Greece Yacht Charter Guide
Greece is a land of myth and legend, treasured for its myriad islands and pockets of serenity. The scenery is comprised of white-washed dwellings, churches with brilliant turquoise shingles, and rolling verdant hills.
The pleasant weather throughout the year, combined with powerful winds, pristine waters and stunning anchorages, make it a prime sailing destination that draws yachts from all over.
What advantages does a luxury yacht charter offer for exploring Greece?
Endless stretches of breathtaking coastlines and beaches
More than 2000 islands make up Greece’s seascape, scattered across miles of coastline far from the mainland. It makes for memorable island hopping and every yacht charter different from the last.
Hop around the islands
Though many islands are remote, some even without vehicles, accessibility by boat and helicopter is surprisingly easy. Some of the islands even enjoy airports, providing greater flexibility and choice to meet the yacht. Cruising by boat is the best way to discover isolated bays, enjoy picnics in solitude and make the most of water toys away from onlookers. Island hopping allows guests to experience the culture, immerse in the villages and dine on fine delicacies unique to certain areas.
Endless days of summer
Greece offers the best of the Mediterranean climate, with mild winters and dry summers. Yachts typically charter during the summer months of June, July and August, though the bookend months of May and September can prove to be equally as rewarding once the hot heat has waned and the crowds have departed.
A culture to remember
Dripping in historic importance and renowned for the role it played in the progression of western civilization, Greece has many accolades to its name. From philosophers to Olympians, its culturally diverse lands beg to be explored one island at a time.
Defined by the warm constant winds that blow throughout the year and rocky outcrops that harbor bays and paths ripe for discovery, the many isles that are sprinkled across the Aegean Sea create mesmeric yachting itineraries. Located to the southeast of the mainland, the 220 islands of the Cyclades are the most popular yachting destination in Greece.
Architecturally rich and archaeologically significant, the signature white-washed Cycladic landscape is easy to reach from mainland Athens. The windmill island of Mykonos has earned an international reputation for its throbbing nightlife, while the glowing sunsets of Santorini melt hearts and minds. For a taste of Greek mythology, Apollo’s temple in Delos will deliver.
The twelve Dodecanese Islands lie less than a hundred miles from the Turkish coast and are positively soaked in rich and complex ancient history. The smallest of these islands offer a range of secluded harbours - a relic of their trading past – whilst all offer an abundance of stunning beaches and dramatic terrain, best viewed from the water, of course. Across all twelve islands and 150 less known islets are countless Byzantine churches and medieval castles, and the climate is between temperate and dry tropical, with an extended dry summer period.
The vertical string of lush Ionian islands comprises seven main islands including Kefalonia, Corfu, Zakynthos, Ithaca, Paxi, Lefkada, and Kythira. The Ionian sea embraces Greece’s west coast and boasts mild weather, rich vegetation, staggering Venetian architecture, and calm and predictable sailing conditions. The islands offer miles of sandy beaches with turquoise waters, making this area the perfect yacht charter destination. Even though split into the north and south islands, the entire island chain can be experienced on a two-week charter itinerary.
Situated across the northwest of the Aegean Sea off the east coast of Greece, the Sporades are known as the ‘the emerald of the Aegean’ thanks to their rich vegetation and green-blue waters. For anyone looking for natural beauty and seclusion, these 24 islands are an authentic Greek charter destination. The cruising conditions are ideal for a yacht charter and the summer months are warm and dry. Skiathos with its famous Koukounaries beach, Alonissos home of the monk seal, and Skopelos, where scenes from the Hollywood movie Mamma Mia were shot are not to be missed.
Greeks have a deep passion for dining out, often indulging in generously portioned meals with loved ones in a prolonged, joyous feast of various dishes. Whether savoring seafood at a waterside table or enjoying contemporary Greek cuisine beneath the illuminated Acropolis, dining in Greece transcends mere eating; it is a full sensory experience. Follow the locals' example by going directly to the source. Visit seaside fishing villages for the freshest fish or head to mountain hamlets for locally sourced meat. Look for tavernas that grow their own vegetables, craft their own wine, and press their own olive oil, where the fried potatoes are hand-cut and family recipes are cherished and handed down through the generations. Exploring regional specialties offers delightful discoveries – no two meals will ever be alike. Here are some tips to get you started on this culinary adventure.
Filled with vibrant streets, lush hilltops, and sparkling aquamarine waters, Greece's islands are a popular choice for superyacht charters. Whether you prefer a lively, luxurious, or secluded atmosphere, these Mediterranean gems offer the perfect escape for any type of traveler. For those seeking the epitome of luxury and indulgence, we have outlined some exclusive options tailored to the discerning tastes of the superyacht audience. Discover which Greek island is the ultimate summer sanctuary for you and your superyacht, where every moment promises unparalleled elegance and breathtaking beauty.
In Greece, viticulture is a time-honored tradition that has been passed down through generations, with families and communities using their ancestral land to create exceptional wines from ancient grape varieties. Wine enthusiasts in Greece have the opportunity to enjoy the perfect blend of relaxing island holidays and exciting visits to local wineries, which are often popular tourist destinations themselves. These experiences go beyond simply tasting wines; they provide an enriching and educational way to connect with Greek nature, history, and culture by interacting directly with the people who depend on the land and its fruits for their livelihood. They also offer a unique opportunity to experience the true essence of Greek hospitality, known as philoxenia.
As the warm summer days approach, thoughts of planning the perfect vacation naturally come to mind. Luckily, Greece is home to numerous stunning islands known for their picturesque beaches and unparalleled beauty.
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
The Greek Islands have an extended season, with lovely sailing conditions between mid-April and mid-October. Greece enjoys more than 250 days of sunshine a year and a typically Mediterranean climate with cool winters and warm to hot dry summers. June to August are the hottest months and the peak of the yachting season. For those looking to experience the Greek Islands in the quieter months, May, September, and even October are ideal, giving visitors the opportunity to experience the “real” Greece.
Greece has a fleet of over 300 yachts above 20 meters that are available for charter, so the cost of a yacht charter in Greece will depend on the yacht that one selects. Factors that determine the yacht’s price include the yacht’s size, number of cabins, and the year it was built. The price will also depend on how long you choose to charter the yacht. Typically yachts are chartered for one week but you can choose to rent them for less than a week or longer. IYC’s Charter consultants will work closely with you to help you find the yacht that best fits your needs and budget.
Greece is home to 9,000 miles of coastline and more than 2,000 islands and is the perfect destination for ‘island hopping’. The most popular itineraries to choose from would include a yacht charter in the Cyclades, Ionian Islands, Dodecanese Islands, the Peloponnese, or the Sporades. Each island group offers that magical Greek atmosphere and its own personal charm, and of course endless blue sea. The distance between islands is quite close, so depending on the itinerary you choose you could even visit an island per day. Some of the most popular islands to visit in Greece include Mykonos, Santorini, Paros, Corfu, Kefalonia, Spetses, and Hydra.
Greece has a large fleet of yachts that are available for charter including motor yachts, sailing yachts and catamarans.