The number one mistake we see charter guests make in Greece is underestimating how far apart the Cyclades islands really are. Athens is the most common starting point, but long distances mean you can’t “do it all” in a week.
Below, we share what to expect when planning your Cyclades yacht charter: realistic travel times, APA fuel costs, and how to include hotspots like Mykonos, Paros, and Santorini without overscheduling.
Most Yacht Charters Start in Athens
Athens is the most common embarkation point for Cyclades yacht charters. The majority of yachts are based in Athens marinas for logistical reasons: provisioning, laundry, maintenance, and crew changeovers.
Starting here also gives you the biggest yacht selection and most flexibility — in one week, you can head either to the Cyclades (Mykonos, Paros, Santorini)or to the Saronic Gulf (Hydra, Spetses, Poros) if the winds are strong.
But You Can Also Start Your Charter in the Islands
It’s also possible to begin your charter directly in Mykonos, Paros, or Santorini. This can save valuable cruising time if your group wants to focus only on the Cyclades.
⚠️ Keep in mind: Fewer yachts are permanently based in the islands, so there is sometimes a delivery fee to reposition the yacht.
✅ However, if you inquire early, we can often find a yacht already finishing another charter nearby. In that case, you start directly in the islands without paying any relocation costs. This option works best for high-demand weeks or if you have a shorter charter (5–6 days).
Cyclades Travel Times Between Hotspots
One of the most common questions we hear is: “Can I see Mykonos, Paros, Santorini, Milos, and Ios in one week?”
The short answer: it’s ambitious and should only be considered with the right yacht and planning.
Here are realistic cruising times and distances between popular Cyclades routes. Times are based on an average motor yacht at 20 knots. For sailing yachts and catamarans, you can double or triple the time depending on weather conditions and yacht model.
| Route | Distance (NM) | Average Cruising Time |
|---|---|---|
| Athens → Mykonos | ~85 NM | 4–5 hours |
| Athens → Santorini | ~145 NM | 7–8 hours |
| Mykonos → Paros | ~25 NM | 2 hours |
| Paros → Santorini | ~65 NM | 3–4 hours |
| Santorini → Ios | ~20 NM | 1 hour |
| Paros → Milos | ~95 NM | 5–6 hours |
⚓ Broker’s tip: These distances add up quickly. For a one-week Cyclades yacht charter, it’s usually best to pick 3–4 islands rather than attempt long loops. Otherwise, you risk spending more time cruising than enjoying the destinations.
How Travel Distance Impacts APA (Fuel Costs)
Fuel is one of the largest APA expenses on a Cyclades yacht charter, especially with motor yachts.
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Motor yachts: burn 400–1,000 liters per hour → long-distance itineraries can add €5,000–€15,000 in extra APA.
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Catamarans & sailing yachts: far more fuel-efficient → APA impact is minimal, though you’ll cruise slower.
We recommend discussing your itinerary with your broker before booking. We often see guests plan for too many miles and then adjust mid-charter to reduce fuel costs and maximize enjoyment.
Tips for Planning Your Cyclades Yacht Itinerary
- Pick fewer islands → Better to enjoy 3–4 destinations fully than rush through
- Consider the Meltemi winds → July & August winds can slow travel or make some routes uncomfortable.
- Match yacht type to itinerary → Motor yachts are great for covering ground quickly, but catamarans and sailing yachts offer efficiency and stability.
- Work with your broker → We know which itineraries fit your group, your yacht, and your budget. Most of our guests are surprised at how much smoother their charter runs when we scale back the route.
Best Yachts for a Cyclades Yacht Charter
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Who is Marcelle?
Marcelle Hailwax is a yacht charter broker with extensive experience in the industry. After spending eight years as a professional yacht chef, Marcelle has a deep understanding of the charter business. She prides herself on matching her clients with the right yacht for their vacation, taking into account their unique preferences and needs. Marcelle’s enthusiasm for her job is contagious, and she is dedicated to providing her clients with unforgettable, once-in-a-lifetime adventures.
She has chartered all over the world and is an expert in the best destinations for a perfect yacht vacation, including the BVIs, Antigua, Corsica and Sardinia, Greece and the Balearic Islands. Marcelle’s passion, expertise, and commitment make her a top-notch yacht charter broker, capable of providing the highest level of service and attention to detail.
