The Hydra Nautical Club (HNC) is one of the most historic and active sports organizations on the island of Hydra, deeply rooted in the island’s long-standing maritime tradition and sporting culture.
Founded in 1955, the Club’s founding declaration defined its mission as the promotion of seamanship and the cultivation of nautical sports, continuing Hydra’s centuries-old maritime heritage. The Club’s first statute was signed by its President, Pantelis Koundouriotis, and the General Secretary, Ioannis Myriklis. Today, HNC has approximately 200 members and is governed by a nine-member Board of Directors.
With a steady focus on fostering sporting values, promoting fair play, and linking sport with Hydra’s natural and cultural environment, HNC develops athletic and cultural initiatives that highlight the island’s identity and history. It functions as a vital part of the local community, encouraging participation in sport among both youth and adults, while actively contributing to the island’s outward-looking character.
The men’s water polo team of Hydra Nautical Club has competed in Greece’s top division, the A1 Men’s National League, since 2014, establishing the Club among the leading water polo teams in the country. During the 2018–2019 season, HNC achieved its first European appearance in the Euro Cup, hosting its group stage at the Alimos Swimming Pool, with opponents from Italy, Montenegro, and Serbia.
Since 2017, the Club’s youth academies have been operating at the ALMA Club Alimos pool, under the supervision of head coach Markellos Sitarenios. In the younger age categories (Mini Boys, Boys), the teams have already achieved significant distinctions at national level, reinforcing HNC’s reputation as a talent-development hub in Greek water polo.
Beyond sport, Hydra Nautical Club actively participates in cultural initiatives that highlight Hydra’s maritime history and its enduring connection with Piraeus. Events such as the presentation “From Hydra to Piraeus” (2024) place the Club within a broader cultural and social context that honors and preserves Hydra’s maritime heritage.
Hydra Nautical Club is not merely a sports association; it is a bearer of history, values, and collective contribution, continuing to serve sport and the society of Hydra with consistency and vision.
