Sailing the Greek Islands With MedSailors: A Fabulous, Sun-Soaked Adventure For Queer Souls!

Hello, darlings! 🌈 Are you ready to set sail on the adventure of a lifetime, filled with sun, sea, and just the right amount of fabulousness?

Well, put on your most glamorous shades and get ready to channel your inner siren, because I recently embarked on a week-long sailing trip with MedSailors in the stunning Ionian Islands of Greece, and it was nothing short of spectacular.

Imagine: crystal-clear waters, charming island villages, and an atmosphere so liberal and welcoming, even your rainbow-colored unicorn floatie feels right at home. And let’s not forget the cherry on top—Greece recently legalized same-sex marriage!

So, come along as I spill the tea (and a few Aperol Spritzes) on why MedSailors is the queer-friendly sailing adventure you never knew you needed.

What Is MedSailors?

MedSailors is like that cool, laid-back cousin who always knows where the best parties are but never gets too rowdy. They offer seven-day sailing trips designed for young adventurers in their 20s and 30s who are looking to explore some of the most beautiful waters in the Mediterranean. Now, let’s be clear: this isn’t a gay cruise filled with techno beats and six-packs (not that there’s anything wrong with that, but this just isn’t the holiday alot of us are looking for).

No, this is a different kind of vibe—think more ‘Mamma Mia’ meets a bohemian beach party, where the energy is infectious, the welcome is warm, and the dancing is absolutely irresistible. Everyone is free to be their fabulous selves, whether that means lounging in a sequined kaftan or belting out ABBA tunes at the top of your lungs.

Booking Your Trip: Solo or with Friends?

Listen, I know what you’re thinking: ‘Will I really feel comfortable sailing with a bunch of strangers?’ And let me assure you—the answer is a fabulous YES! We embarked on this adventure as two friends, but most of our fellow sailors were solo travelers. The camaraderie was instant, and it didn’t take long for our boat and extended flotilla family to transform into a tight-knit family.

Now, if you’re worried about sharing space, here’s the tea: the catamarans are ideal for friends or couples since sharing a bed is part of the deal. But if you’re sailing solo, the monohull boats are perfect—each adventurer gets their own cozy space. So whether you’re flying solo or bringing your bestie, you’ll find your perfect groove. And if you’re coming with a crew, even better! You can book an entire catamaran (or any other boat catagory) and turn it into your own private, floating Pride party—complete with fabulous floaties and a BYO disco ball and rainbow flag policy.

Costs and What’s Included

Let’s talk about the budget, honey, because even the fiercest of queer pirates need to watch their coins. MedSailors offers trips starting from as low as €700 per person for a budget boat, up to €1,839 for the ultra-luxurious Superior Catamarans. And trust me, every euro is worth it! You’re not just paying for seven days of sun-drenched fun; you’re getting cozy accommodations on your yacht, daily breakfast and lunch whipped up by your charming skipper, and access to a treasure trove of water toys—paddleboards, snorkels, and even a dinghy for when you’re feeling extra adventurous.

Now, here’s the best part: unlike many other sailing companies that prohibit bringing your own alcohol on board (which can seriously skyrocket your trip costs), MedSailors encourages you to bring your favorite drinks. So, if you want to pop a bottle of bubbly while watching the sunset, go right ahead! No overpriced cruise bar tabs here, darlings. It’s all about freedom, fun, and that extra splash of fabulousness—without breaking the bank. Cheers to that!

The Boats: Choose Your Floating Home

When it comes to choosing your boat, think of it like selecting a drag persona: are you going for something classic and sleek, or are you in the mood for a little more room to twirl? MedSailors offers a fabulous range of yachts, each with its own unique flair to match your vacation vibe.

Starting with the Budget Boats, these are the perfect choice if you’re a savvy sailor looking to make the most of your Mediterranean adventure without splurging. Priced from just €700 per person, these Economy Yachts are all about practicality and fun. With room for 8-10 guests, they feature double cabins, single cabins, and bunks, plus essentials like cabin fans and a swimming platform. You can bring your own food and drinks onboard, making it a great choice for those who enjoy a little DIY dining. Think of it as the no-frills, friendly queen who always brings the party – or just snack during the day and have a bougie meal on shore each night…

Next up, we have the Premier Yachts, starting from €1,044 per person. These yachts offer a step up in comfort with a sunbathing deck, swimming platform, and a cozy dining area perfect for those long, lazy brunches on the water. Accommodating 8-10 guests, they also come with double cabins, single cabins, and bunks, along with 2-3 bathrooms. Here, breakfast and lunch are included, meaning you can enjoy freshly prepared meals without lifting a finger. These boats are like the polished and poised queens, always ready for their close-up, with a social and dining area that’s perfect for those unforgettable dinner parties under the stars.

