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Yacht Charter Greece
Essential Info for Chartering in Greece
Most yachts are based in Athens. The majority of the crewed charter Greece departs from Athens to the Cyclades and the Saronic Gulf. Despite the Cyclades being the most inquired location because of the attractive islands of Mykonos and Santorini, a little research can go a long way for private yacht charters Greece. Firstly, the iconic islands are quite crowded in the peak months and even the limitation of the crew ship numbers hasn’t significantly brought down the visitor numbers to the key islands. The strong Meltemi winds make the journey from Athens a subject of elements, inquire about actually starting in Mykonos and Santorini. As the availability is subject to previous charter ending nearby or ideally in your preferred location, it is advisable to hold the purchase of airline tickets until a boat is secured.
The distances between Greek islands are quite considerable, a crewed motor yacht charter from Athens to Cyclades cruising at 12 knots usually does day hops of 3-4 hours, the time increases for catamarans cruising at ca 6 knots to 4-6 hours. For this reason, many charters, especially involving first time charters, visit the Saronic Gulf – Hydra, Spetses, Poros. It is possible to cross from the Saronic Gulf to the Cyclades, which is usually done when Meltemi changes the plans of yachts from Athens.
The third most popular crewed charter destination in Greece is the Ionian Sea. The fleet of permanent yachts, especially catamarans, is limited. It is possible to charter from Athens, with the decisive factors being the availability of crossing of the Corint Canal which has been closed for reconstruction in 2021, open for only a few months in 2022 and uncertainty about being navigable in 2023.
Selecting Where to Charter in Greece
I want to see Santorini and Mykonos, my tickets are purchased for fixed dates three months from now in August and I need to start and finish in Athens, chartering a catamaran.
This is one of the most common inquiries, and one of the hardest to fulfill. Why?
- Time to charter – with 3 months to charter, your best options are long gone. Ideally book 9-12 months before the charter
- Flights vs Charter Location – with the distance between Athens and Santorini being 150 miles, the itinerary might not be possible due to weather, especially if we want to do Mykonos as well. Ideally, you’ll want to fly to Mykonos or Santorini or at least not plan fixed date island activities.
- Fixed dates- One day up or down can completely change the offer of yachts available – you might need just that one that already has another charter booked for the day before you’re planning to return. It is a great idea to have your charter booked before you purchase your tickets.
- Catamaran and long distances – as someone who does Athens – Santorini fairly regularly, it’s a great sail – for sport sailing. You’re on the open Aegean Sea and hiding behind islands is possible but further increases the distance – count 24 hours of sail one way and divide among the days of charter (24 hours x 2 ways / 7 days = 7 hours of sailing per day with a catamaran). Not a pleasurable experience.
- Time of year – Santorini in August is equivalent to Times Square on New Year’s Eve. It can be a fantastic place if you have the correct expectations. There are 6,000 islands in Greece – plenty of alternatives for high end restaurants, history, Greek cuisine and peaceful or more popular places. Notice places like Milos and Lefkada are being increasingly crowded as well.
- Despite all the above – inquire. We’re well connected with local providers in all areas and are able to provide non-public offers or creatively fulfill your requirements.
When it comes to yacht charters, the price range is about as wide as the open sea itself. The cost depends on factors like the type of yacht, its size, and whether you’re going for an all-inclusive package or not. In this article, we cut through the waves of information and get straight to the point by looking at specific yachts currently available for charter in Greece.
Greece is a country with a rich history and vibrant culture. From ancient ruins and museums to traditional tavernas and folk dances, there’s always something new to discover. Greece has over 6,000 beautiful islands and navigating them is an Odyssey of a lifetime. This article aims to present the best Greek charter itineraries in a logical breakdown.
Boots on The Ground Update: Charter Season 2024 and What's There To Know About Greek Yacht Charters
The summer yacht charter season in Greece is developing in an unexpected manner, with an unprecedented number of higher-end yachts posting price reductions – an unthinkable development given the record-setting 2022 Summer Med Season.
The increased airplane fares are partly to blame, in connection to the ongoing issues in the Greek infrastructure – not enough marinas to match the demand on other islands and continued over-tourism of key Cycladic charter locations. In addition, 2022 and 2023 have seen record increases in the numbers of new yachts – some 235 crewed boats were added to the yacht charter fleet, while most of the older yacht inventory got a refurbishment – in part also due to the EU funds promoting tourism.
The key events in the Greek yacht charter industry in 2024
- A year-over-year decrease in demand due to saturation
- The cost of a July airplane ticket went from $900 to $1,400, year over year.
- US inflation of 4-9% year over year weakens the purchasing position of the major charter market
- Continued negative coverage of key Greek areas, from overcrowding of Santorini to DK Oyster restaurant scams on Mykonos continues to dominate the headlines
- Turkey – following the Ukrainian conflicts, Turkey offered a safe haven to many Russian-owned yachts that risked being confiscated in Greece. In addition to the competitive VAT in Turkey (1% in Turkey vs 12% in Greece – in constant threat to be increased to full standard 24% with possible retroactivity of signed charters executed in future) – visit https://myturkishcharter.com for up-to-date and complete yacht offer of Turkish charter yachts. Greece has found itself in between the EU legislators and non-EU Turkish competition.
