When is the best time of year for a yacht charter in Crete?

Late spring (May–June) and early autumn (September–October) combine settled weather, moderate breezes and lighter crowds. These shoulder months typically see north-westerlies of Force 3-5, warm air (22-28 °C) and sea temperatures around 21-25 °C.
July–August bring the Meltemi, which can rise to Force 5-8 on the north coast and may require reefed sails or a local skipper.
From November to March gales and swell are more common, and many charter fleets lay up.

Which sailing areas in Crete are most suitable for beginners?

• Mirabello Bay (Agios Nikolaos): A land-locked gulf with low swell, easy line-of-sight navigation and plenty of swim stops such as Kolokytha Beach.

• Dia Island day-sail (from Heraklion): A 12 nm return trip, usually in flat water inside the bay.

• South-east coves (e.g. Atherinolakkos): Small working harbours offer overnight shelter when Meltemi sets the north coast rolling.
  The exposed stretches between Chania, Rethymno and Heraklion are better left to crews with previous Aegean experience in peak summer.

What type of boat should I choose for Crete?

• Catamarans (38–50 ft) give extra stability when the Meltemi pipes up and provide ample deck space for mixed family groups. Average Greek catamaran day rate ~ €1 400.

• Monohull cruisers (34–45 ft) suit wind-aware sailors and beat more efficiently to weather; day rates on Crete start around €311 in low season

• RIBs and small motorboats are popular for one-day coastal runs from Kissamos, Heraklion or Rethymno.
  Choose based on crew size, budget and whether you plan open-water passages or short hops inside sheltered gulfs.

How do I reach the main charter bases in Crete?

• Heraklion Marina (HER): 4 km from Heraklion Airport; the city bus (Line 6) costs c. €1–2 and takes 15–20 min, while a taxi is about €10–13

• Agios Nikolaos Marina: 60 km east of HER, linked by hourly KTEL coaches (≈ €8) in 75 min or private transfer in 50 min.

• Rethymno & Chania: Served by Chania Airport (CHQ) and frequent north-coast buses; allow 1 h 30 min from HER to Rethymno if flying into HER.

Do I need a licence to rent a boat in Crete?

Bareboat charters require the skipper to hold an International Certificate of Competence (ICC) or RYA Day Skipper (or national equivalent in English).
Greek Port Police also ask for a second adult with “competent crew” experience to sign the crew list. If you lack the paperwork, you can hire a professional skipper (≈ €100–150 per day) and sail licence-free.

What weather and wind conditions should I expect?

The prevailing Meltemi blows NW–N NW. It is light-to-moderate (Force 3-5) from May–June and September–October, strengthens to Force 5-8 in July–August, and weakens in winter.
Sea state on the north shore can build quickly, while the south-east coast often sits in a lee. Always check the Hellenic National Meteorological Service bulletin before departure.

Can I charter for less than a full week in Crete?

Yes. Many operators offer day charters from €60–€300 depending on boat size, and three- to five-day packages outside peak periods.