For those looking for a little more luxury, the Superior Yachts are your best bet, starting from €1,372 per person. These yachts are spacious and stylish, featuring an extra-large social and dining area, an onboard sound system, and a sunbathing deck with loungers. With room for 10-11 guests, they offer double cabins, single cabins, and bunks, as well as 3-4 bathrooms. They also include breakfast and lunch, along with plenty of space to relax and socialize. This is the yacht for the queen who loves a bit of extravagance and enjoys entertaining a larger crowd with flair and finesse.

But darling, if you want a true show-stopper, look no further than the Premier Catamarans, priced from €1,562 per person. These are the ultimate choice for those who want to travel in style. With a sunbathing net, large deck, and expansive living areas, they bring a touch of glamour and plenty of room to move. Accommodating 8 guests in four double cabins, these catamarans are all about comfort and luxury. They come with 2 bathrooms, a large social and dining area, an onboard sound system, and a large swimming platform. If you’re the type who loves to sunbathe by day and dance under the stars by night, this is your boat. It’s perfect for those spontaneous dance-offs or sipping cocktails while you take in the stunning views.

And for the ultimate indulgence, the Superior Catamarans take the crown, starting from €1,839 per person. These floating palaces are designed for those who appreciate the finer things in life, featuring en-suite cabins, air conditioning throughout (highly recommended if going in June/July!), a professional host, and a skipper. With space for 8 guests in 4 en-suite double cabins, a sunbathing deck with loungers, and a large social and dining area, these catamarans are the epitome of luxury. They also come equipped with an onboard sound system, USB charging sockets, and all the little touches that make a big difference. Imagine a yacht where every detail has been crafted for your comfort and pleasure—this is the one for the queen who wants it all.

So, whether you want a budget-friendly boat or a luxurious catamaran, MedSailors has the perfect option for you. And a little pro tip: Pack light but fabulous. You won’t need much beyond swimwear, a few kaftans, and something sparkly for those special moonlit dinners on shore. After all, darling, when you’re on a boat like this, all eyes are on you, and the only thing missing is your glittering presence.

The Crew and Atmosphere on Board

Now, let’s talk about the heart and soul of the MedSailors experience: the crew. Our skipper, Manu, was an absolute gem— as friendly as Keanu Reeves but with better sea legs and an even better playlist. And then there was Sara, our Guest Experience Leader who was everywhere, from organizing beach BBQs and hikes to helping us find the best bars and swimming spots.

I’m not saying her recommendations were magical, but if mermaids had shown up, I wouldn’t have been surprised.

Our Itinerary: A Week of Sailing, Sun, and Sass

From the electrifying cocktails of Agios Stefanos to the fairy-tale charm of Parga, our MedSailors adventure was a perfect blend of sun, sea, and just the right amount of scandalous fun. Our unforgettable week began in Agios Stefanos, where we knew we were in for a treat the moment we docked. With incredible cocktails flowing and a lively atmosphere, the night quickly transformed into a vibrant celebration of queerness and joy. I somehow found myself behind the DJ booth, turning the bar into a fabulous dance floor with a mix of Kylie’s “Padam Padam” and a playlist of queer anthems. The bartender loved the vibe so much that there was even some free shots for our group, making it the perfect start to our adventure.

The next day, we sailed out bright and early, heading for Iggy Beach, where the gossip was as juicy as the parasailing views. It was the perfect spot to spill the tea (literally) because up there in the sky, nobody could hear you. This beach had it all: jet skiing, banana boating, paddleboarding, and even the option to simply relax and soak up the sun on the pristine sands. The sparkling waters were ideal for any level of adventure, from thrilling high-speed rides on the waves to lounging peacefully on the beach. After a full day of adventure, the evening saw us indulging in a beach BBQ, swapping stories of first crushes and travel stories under the stars as we invited everyone back to our catamaran net. The atmosphere was a delightful mix of a retro summer flick and the serene beauty of the Ionian Sea.

On our third day, we arrived in Plataria, where the morning was dedicated to the Flotilla Olympics. This event was all about friendly competition, featuring a series of water sports challenges across four boats. The prize? A bottle of prosecco, which added a delightful incentive to the races, although we all agreed that a conch shell would make a fabulous addition for future competitions. Our skipper cheered us on like a sports coach straight out of an 80s rom-com, adding to the excitement of the event. The morning was filled with laughter, high-energy swimming races, and a strong sense of camaraderie.

Later that day, we sailed into the quaint fishing village of Petriti, where the charm of old-world Greece came alive. We strolled through the village, enjoying the laid-back atmosphere and discovering hidden gems. Dinner that evening was an absolute treat, featuring fresh fish caught that day, grilled to perfection and enjoyed in the open air. The cozy taverna, run by a charming father and son duo, made us feel like part of the family, serving up dishes that tasted as good as the sea breeze felt on our faces.

