Yacht Charter Marinas in Athens: Alimos, Lavrio, Zea, Flisvos or Vouliagmeni?
Most sailing holidays in Greece start in Athens – but “Athens” can mean five different marinas, from Piraeus to the tip of Attica. Your charter company decides the base, yet it helps to know where you are going: how far it is from the airport, what is nearby, and how much time to allow. Here is a short guide.
Alimos Marina (Kalamaki)
The largest marina in Greece and the busiest charter base, about 10 km south of the city centre on the Athens Riviera. Most bareboat and crewed charter fleets of Athens are based here, and the Saronic Gulf islands are a day’s sail away.
- From the airport: approx. 40 km, about 40–50 minutes.
- From central Athens: approx. 10 km, about 20–30 minutes.
- Transfer to Alimos Marina · How to get from the airport to Alimos
Lavrio – Olympic Marina
On the south-east tip of Attica, about 10 km from Cape Sounio. It is the closest Athens marina to the Cyclades – Kea and Kythnos are within easy reach – so many charters heading for the islands start here.
- From the airport: approx. 40 km, about 35–45 minutes – closer than you might think.
- From central Athens: approx. 60 km, about 1 hour.
- Transfer to Lavrio Olympic Marina
Zea Marina (Pasalimani, Piraeus)
A round natural harbour in the heart of Piraeus, home to many superyachts and crewed charter yachts. The main Piraeus ferry port and the fish tavernas of Mikrolimano are a few minutes away.
- From the airport: approx. 45 km, about 45–55 minutes.
- From central Athens: approx. 10 km, about 20–30 minutes.
- Transfer to Zea Marina
Flisvos Marina (Palaio Faliro)
The superyacht marina of Athens, with a seafront promenade of cafés and shops and the historic battleship Averof moored next to it. The Stavros Niarchos Foundation Cultural Center is a few minutes away.
- From the airport: approx. 45 km, about 45–55 minutes.
- From central Athens: approx. 8 km, about 20 minutes.
- Transfer to Flisvos Marina
Vouliagmeni Marina
A smaller marina in the most exclusive corner of the Athens Riviera, surrounded by pine-covered peninsulas, beach clubs and luxury hotels – popular for private yachts and day cruises along the coast to Sounio.
- From the airport: approx. 30 km, about 35–40 minutes.
- From central Athens: approx. 20 km, about 30–40 minutes.
- Transfer to Vouliagmeni Marina
At a glance
| Marina | From the airport | Known for |
|---|---|---|
| Alimos | 40–50 min | Largest charter base |
| Lavrio Olympic Marina | 35–45 min | Closest to the Cyclades |
| Zea | 45–55 min | Superyachts, next to Piraeus |
| Flisvos | 45–55 min | Superyachts, seafront promenade |
| Vouliagmeni | 35–40 min | Exclusive Riviera setting |
Sailing from outside Athens?
Many charters start in other parts of Greece, and we can take you there by road from Athens: Lefkada Marina in the Ionian (about 4 hours), Kalamata Marina in the Peloponnese (about 2 hours 45 minutes) and Porto Heli on the Argolida coast.
Tips for a smooth start
- Allow extra time in summer – Saturday traffic on the coast road can be heavy.
- Tell your driver your charter company and pontoon: the bigger marinas have several entrances.
- Stop on the way for provisions – it is easier than carrying bags from the marina shops.
- Book the return at the same time, so your transfer is waiting when you check out.
Not sure which marina is closest to your hotel, or how to fit a night in Athens before your charter? Tell us your plans and we will reply within 24 hours.