IYC Insider: What You Need To Know Ahead Of A Yacht Charter In Greece
Greece is consistently ranked as the number one yacht charter destination worldwide. Thanks to its endless islands to explore, Greece provides the ultimate yachting experience. Full of picturesque landscapes, a delicious culinary scene, and a rich cultural heritage, there is plenty to see and do on a yacht charter itinerary exploring Greece.
As one of the most popular yachting destinations this summer, we spoke to our expert consultants to discover the most frequently asked questions on charters in Greece. Here we outline those FAQs, outlining everything you need to know ahead of your Greek yacht charter vacation:
When's The Best Time To Charter?
The best time to charter a luxury yacht in Greece is typically between June and September. These are the summer months that offer warm and sunny days as well as preferable conditions for sailing. The peak and busiest summer months are July and August, with bustling energy, cultural events, and festivals happening throughout the islands.
However, during this period, the strong northern Meltemi winds - especially within the Cyclades - can disrupt itineraries. Therefore, the shoulder months in June and September are ideal when it comes to striking a balance between fewer crowds and gentler winds.
Can I Start And End A Charter Anywhere?
Most yacht charters in Greece begin and end at key yachting destinations such as Athens, Corfu, Lefkada, Rhodes, and Kos. These hotspots are equipped with a range of yachting services and luxury marinas.
They are also conveniently located near airports for easy transfers, making logistics easy and seamless. If requested, and depending on logistics, it is sometimes possible to arrange a charter in a different location; however, this may involve additional fees.
What Are The Best Routes?
Greece can be split into several cruising regions, each offering different experiences. The most popular islands of the Cyclades are known for lively nightlife, such as Mykonos and Santorini. Due to their volcanic nature, the Cyclades boast dramatic landscapes alongside their iconic whitewashed villages. The Ionian Islands, like Corfu, Lefkada, and Kefalonia, are ideal for charterers who want to enjoy a more relaxed pace and typically calmer waters.
Close to Athens is the Saronic Gulf, which is the perfect destination to take shorter trips from the capital to islands such as Hydra and Poros. Less than a hundred miles from the coast of Turkey are the Dodecanese Islands, including Rhodes and Symi, steeped in ancient history to explore. Depending upon your preferences, our expert consultants will prepare the perfect itinerary for your Greek charter.
Which Lesser-Known Islands Are Worth Visiting?
While Greece's famous islands are a must-visit, there are plenty of hidden gems that offer a more peaceful and secluded experience. Islands like Kythnos in the western Cyclades are great for those wanting the quieter and untouched beauty of the beaches.
To get further off the beaten path, the Sporades, such as Skiathos and Skopelos, offer more peaceful cruising. When the peak months get busy, head to islands like Syros, located in the central Cyclades and Koufonisia, offering a more relaxed pace, with fewer crowds, and a chance to enjoy authentic Greek culture.
Nearby is Schoinousa, another quieter spot perfect for local hospitality and secluded anchorages. While in the Dodecanese, Leros, and Leipsoi provide an opportunity for an off-the-grid escape, with pristine anchorages and a chance to soak up a slower pace.
Is Greece A Family-Friendly Charter Destination?
Greece is perfect for family-friendly yacht charters, combining the ideal balance of adventure and relaxation for all ages. The Ionian and Saronic seas, in particular, offer calm and sheltered cruising conditions.Â
Throughout the islands, there is plenty of family fun to be had, from exploring the quaint villages ashore to enjoying a variety of watersports in the endless bays. Many Greek islands, such as Kefalonia, Naxos, Serifos, and Lefkada, are known for their relaxed pace, beautiful beaches, and family-oriented resorts.Â
Your captain and crew will guide you to the best family attractions ashore and have a whole host of activities onboard to keep all ages entertained throughout your charter.Â
Where Can You Find The Best Food Culture?
Greece has a rich culinary scene, full of Michelin-starred and fine-dining restaurants alongside local, traditional tavernas. As an iconic and favorite Mediterranean cuisine, you won't be disappointed when enjoying Greek food. Athens is at the heart of the restaurant scene in Greece. In the capital, you can enjoy many fine dining and rooftop restaurants while also experiencing the lively markets.
The islands also have plenty to offer for wining and dining. Santorini is famous for its dining options, especially in Oia and Fira, where you can enjoy the freshest local seafood washed down with local volcanic wines. Nearby, Mykonos has plenty of chic waterfront restaurants that turn into lively nightlife scenes.
Also in the Cyclades is Sifnos, renowned for its gastronomy and long tradition of cuisine. Be sure to taste specialties like Mastello, which are showcased throughout the many popular restaurants here.
Which Islands Offer The Best Conditions For Watersports?
With clear waters and reliable winds, Greece is popular among watersports enthusiasts. A yacht charter itinerary can include a whole host of watersports. Wind-powered sports are extremely popular in Greece thanks to some of the islands' locations, with many offering great opportunities. Paros and Naxos in the Cyclades are top picks for windsurfing and kiteboarding; many well-equipped centers and beaches are perfect for learning here. Mykonos also offers various spots for windsurfing, with famous beaches like Kalo Livadi providing the best wind conditions.
The consistent winds of Vassili Bay in Lefkada are also a hotspot for these sports and are renowned for hosting international competitions. From on top to diving under, Crete is an excellent choice for scuba diving, with diverse underwater landscapes full of marine life, shipwrecks, and caves. Kefalonia and Zakynthos in the Ionian region are also high on must-visit lists for divers and snorkelers alike.
For more relaxed sports, Skiathos in the Sporades is an excellent choice for kayaking and paddleboarding, thanks to the calm bays.
Can I Find Wellness-Focused Experiences Ashore?
Greece offers a variety of wellness experiences to enhance any yachting experience. Across the islands, there are an array of luxury spas and holistic retreats. Santorini and Mykonos, in particular, have many boutique hotels with curated wellness programs and spas and resorts offering personalized consultations.
Greece's largest island, Crete, has plenty of wellness traditions that use local herbs and traditional therapies in the island's spa resorts. Known for its natural hot springs, Kythnos provides authentic experiences where the mineral-rich waters offer healing properties. If you are looking for a particular wellness experience ashore, your captain will be able to book you in at one of the best.
Are There Any Must-See Cultural And Historical Sites?
Greece is a standout destination for history and culture lovers wanting to immerse themselves in the region's past, with plenty of sites to visit and experiences. The ancient landmarks of Athens are a great starting point, with iconic sites such as the Acropolis and the Parthenon. Further north, ideal for a day trip, are the ancient ruins of Delphi. Â
The Peloponnese region is where you can visit the birthplace of the Olympic Games, in Olympia. While in the Cyclades, the UNESCO site of Delos, near Mykonos, is known for its extensive archeological ruins. Aside from ancient ruins, there are plenty of traditional festivals to experience, like Tinos and Ikaria, which are islands known for their folk dance festivals.Â
What Should I Pack?
The summers in Greece can be extremely warm, so lightweight, breathable, and versatile clothing is ideal, with cover-ups for long sunny days. Sun protection, such as a wide-brimmed hat, sunglasses, and reef-safe sunscreen, is also essential.Â
Onboard, you will typically spend your days in swimwear but may want to include an outfit or two for exploration and dining ashore. While barefoot is a popular choice, non-slip deck shoes can be worn onboard. To explore the sites ashore, pack some comfortable walking shoes and sandals. The evenings can become cooler, especially in the shoulder months, so it is worth packing a light jacket.
If you have further questions, want help curating an itinerary, or are looking for a yacht available for charter this summer in Greece, contact our expert consultants in Greece today.Â