Greece Yacht Charter

A luxury yacht charter vacation in Greece promises one of the most magical experiences of anywhere in the Mediterranean. With more shoreline than anywhere else in Europe and around 6,000 Greek islands to explore, this destination offers endless opportunities for discovery on your next superyacht charter. Whether you’re looking for fun in the sun in Mykonos, a romantic getaway in Santorini or peace and quiet in the Ionian Islands, a Greece yacht charter will fulfill every desire. 

If you're considering renting a crewed yacht in Greece, you’re in good company. This popular yachting hotspot is thought to be the original home of modern yacht charter, and there are few destinations on earth that are so perfect for exploring by boat!

Greece: At a Glance

• Variety of islands
  The sheer number of Greek islands means there’s countless itineraries and plenty of destinations to fall in love with, and you can keep coming back time and time again. 
• Quiet bays, secluded anchorages and isolated beaches 
  There’s no shortage of peaceful spots in Greece, meaning you can escape the crowds and you don’t always need to dock in port.
• Incredible culture and history
  The history of ancient Greece is one of the most fascinating in all of western civilization, and its culture is still very prominent today across Greece today. You can expect to see many temples, statues, settlements and sights across the Greek shores. 
• Excellent dive sites
  Wreck sites, coral reefs and natural underwater caves create ample opportunities for scuba diving (and snorkelling, in some cases).
• Thriving food scene
  With an abundance of ingredients on its doorstep, Greek cuisine is among the most beloved in the world and you can expect nothing but the best on your next yacht charter vacation. 
• More coastline than anywhere else in Europe
  In fact, Greece has more coastline than almost any other country in the world, and offers 6,000 islands (277 of which are inhabited).
• Stunning scenery
  Everywhere you cruise, you’ll be awed by the spectacular scenery of Greece. From pine-coated hills and dramatic chalky cliffs to tiny islands rising up from the sea, Greece is steeped in natural beauty.

Where to Charter a Yacht in Greece

The best yacht charter spots of Greece are generally structured into the five major island chains and two peninsulas.  Each of these cruising grounds has its own unique charm and character. 

Cyclades Islands (Mykonos, Santorini, Paros, Naxos)
Best for: buzzy restaurants and beach clubs, luxury shopping, iconic sights, fine dining

Saronic Islands (Hydra, Spetses, Aegina, Poros)
Best for: charming towns, secluded beaches, cycling and hiking trails, authentic dining

Dodecanese Islands (Rhodes, Kos, Simi)
Best for: cultural attractions, ancient towns, quiet anchorages, swimming and snorkelling

Ionian Islands (Corfu, Zakynthos, (Zante), Ithaca, Kefalonia)
Best for: beautiful beaches, short-hop sailing, scuba diving, nightlife

Sporades Islands (Alonissos, Skiathos, Skopelos, Skyros)
Best for: peace and quiet, unspoilt nature, pristine beaches

Peloponnese Region (Corinth, Patras, Kalamata, Nafplion,)
Best for:  pretty towns, ancient culture, beautiful beaches, calm moorings

Halkidiki Region (Kassandreia, Sani)
Best for: cultural sights, untouched beaches, swimming and snorkelling

Types of Yacht Charters in Greece

Greece has a very diverse yacht charter market, so you can be sure to find the perfect yacht for you and your charter party. There’s a wide variety of motor yachts for charter, as well as sailing yachts and traditional Turkish gulets.

However, be aware that all yachts wishing to begin or end a yacht charter in Greece must be in possession of a valid Greek charter license. Speak to your yacht charter broker for more information, or scroll down to take a look at our ‘Greek charter license explained’ section. 

If you’re unsure about the type of yacht you’d like to charter, here are some things to consider first.

Motor Yacht Charter in Greece

For those looking to rent a motor yacht, you’ll find a wide range to choose from. 

