Larnaka Bay seawaters offer some of the most favourable conditions for sailing in the Mediterranean, attracting both leisure yachters and professional athletes for training, as well as hosting a variety of international races, regattas and training camps throughout the year. 

Sailing came to Larnaka in 1934 with the construction of the first, small sailing boat, followed by the creation of Larnaca Nautical Club in 1951 (originally called the Larnaca Flamingo Nautical Club). The club has since been at the forefront of sailing for the city, also representing Cyprus at several Olympics. 

President of the club, Mr George Hadjigeorgiou, says that Larnaka ticks all the boxes for optimist and ILCA (International Laser Class Association) boat sailing conditions: “The combination of good, year-round sea temperatures and wind conditions, as well as the cleanliness of Larnaka’s seawaters are widely known to be among the best, which attracts sailors from all over the world. And with the club located near the hotels and conveniences of the Larnaka-Dekeleia Road tourist strip, international athletes are rapidly recognising Larnaka’s sailing advantages.” 

As well as sailing, the facilities of Larnaca Nautical Club accommodate swimming, water polo, canoe/kayak, SUP (stand up and paddle) and artistic swimming teams for lessons and training, with continual expansions, as Mr Hadjigeorgiou explains: “The club facilities are always evolving, and our fleet of Optimist and ILCA sailing boats has recently been added to. These are available to individuals and teams to hire, and we have seen an increase in the number of international athletes and teams coming to Larnaka in recent years – either for training purposes or to take part in the regattas and races, which is very encouraging.” 

International sailing events in Larnaka this year included an international ILCA 4 and ILCA 6 training camp with the participation of 25 sailors in February, culminating in a great race. In April and May the club hosted the ILCA 4 Cyprus Championship and 1st Ranking for Optimist and ILCA 6 Boats. In July an international coach held an international Optimist training camp (20 sailors) at the club, and the 1st Kimon Blue Regatta took place with over 80 sailors from eight countries. 

Further events for 2025 will be announced on the club’s website, but even novices can enjoy sailing at Larnaka Bay with lessons or private charters! Read more here.