How Greece’s Small-Ship Cruises Are Captivating a New Generation of Travelers

With its iconic blue-and-white islands, clear skies, and calm Mediterranean waters, Greece has long been a dream destination for sailing enthusiasts. But as demand for immersive and flexible travel surges, a new wave of nautical tourism is reshaping how visitors explore the country’s thousands of islands and Sail in Greece is right at the helm. The London-based company has become one of the most sought-after operators for gulet charters & gulet style sailing adventures, particularly around the Cyclades. 

From Mykonos with Love

Sail in Greece’s flagship tour, the Mykonos Cruise, blends the best of the Cyclades: think cosmopolitan flair, secluded coves, and ancient charm. The journey, set aboard a traditional wooden gulet accommodating up to 46 guests, offers a balance of relaxation and excitement. Mornings might include a refreshing swim in a hidden bay or a walk through sun-bleached villages; by nightfall, the deck transforms into a lively space with cocktails and music under the stars.

While Mykonos provides the glamour, Sail in Greece goes beyond the expected, anchoring at lesser-known islands and beaches where guests can disconnect from the crowds and connect with the landscape.

“Sailing in Greece isn’t just about where you go—it’s how you go,” said Mirella Prapa, co-founder of the company. “We wanted to create an experience that’s local, sustainable, and a little bit magical.”

A Greener Course for Greek Tourism

That vision has recently expanded to include solar-powered gulets, part of Sail in Greece’s broader commitment to align with the EU Green Shipping Pact, which mandates a 40% cut in maritime carbon emissions by 2030. The company has begun retrofitting its vessels, making it one of the few in the sector taking early action to reduce environmental impact.

As more travelers prioritize sustainability, this shift sets Sail in Greece apart. The company also partners with local producers, island communities, and independent guides, ensuring tourism dollars stay within the places being visited.

The Broader Boom in Sailing Tourism

Of course, Sail in Greece is riding a larger wave. From the Ionian to the Dodecanese, sailing holidays in Greece are surging in popularity, appealing to everyone from solo travelers to couples and groups of friends. Itineraries now range from two-day samplers departing from Athens to full-blown 14-day sailing-and-learning expeditions out of Kos.

Cycling-sailing hybrids, cultural immersion cruises, and even archaeological-themed routes are carving out niches within the growing market. Yet even as international charter companies expand into Greek waters, local operators like Sail in Greece continue to hold an edge through deep community ties, regional knowledge, and exclusive docking access in protected bays.

Charting the Course Ahead

With Greece’s sailing season stretching from April to October, the appetite for alternative, sea-based travel shows no signs of slowing down. The Greek National Tourism Organization predicts that small-vessel tourism could make up over a third of the country’s tourism revenue by 2026.

For Sail in Greece, the challenge is balancing growth with integrity. “It’s not about volume,” said Prapa. “It’s about creating meaningful, memorable experiences that respect the islands and the people who live there.”

As gulets glide between sun-drenched ports and secret coves, and as sails rise in the soft Aegean wind, it’s clear that the future of Greek tourism may not lie in the size of cruise ships—but in the quiet charm of boats like those of Sail in Greece.