Project duration: January 2025 – December 2025
Status: On Going
Grantee: Sustainable Sailing Greece

THE CHALLENGE: 

Recreational sailing in Greece is a thriving tourism activity, attracting thousands of visitors annually. However, this influx of charter boats poses significant environmental challenges, particularly in the Argosaronic Gulf, where growing numbers of yachts have intensified pressures on marine ecosystems. One of the most pressing concerns is the destruction of Posidonia seagrass meadows, vital habitats that provide coastal protection and support marine biodiversity. Improper anchoring practices have led to severe degradation of these ecosystems, while the lack of accessible waste disposal facilities exacerbates pollution. Despite the urgent need for sustainable practices, limited educational resources exist for sailors and charter companies operating in the region. 

THE SOLUTION: 

AEF is committed to promoting sustainable maritime practices by supporting initiatives that reduce human impact on marine ecosystems. As part of this effort, we are partnering with Sustainable Sailing Greece (SSG) to expand its successful model to the Argosaronic Gulf, helping address the environmental challenges posed by recreational sailing. 

With AEF’s support, SSG is providing sailors and charter companies with practical guidance on sustainable sailing, ensuring minimal ecological footprints. Through digital and printed materials, targeted outreach, and collaboration with key stakeholders, this initiative fosters long-term awareness and behavioral change among both visiting sailors and industry professionals, strengthening environmental stewardship in the region. 

Key aspects of the project include educational materials, anchoring guidance, stakeholder engagement and awareness campaigns. 

THE OUTCOMES: 

The project outlines the following milestones:

– Addition of a new Argosaronic chapter to the Sustainable Sailing Guide with island-specific sustainability guidelines, recycling points, and eco-friendly sailing tips to the SSG e-Guide to be available online.  

– Distribution of the SSG e-Guide and “Top Tips” posters through charter companies in Attica marinas and island ports, focusing on flotillas and crewed charters sailing in the region. 

– Working directly with skippers and sailing companies for the mapping of high-impact anchoring areas where Posidonia meadows are at risk in the Argosaronic. These maps will guide sailors on where to avoid anchoring and support advocacy for eco-mooring installations. 

OUR PARTNER ORGANIZATION: 

Sustainable Sailing Greece (SSG) promotes sustainable tourism practices in Greece’s yachting sector. Launched in 2023 in the Ionian region, it has engaged local NGOs, charter companies, and stakeholders to address environmental challenges. Through digital guides, QR-coded resources, and collaborative campaigns, SSG is transforming Greece’s charter sailing industry into a model of environmental responsibility. 

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Visit the SSG website 

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