Sailing in Neos Marmaras

Neos Marmaras, on the west coast of Sithonia, is one of the best starting points for sailing in Halkidiki. Just to the south is the Porto Carras marina, one of the largest in northern Greece, and the Toroneos Gulf between Sithonia and Kassandra is relatively sheltered, which makes it suitable even for people with no experience.

There are two options: a day trip on a skippered sailing boat shared with other passengers, or chartering a whole boat for your group. A typical route passes Kelyfos, the islet opposite Marmaras that's also called 'the Turtle' because of its shape, and stops for a swim in coves along the coast that can't be reached by road.

The best months are June and September, with steady wind and warm sea. In August the afternoon meltemi can make the sea livelier, so morning departures are calmer. Bring sunscreen, a hat, water and shoes that don't slip on deck.