- Market Saturation and Construction Delays
- Santorini Marina – still in construction, unknown delays
- Corinth Canal – successfully reopened June 22 after repeated construction works on 22 and 23! after walls repeatedly collapsed due to landslides.
- Slow Opening of New Marinas – Licencing issues – limited births restrict navigation of charter vessels
- Inflation of the Charter Fleet following record-setting 2022 yacht returns and EU subsidies for tourism that were leveraged for the purchase of new vessels
- Positive Trends
- Increase of Ultra High Net Worth Individuals casting a spotlight – just Mykonos has seen Elon Musk, George Clooney, Christian Bale Matt Damon, Chris & Liam Hemsworth.
- New, Upcoming Locations offer an alternative to the – “by now dead romantic idea of Mykonos and Santorini.” Antiparos is a hot charter location frequented by Tom Hanks, Jeff Bezos and Anderson Cooper. Anafi, Ikaria, Kythira, and Nisiros are coming up and the clients are more educated and receptive to the idea of chartering off the beaten and crowded paths.
- A New Client Preference for Secluded Locations – A storm of documentaries have our clients requesting new experiences – we thank My Greek Odyssey and Peter Meneas on a journey of discovering his Kytherian descent and going much beyond and more with his yacht Mia Zoi or Costas Spiliadis – chef and owner of Estatorio Milos with the yacht Milos at Sea enable us to offer new immersive experiences creating not tourists, but travelers.
- New Experiences – from having one or multiple jetskis onboard your yacht to chartering a Greek temple for your event, things are just easier to do in Greece. We’ve considerably expanded our concierge offering to accommodate requests ranging from beach horseback riding and spearfishing to luxury cars and entertainment events.
A luxury motor yacht is the fastest and often most comfortable way to reach your destination in style. With plenty of space for large groups, a full crew to take care of your every need, and a wide range of water toys, you can just sit back and enjoy the ride in your crewed motor yacht charter!
Luxurious sailing yacht is one of the most exhilarating and rewarding ways to explore the seas. Powered by he wind, sailboats require less fuel and engage all your senses. You will feel like a true adventurer as you watch your destination come into view.
Santorini is one of the main magnets for a charter to Greece. The iconic panoramic views over the Three Bells of Fira church belong to the most recognized places in the world. However, it’s not that easy to get there. Santorini is on the outer ridge of the Southern Cyclades facing Crete and charters from Athens are always weather dependent. When to go, where to start your charter, and how to make your Santorini yacht charter a success? We’ve summarized the information here.
Santorini Yacht Charter
Read MoreTop 5 Greek Motor Yacht Charters Under €50,000
Read MoreHow Much Does a Yacht Charter in Greece Really Cost?
Read MoreExplore the top 10 motor yachts in Greece and indulge in a luxurious experience amidst the mesmerizing beauty of the Aegean Sea. From sleek and stylish to opulent and extravagant, these yachts offer the perfect combination of comfort and performance. With state-of-the-art amenities and personalized services, each yacht promises a unique and unforgettable adventure. Discover the best motor yachts in Greece and make your luxury yacht charter holiday a reality.
Discover our top 10 recommended catamaran yachts in Greece for an extravagant yacht charter sailing experience. With crystal-clear waters and stunning landscapes, Greece is the perfect destination for a catamaran charter. From luxury to budget-friendly options, these top 10 catamaran yachts offer the best in comfort, performance, and style. Book your catamaran yacht charter and get ready for the ultimate yacht charter adventure in Greece.
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Top Greece Yacht Charter Itineraries:
Be inspired by custom-made itineraries from all around Greece. Choose to sail around the Saronic Islands, Cyclades, Ionian, or the Dodecanese.
Classy 8-day Cyclades Yacht Charter Itinerary – Explore Greek Islands in Serenity!
Read More7 Day Yacht Charter in the Ionian Sea: Corfu, Sivota, Parga, Antipaxos, Paxos
Read More7 Days Paros Itinerary – Cyclades: Naxos, Ios, Santorini, Folegandros, Sifnos, Mykonos
Read MoreSantorini Itinerary 7 Day Yacht Charter in Cyclades: Santorini, Folegandros, Milos, Sifnos, Paros, Naxos, Koufonisia, Ios
Read MoreCyclades Islands 7 Day Yacht Charter Itinerary Greece: Kythnos, Milos, Folegandros, Santorini, Amorgos, Paros, Mykonos
Read MoreDodecanese Islands 7 Day Yacht Charter Itinerary #2 Greece: Kos, Leros, Lipsi, Patmos, Levitha, Kalymnos and Astypalea
Read MoreThe Ionian Islands 7-Day Charter Itinerary from Corfu: Paxos, Antipaxos, Lefkada, Kefalonia, Zakynthos and Ithaca
Read MoreDodecanese Islands 7 Day Yacht Charter Itinerary Greece: Rhodes, Tilos, Astypalea, Kalymnos, Kos, Nisyros, Symi
Read More7 day charter itinerary: Cyclades from Mykonos | Naxos – Amorgos – Santorini – Ios – Paros – Mykonos
Read MoreSaronic Islands Yacht Charter Itinerary Greece #2: Athens, Alimos, Aegina, Ermioni, Spetses, Hydra, Poros, Epidaurus
Read MoreSaronic Islands Greece | 7-days yacht charters itinerary: Athens, Aegina, Agistri, Methana, Poros, Hydra, Spetses
Read MoreTop 7 Day Cyclades Greece Yacht Charter Itinerary: Athens-Kea-Syros-Mykonos-Naxos-Santorini-Sifnos-Kythnos
Read MoreOur favorites
The Best Spots
There’s a lot to love about the Cyclades, and it’s not just the gorgeous beaches and turquoise waters. Take a look at this video and you’ll see why we think you should consider the Cyclades for your next vacation destination!
