North Aegean, the largest Greek region, deserves a visit during your yacht charter holiday. It has an abundance of attractions to suit everybody. Charter a yacht in North Aegean and explore this region surrounded by the Aegean Sea. It is nice to know that Mount Olympus is majestic even from a yacht. The North Aegean region which is also called Aegean Macedonia is the birthplace of Alexander the Great.
Find Your Ideal Yacht in North Aegean Sailing Region
Why Is North Aegean Popular Among Sailors
You can start your sailing journey in the thrilling Thessaloniki, the region’s capital, and take a walk through the ancient forum or visit Byzantine monuments, such as the city walls, towers and bathhouses. A good location for boat rental is the port city on Aegean Macedonia’s southern coastline, Kavala, offering a great range of charter yachts you can choose from. It is formerly known as the “Mecca of tobacco” - we recommend visiting a surprisingly interesting Tobacco Museum, as well as the famous Castle of Kavala.
Afterwards, set sail towards the peninsula of Halkidiki, the birthplace of Aristotle, and enjoy the view of amazing sandy coves, long beaches, and unspoiled landscapes with lush vegetation from your charter yacht. There, you can moor your motorboat safely in Porto Koufo, one of the largest natural harbours in Greece, and enjoy the rest of your vacation.
Yacht Charter in North Aegean Region
North Aegean, which is also called Aegean Macedonia because of its geographical position, has a good connection with the rest of Greece and other countries. There are three big airports: Alexandroupolis (AXD), Kavala (KVA), and Thessaloniki (SKG). Marinas such as Kavala, Nikiti Halkidiki or Kermati offer a fine selection of yachts to charter. From those marinas, there are many possibilities for exploring the nearby coasts, beaches, and coves.
The season for sailing is from April to November with the high season from July to August. In high season it is advisable to book a yacht in advance. Fine weather can be found during the whole year near the coast and the Halkidiki peninsula. More serious weather for experienced sailors is in more exposed parts of the Aegean Sea.
Best Places to visit in North Aegean Region
In this region, the Halkidiki peninsula offers the best locations to add to your itinerary. Halkidiki consists of three smaller peninsulas-like prongs, often known as the Poseidon trident. There are numerous coves, sandy beaches, small villages, and a lot of historical landmarks.
Porto Koufo is the largest harbour in Greece. Very good shelter from all weather conditions. There are a lot of eating options in famous fish taverns.
Diaporos is a small island in front of the Sithonia peninsula. Island offers a lot of interesting coves surrounded by pine trees and sandy beaches. The water is very clear and there are a lot of anchoring options.
Mount Athos is a famous mountain on the Athos peninsula near Halkidiki which is best known for Greek orthodox monasteries. Monasteries are reachable only by boat, so it is a good idea to enlist them in your itinerary. Women cannot visit monasteries.
Agios Nikolaos is a beach located on Sithonia Peninsula, known for pine trees, olive oil, honey, and wine. Nice spot for a lunch break.
Important Info for Sailing in North Aegean Region
Best time to sail
April - November
Most popular marinas
Marina Kavala, Nikiti Halkidiki, Keramoti
Nearest airports
Alexandroupolis (AXD), Kavala (KVA), Thessaloniki (SKG)
Number of charter yachts
40+
Popular regatas
North Aegean Cup, Alexander the Great Regatta
Top attractions
Thessaloniki, Halkidiki beaches, Petralona Cave, Mount Athos, the cities of Kastoria and Florina
Gastronomy Highlights of North Aegean
In this region, gastronomy is influenced by multicultural traits and traditions. You can find a variety of dishes influenced by Asia Minor, but also some far away countries like Russia. The gastronomy of the North Aegean is known for its characteristic usage of spices.
Agioritikos Bakaliaros is a recipe from Mount Athos. It is a healthy and light option for lunch. A salted cod dish served with a hefty number of prunes and lemon-based sauce.
Bougatsa is a Greek breakfast pastry consisting of semolina, custard, cheese, or minced meat between a layer of phyllo (thin dough). Taste varies between regions. In some regions, it is very sweet, and in some regions, it is crunchy and not so sweet.
Spanakorizo is a vegetarian dish of spinach and rice, eaten hot or cold. Usually prepared with cumin, onions and olive oil and often served with feta cheese.
Tsipouro, an unaged brand from the Greek region of Macedonia and the island of Crete is a strong distilled spirit from the residue of a wine press. Usually not flavoured or flavoured with anise.
