouliagmeni, just south of Athens. Waterskiing, windsurfing, swimming and water polo are among the activities on offer here – as well as dinghy sailing lessons. Parents will love the summer camps for kids – drop them off and enjoy lunch in peace at the waterfront restaurant.

The Nautical Club of Paleo Faliro is one of the oldest clubs in Athens; founded in 1937, it has been active both in sailing and rowing since its inception. After relocating to different locations in Falirou, the club finally settled down in Marina Flisvou in 1975. Whether you’re interested in learning to sail or getting into racing, there are plenty of courses to choose from. Swap stories of your adventures afterwards at the onsite bar and restaurant – or plan an extended sailing trip around Greece.

The clue is in the name. The Hellenic Offshore Racing Club is, well, mostly about racing, counting over 300 members and 60 yachts. However, they also launched the first offshore sailing school in Greece (back in 1969) which runs to this day. Learn the ropes on one of four RYA-certified yacht courses, which take place six times per year. They even run professional skipper training courses for those looking to make sailing part of their career.

With an Olympic-sized swimming pool, three tennis courts and a vibrant sailing school, there’s plenty to keep active types occupied at the Glyfada Nautical Sports Club. While children are encouraged to learn in dinghies first, anyone over 18 can sign up for an offshore sailing course, usually held on weekends. The club has an open policy where everyone is welcome – even if you’re not a member.

The Nautical Athletic League, also located in Piraeus, places a strong emphasis on rowing and canoe-kayaking, as well sailing. Beginners are welcome to join their offshore sailing courses, you’ll gain a qualification at the end that will allow you to hire a yacht up to 82ft (25m). There are also dedicated racing sessions to progress onto afterwards – it’s the best way keep up sailing regularly.

Alimos Marina is the headquarters of the Nautical Club of Kalamaki. Dozens of watercraft – from canoes to 40ft (12m) yachts – line the shoreline here. Kids can learn to sail Optimists, while adults can try their hand at yachting at the International Yacht Training licensed onsite school, founded by championship sailor Nikos Nikolopoulos. With over 750 active members, it’s a sociable place to get on the water.