Meltemi wind guide
The Meltemi Wind: Complete Guide for Greek Charterers
Greece's defining summer wind. What it is, when it blows, which routes work with it, and how to plan a Cycladic charter around it.
What the Meltemi actually is
When the Meltemi blows: month-by-month
May: Meltemi not yet established. Wind variable, water still cool (18-20°C). Best for sailors who want unpredictable winds and quiet anchorages. Early June: Meltemi begins, typically light (10-18 knots). Excellent shoulder-season window — water 20-22°C, anchorages empty, conditions manageable. Late June through mid-September: full Meltemi. Strong period. July: Sustained 18-25 knots most afternoons, occasional 30+ days. Some afternoons unsafe for smaller sailing yachts to sail; motor yachts handle. August (first 3 weeks): peak intensity, 20-30 knots most afternoons, occasional 35+ days. The classic 'Meltemi week' is here. Mykonos to Athens northbound becomes unsafe most afternoons; southbound runs are exhilarating. Late August through mid-September: Meltemi softens, 15-20 knots most afternoons. Conditions return to comfortable for all yacht types. October: Meltemi gone. Replaced by southerly fronts and unsettled weather. Sailing season winding down.
Notes from George on cruising with the Meltemi
- Plan Cycladic routes SOUTHBOUND in peak Meltemi (July-August). Mykonos→Paros→Ios→Santorini with the wind astern is the great Aegean sail. Reverse direction means 4+ days of upwind beating.
- If you must reposition northward in peak season, do it overnight. The wind drops 8-10 knots after midnight. A 60 nm overnight run upwind is far more comfortable than the same passage at 15:00.
- Catamarans handle the Meltemi better than monohulls under sail. Catamaran heels 2°, monohull heels 15° — same wind, vastly different comfort.
- Motor yachts with stabilisers are unbothered by the Meltemi at anchor; without stabilisers the roll at anchorage in 20+ knots makes dinner on the aft deck difficult.
- The 'protected lee anchorages' to know in peak Meltemi: Schoinoussa (Cyclades), Despotiko (west of Antiparos), Manganari (south Ios), Ammos (south Folegandros). All face south and stay flat in 25+ knots from the north.
Frequently asked
About the meltemi wind: complete guide for greek charterers
Is it safe to charter a yacht during Meltemi?
Yes, with the right yacht and captain. Crewed charters with experienced Greek captains routinely handle Meltemi conditions. Sailing yachts may reef heavily or motor short passages. Catamarans and motor yachts handle the conditions comfortably. The captain calls daily based on forecast.
Should I avoid August because of the Meltemi?
Depends on your priorities. August has the strongest Meltemi but also the best parties, fullest restaurant scene, and peak Greek-island energy. June and September offer the same weather (warm water, sunshine) with materially gentler wind and 25-30% lower charter rates.
Will I get seasick during a Meltemi charter?
Possible on smaller monohulls during long upwind passages. Catamarans, motor yachts with stabilisers, and larger sailing yachts (45m+) are comfortable even in strong Meltemi. If you're prone to seasickness, prioritise vessel type.
Does the Meltemi affect the Ionian?
No, the Ionian is a different weather system. The Ionian has its own afternoon thermal (15-18 knots from the north-west) that's far gentler than the Meltemi. The Ionian is the right Greek charter region for guests sensitive to wind.
Can I still swim during Meltemi days?
Yes, in protected south-facing anchorages. The wind affects the windward (north-facing) shore but the lee (south-facing) anchorages stay flat and warm. The captain anchors for protection — you swim in the lee.