Greece
Yacht Charter & Sailing Vacations

Where to go • When to go • What you should know • How to Book

Land of the Gods

A Greece yacht charter represents the epitome of a sailing vacation dream– an  extraordinary voyage where history, culture, and culinary delights blend seamlessly. This is the birthplace of Western civilization, where ancient wonders and archaeological treasures narrate the story of humanity. In the realm of cuisine, Greek authenticity shines through vibrant Mediterranean flavors, fresh seafood, and iconic dishes like moussaka and souvlaki. The cultural tapestry reveals artistic masterpieces, captivating museums, and local craftsmanship, all testaments to Greece’s creative spirit. As you sail through pristine waters with reliable winds, you’ll explore a diverse archipelago of islands, from cosmopolitan hubs to hidden gems, each offering a unique charm. Greece’s Mediterranean climate provides sun-drenched days and mild temperatures, creating the perfect setting for outdoor adventures. Amidst it all, the warm hospitality of the Greek people ensures a journey filled with genuine camaraderie, making a Greece yacht charter an immersive and unforgettable experience.

Best time to go?  Contact us for more information regarding the best times to go to specific locations (including the charter options and pricing available).

  • High season:  July – August $$$$
  • Shoulder seasons: May/June and September/October $$$
  • Hot and humid evenings exist June – September $$. Air conditioning is recommended for sleep comfort.

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Sailing License Required!

Greece requires a license for bareboat chartering. The NauticEd SLC (nauticed.org/SLC) is an accepted license that is easy to get if you know your sailing stuff! If you want the relaxation of a skipper or don’t have a sailing license, we can easily find you a skippered yacht.

Greece Yacht Charter Sailing Destinations

Where to go on a Greece sailing vacation?

Welcome to Greece’s sailing paradise, a land of mythical beauty and endless horizons. Explore the six enchanting sailing regions, each offering a unique blend of culture, cuisine, and coastal splendor that beckons the adventurer in you.

  • Saronic Islands: The Saronic Islands make for an excellent first-time Greek charter due to their proximity to Athens, the Greek capital, as well as the relatively easy line-of-sight navigation.  The quaint villages that offer a blend of history, culture, and natural beauty will allow you to immerse yourself in Greek culture.
  • Ionian Islands (Corfu): Starting a yacht charter from Corfu in the northern Ionian Islands provides a perfect mix of lush landscapes and turquoise waters. This region is celebrated for its stunning beaches, quaint villages, and lush greenery. With a favorable climate and calm winds, it’s an inviting destination for leisurely exploration.
  • Ionian Islands (Lefkas): Lefkas, in the Ionian Sea, serves as an ideal starting point for exploring the southern Ionian.  This area boasts vibrant marine life, crystal-clear waters, and charming coastal towns like Fiskardo. Gentle winds and short distances between islands create a relaxed sailing experience.
  • Cyclades: The Cyclades are renowned for their iconic white-washed buildings, cobalt-blue domes, and vibrant nightlife. Santorini and Mykonos are highlights, but the archipelago offers numerous secluded anchorages, picturesque fishing villages, and ancient ruins for those seeking both adventure and culture.
  • Dodecanese: The Dodecanese islands, including Rhodes and Kos, are steeped in history and offer a more off-the-beaten-path experience. Rich in ancient sites and medieval castles, this region also features beautiful beaches and tranquil bays. The Meltemi winds can provide thrilling sailing conditions.
  • Sporades: The Sporades, including Skiathos and Skopelos, are a nature lover’s paradise. Lush landscapes, dense pine forests, and serene anchorages define this region. Dolphins often accompany sailors, enhancing the enchanting experience of navigating these pristine waters.

Greece’s sailing regions are sought-after destinations for their unique character, from the cultural allure of the Saronic Islands to the natural beauty of the Sporades. Each offers a distinct sailing experience, making Greece a captivating choice for yacht charter enthusiasts.

NauticEd are sailing vacation and charter agents who’ve sailed extensively in Greece – and we can book a Greece yacht charter for you in any of these locations. It was all Greek to me too until I put this map together :) Greece features an enormous number of islands. These islands are traditionally grouped in various clusters, each with its own Greek character. Below’s the overall layout, followed by information on each area

Scroll below for location information.

1

North Ionian Islands (Corfu)

2

South Ionian Islands (Lefkas)

3

Sporades

4

Saronic

5

Cyclades

6

North Aegean Islands

Greece Yacht Charter FAQs

Whether you’re an experienced sailor or a first-time yacht charterer, licensure is required to bareboat charter. The SLC or the ICC are the most widely accepted.

May through October is typically the Mediterranean sailing season. July and August are peak months that can be hot and crowded. The shoulder seasons of May, June, and September, October are highly recommended.

Like most Mediterranean charter destinations, embark on the boat is Saturday evening. The first night is spent on the boat in the home marina (absent priority boarding). There is a mandatory return to base Friday evening and disembark is early Saturday morning. Thus, a two-week charter is highly encouraged.

