Greece’s sailing grounds are unparalleled in Europe, with the continent's longest coastline and over 6,000 islands and islets, ensuring that secluded anchorages are always within reach. Whether you’re planning boat holidays Greece with friends or looking for a more exclusive luxury yacht charter Greece, you’ll find the islands arranged in compact groups like the Cyclades and the Ionian Islands, with short passages of just 2 to 5 nautical miles between them. This makes it easy to enjoy boat hire Greece, island‑hop effortlessly and wake up in a new destination almost every day. This dynamic allows for a sense of vast exploration without long, demanding voyages, making a week‑long yacht holiday Greece feel expansive and fulfilling.

Furthermore, the quality of the marine environment is exceptional. Greece consistently ranks among the top countries for sea purity, with more than 400 beaches and nine marinas awarded the prestigious "Blue Flag" for their adherence to strict environmental criteria. These crystal-clear waters are not just visually stunning but create a perfect environment for swimming, snorkelling, and scuba diving.

A yacht hire Greece adventure is also a journey through time. The sea provides direct access to a landscape steeped in millennia of history, from the myths of the ancient gods to the fortresses of medieval knights. Sailors can anchor in the same bays as Odysseus and visit ancient ruins, classical temples and Venetian castles.

The natural scenery is as varied as it is dramatic. The Ionian and Sporades islands are characterised by their lush, green interiors, while the Cyclades in the Aegean are known for their arid, rocky terrain, offering a more rugged beauty. This diversity ensures that every sailing region provides a distinct visual and sensory experience. This journey is complemented by the warmth of Greek culture and its rich cuisine. Island hopping provides endless opportunities to moor in picturesque fishing villages and dine at authentic waterfront tavernas serving authentic Greek cuisine, blending adventure on the water with cultural discovery ashore.

Planning Your Perfect Sailing Holiday: Where to Sail in Greece?

At the broadest level, Greek sailing divides between two major bodies of water: the Ionian Sea to the west and the Aegean Sea to the east. Both are ideal for sailing holidays Greece, yet each offers distinct experiences.

The Ionian Sea, located between Greece and Italy, is renowned for its calm waters, predictable winds, and lush, tropical-style landscapes. Its islands feature unique Venetian architecture, verdant hills, and famous sandy beaches. These gentle conditions make the Ionian the ideal cruising ground for beginners and families booking boat charter Greece for the first time.

The Aegean Sea, by contrast, is a more demanding environment. Home to the iconic Cyclades, the historic Dodecanese and the green Sporades archipelagos, it is famous for the seasonal Meltemi winds and dramatic coastlines—perfect for adventurous crews wanting a true yacht charter Greek islands experience.

Yacht Charter Ionian Islands

Often referred to as the “nursery” of Greek sailing, the Ionian Sea is the perfect introduction to the region’s charms. It is defined by its exceptionally green scenery, calm waters, and predictable daily thermal winds (the Maestral) that build to a manageable Force 2-5 in the afternoon. Navigation is often line-of-sight, with short passages between islands, maximising time for relaxation. The Ionian Islands are renowned for their spectacular scenery, making them a top choice for yacht charters.

• Key Islands & Highlights:

  • Yacht Charter Corfu
    A major charter base with a UNESCO-listed Old Town showcasing stunning Venetian architecture.

  • Yacht Charter Lefkas
    A principal charter hub (PVK) famed for world-class beaches like Porto Katsiki and access to a sheltered “inland sea.”

  • Yacht Charter Kefalonia
    The largest of the Ionian islands, offering diverse landscapes from Myrtos Beach to the enchanting Melissani Cave and the cosmopolitan port of Fiskardo.

  • Yacht Charter Zakynthos
    Home to the iconic “Shipwreck Beach” (Navagio), accessible only by sea, and a nesting ground for loggerhead sea turtles.

• Best For: Families, first-time bareboat charterers, couples seeking a relaxed holiday, and anyone who appreciates lush scenery and gentle sailing.

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Yacht Charter Cyclades Islands

The Cyclades are the image that comes to mind when one dreams of the Greek islands: sugar-cube villages of whitewashed houses and blue-domed churches clinging to rocky hillsides. This region is as challenging as it is beautiful, making it a premier destination for a sailing yacht charter. Sailing here is dominated by the Meltemi, a strong, dry northerly wind that often reaches Force 7-8, creating exhilarating but demanding conditions best suited for confident and experienced sailors.

