Charter Destination Greece

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A Greece yacht charter is a private, crewed cruise through the Greek islands, with a choice of motor yachts, sailing yachts and catamarans. This page covers where to sail, when to go, the yachts available and what a charter costs. It suits families, first-time charter guests and experienced sailors alike. With around 6,000 islands and islets, more than 250 days of sunshine a year and the warm welcome Greeks call filoxenia, few places reward time on the water more.

Charter a yacht in Greece along the longest coastline in the Mediterranean, where the rugged shores, dense beaches and coastal villages of the mainland are an echo to the wealth of maritime history and ancient tradition.

Greece, a cornerstone of Mediterranean learning, culture, and aesthetics for millennia, has experienced inevitable transformations. Yet, the enduring essence of filoxenia, Greece's unique form of hospitality, deeply ingrained and viewed as a moral duty, remains constant. The country captivates with its spectacular beauty, vibrant hues, and rich historical heritage. However, what distinguishes Greece is the authentic warmth and welcome extended to visitors, making every encounter memorable.

A Greece yacht charter offers more than blue seas and white beaches. You will uncover a mesmerising blend of ancient allure and modern appeal. With its rich historical context, sprawling from the storied mainland to the diverse islands near the Turkish coast, Greece provides an unmatched setting for those seeking to cruise by sea. The nation's waters, home to a myriad of islands grouped into distinct clusters, present a unique cruising experience that is both diverse and captivating.

Why Visit?

  • Beautiful beaches
  • Chic boutiques
  • History and culture
  • Palaces
  • Stunning views
  • Vibrant nightlife
  • Wreck diving

Choosing Your Yacht

Greece suits every kind of yacht. Sailing yachts and catamarans are popular for relaxed island-hopping, catamarans especially for their space and stability, while motor yachts and superyachts add speed and generous deck space for guests who want to cover more ground in comfort. Smaller yachts reach quiet, secluded coves; larger yachts bring a full professional crew and a more formal level of service. Our charter consultants match the yacht to your group, your pace and the islands you most want to see.

Where to Sail at a Glance

Greece’s cruising grounds are as varied as its islands, ranging from lively, open-sea routes to gentle, sheltered waters close to shore. Here is a quick guide to each region, so you can see at a glance where best suits your itinerary.

Photo of yacht's cruising in Milos, The Cyclades

The Cyclades

The Cyclades offer open-sea sailing past Santorini and Mykonos across around 220 islands, best for experienced sailors when the meltemi blows.

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Fiskardo beach, Kefalonia island, The Ionian Islands, Greece

The Ionian Islands

Gentler force 4 to 6 winds, the Ionian Islands feature lush green scenery and sheltered water across the seven main islands, ideal for first-timers.

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A picturesque view of the island of Hydra, Saronic Islands, Greece.

The Saronic Islands

In The Saronic Islands, you can expect short, calm passages close to Athens, making for an easy first charter experience.

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Symi town cityscape, Dodecanese islands, Greece

The Dodecanese

The Dodecanese are filled with historic towns and quiet anchorages near the Turkish coast.

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Voulisma Beach Istron Crete Greece, the most beautiful beaches of Crete island Istron Bay near Agios Nikolaos.

Crete and Athens

A charter in Crete and Athens offer a single-island base and the main embarkation gateway, with Athens International Airport close to the marinas.

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Costs at a Glance




  • Weekly base rate: From around EUR 25,000 for smaller crewed yachts to over EUR 200,000 for the largest superyachts.



  • APA (running costs): 25-40% of the base rate, covering fuel, food and similar running costs.



  • Greek VAT: about 5-13% with a Greek charter licence.



  • Mooring fees: roughly EUR 5 to EUR 65 a night, depending on the berth.



  • Charter length: usually Saturday to Saturday in high season, with shorter charters possible on smaller yachts or in the shoulder months.

The Best of Greece

Greece is made up of around 6,000 islands and islets, of which roughly 227 are inhabited, scattered across miles of coastline and stretching far from the mainland, perfect for island hopping and ensuring every yacht charter is different from the last. With more than 5,000 yachts available for charter, from sailing yachts and catamarans to large motor yachts, there is a vessel to suit every itinerary.

Most Greek charters begin in Athens, from Marina Zeas or nearby Lavrio, with Mykonos, Corfu and Rhodes also popular starting points, each within easy reach of Athens International Airport.

Greece boasts an ideal Mediterranean climate, featuring mild winters and dry summers, with more than 250 days of sunshine a year and sea temperatures peaking at around 26°C (79°F) in late August. Yacht charters peak in June, July and August, but May and September also offer pleasant conditions with less heat and fewer crowds. From mid-July to August, the meltemi, a strong northerly wind, can reach force 7 in the Cyclades, while the Ionian and Saronic stay calmer, with force 4-6 winds shaping how itineraries are planned.