The most common type of motor yacht you can hire in Greece is a yacht with a planing hull. Stylish, sporty and speedy, they’re great for zipping between islands quickly and ensuring you get the most out of your itinerary. If you’re looking to spend most of your time on land or splashing in the sea, a yacht with a planing hull is the top choice for you. 

You’ll also find a superb selection of displacement and semi-displacement superyachts at your disposal (pictured above). These are typically larger and more stable at anchor, with more onboard space for facilities and amenities such as gyms, movie theaters and wellness suites. They’re ideal if you’re chartering with a large group, particularly one that includes children.

Sailing Yacht Charter in Greece

Greece is a playground for sailing yacht charters, with plenty of yachts available throughout summer. A combination of light winds, clear skies and plenty of anchorages create great sailing conditions across all the islands.

The most popular destinations for sailing charters are typically Corfu, Kefalonia, and the Sporades Islands. Other destinations are equally desirable, including the Cyclades and the Dodecanese islands- but be aware that these areas typically encounter more winds. This means it might be more challenging to drop anchor, and you will have to consider spending more nights in port.

Gulet Yacht Charter in Greece

A gulet is a traditionally Turkish-built sailing yacht made out of wood. They are usually two or three-masted and are typically much larger than your average sailing yacht.  Luxury gulet yacht charters are very appealing alternatives to both sailing and motor yacht charter. While they usually rely on their motor underway, they are very fuel-efficient and don't require a lot of fuel to get from point A to point B. They have displacement hulls which make them very stable and seaworthy, and typically offer lots of volume and open-plan living spaces.

Gulet yachts also tend to be cheaper than other types of charter as they sometimes offer all-inclusive or semi-inclusive packages, meaning you don’t need to worry about additional expenses such as food and drink. They also normally include a standard number of cruising hours per day.  Plus, their crew are often local to the region that they cruise in, meaning they can double as tour guides and have a lot of expertise and valuable insight into the area.

But be aware- many gulets are Turkish-flagged, meaning they will need to hold a Greek charter license to start or finish a charter in Greece. 

How Much Does it Cost to Charter a Yacht in Greece?

The price of a Greece yacht charter vacation varies depending on a number of factors, including the type of yacht, the age of the yacht, and the month in which you choose to charter. 

Motor Yacht Charter

* All prices are quoted per week plus expenses.

Sailing Yacht Charter

* All prices are quoted per week plus expenses.

Charter VAT and Tax in Greece

In Greece, VAT on a yacht charter is charged at 24% and is based on the value of the yacht. However, this figure can be reduced if the yacht meets specific criteria. 

The three tax brackets are as follows; 

• VAT at full 24%: applies to charters that take place in Greek waters without exiting to non-EU or International waters (Staying within the six nautical miles limit)
• VAT at 24%: with a deduction option for time spent outside of EU waters or in international waters. 
• Discounted at 50% (VAT 12%):for yachts that spend a minimum of 60 % of charter time/days outside of territorial waters. (Territorial waters are considered: six nautical miles from the mainland and six nautical miles from the territorial waters of an island). This also applies to yachts charters commencing outside EU territory and that remain outside for more than 60% of the chartered days and end their charter in Greece.

Chartering a yacht was far less constrained until 2017, when new laws came into practice to enforce tighter laws around yacht charters in Greece.

The Greek charter license was introduced in 2018 in a bid to boost the charter market in Greece by offering charter yachts increased flexibility and VAT exemptions.  Foreign-flagged yachts must have a Greek charter license if they wish to start or end a yacht charter in Greek waters.

Read more: VAT Changes for Yacht Charters in the Mediterranean 2021

Where Should I Begin My Yacht Charter in Greece?

By far the most common embarkation point for a Greece yacht charter vacation is Athens. Around 90% of the Greek charter fleet has a homeport in Athens, and there are numerous luxury marinas that cater to superyachts and megayachts.

However, for those looking to charter around the Ionian Islands in destinations like Corfu, Cephalonia and Zakynthos, you may wish to begin your charter closer to your desired destination. 