• Key Islands & Highlights:

  • Mykonos and Santorini Boat Rental
    Superstars of the Cyclades, world-renowned for their luxurious hotels, vibrant nightlife, iconic beach clubs, and breathtaking sunsets.

  • Paros and Naxos
    Offering a more balanced experience, these islands combine lively towns like Naoussa (Paros) with some of the best sandy beaches in the Aegean.

  • Milos and Sifnos
    Milos is famous for its unique volcanic landscapes like Sarakiniko beach, while Sifnos is celebrated for its sophisticated atmosphere and outstanding local cuisine. It's a great place for motorboat rental.

  • Delos
    A short sail from Mykonos, this uninhabited UNESCO World Heritage site was the mythological birthplace of Apollo and Artemis and is accessible only by boat.

• Best For: Experienced sailors seeking adventure, groups of friends, those looking for world-class nightlife, and anyone wanting to experience the iconic “postcard” image of Greece.

For route planning inspiration, check our Cyclades sailing itinerary

Yacht Charter Saronic Gulf

The Saronic Gulf offers the most accessible sailing from mainland Greece. Situated in a well-protected body of water adjacent to yacht charter Athens, it provides calm seas, easy navigation, and short sailing distances. This makes it an excellent choice for novice sailors or anyone wishing to combine a sailing trip with a visit to the historic capital. The proximity to Athens International Airport and major charter bases like Alimos Marina is a significant logistical advantage for your boat hire Greece plan. The Saronic Islands are popular for their unspoiled anchorages and historical sites.

• Key Islands & Highlights:

  • Hydra: A stunningly beautiful and car-free island, famous for its grand stone mansions and perfectly preserved harbour. You can get there from Alimos Marina.

  • Spetses: An island of refined elegance, blending a rich naval history with boutique hotels and upscale dining.

  • Aegina: Located a short sail from Athens, Aegina is famous for its pistachio groves and the remarkably well-preserved ancient Temple of Aphaia.

  • Poros: A peaceful and verdant island separated from the eastern coast of the Peloponnese by a narrow channel, with a charming main town.

  • Peloponnese Coast: The gulf provides easy access to significant historical sites on the mainland, including the magnificent ancient theatre of Epidaurus.

• Best For: Beginners, short charters, history enthusiasts, and those flying into Athens who want to set sail quickly.

For route planning inspiration, check our Sailing Itinerary in the Saronic Islands

Yacht Charter Dodecanese Islands

Situated in the southeastern Aegean, the Dodecanese islands offer a unique sailing experience. Their history is a rich tapestry of cultures, marked by the Knights of Saint John, the Ottomans, and the Italians. The summer Meltemi winds are present but generally less fierce than in the central Cyclades, offering a good balance of exciting sailing and comfortable cruising.

• Key Islands & Highlights:

  • Yacht charter Rhodes: The largest island in the group, with a magnificent medieval Old Town (a UNESCO site) and the ancient acropolis of Lindos.

  • Yacht charter Kos: Another key charter hub (KGS) and the birthplace of Hippocrates, offering a mix of historical sites, sandy beaches, and lively nightlife.

  • Patmos: A deeply spiritual island of significant Christian heritage, home to the Cave of the Apocalypse.

  • Nisyros: A fascinating volcanic island where visitors can walk down into the crater of the still-active volcano.

  • Smaller Islands (Kalymnos, Halki, Tilos): These offer a more authentic experience. Kalymnos is renowned for rock climbing and its history of sea sponge harvesters.

• Best For: Sailors with some experience, history buffs, and anyone looking for a culturally rich itinerary.

For route planning inspiration, check our Dodecanese Islands Itinerary

Yacht Charter Sporades Islands

Located in the northwest Aegean, the Sporades are a compact archipelago defined by their exceptional natural beauty. Unlike the arid Cyclades, these islands are covered in dense pine forests. Winds are moderate, making them attractive for relaxed sailing holidays Greece.

• Key Islands & Highlights of the Sporades:

  • Yacht charter Skiathos
    The most cosmopolitan of the Sporades (JSI), famous for its nightlife and over 60 stunning beaches, including the renowned Koukounaries.

  • Yacht charter Skopelos
    A larger, greener, and more tranquil island that gained international fame as a primary filming location for the movie Mamma Mia!.

  • Yacht charter Alonissos: The most remote and peaceful of the main islands, it lies at the heart of the National Marine Park of Alonissos, the largest marine protected area in Europe.

