Yacht Charter in Greece

What are the appealing aspects of a yacht charter in Greece?

The popularity of yacht rental in Greece has its reasons. With 13,676 km, Greece has the longest coastline in the Mediterranean. It is easy to reach from all major European cities, as there are many international airports distributed throughout the islands. You can fly to Crete, Corfu, Kefalonia, Kos, Lemnos, Lesbos, Rhodes, Samos, Zakynthos, Kos, Prereza and Kalamata on the Peloponnese. Many more islands can be accessed via national flights. 80 % of all charterers will fly to Athens, though, and rent a sailboat in the popular ports of Kalamaki, Lavrion or Piraeus.

Wonderfully clear and safe waters, no tides and manageable sailing distances make yacht charter in Greece so enormously popular. There is much more to it, though. The people are friendly and welcoming, the ports and taverns are authentic and charming and the cuisine is simple, light as well as varied. The archaic geology - many islands are of volcanic origin - makes for a stunning and dramatic landscape. Even today, there are some active craters you can visit, like on the island of Nisiros for example. The stark appearance of the nature is interspersed by bright white-washed houses with joyous blue window shutters that you can spot from miles off. Although the water in Greece is quite low in nutrients, there are endless opportunities to watch sea turtles hatch, as there are so many of them.

The authentic atmosphere and the vast multitude of charming small islands and ports is marvellous. Yet, off course, historic sites are a huge attraction throughout Greece as well. This means you can easily combine going on a sailing yacht charter with taking the opportunity to travel in time and visit some amazing ancient cities and temples.

Last not least prices for bareboat charter there are generally very competitive, so go ahead and rent a yacht in Greece!

Some relevant figures for yacht charter in Greece:

• Location: Southeastern Mediterranean
• Capital: Athens
• Total length of coastline: 13,676 km
• Number of islands: ca. 6,000, 227 of which inhabited
• Largest Islands: Crete, Euboea, Lesbos, Rhodes
• Population: ca. 10,955,000
• Climate: Mild, Mediterranean
• Country code: +30
• Main charter regions: Ionian Islands, Sporades, Cyclades, Dodecanese, Northern Aegean

 

Which charter regions are there in Greece?

The Greek Tourism Board reports a figure of 6,000 Greek islands with 227 of them inhabited. They account for about 17% of the country´s total territory. The most important archipelagoes are the Ionian, the Sporades, the Cyclades, the Dodecanese and the Aegean Islands. These cruising grounds would constitute a classic yacht week in Greece, for example. For something more special or if you like to go off the beaten track, head to the peninsula Chalkidiki south of Thessaloniki. Here you can sail in complete peace and enjoy the unspoilt, natural beauty of the place.

Cyclades Islands

The Cyclades are a group of islands in the Aegean Sea that are known for their stark beauty and traditional architecture. The islands are a popular destination for yacht charters, offering a wide range of activities, from swimming and sunbathing to exploring the charming villages and ancient sites. Santorini is one of the most famous Cyclades islands, with its stunning white-washed buildings and picturesque caldera views. Mykonos is another popular destination, known for its vibrant nightlife and luxury yachts.

Ionian Islands

The Ionian Islands are a group of islands in the Ionian Sea that are known for their lush greenery, sandy beaches, and tranquil bays. The islands are a popular destination for yacht charters, offering a wide range of activities, from snorkeling and scuba diving to hiking and exploring the traditional villages. Corfu is one of the most famous Ionian Islands, with its Venetian architecture and rich history. Kefalonia is another popular destination, known for its stunning beaches and rugged landscapes.

Saronic Islands

The Saronic Islands are a group of islands in the Saronic Gulf that are known for their crystal-clear waters and charming towns. The islands are a popular destination for yacht charters, offering a wide range of activities, from sailing and windsurfing to exploring the historic sites and natural beauty.
Hydra is one of the most famous Saronic Islands, with its car-free streets and stunning architecture. Aegina is another popular destination, known for its historic sites and delicious pistachios.

Sporades Islands

The Sporades Islands are a group of islands in the Aegean Sea that are known for their lush vegetation, turquoise waters, and secluded beaches. The islands are a popular destination for yacht charters, offering a wide range of activities, from swimming and snorkeling to hiking and exploring the stunning landscapes.
Skiathos is one of the most famous Sporades Islands, with its lively nightlife and stunning beaches. Skopelos is another popular destination, known for its lush forests and traditional architecture.

