The Best Events And Festivals To Experience On A Greek Yacht Charter
A luxury yacht charter in Greece is the ultimate Mediterranean summer adventure. Beyond the stunning scenery, gin-clear waters, and opportunities to relax in chic beach clubs or island-hopping adventures, Greece’s cruising grounds also provide an array of exciting events and festivals to enjoy when on your superyacht charter. From the glamorous Cycladic islands to the lesser-known Saronic islands near Athens and the spectacular Peloponnese peninsula, Greece and its islands offer something for everyone.
The summer season has already kicked off in Greece with the hugely successful 9th edition of the MEDYS, held in Nafplio. The five-day charter show was a resounding success for our fleet and has us very excited for the summer season ahead.
Here are some of the top events and festivals in store for the rest of summer, to add to your Greek yacht charter itinerary:
Cyclades Cup, Antiparos - June 14 - 16
We are proud to be sponsors of this inaugural Cyclades Cup regatta in collaboration with the Yacht Club of Greece. This new regatta is an officially sanctioned superyacht racing event promising exciting new racing grounds and a lively social calendar packed with events.
Several of our fleet will join the race in this highly anticipated event. If you are interested in joining or spectating, get in touch with one of our charter consultants today to find out more.
Spetses Classic Yacht Regatta, Spetses - June 27-30
Later in the month, the Spetses Classic Yacht Regatta will take place. This unique four-day event features over 70 competing boats across a number of different classes, from classic yachts, Aegean schooners, and traditional workboats to contemporary classics.
The Yacht Club of Greece organizes this popular race to celebrate the art of classic boating. Chartering a yacht for this event is the perfect way to enjoy the beautiful island of Spetses, among the Saronic Islands group, while watching these classics compete.
Athens & Epidaurus Festival, Athens - June - August
One of Greece’s most famous cultural festivals, the festival includes open-air theatre, opera, classical music, and dance at various locations across Athens, including two ancient theatres.
The festival will host various world-class musicians at the iconic stage beneath the Acropolis. It has taken place for over 60 years and is a must-visit to witness performances surrounded by ancient ruins.
Rockwave Festival, Malakasa - July
Athens is the perfect destination to start your Greek yacht charter itinerary. Held around 40 kilometers outside of the capital in Malakasa is the Rockwave festival. For those rock fans interested, this three-day festival held at Terra Vibe Park hosts a range of international bands and musicians.
After the festival, jump onboard a yacht charter and explore the islands surrounding Athens.
Naxos Festival, Naxos Island - July & August
The Naxos Festival takes place in a restored 16-century Bazeos Tower in the center of Naxos Island. This festival promotes local character through cultural events, music, and various art exhibitions. As the Cyclades group's largest and most fertile island it is always full of rich cultural activity and festivals.
At the end of the summer, the island’s heritage is further celebrated through wine and fisherman’s festivals.
Aegina International Music Festival, Aegina - August
For those who enjoy classical music, the beautiful island of Aegina hosts their International Music Festival in the height of summer. The festival is full of distinguished Greek and international artists from the world of classical music, performing with a stunning backdrop.
A short hop from Athens in the Saronic Islands, Aegina is popular with yacht charters full of ancient monuments, old monasteries, idyllic sandy beaches, and isolated coves.
Ifestia Festival, Santorini - Early September
One of the most popular and postcard-perfect Greek Islands, Santorini, hosts the Ifestia Festival in early September. This volcanic landscape island dotted with whitewashed houses and boasting impressive sunsets celebrates its culture, traditions, and history at this festival.
The festival’s highlight is the incredible fireworks display synchronized to music, which is dedicated to the famous volcanic eruption of Thira that took place around 1,500 BC. This festival and the island are best experienced and witnessed from the deck of a luxury superyacht charter.
Running Festival - Mykonos - 24 September
The famous island of Mykonos, renowned for its legendary VIP parties, also has another side. In September, the island gathers fitness fanatics for the Running Festival; the multi-day event has a range of distances and races for people to get involved with.
There is also a family fun day where all ages can participate. To recover from the races, why not charter a yacht with wellness and spa facilities to soothe those tired running muscles?
From regattas to cultural celebrations steeped in history to various music festivals, a summer yacht charter season in Greece allows you to experience the best of this premier cruising destination.
Contact one of our experienced charter consultants today to learn more about the best Mediterranean cruising grounds and the yachts available for charter this summer.
Header Photo by spetsesclassicregatta.gr.