It is possible to begin or end your charter elsewhere in Greece. However, you may have to consider the cost of repositioning as the fleet is mostly based out of Athens. 

If you want to meet the yacht elsewhere- for example, Santorini, Mykonos- you can expect to pay a hefty repositioning fee. It’s generally more economical to begin in Athens and spend the day cruising to your desired start point, enjoying your yacht to the fullest, and soaking up the scenery as you travel underway.

Read more: 8 Day Greece Charter Itinerary - Mykonos to Athens

When is the Best Time to Visit Greece by Yacht?

The best time to visit Greece on a yacht charter is between July and August, but warm weather typically extends well into September and even May in certain destinations. 

The peak of the charter season is usually July, although August historically has the hottest temperatures. 

Between June and August, you can expect highs of 85 - 90 degrees Fahrenheit (26 - 32 degrees Celsius) in Athens, with even hotter temperatures recorded further south.

Climate in Greece

Greece is one of the hottest destinations in the Mediterranean, and you can expect consistently excellent temperatures throughout the summer months. 

Since the Greek islands are so spread out, there are some variations between island chains; but as a general rule of thumb, the further south you travel, the warmer the air temperature will be.

Precipitation, hours of sunshine and seawater temperatures

Summer in Greece usually experiences very low levels of precipitation, but be aware that all Mediterranean countries sometimes encounter summer storms, which can bring heavy rain and wind.

Greece generally enjoys long hours of sunshine- over 14 hours per day on some islands. As summer wears on, the sea temperature increases as well. The warmest sea water temperatures in Greece are usually recorded in the Aegean islands of Kos and Rhodes, as well as around the Cyclades during peak season.

Wind in Greece

Winds are great for those hiring a sailing yacht, but you don’t want winds that are so strong they become uncomfortable. Certain regions of Greece are more affected by wind, and this can potentially impact your charter vacation. 

The Meltemi wind, known in Greece as the annual wind, affects the Cyclades, the Dodecanese and the Aegean Islands the most. It blows the most strongly between June and August.

Popular Marinas in Greece

Around the main yachting hubs of Greece, you’ll find plenty of marinas that cater to a variety of yachts of different sizes. However, be aware that Greece doesn’t have as many big marinas as destinations such as the South of France or Italy, and demand for berths can be very high in peak season.

• Zea Marina: located in Piraeus, Athens, which is the largest seaport in Greece and one of the largest harbors in all of Europe. It's a hive of activity, offering 670 berths up to 150m. Modern facilities are available on land, as well as world-class restaurants and high-end hotels for those looking to spend a night or two onshore before or after their charter.
• Athens Marina: revered marina, accommodating 130 berths measuring up to 130m. Provides plenty of amenities on land, including a helipad service. 
• Flisvos Marina: award-winning and perfect for starting and ending a charter. Located 6km from Athens city center, with a 303 berth capacity (up to 70m). Well-equipped facilities and high-end restaurants at your disposal when you dock here. 
• Gouvia Marina: Corfu's most popular, situated on the east coast of the island in a blissfully secluded bay. It accommodates yachts of up to 80m, and boasts 1235 berths.
• Sani Marina: idyllically located in the very heart of Sani Resort in Halkidiki, the state-of-the-art marina boasts 215 berths with a maximum length of 33m.
• Miraggio Marina: the only private marina in Halkidiki, this superb offering provides 81 berths with a maximum length of 40m. Services include round-the-clock-security.
• Agios Nikolaos Marina: well-protected marina located in the eponymous town in picturesque Crete. This marina has a 255 berth capacity all year round, for yachts with a maximum length of 70m.
• Poros Marina: situated on the sun-dappled Peloponnese Islands, you'll find plentiful historical landmarks surrounding this majestic port. Accommodates up to 60 berths with a maximum length of 60m.
• Kos Marina: close to the enchanting island's old harbor, this marina has a capacity for up to 250 berths with a maximum length of 80m. Provides an excellent array of facilities and dining options.
• Rhodes Marina: world-class marina complete with a stunning backdrop. Can accommodate a staggering 382 berths with a maximum length of 120m.

