Hey there Kim,

I know this post is already some weeks old, and you may already be on your way to the Greek Islands. Just in case ...

I was a (young) charter skipper based out of Kalamaki Marina in Athens for one summer during my university years.

Admittedly, that was 25 years ago, and the islands have changed like everything else. But couple of things to keep in mind perhaps. Sailing in July, August and early September means you have to face the famous Meltemi wind, which can build up to 5 to 7 Bft for days. Usually it kicks in during the early afternoon. Blue skies and blue waters, but one hell of a wind, so be prepared! Invigorating sailing though, as long as you don't have to slog up wind all the time ... <img src="http://www.traveltalkonline.com/forums/images/graemlins/Grin.gif" alt="" />

Being based in Kalamaki, I usually offered guests itineraries which included the Aegean islands, including Aegina, Poros, Spetzes and Hydra. Aegina was already touristy then, and probably worse now. The other was gorgeous and real quaint. Hydra is amazing! Except for the infamous Mediterranean mooring circus in its very narrow harbour. Yachts moor typically stern to shore, and in Hydra on both opposite sides of the narrow harbour. So imagine the amount of anchors lying in the middle .. and the inevitable crossed anchor lines ... great entertainment every morning when boats leaving the port drag along half the fleet opposite them!

The Cyclades are also fantastic ... Kythnos, Syfnos, Kea,etc. Great little harbour villages with tavernas right off your boat!

And then there is Santorini. I would definitely consider spending some time on what is truly a magical place ... the views are unbeatable!

Enjoy it to the fullest!