We are 4 couples in our mid-30's who are going sailing in September. I've heard mixed stories of where we should go. Some people say that the Cyclades is the place to see and someone else said that the Ionian Sea is the place. None of us are big sailors, but we like to hang out on the water and go swimming etc. We do want to go into towns for dinner etc... on a few nights, but sightseeing isn't our biggest priority.
Does anyone have any suggestions for me on what the best itinerary to suit or needs would be.
I appreciate all suggestions.
Thanks

I have experience only with the Cyclades, but we had a great sailing experience there. My understanding is that the Ionian is wonderful, but less stereotypically "Greek Island", if that makes sense. It's also supposed to be cooler, so, depending upon what weather you expect, that might be a positive or a negative.

We did a loop out of Athens, and the furthest point we got to was Syros. We had intended to go on to Mykonos and Delos, but we hit a bad weather window, and couldn't risk getting further away with the time we had left. Each stop was interesting in its own way-- I think my favorite was Paros. Sailing is a WONDERFUL way to experience the islands!

If you haven't yet committed on your charter company, try investigating companies that operate out of somewhere other than Athens. We met a man on Syros who ran a charter service from there. Geographically that would make a lot of sense, as it takes quite a while to sail across the Saronic to get to the islands you may be more interested in. Just a thought.

I hope this helps somewhat, and I hope someone with firsthand experience with the Ionian speaks up too!

We are a young couple heading to the Greek Islands in late August and would like to charter a catamaran or motor yacht with some other young, fun, couples who may be travelling by themselves too... anyone heading that way and would be interested?

The Cyclades have some real advantages. There are lots of islands closely grouped together, giving you a variety of choices for evenings ashore. The drawback is: Cyclades are more exposed to Meltemi winds than other Greek island groups.

You might also consider the Dodecanese Islands, near the Turkish coast. IMO there are no bad choices in the Greek Islands, so wherever you go will be fun.

What he said.

LaurenS3, congratulations on finding a 12 year-old thread!