  • Yacht charter Skyros: The largest and most traditional of the Sporades, known for its distinctive local crafts and the rare Skyrian pony.

  For route planning inspiration, check our Sporares Itinerary

When to Set Sail: Finding the Best Time for Your Greece Yacht Charter

The ideal time for a yacht charter in Greece is a balance of factors, including weather, wind, crowds, and cost. The primary sailing season runs from April to October. A Greece sailing holiday during this period offers unforgettable experiences, from exploring ancient sites to enjoying local cuisine.

Peak Sailing Season in Greece (June-August)

The summer months of June, July, and August are the high season, offering guaranteed sunshine, long days, and the warmest sea temperatures. The islands are at their most lively, with a vibrant atmosphere. However, this is also when the Meltemi wind is strongest in the Aegean, creating challenging sailing conditions that are best suited to an experienced sailor. It is also the most crowded and expensive time to travel.

Shoulder Sailing Seasons in Greece (April-May & September-October)

Mild temperatures, lighter winds, fewer crowds and better rates—often the sweet spot for a serene yacht charter Greek islands getaway. For many sailors, the shoulder seasons of spring and autumn offer the best of all worlds. The weather remains pleasantly warm, but the powerful Meltemi winds have subsided, leading to more relaxed sailing. With fewer tourists, popular islands and anchorages are less crowded, allowing for a more authentic and peaceful experience. If you want to visit Greece without the crowds, this is the ideal time, as lower demand also translates to lower costs. September is often considered perfect, with the sea at its warmest. Spring has its own charm, with lush landscapes and abundant wildflowers.

Choosing Your Charter in Greece: Bareboat, Skippered

Once a destination and time of year have been chosen, the next step is to select the type of charter. Greek yacht charters offer a diverse range of options, perfect for families, couples, or groups. This decision hinges on sailing competence and the desired level of relaxation.

Bareboat Charter in Greece

A bareboat charter in Greece involves renting the yacht on its own, without any professional crew. The charterer assumes full responsibility for every aspect of the trip. This option offers the greatest degree of freedom and is the most budget-friendly. However, this freedom comes with significant responsibility, and the skipper must be an experienced sailor holding the necessary licenses.

Skippered Yacht Charter in Greece

A skippered sailing holiday in Greece is a popular middle ground, where the yacht is rented along with a professional captain. The skipper is responsible for the safe navigation of the yacht, freeing guests from technical stress. This is the ideal choice for individuals without a sailing license or for experienced sailors who prefer a more relaxing holiday. A key benefit is the skipper’s invaluable local knowledge. The main considerations are the additional cost and the reduction in privacy.

Selecting the Perfect Yacht in Greece: Monohull, Catamaran, or Motor Yacht?

The type of vessel chosen for a charter has a significant influence on the holiday experience. A wide selection of high-quality boats is available for yacht rental in Greece. The decision between a classic sailing yacht, a spacious catamaran, or a swift motor yacht is a trade-off between performance, space, and budget.

Sailboat Charter Greece

The monohull is the traditional sailing yacht, providing a dynamic and engaging sailing experience that many purists cherish. It heels (leans) over in the wind, creating a thrilling sensation of speed. Monohulls are generally more responsive, efficient when sailing upwind, and more affordable to charter, with lower mooring fees. The main compromise is less living space and a heeling motion that can be less comfortable for novices.

Catamaran Charter Greece

A catamaran, with its twin-hull design, offers an experience focused on stability and space. These vessels sail flat with minimal heeling, a major advantage for families or anyone susceptible to seasickness. The primary appeal is the vast amount of living space and a shallow draft that allows access to more anchorages. The main drawbacks are a less engaging feel at the helm, poorer upwind performance, and higher charter and mooring costs.

Motor Yacht charter Greece

For those who prioritise speed, comfort, and luxury, a motor yacht is the vessel of choice. Powered by engines, these yachts can easily hop between distant islands, maximising the number of destinations visited. They offer more generous sundecks and plush interiors but come with a significantly higher charter price and fuel consumption, forgoing the traditional sailing experience for a faster-paced holiday.

How to get to the yacht charter base in Greece?

Accessing the main charter regions is straightforward. Starting your yacht charter Greece adventure is easy, as the country’s excellent transport links connect you to the most popular yachting destinations.