The Cyclades
As one of Greece’s most popular yachting destinations, the Cyclades are home to popular spots like Santorini, Mykonos, Paros, and Naxos. Despite their charm and unquestionable aesthetics, they are not as busy as other popular sailing destinations like France, Italy, or the Caribbean.
Discover over 20+ island destinations and 50+ anchorages that we have carefully selected for your pleasure. One of the most beautiful coastlines in the world awaits you.
Saronic Gulf & Eastern Peloponnese
The Saronic Gulf is one of Greece’s most picturesque seaside destinations, with stunning crystal-clear waters, sandy beaches, and a wealth of activities. The most famous island in this region is Hydra, which is known for its beautiful scenery and lack of cars (there are only 100 on the entire island!). There are also plenty of opportunities for water sports, visiting archaeological sites (ancient Corinth, Epidavros Theater), and of course, dining on fresh Mediterranean seafood.
Discover more than 10+ island destinations and over 20+ anchorages that we have carefully selected for your pleasure. The Saronic Gulf is one of the hidden gems of Greece. Let’s explore!
Looking for a charter that’s both easy to get to from Athens and has a little something for everyone? Then look no further than the Saronic Gulf and Eastern Peloponnese islands.
The Dodecanese region of Greece is one of the country’s most beautiful and one of the least explored. The archipelago is home to several islands still largely unknown to tourists, which means you can explore top locations without fighting the crowds!
Dodecanese
If you’re looking for a less-crowded, more authentic Greek yacht charter experience, you’ve come to the right place. The Dodecanese islands are the perfect place to unwind on your next vacation.
The largest island, Rhodes, is known for its beaches and nightlife, while Karpathos is popular for its hiking trails. The other islands have their own unique charms as well, but no matter which one you choose to visit, you’re sure to have a great time!
Whether you want an adventure or a relaxing getaway with the family, you’ll find everything you need in this beautiful area of Greece!
Ionian Islands
Located on the western part of the Greek mainland, the Ionian complex of islands comprises well-known spots such as Corfu and Zante, as well as the lesser-known islands of Ithaki, Kefalonia, and Paxi.
The culture, cuisine, and language of the islands are influenced by both Greek and Italian culture. When it comes to sailing spots, you can expect crystal clear waters with beautiful aquamarine colors that contrast with the lush vegetation. If you enjoy water spots, snorkeling or scuba diving are both great options!
The Ionian islands are a great alternative to the Cyclades during the hot summer months since they are not affected by the Meltemi winds.
If you’re looking for a place to escape from it all and connect with nature, the Ionian region of Greece is the ideal spot for you. You can choose from a variety of islands, each offering its own unique set of attractions and experiences.
Hidden Spots
Top Yacht Charter Destinations in Greece
The Greek islands are known for their small bays and abundance of options, which makes them a perfect place to go when you want to get away from it all. Whether remote, isolated or popular, we have a range of options that will suit your needs. You choose which one is right for you!
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Frequently Asked Questions
Yacht Charter Season in Greece
The main charter season in Greece is relatively long, spanning from April to September, with a peak in July and August. Notice the interesting months of March and October, which offer a nice combination of “water warm enough to swim” and out of season prices.
What does yacht charter mean?
Yacht charter and boat rental are synonyms of one another. Most yacht charters start on Saturday and are usually rented for 7 nights/8 days. Therefore, most of the prices on this website are weekly. It is possible to arrange a shorter or a longer charter or start on a different day. Another aspect of yacht charters in Greece is the currency. All the charter prices are shown in Euro (€) to adjust the exchange rate fluctuation.
All yacht charters from Greece have insurance for deposit forfeiture and sometimes for trip cancellation.
top reasons to charter in Greece
- during the main season, the daylight ends after 9 pm
- the temperatures range from 85°F – 100°F
- over 3000 islands, enough for more than 1 lifetime
- 20% of Greece actually consists of islands.
- Greek food and drinks are an awesome mix of fit and tasty
- charter prices are of great value compared to the Caribbean or France
EXPERIENCE YOU CAN DEPEND ON
Experience, knowledge, and attention to detail are our core strengths.
We work directly with most Greek yacht charter providers. Inquire with us, and you will receive identical pricing and conditions.