By the fifth night, we found ourselves in Gaios, the perfect spot for a hike, renting a car, or a boat party that makes the whole town stare. Naturally, we opted for the latter. After a day of exploring and soaking up the sun, we hosted a boat party that quickly became the talk of the dock. Between our Kim Petras medley and an impromptu shower show, the locals were absolutely living for the drama. And honey, when you party until 4 am in Gaios, you know you’re doing something right.

Our final stop, Parga, was a place straight out of a storybook. With its pastel-colored houses and narrow, winding streets, it felt like stepping into another world. We took a short but invigorating 10-minute hike up to the fortress, where we were rewarded with breathtaking views of the town and the shimmering sea beyond. The rest of the evening was spent exploring every hidden nook and cranny, uncovering secret spots, and soaking in the dreamy landscape. By night, the entire place seemed to glow with a soft, enchanting light. We dined under the stars, toasting to a week brimming with unforgettable memories. It was pure romance, even if the only thing you were romancing was your Aperol Spritz.

The last day of our journey was far from a simple sail back to the marina. As we made our way toward Corfu, the flotilla stopped in front of the fortress for an unforgettable lunch of blue cheese gnocchi. All the boats gathered together, and we spent the afternoon chatting, gossiping, and sharing stories from the week as we meet in the water. Swimming under the glorious UNESCO-listed ruins was a moment of pure magic—an experience that perfectly captured the spirit of our adventure. Finally, we made our way back to Gouvia Marina, sharing tearful goodbyes and hugs, promising to do it all again next year. And rest assured, I’ve already started planning my playlist for our next grand adventure.

Why MedSailors is Perfect for LGBTQ+ Travelers

Why should MedSailors be your go-to choice if you’re a queer traveler? Beyond the obvious perks of sun-soaked days and crystal-clear waters, it’s the unique freedom that sets this experience apart. MedSailors lets you be yourself, make new friends, and explore the stunning Greek Islands without a second thought. With Greece recently legalizing same-sex marriage, there’s a fresh, celebratory vibe across the country. It feels like the whole place is throwing a party for love in all its forms. This isn’t just about legality; it’s a genuine embrace of diversity that you can feel everywhere—from the friendly locals who greet you with open arms to the café owners who treat you like an old friend.

MedSailors is perfect for those who might not be comfortable on a more explicitly gay cruise. It’s not about nonstop circuit parties or a hookup-fueled vacation, though there were definitely a few cheeky trysts and scandals along the way. Instead, it’s about striking the right balance—enjoying both the freedom to relax after a packed European Pride or festival season and the chance to connect with like-minded travelers (and trust me, some of us need a break from non-stop circuit parties). Whether you want to chill out on the catamaran’s net with a good book, share stories over a casual lunch, or dive into spontaneous dance-offs, MedSailors has you covered.

The Greek Islands offer the ideal mix of adventure and relaxation. Spend your mornings hiking up to ancient fortresses with stunning views, then unwind in the afternoon, floating in serene, sunlit waters. The hospitality is unmatched—dine on fresh seafood caught that day, served by local families who welcome you like one of their own. It’s a place where you can feel truly at home, without worrying about fitting in or facing judgment.

For anyone looking to combine the beauty of a Mediterranean holiday with an inclusive, welcoming atmosphere, MedSailors is the answer. It’s the perfect getaway for solo travelers, couples, or groups of friends who want an adventure that’s both carefree and queer-friendly. So, grab your sunnies, pack your bags, and get ready to experience a journey where the only rule is to be yourself and have a great time. Here, every day is a celebration of love, freedom, and living life to the fullest.

Final Thoughts and Recommendations

Would I recommend MedSailors to my fellow queer adventurers? Absolutely, darling! This trip perfectly combines luxury with a vibrant sense of community. From secluded swim spots to lively port towns, every moment felt like a celebration of freedom and friendship. With Greece recently legalizing same-sex marriage, the whole country feels like it’s embracing love in all its forms. The islands are welcoming, the locals are warm, and the atmosphere is pure magic—an ideal backdrop for a queer-friendly adventure.

MedSailors isn’t just another sailing trip—it’s an experience where you can be unapologetically yourself. Whether you’re looking to unwind after a busy Pride season or connect with like-minded travelers, this is the place to do it. It’s not about non-stop parties, though there were certainly some cheeky trysts and fun scandals along the way. Instead, it offers a balanced mix of relaxation and adventure.

With options ranging from budget-friendly boats to luxurious catamarans, there’s something for everyone, whether you’re sailing solo, with a partner, or with friends. MedSailors offers three routes in Croatia, two in Greece, and one in Turkey, with Greece standing out as particularly queer-friendly. The crew adds to the magic, creating a safe, welcoming space for all identities.

So, pack your bags, grab your sunnies, and get ready for an unforgettable sailing adventure where every day is a celebration of life and love. Bring your besties, your best sunscreen, and maybe an extra bottle of ouzo—you never know where the night will take you!