Just a short hop from the mainland and ringed by sheltered, history-soaked water, Salamina (Salamis) is the closest island to Athens and an easy first stop on a yacht charter in the Saronic Gulf. Sail out of nearby Nea Peramos and you can drop anchor off the very bay where the Greek fleet turned back the Persians in 480 BC.
Why sail near Salamina
Salamina sits in the calm, well-protected waters of the Saronic Gulf, minutes from the Attica coast. It rewards sailors with quiet bays, pine-backed coves and a landscape steeped in ancient history, all within easy reach of the busiest charter bases in Greece.
- Sheltered Saronic water and short distances, ideal for a relaxed first day or a family cruise.
- One of the most famous naval battlefields in history, off the coast at Ambelakia.
- The Monastery of Faneromeni, rich in frescoes, just northwest of the town.
- Pine-shaded bays around Aianteion and Selinia for a lunchtime swim stop.
- Fast, flexible access from the Nea Peramos and Athens charter bases.
Chartering a yacht near Salamina
Salamina is a destination to sail to rather than from. The closest charter base is Nea Peramos Port, about 10.32 km from Salamina Marina, where our Saronic fleet of bareboat monohulls and catamarans is based. Athens marinas add further options a little further east. From either, Salamina makes a natural first anchorage before you push on to Aegina, Poros and the wider gulf.
Browse the full range of boats on our bareboat charters and crewed yacht charters pages, or see everything available for an Athens and Saronic yacht charter.
Nearest charter base: Nea Peramos Port, roughly 10.32 km from Salamina Marina. Salamina itself is a day-sail and anchorage stop, not an embarkation point.
What to see and do on Salamina
Salamina packs a surprising amount of history into a small island. Because of its strategic position beside Athens, it was long fought over between the Athenians and the Megarians, and it is the birthplace of the tragic poet Euripides. The capital is Salamina town, also known as Koulouri.
The battlefield at Ambelakia
The most ancient city on the island, Ambelakia, lies about 4 km southeast of the capital, overlooking the strait where the naval Battle of Salamis was fought and won against the Persian fleet in 480 BC. It is one of the most evocative anchorages in the Saronic Gulf.
The Monastery of Faneromeni
About 6 km northwest of the town stands the Monastery of Faneromeni, celebrated for its frescoes and its collection of church relics, with workshops for hagiography and weaving and a guest house on site.
Villages, caves and museums
Selinia sits around 8 km southeast of the town, while roughly 6 km southwest lies the coastal village of Moulki, or Aianteion, set among pine trees. Significant finds came from the Cave of Euripides at Peristeria, said by tradition to be the poet's own retreat. In town, the Archaeological Museum of Salamina holds a solid collection of local finds, and the Ethnological (Folk) Museum displays traditional costumes, tools and furniture.
Ready to sail the Saronic Gulf?
Tell us your dates, group size and the islands you want to see. Our team will build the right yacht and route around Salamina and beyond.
When to sail the Saronic Gulf
The Saronic is one of the gentlest cruising grounds in Greece, with a long, forgiving season and generally light-to-moderate winds, which makes it a favourite for families and less experienced crews.
Warm, green and quiet, with fresh breezes and few crowds. Perfect for relaxed first sails.
Hot and busy, with reliable sunshine. Book early and start days before the afternoon breeze fills in.
Warm sea, softer light and thinning crowds. Many sailors' favourite window in the Saronic.
For more on Greek sailing conditions, see our guides to the winds in Greece and the climate and weather in Greece.
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Salamina sailing FAQ
Can I charter a yacht from Salamina?
Salamina is a day-sail and anchorage stop rather than a charter base. The nearest base is Nea Peramos Port, about 10.32 km from Salamina Marina, with further options at the Athens marinas. From either you can reach Salamina within the first hours of your charter.
How far is Salamina from the nearest charter base?
Nea Peramos Port lies roughly 10.32 km from Salamina Marina, making Salamina an easy first stop when you sail out into the Saronic Gulf.
What is Salamina famous for?
Salamina is best known for the naval Battle of Salamis in 480 BC, when the Greek fleet defeated the Persians in the strait off the island. It is also the birthplace of the tragic poet Euripides.
What can I see on Salamina by boat?
Highlights include the ancient site of Ambelakia overlooking the battle strait, the Monastery of Faneromeni with its frescoes, the pine-shaded bays around Aianteion and Selinia, and the town's Archaeological and Ethnological museums.
Is the Saronic Gulf good for beginner sailors?
Yes. The Saronic Gulf offers sheltered water, short distances between islands and generally light-to-moderate winds, which makes it one of the most forgiving cruising grounds in Greece for families and less experienced crews.
When is the best time to sail near Salamina?
The season runs from May to October. May, June, September and October bring warm weather and fewer crowds, while July and August are hottest and busiest, so it is best to book early.