The Saronic Islands, Argolic Gulf & the Peloponnese

Sailing around the Saronic Islands offers an unforgettable maritime adventure through Greece’s coastal beauty. Explore the charming harbors of Aegina, uncover the historic wonders of Poros, and lose yourself in the car-free tranquility of Hydra. With opportunities for snorkeling in crystal-clear waters, indulging in fresh seafood, and soaking in the vibrant local culture, sailing the Saronic Islands promises an immersive experience that captures the essence of Greek island life. View the Saronic Islands Sailing Guide >

Greece Yacht Charter - The Saronic / Argosaronic Islands & the Peloponnese
  • Located in the Saronic gulf near Athens
  • Historical and relaxing atmosphere; change to visit numerous islands and villages without going far
  • Popular islands/villages include: Aegina, Hydra, Poros, and Ermioni
  • Charter base: Athens

Go to the Saronic Islands Sailing Guide >

The Cyclades

Navigate from the whitewashed alleys of Mykonos to the stunning caldera of Santorini, while immersing in the rich history of Delos along the way. With chances to explore ancient ruins, unwind on pristine beaches, and savor delectable local cuisine, sailing around the Cyclades offers an enchanting blend of culture, beauty, and relaxation.

Greece Yacht Charter - The Cyclades
  • Located in the central/southern part of the Aegean Sea.
  • The pictured typical Greek islands with whitewashed homes, white and blue architecture, crystal blue water and gorgeous beaches.
  • Large cluster of islands forming rough circle around Delos
  • Popular islands include: Mykonos, Santorini, Paros, Kea, Kythnos, and Ios
  • Charter bases: Lavrion, Paros, and Mykonos

Go to the Cyclades Sailing Guide >

The Dodecanese

Discover the medieval charm of Rhodes’ Old Town, explore the hidden coves of Symi, and immerse yourself in the history of Kos. Whether you’re delving into ancient ruins, sampling local delicacies, or simply basking in the Aegean sun, sailing the Dodecanese promises an unforgettable blend of culture, natural beauty, and relaxation.

  • Located in the south- eastern edge of the Aegean Sea near Turkey
  • Medieval architecture, peaceful beaches, archeological finds, a bit rustic
  • A long string of islands, and the popular ones include: Rhodes and Kos, and the lesser known islands of Leros and Pserimos
  • Charter bases in Kos and Rhodes

The Sporades

Chartering through the Sporades islands offers a captivating maritime escape into Greece’s tranquil paradise. From the lush landscapes of Skiathos to the serene allure of Skopelos, and the untouched beauty of Alonissos, each island unveils its own unique charm. Dive into crystal-clear waters, hike through pine-scented trails, and savor authentic Greek cuisine in waterfront tavernas for an unforgettable sailing experience in the Sporades.

  • Located off the east coast of Greece in the northwest Aegean Sea
  • Thickly forested with fertile pine landscape; mountainous terrain; recognizable from Mamma Mia
  • Small group of islands, and the popular populated ones include: Skiathos, Alonnissos, Skyros, and Skopelos
  • Charter base in Skiathos

The Ionian Islands – Corfu

Explore the enchanting blue caves of Zakynthos, unwind on the postcard-worthy beaches of Kefalonia, and indulge in the Venetian charm of Corfu’s Old Town. With opportunities for snorkeling in turquoise waters, exploring ancient ruins, and savoring local delicacies, sailing the Ionian islands promises an idyllic blend of natural beauty, culture, and relaxation.

Greece Yacht Charter - The Ionian Islands
  • Located in the Ionian Sea in the northwest coast of mainland Greece.
  • Closer to Italy
  • Italian style, lush green landscape, scenic countryside and charming villages
  • Chain of islands, and the popular ones include: Corfu, Paxos, and Lefkas
  • Charter Bases in Corfu (North Ionian) and Lefkas (South Ionian)

Go to the Ionian – Corfu Charter Guide >

The Ionian Islands – Lefkas

Explore the enchanting blue caves of Zakynthos, unwind on the postcard-worthy beaches of Kefalonia, and indulge in the Venetian charm of Corfu’s Old Town. With opportunities for snorkeling in turquoise waters, exploring ancient ruins, and savoring local delicacies, sailing the Ionian islands promises an idyllic blend of natural beauty, culture, and relaxation.

Greece Yacht Charter - The Ionian Islands
  • Located in the Ionian Sea in the northwest coast of mainland Greece.
  • Closer to Italy
  • Italian style, lush green landscape, scenic countryside and charming villages
  • Chain of islands, and the popular ones include: Corfu, Paxos, and Lefkas
  • Charter Bases in Corfu (North Ionian) and Lefkas (South Ionian)

Go to the Ionian-Lefkas Sailing Guide >

A GREECE YACHT CHARTER SOUNDS AMAZING!
I’D LIKE TO…

NauticEd are Greece yacht charter agents. We don’t charge you a fee and can more than likely save you money on all your sailing vacations. We search the world’s databases for over 8,000 yachts in 55 destinations. We give expert advice on where and when to go – likely, we’ve been there. Make an inquiry and book your sailing vacations through NauticEd Sailing Vacations.

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  • Grant Headifen

    My vision for NauticEd is to provide the highest quality sailing and boating education available - and deliver competence wherever sailors live and go.

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Last updated on December 8th, 2024