Steeped in history crucial to western civilisation’s development, Greece boasts rich cultural diversity with a legacy of philosophers and Olympians that make its islands an essential destination to discover. For inspiration on linking more than one region in a single trip, see our guide to the best Greek island hopping routes.

Porto Timoni is an amazing beautiful double beach in Corfu, Greece

Charter Itinerary

Rhodes to Bodrum

Providing minimal distances between the islands, a charter across the Dodecanese is filled with beauty off the beaten track.

rhodes
FAQs

Find the answers to the most commonly asked questions FAQs: Yacht Charter in Greece

When is the best time to charter a yacht in Greece?

Greece enjoys an excellent charter season from April to November, with warm weather, crystal-clear waters and ideal conditions for island-hopping. July and August are the busiest months, while May, June and September offer a more relaxed pace with pleasant temperatures and steady breezes, perfect for both motor yacht cruising and Greek island yacht charters under sail.

How much does a luxury yacht charter in Greece cost?

Weekly rates for a crewed luxury yacht charter in Greece typically run from around EUR 25,000 for smaller motor yachts to more than EUR 200,000 for the largest superyachts, with most sailing yachts and catamarans in between. On top of the base fee, budget for an Advance Provisioning Allowance (APA) of roughly 25-40%t, which covers fuel, food, mooring fees and similar running costs, plus Greek VAT (about 5-13% with a Greek charter licence). Our charter consultants will provide tailored recommendations and a clear breakdown of all costs.

Should I choose a motor yacht or a sailing yacht for my Greece charter?

Both offer exceptional experiences, but each suits a different style of travel.

Motor yachts are ideal if you wish to visit several islands in a short amount of time, offering comfort, speed and generous deck spaces.

Alternatively, sailing yachts are perfect for those seeking a more relaxed, authentic journey, particularly if you want to experience the Ionian islands at a gentler pace.

Our charter consultants will guide you toward the best option based on your itinerary and preferences.

Do I need a licence for a bareboat yacht charter in Greece?

Yes. If you're considering a bareboat yacht charter in Greece, you will need a recognised sailing licence, and often a second crew member with basic sailing experience. If you'd prefer to enjoy the islands without handling the yacht yourself, a skippered or fully crewed charter offers a seamless experience.

What are the best regions in Greece for a yacht charter?

Greece offers several distinct cruising areas, each with its own character:

The Cyclades: iconic whitewashed villages, vibrant nightlife and open-sea sailing

The Ionian Islands: gentle breezes, sheltered waters and ideal conditions for Ionian bareboat charters

The Dodecanese: historic towns, peaceful anchorages and fascinating cultural heritage

The Saronic Gulf: calm waters and short passages close to Athens

Our charter consultants will design an itinerary tailored to your interests, preferred cruising style and chosen yacht.

What is included when I rent a yacht in Greece?

Each yacht has its own range of inclusions, typically covering the crew (if applicable), accommodation, onboard amenities and water toys. Additional costs such as fuel, provisioning, mooring fees and Greek VAT depend on your route and yacht type. Our charter consultants will provide a full overview of what is included and what to expect before you confirm.

How far in advance should I book a yacht charter in Greece?

Greece is one of the Mediterranean's most popular summer destinations, particularly for Greek island yacht charters. To secure the widest choice, we recommend booking 6-12 months in advance, especially if you're planning to charter during July and August. Early planning ensures the best selection of yachts and access to preferred embarkation locations.

Can I rent a yacht in Greece for a shorter itinerary?

Most luxury yachts are offered on a weekly basis during high season, but shorter charters may be available with smaller vessels or in shoulder months. Our charter consultants can advise on the best options based on your travel dates and the type of yacht you wish to rent.

Which Greek islands are best for a first yacht charter?

The Saronic Gulf and the Ionian Islands suit first-time charters best, with short, sheltered passages, calm water and easy access from Athens or Corfu. The Cyclades offer more dramatic scenery but stronger winds, so they reward a little more experience or a skippered yacht.

How many days do you need to sail the Greek islands?

Most Greek charters run for seven nights, which comfortably covers one island group such as the Cyclades or the Ionian. 10-14 nights lets you combine two regions or reach the Dodecanese at a relaxed pace.

Make an Enquiry

Please get in touch to discuss your enquiry. One of our consultants will get back to you as soon as possible.

Need help or advice?

The yachting journey can be complex with many decisions to be made. Get in touch with Ocean Independence, and one of our specialist consultants will help you make the right choices.

As a truly global company with 15 offices worldwide, we’re available 24/7 to help with any enquiries.

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