Luxury Sailing Yacht Charters Greece

Greece is renowned as one of the world’s best sailing destinations, thanks to its consistent wind and many great anchorages. A luxury sailing yacht charter in Greece gives you the opportunity to hop around the Greek Islands, using the Meltemi wind as your fuel and bringing with you your beachfront floating luxury hotel wherever you go.

Sailing yacht charters are about feeling the connectivity to the elements, the wind in the hair, and the sea spray, all while indulging in gourmet food and drinks served up by your private chef and stewardess. A sailing yacht is perfect for exploring the windy Sporades and Cyclades – When the wind is up, and motor yachts are stuck in port, you will be using it to carry you to the next destination.

What Types of Sailing Yachts Are Available in Greece?

Not all sailing yachts are the same. The right choice depends on what kind of experience you want. Here’s our breakdown:

Classic Sailing Yachts & Luxury Gulets

If you love tradition and timeless craftsmanship, these are for you. Think handcrafted wooden hulls, vintage rigging, and an old-school sailing experience. They’re slower and more about the journey than the speed, but they have unmatched character. Ideal for laid-back cruising with a touch of history. Gullets are great for large groups!

Performance Sailing Yachts

Built for speed, agility, and precision, these yachts are made from lightweight materials like carbon fiber and aluminum. If you want to cover more ground, feel the power of the wind, and maybe even race, this is your pick. Best for those who love real sailing, not just floating around.

Luxury Sailing Yachts

These are floating five-star hotels. Spacious cabins, high-end interiors, a full crew, and zero compromises on comfort. If you want gourmet dining, seamless service, and effortless island-hopping, this is the way to go.

Our Take? If you want pure sailing, go for a performance yacht. If you want a mix of elegance and tradition, a classic yacht or gulet works. If luxury is the priority, nothing beats a top-tier sailing yacht with all the extras. We know what’s best—let’s find your perfect match.

Key Advantages of a Greece Sailing Yacht Charter

Greece offers some of the best sailing conditions in the world, with steady winds and a large number of islands that are ideally spaced for island hopping.

Best for Stronger Weather: Sailing yachts excel in stronger weather conditions due to their ability to harness the wind for propulsion and stabilization. Unlike motor yachts, which may struggle with wave tossing, sailing yachts use the wind to maintain balance, providing a steadier experience. The narrow, deep hull design of monohulls allows them to slice through water efficiently, minimizing resistance and discomfort from waves. In contrast, catamarans can experience uncomfortable jarring from waves hitting the bridge deck connecting the hulls.

Not Subject to Port Restrictions: In Greece, motor yachts face port restrictions that can prevent them from leaving port during strong wind conditions. This is primarily because motor yachts rely entirely on their engines for propulsion and are not designed to harness wind power. But sailing yachts do not face such restrictions. Designed to perform well in various wind conditions, sailing yachts can depart from port whenever the captain deems it safe. This flexibility allows sailing yachts to take advantage of favorable wind conditions. It provides them with more freedom to navigate according to their schedules and the skill of their crew rather than being confined by port mandates.

Eco- Friendly Yacht Charter Vacation: Sailing yachts rely primarily on wind power, making them more environmentally friendly compared to fuel-dependent motor yachts.

Disadvantages Compared to Catamarans and Motor Yachts

Heeling with the Wind: Sailing yacht’s heel (tilt) when under sail due to the wind in the sails pushing them over (this lengthens the waterline and makes the yacht work more efficiently and able to move faster), which adds an element of excitement to the journey but may require adjustments in how certain activities are managed on board. This heeling can impact the feasibility of setting up larger meals or elaborate dining arrangements while underway, as items on tables, including dishes and drinks, are prone to sliding or toppling. In contrast, catamarans maintain a more upright position, offering a smoother ride that better accommodates such onboard activities.

Less Space and Amenities: Although luxury sailing yachts are well-appointed, they generally offer less space and fewer onboard amenities than catamarans or motor yachts of a similar length.

Slower Sped: Unless you get a high-performance boat, sailing yachts are generally slower than motor yachts and depend on wind conditions for speed. This can be a disadvantage if you’re on a tight schedule.

Best Time to Charter a Sailing Yacht in Greece?

The sailing season in Greece typically runs from April to October, with the peak season in July and August. The prevailing winds in the Aegean Sea, known as the “Meltemi,” can range from moderate to strong and are more pronounced during the summer months. These winds can make sailing a thrilling experience but may also challenge guests with less experience on the water.

Best Greek Sailing Itineraries

Here are just a few of our favorite itineraries to get you started, but for the complete list, make sure to check out our ULTIMATE ITINERARY GUIDE. Greece is a treasure trove of experiences, and truly, you could spend a lifetime of charters exploring all it has to offer. If you’re wondering where to begin or which yacht fits your specific needs, our expert brokers are ready to assist. Contact us to tailor your ideal yachting itinerary.

Our Greece Sailing Charter Blog

At DMA Yachting, we’re committed to staying on top of the latest trends in yacht charters, from the launching of exciting new yachts to the best destinations and activities. Our blog serves as a resource to keep you informed and inspire new ideas for your adventures at sea.

How to Book Your Sailing Yacht Charter in Greece?

When planning a luxury sailing yacht charter, clear communication of your desires and expectations is crucial for crafting the perfect experience. Whether you’re looking for adventure, relaxation, cultural exploration, or a blend of activities, letting us know upfront helps ensure that every aspect of your charter meets your expectations.

Additionally, informing us about the level of comfort you seek, the type of sailing experience you desire (whether it’s hands-on sailing or a more laid-back cruise), and any particular destinations you wish to visit allows us to tailor your journey more accurately.

By understanding your expectations, we can better inform you about the sailing conditions and seasonal weather patterns. This proactive communication ensures that you are well-prepared and can make informed decisions, enhancing your overall experience and satisfaction with your sailing holiday.