Seasonal· Hydra Gulf· Greece — Ionian, Saronic & Argolic
Hydra Gulf Summer Winds (Meltemi & Sea Breeze)
37° 22.2′ N · 23° 21.0′ E · approximate
In summer the meltemi reaches the Saronic and Hydra gulfs as a NNE–NE wind, usually Force 4–6 at most and less regular than in the Cyclades; on the Argolic side the prevailing wind follows the coast from the south-east.
Practical
Coordinate approx: centre of the Hydra Gulf. Sailingissues: meltemi Force 4–6 NNE–NE along the mainland coast and between Methana and Attica, weaker near Poros and Methana, stronger toward Cape Sounion; near the Spetses ports the prevailing wind is SE, E further out; in the Argolic Gulf north of Ieraka the summer wind is south-easterly. In strong NE winds violent gusts fall off Hydra's mountains along its south coast. Strong N–NE winds push a backwash into Hydra harbour, so the Hydra west-coast anchorages (Molos, Bali) and Porto Heli's enclosed bay are the refuges.
Best for
Planning passages and night stops around the wind
Season
Meltemi mainly Jul–Aug; sea breezes all summer