My First Travel Story: Sailing Through Greece
Welcome to Travel with Ems!
I’m Ems — a curious soul with a big love for new places, sunsets over the sea, and the kind of freedom that only travel brings. After years of collecting stories from my trips, I finally decided to create this space where I can share them with you.
And what better way to start than with one of the most magical adventures I’ve ever had: exploring the Greek islands… by boat.
Why Greece? Why a boat?
Greece has a special place in my heart — the whitewashed villages, crystal-clear waters, and incredible food had always drawn me in. So when we were planning our vacation, it felt like the perfect choice.
But instead of the usual island-hopping tour, we chose something different — a boat. And we chose this for so many reasons: because it’s a unique way to travel, because it gives you the freedom to explore remote islands and hidden coves, and because there’s nothing quite like falling asleep and waking up to the sound of the sea.
Every day brought a new view, a quiet bay, or a charming village. It was peaceful, simple, and full of beauty — an experience I’ll never forget..
Our Route & How It All Unfolded
We started our sailing trip from Athens, full of excitement, sunscreen, and way too many snacks. Once we were all set, we headed out into the Saronic Gulf, ready for the adventure ahead.
Our first stop was Poros, a peaceful island with pine-covered hills, colorful buildings, and the perfect little harbor to dock for the night. We wandered through quiet streets, grabbed a late dinner by the sea, and truly felt like vacation had begun.
Next came Hydra, and it completely stole our hearts. No cars, no noise — just donkeys, boats, and elegant stone houses stacked up the hillside. We hiked, swam in hidden spots, and sipped wine as the sun set over the harbor.
Then we sailed to Spetses, a stylish island with vibrant life, horse-drawn carriages, and lively promenades.
After that, we reached Porto Cheli, a more laid-back coastal town where we slowed things down, swam for hours, and enjoyed long, lazy dinners on the boat.
And finally, we arrived in Nafplio — a stunning town on the mainland, full of history and Venetian charm. We climbed up to the fortress for panoramic views, got lost in its narrow streets, and soaked up the beauty of this final destination.
After Nafplio, we began our journey back — sailing the same route in reverse, but with fresh eyes. We made a final stop in Poros, this time lingering a bit longer, enjoying a last swim and one more seafood dinner by the water.
The return was just as magical — calmer, slower, full of reflection. We ended the trip where it began, back in Athens, sun-kissed, happy, and already dreaming of the next adventure.
Every stop was different, but what stayed the same was the feeling: peaceful mornings, slow days under the sun, and unforgettable evenings on the water.
Would I Do It Again? In a Heartbeat