Best Anchorages in Greece

The best island chains for mooring and anchoring are the Ionian islands, the Sporades, the Dodecanese and the Aegean islands.

It can be slightly more challenging to moor and anchor in the Cyclades as there are fewer bays that offer shelter and protection. However, there are places to be found, with mooring balls and landing stages scattering throughout the islands.

Read more: 8 Days Exploring The Greek Islands

Airports in Greece

Greece is well-connected to the rest of the world by air, and also caters to private flights. Many of the islands have their own airports which you can fly into either privately or commercially.

• Athens International Airport Eleftherios Venizelos (AIA): for international flights, this is the principal hub. The airport operates non-stop flights to the USA, Middle East, Russia, Europe and Asia during peak season.
• Thessaloniki Airport Makedonia (SKG): an international airport located in Greece’s second-largest city, it is the best place to fly into if you’re chartering in Halkidiki, on the northern mainland.
• Corfu International Airport: an international airport best for reaching the Ionian Islands, and it only 12km from Gouvia Marina.
• Heraklion International Airport: ideal for yacht charters on Greece's largest island.
• Rhodes International Airport: perfect for exploring the Dodecanese Islands.

Airports which offer domestic, chartered and private flights and some international flights include Mykonos, Santorini and Zakynthos.

Booking Advice from the Experts

Greece is one of the most popular charter destinations in the Mediterranean. Therefore, advanced booking is absolutely essential in order to secure your dream yacht on your preferred dates in the perfect destination. 

In Greece, many charterers are repeat clients; meaning they’ve already booked the yacht once, fallen in love with the yacht and its crew, and chosen to return again to explore a new destination. This means that competition for yachts is fierce and it’s even more crucial to kickstart the booking process early. 

Don’t forget that your choice of yachts is comparatively smaller than Italy or the South of France since all yachts beginning or ending a charter yacht in Greece must have a Greek charter license. 

Your broker will need ample time to finalize the details and tailor an itinerary to suit you and your charter party. We recommend booking three to six months in advance of your intended start date.

Local Insight

• The Meltemi wind in the Cyclades and Southern Aegean comes and goes in phases, so you won’t necessarily encounter it on your vacation. But if you do, it tends to be stronger in the afternoons, but dies down in the evenings and is not usually a hindrance in the morning.

• Generally speaking, the Ionian Islands experience the least wind in Greece, which is worth keeping in mind when deciding on where you want to spend the majority of your time during a Greece yacht charter and allowing for maximum comfort.

• Speak to your broker for more information about the beginning and ending a Greece yacht charter in Turkey. Be aware that you will need to show passports and other valid paperwork every time you disembark in a new port- even if you have already visited in the days prior as part of the same itinerary.

Most Popular Superyacht Hotspots in Greece

Mykonos

Mykonos yacht charters have attracted well-heeled guests time after time with the island's sugar-cubed villages combined with cosmopolitan allure. Mykonos' main attraction is undeniably its vibrant nightlife; amid its myriad seafront bars and clubs, partygoers dance till dawn under rose-gold skies. But this is not the island's only appeal. Wander around the enchanting vividly-colored houses of Little Venice as the sunsets; savor a candlelit meal at one of its many fine-dining options (such as Nobu); and discover some of the magnificent bays such as Ornos. Of course, there are also a vast array of beaches to bronze at: from the iconic Paradise Beach to the hip and happening Psarou or the more tranquil Agios Sostis.

Vouliagmeni

This idyllic coastal town is highly exclusive, and a popular superyacht haven for vacations beginning or ending in Athens. Located 13 miles southeast of the capital, yacht charter guests can moor here with ease at its peaceful bay. It's an absolute must whilst you are here to take a dip in the emerald-hued waters of the lake, hugged by soaring cliffs and gently warmed by thermal springs. For the more adventurous, be sure to make the most of the bountiful underwater caves. 

