Blue Ocean Club
Blue Ocean Club cruising guide

Yacht charter in Greece

Greece offers an extensive archipelago suitable for crewed yacht charters, providing access to historical sites, coastal villages, and secluded bays. The geography suits travellers seeking a combination of open-water sailing and sheltered island hopping. With thousands of islands across the Ionian, Aegean, and Saronic seas, the region supports diverse itineraries ranging from short coastal passages to longer crossings. Crewed charters provide the logistics and navigation required to manage the varied maritime conditions and complex port entries found throughout the Greek islands.

Best time to charter

The charter season runs from April to October. Peak activity occurs in July and August, coinciding with high temperatures and the Meltemi wind in the Aegean. May, June, September, and October offer milder weather and lower traffic. The Ionian Sea generally experiences lighter winds than the Aegean, while the Saronic Gulf provides sheltered conditions. Early and late season bookings are recommended for quieter anchorages and more moderate sailing conditions.

Anchorages and harbours to know

Lakka, Paxos

A wide, horseshoe-shaped bay featuring a shallow sandy bottom, typically ranging from two to four metres in depth.

Hydra Harbour

A historic port on a vehicle-free island, requiring stern-to mooring in a tight, bustling harbour environment.

Ormos Kleftiko, Milos

A bay defined by white volcanic rock formations and sea caves, accessible only by boat.

Gaios, Paxos

A narrow, fjord-like inlet providing a sheltered natural harbour protected by the islet of Agios Nikolaos.

Porto Katsiki, Lefkada

An exposed anchorage beneath high limestone cliffs, suitable for daytime stops in settled weather.

Practical tips

  • Getting there: Athens International (ATH); Mykonos (JMK), Corfu (CFU), Rhodes (RHO) and other island airports. Most charters start at the Athens-area marinas (Alimos, Flisvos, Lavrio), about 30–50 minutes by car from Athens airport.
  • Charter tax: Greek VAT of about 12% is usually added to the charter fee (Rate for a crewed charter of more than 48 hours; it can be lower (from about 5.2%) depending on the yacht's licence.).
  • Most charters start at the Athens-area marinas (Alimos, Flisvos, Lavrio), about 30–50 minutes by car from Athens airport.
  • Entry into Greek ports often requires stern-to mooring; ensure the crew is briefed on anchor deployment and line handling.
  • Water supplies can be limited on smaller islands; monitor consumption and refill tanks at every opportunity in marinas.
  • International arrivals are primarily served by Athens International (ATH), with regional connections via Mykonos (JMK), Corfu (CFU), and Rhodes (RHO).

Yachts listed for Greece

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