• Main Hubs:

  • Saronic & Cyclades: Athens International Airport (ATH) serves Alimos and Lavrion marinas.

  • Ionian Islands: Corfu (CFU) and Preveza (PVK) airports serve the northern and southern Ionian.

  • Dodecanese Islands: Rhodes (RHO) and Kos (KGS) airports provide direct access.

  • Sporades Islands: Skiathos International Airport (JSI) is the most convenient entry point.

• Transfers from Athens International Airport (ATH):

  • To Alimos Marina (approx. 33 km, 40 mins): The Express Bus X96 is the most economical option (~€6, 1-1.5 hours). A taxi is faster (~€40-50). Private transfers offer fixed pricing. Your charter company can arrange pickup from the airport.

  • To Lavrion Marina (approx. 36 km, 40 mins): A taxi is the most convenient option (~€45-69). The bus route is indirect. Private transfers are also available.

Mooring Fees in Greece

A pleasant surprise for sailors in Greece is its affordability. Mooring and daily expenses are often lower than in other Mediterranean destinations if you want to rent a yacht in Greece

• Typical Mooring Fees in Greece
  
  Mooring at municipal quays is very inexpensive, typically €10 to €25 per night for a 12-metre yacht, and often free in smaller villages. Full-service marinas are more expensive but still offer good value, ranging from €34 in Alimos to €70 in Preveza for a similar-sized yacht. Catamarans typically incur a 50-60% surcharge due to their width.

Bareboat Charter License Requirements in Greece

To charter a yacht in Greece without a skipper, the port authorities have specific requirements. Greek law requires at least two qualified people on board: a skipper with a valid sailing license and an experienced co-skipper (at least 18 years old).

• Accepted Licenses: Accepted licenses for the skipper include the International Certificate of Competence (ICC), RYA Coastal Skipper (Practical), or ASA 104 Bareboat Cruising or its national equivalent.

• The RYA Day Skipper Nuance: The RYA Day Skipper certificate may not be accepted by all port authorities. Holders are strongly advised to obtain an ICC in advance.

• The Co-Skipper: The co-skipper doesn't need a formal license but must have practical experience and may need to sign a "Declaration of Honour" confirming their competence.

• Important Procedures: Send copies of licenses to the charter company for verification at least a few weeks prior, and bring the originals for inspection. You will get all instructions in an email from Boataround.

Sail in Greece with Boataround

Ready to drop anchor in crystal‑clear bays, explore ancient ruins and dine in harbourside tavernas? Secure your next yacht holiday Greece with Boataround today and set sail in confidence.

• Vast Selection: With an extensive fleet across all of Greece’s sailing regions, Boataround offers unparalleled choice. Find the perfect vessel to match your needs, from an affordable monohull for a bareboat charter in the Saronic Gulf to a spacious, modern catamaran for a skippered trip through the Dodecanese.

• Ease and Transparency: Our user-friendly platform makes it easy to compare yachts, view transparent pricing with no hidden fees, and check real-time availability, simplifying the entire booking process from start to finish. Compare real‑time prices, transparent fees and verified reviews, then rent a yacht Greece in just a few clicks.

• Expert Support: Our dedicated team of customer support specialists is here to assist you every step of the way. We can help you choose the right boat for your group, clarify license requirements, arrange for a professional skipper, and offer expert advice to help you plan the perfect sailing itinerary.

Want more information? Read our Greece yacht charter guide

Sailing yacht charter in Greece

Charter a sailing yacht and explore Greece! Prices start from 2 € per day. Experience the authentic charm of Greece by renting one of our 1783 available sailing yachts. Let the wind lead you and live the true sailing experience during your yacht charter. Sailboat rentals in Greece are most popular with groups of friends and offer the best price-comfort ratio.

Sailing yachts in Greece range from 8 to 40 m (26.2 to 131.2 feet) in length. Compared to other types of boats, sailing yachts are notably fuel-efficient and equipped with a single diesel engine.

Our fleet of monohulls in Greece includes popular brands such as Jeanneau, Beneteau and Bavaria.

These are some of the best places to rent a sailboat in Greece:

• Sailing yacht rental Mediterranean Sea
• Sailing yacht rental Aegean Sea
• Sailing yacht rental Ionian Sea

Whether you’re an experienced sailor seeking a bareboat sailing yacht charter in Greece or a novice desiring a skippered yacht in Greece, we ensure a seamless and memorable sailing experience.