Dodecanese Islands

The Dodecanese Islands are a group of islands in the southeastern Aegean Sea that are known for their stunning beaches, crystal-clear waters, and rich history. The islands are a popular destination for yacht charters, offering a wide range of activities, from swimming and snorkeling to exploring the ancient ruins and historic sites. Rhodes is one of the most famous Dodecanese Islands, with its medieval architecture and ancient sites. Kos is another popular destination, known for its beautiful beaches and natural hot springs.

These are just a few of the many stunning destinations for a sailing yacht charter in Greece. Each island and region offers a unique experience, with its own history, culture, and natural beauty. A yacht charter in Greece is the perfect way to explore these incredible destinations and create unforgettable memories.
 

What are the prevailing wind systems relevant for your bareboat charter in Greece?

The main charter season in Greece runs from May till the end of October. From June to September the ´Meltemi` - a northerly sea breeze - is possibly, not necessarily prevalent mostly in the Central Aegean. The summers are hot and dry with temperatures in July often exceeding 30°. July and August are the hottest months and even at night temperatures will rarely drop below 20°. This is when the Meltemi winds are strongest and can reach gale force at times. The safest areas and most recommendable for family sailing holidays are the Ionian, the Sporades or Chalkidiki, for example.

Brief summary of the sailing weather in Greece with the example of Athens:

• Average wind speed: 3 - 4 Bft.
• Main season: May - October
• Month with highest average temperature: August, 34°
• Month with lowest average temperature: January, 13°
• Month with highest average precipitation: December, 98 mm
• Months with lowest average precipitation: July/August, 6 mm
• Months with most sunshine hours: July/August, 12 per day
• Month with least sunshine hours: December, 3 per day

 

How much does a yacht charter in Greece cost and what types of charter are there?

The good news is, yacht charters in Greece are not very expensive. Greek charter companies do not have to pay tax for the profits gained from boat rental, which results in highly competitive charter prices. With an average of about 2,035 € per week Greece is the second cheapest country after Croatia. And if you can plan spontaneously, there are some great last minute charter offers. Customers often vote Greece to be their most favourite yacht charter destination in Europe.

Whether you opt for bareboat, skippered or crewed charter, prefer motor boat rental to sailing yacht or catamaran charter, there are many options to choose from. Another possibility would be a day or fishing charter from the islands, which has become increasingly popular. You can also share a yacht and off course there is luxury yacht charter, in form of either sailing or motor yacht hire.
 

What other highlights are there in Greece apart from sailing yacht charter?

There are never-ending possibilities for sightseeing here. Head to Athens and climb the Acropolis or go to the mystic ancient city of Delphi. Visit the huge crater and sheer cliffs of stunning Santorini or meander through the amazing old streets and admire the ancient fortifications of Rhodes. Then off course, there is the UNESCO world heritage site on the island of Delos and many historic sites on the Peloponnese like Olympia, Mycenae, Corinth, Epidaurus etc.

Sampling the delicious local cuisine never gets boring either - it consists of simple and healthy natural produce. The lovely home-cooked style meals are generally not expensive at all, and the variety of Mezze (starters/tapas) and main dishes has something to offer for everyone´s taste.

Don´t miss out on the booming nightlife in the hotspots like Mykonos, Santorini, Paros, Ios or Kos. Here you can party in the most beautiful locations with the international sun bronzed crowd until the early hours of the morning.
 

What are the possibilities to charter or rent a sailboat or power boat in Greece?

For a bareboat yacht charter in Greece a licence is required for one crew member or else a local skipper can accompany the charter for a fee. A co-skipper with a licence or other proof of sailing experience is needed in addition to that.

Altogether, there are about 1,700 charter yachts in Greece and over 40 yacht charter providers. Some of them are: Kavas Yachting, Istion Yachting, MG Yachts and many more.

As you can see, there are a lot of good reasons to pick Greece for your next sailing holiday. Choose from over 600 client reviews to compare and the YachtFinder finds you the best offers for your personal dream sailboat charter in Greece. We wish you a wonderful cruise!

Why Chose us?

At YachtBooker, we have years of experience in providing yacht charter services in Greece. We have a deep understanding of the country's many islands and coastal regions, as well as the diverse needs and preferences of our clients. Our team of experts can help you plan your dream yacht charter in Greece, from choosing the perfect yacht to creating a customized itinerary that takes you to the most beautiful and interesting destinations. We offer a wide range of yacht charter packages to suit every budget and group size, and our commitment to safety, comfort, and quality ensures that you have an unforgettable experience. Whether you are looking to explore the historic sites of Athens, the secluded beaches of the Ionian Islands, or the vibrant nightlife of Mykonos, we can help you create the perfect yacht charter in Greece.