Cyprus Yachting

The Aegean Regatta 2026, the premier offshore sailing event of the Aegean Sea, will take place from 21 to 28 August 2026, celebrating its 25th anniversary with a spectacular route through the islands of the Northeastern Aegean.

This year's regatta will follow the course Limnia (Volissos, Chios) – Fournoi – Agathonisi – Marathokampos (Samos), offering participants an unforgettable sailing experience through some of Greece's most authentic island destinations.

Marking a significant milestone, the 25th edition of the Aegean Regatta reaffirms its position as one of Greece's most prestigious offshore sailing events, combining competitive sailing with the promotion of the unique natural beauty, history and cultural heritage of the Aegean islands.

The event is organized by the General Secretariat for the Aegean and Island Policy of the Ministry of Maritime Affairs and Insular Policy, in cooperation with the Hellenic Sailing Federation Offshore Racing Committee, together with the sailing clubs A.S.I.A.TH. Rhodes, Lesvos Sailing Club, L.O.I.A.TH. Lesvos, Samos Nautical Club, and Chios Nautical Club. The coordinating club for the 2026 edition is PEKEV Chios.

Over the past 25 years, the Aegean Regatta has grown into much more than a sailing competition. It has played a significant role in promoting and supporting Greece's remote island communities, creating meaningful benefits for local economies while bringing together sailors from across Greece and welcoming numerous international crews eager to experience the authentic maritime culture of the Aegean.

Aegean Regatta 2026 Programme

Friday, 21 August

Registration and yacht inspections
Limnia – Volissos, Chios

Saturday, 22 August

Registration and yacht inspections
Skippers' Meeting
Opening Ceremony
Limnia – Volissos, Chios

Sunday, 23 August

Race 1
Limnia (Volissos, Chios) – Fournoi
Distance: 65 nautical miles

Monday, 24 August

Lay Day in Fournoi

Tuesday, 25 August

Race 2
Fournoi – Agathonisi
Distance: 33 nautical miles

Wednesday, 26 August

Race 3
Agathonisi – Marathokampos, Samos
Distance: 20 nautical miles

Thursday, 27 August

Lay Day in Marathokampos, Samos

Friday, 28 August

Coastal Race in Marathokampos
Closing Ceremony and Prize Giving

Statement by Fotis Maggos

Mr. Fotis Maggos, General Secretary for the Aegean and Island Policy and President of the Aegean Regatta 2026 Organizing Committee, stated:

"This year's event carries a special significance for all of us. The Aegean Regatta celebrates 25 years of continuous presence in the Aegean, having firmly established itself as an institution that unites sport with the sea, seamanship with culture, competitive spirit with the renowned hospitality of the Greek islands.

For a quarter of a century, the Regatta has connected ports, islands, people and communities, promoting the Aegean internationally as a region of life, creativity, cooperation and openness.

Personally, assuming the Presidency of the Aegean Regatta 2026 Organizing Committee at the beginning of my tenure as General Secretary for the Aegean and Island Policy is both a great honour and a significant responsibility. It is particularly symbolic that one of the first major institutional events I have the privilege to oversee is so deeply connected with the Aegean, sailing and our island communities.

Having previously served in local government as Mayor of an island municipality, I understand first-hand the importance of events like this for our islands. I know the dedication of local communities, the strength of their hospitality, their daily challenges and the pride of the people who live and create in the Aegean. Every stop of the Aegean Regatta is much more than a racing destination; it is a living community with history, culture, production, heritage and a promising future.

From 22 to 28 August 2026, this year's Regatta sets sail from Limnia – Volissos of Chios and follows a route embracing the central and northeastern Aegean: Fournoi, Agathonisi and Marathokampos in Samos. It is a route with a strong island identity, showcasing authentic destinations, communities with deep maritime traditions and islands that remain vibrant pillars of Greece's frontier region."

With the Meltemi winds as its ally and some of the most authentic destinations of the Greek Archipelago as its backdrop, the Aegean Regatta continues to fulfil its vision: promoting the Aegean through sailing, strengthening local island communities and inspiring younger generations with a passion for the sea, sport and Greece's island heritage.