Santorini

A Santorini yacht charter is a firm favorite amongst discerning travelers who fall in love with its endless, dramatic beauty at every turn. Dappled with whitewashed cottages and cerulean-hued domed churches tumbling down the hillsides of Oia to and up to the capital of Firá, guests have no shortage of backdrops for sunset tipples or sights to gaze at. Visiting the world-famous Red beach in nearby Akrotiri village whilst you are here is also a must.

Santorini is also superbly located for cruising towards the crystalline shores of Magganari beach on Ios island: an ideal location for snorkeling or taking out the toys. 

Hydra

Jetsetters have long adored Hydra for yacht charters, largely owing to its heavenly seascapes. The sheltered island enthralls guests onshore, who feel as if they have stepped into a bygone era: no cars roam around, just donkeys who hobble around its picture-perfect, labyrinthine streets and harbor. Soaring escarpments set the scene for sun-drenched meals under a lingering sun, with seafood served so fresh that it's practically dripping straight from the water. Admire also the innumerable secret coves and bays to be found here, many of which can be explored on your tenders.

Milos

The luminous, volcanic island of Milos and its fabulously turquoise bays are a superyacht favorite, yet remain largely undiscovered to the wider public. But why do the elite cruise towards its shores? For the staggeringly beautiful beaches (more than 70 of them, in fact) perfect for bringing out the water toys.

The spellbinding Kleftiko bay, the geothermal Paliochori beach, and the surreal charms of Sarakiniko beach (with its moon-like surfaces flecked by countless caves) are popular spots here. Abound with ancient ruins, make sure you also pay a visit to the Catacombs of Milos near the village of Tripiti, and the achingly pretty hilltop Venetian Castle of Milos.

Neighbouring Regions for Greece Yacht Charters

Many Greece yacht charters or Eastern Mediterranean yacht charters venture further afield to the ultramarine shores of Turkey.  Dazzling guests with its bountiful sheltered bays, shimmering waters and captivatingly rich cultural heritage, the two destinations make a wonderful combined charter itinerary.

The most popular area of Turkey that Greece charters cruise towards is the spectacular Turkish Riviera, which extends across the Aegean and Mediterranean seas between the two countries. Typically commencing from the Dodecanese Islands (namely Kos, Rhodes or Symi), highlights in this region include:

• Göcek: an enchanting fishing village situated on a private bay that is the gateway to rarely frequented coves and 12 secluded islands. Göcek also boasts six marinas (two of which are for superyachts) with many excellent eateries.
• Bodrum: bougainvillea blossoms at every turn in this lively coastal city and glamorous beach hangout, closely located to Türkbükü Bay, which is revered for being the "Saint-Tropez of Turkey". 
• Marmaris: vibrant superyacht haven with throngs of restaurants, bars, and shops lining its shores, and conveniently located to explore ancient ruins along the Dalyan river.

However, keep in mind that additional VAT and fees may apply and you will need to provide documentation if going outside of Greek waters.

To find out more about possible yacht charter routes for Greece and beyond please contact your yacht charter broker.

Don't Miss:

• Shipwreck Beach: (Navagio Beach) a beach in Zante that's best accessed by boat and is famous for the large shipwreck lying on the sand.

• Nammos: the most iconic beach club in Greece.

• The Portara of Naxos: a doorlike arch that once formed the Temple of Apollo on the island of Naxos.

• Cavo Tagoo: one of the most photographed hotels in Greece, carved into the caves on the hills of Mykonos.

• The Terrace of Lions: a walkway on the island of Delos that's lined by statues of lions.

• The Corinth Canal: a long stretch of water that cuts through the mainland in Corinth.

• Flyaway Creative: the hottest restaurant in Santorini.