Yacht Holidays In Greece
Greece is a dream yacht holiday destination, with its breathtakingly beautiful islands and stunning coastlines. Whether you want to relax in the sun, discover ancient ruins and monuments, or experience the vibrant nightlife, yacht holidays in Greece provide something for everyone. If you’re looking for the perfect getaway, Greece beckons with its stunning scenery and beaches, coupled with a wealth of ancient sites. Embarking on a yacht holiday in this breathtaking country will surely leave you enchanted!
In this article, we will list some of the best destinations for yacht holidays in Greece, the different times of the year, and list all the available options for your perfect getaway.
Ahoy there!
About Sailing in Greece
Greece is a country with a long and rich history of sailing. The Greek people have been exploring the waters around them since ancient times, and their maritime tradition has been passed down from generation to generation. This deep-rooted passion for sailing along with a unique archipelago has helped to shape the culture and history of the country. Greece is today, one of the premier sailing destinations in Europe.
Greece has some of the most beautiful waters in the world, and sailing around this amazing country provides breathtaking views. From the Dodecanese islands all the way up to the islands of the Ionian Sea, this is a paradise for sailing enthusiasts. With its warm waters, lovely beaches, and diverse coastline, it has everything you could ask for in a great sailing destination.
The sailing conditions are perfect for both experienced and novice sailors alike. The weather is warm and the winds vary, making it an ideal place for both experienced and novice sailors. Even for those with more experience, a trip to Greece will always be rewarding as there are so many stunning places to discover.
Transport options to and from your sailing holidays
When traveling to the Greek islands, your options for air transportation are plentiful. Whether you want to fly into a major airport like Athens International Airport, or a smaller regional airport on the islands, you can easily find the right flight for your needs. Popular islands like Mykonos, Santorini, Crete, Corfu, and many others as well, have direct flights from major European cities, making your journey less time-consuming and stress-free. For those wanting additional luxurious, tailored service, there are plenty of yacht charter companies offering private transfers from airports to the nearby ports. This is the perfect way to move around the islands, giving you the opportunity to explore with a greater level of comfort and convenience.
The best places & specific destinations to visit during your sailing holidays in Greece
When it comes to exploring the Greek islands, there are several choices. The Cyclades, situated in the middle of the Aegean Sea, are renowned for their stunning beaches and crystal clear waters. Here, you’ll find some of the most popular islands such as Mykonos, Santorini, and other picturesque options like Folegandros, Milos, Paros, and Sifnos. Moving to the west of Greece, the Ionian Islands are an ideal playground for those looking for a more tranquil sailing trip; this archipelago features secluded bays where one can enjoy the peacefulness of nature. To the south-east of the Aegean Sea the Dodecanese Islands are a mix of vibrant culture and unspoiled nature. Finally, the Sporades, north of the Cyclades in the Aegean Sea, boast some incredible food and amazing scenery.
The Cyclades
The Cyclades are a stunning archipelago of islands that, as the name implies, form a circle, situated in the heart of the Aegean Sea, that display some of the world’s most exquisite beaches. From the crystal-clear waters of Mykonos to the volcanic shores of Santorini, you can find golden sand, turquoise lagoons, and a plethora of secluded coves. Whether you’re looking for an idyllic swimming spot or a safe anchorage to spend the night, the Cyclades are a perfect destination for those seeking an unforgettable holiday. With a number of beachfront restaurants, traditional tavernas, bars, and sun loungers, you can relax in style while taking in the stunning views of the sea.
The Ionian islands
The Ionian island complex is amongst the most popular destinations for a yacht holiday in Greece. From Zante to Corfu, these islands offer a plethora of breathtaking beaches and crystal clear waters – making them the perfect arena for anyone seeking to experience calm weather conditions and casual sailing, in an unparalleled natural setting. World-famous beaches, such as Navagio in Zante and Porto Katsiki on Lefkas island, have earned their reputation for good reason. The unique mix of turquoise waters and white sand beaches, framed by lush vegetation, renders them both breathtakingly beautiful. Whether you are looking to relax in the sun or wander around some of the most interesting sites, a yacht holiday in the Ionian Islands is sure to leave you with memories to last a lifetime.
The Dodecanese islands
A few miles away from the Turkish coast, the Dodecanese islands are a spectacular destination for a yacht holiday. From Rodos, the most popular island of the complex, to Simi, an idyllic hidden gem, the Dodecanese has something for everyone. Whether it’s a romantic escape, a family adventure or simply taking in the breathtaking sights of nature, the Dodecanese will appeal to travelers of all tastes. The islands are filled with culture and history, not to mention the delicious Mediterranean cuisine. With its easy access and plentiful activities, the Dodecanese is the perfect destination for a relaxing yacht holiday in Greece.
The Sporades
The Sporades are renowned for their peaceful atmosphere and stunning beauty. Here, you can experience the perfect island holiday. Enjoy calm waters, beautiful landscapes, and a relaxed pace of life. Whether you are looking for an adventurous sailing experience or just a leisurely cruise around the islands, the Sporades are an ideal destination. With its picturesque scenery, fascinating culture, and local cuisine, the Sporades offer a unique experience that is suitable for all types of travelers.
The Saronic islands of the Saronic Gulf
The Saronic islands are a popular yachting destination due to their proximity to Athens and the stunningly beautiful Greek islands this destination is made up of. As you sail through the Saronic waters, you will get to experience the charming and cosmopolitan island of Spetses as well as the tranquil island of Hydra, which was famously made popular by Leonard Cohen’s documentary, “Words of Love” that his life on Hydra island inspired.
The different types of sailing holidays in Greece
Greece offers a wealth of sailing holiday options to suit all kinds of travelers. “Skippered Charters” provide the convenience of having an experienced captain to run the boat while you supplement as crew for the skipper, with secondary tasks, and you deal with everything else – provisioning, cooking, cleaning, etc. For those looking for independence, wanting to be on their own, “Bareboat Charters” are the perfect solution, allowing you to explore on your own terms with full and complete responsibility. Thirdly, “Flotilla” Sailing holidays are a great alternative for the less experienced, social sailors who like the camaraderie of a group, as well as the added safety and convenience of sailing in a convoy following an experienced flotilla leader.
Crewed charter holidays
Further to the above three types of sailing holidays there is a fourth category that involves fully crewed yachts. These are mostly larger motor yachts, but also a few bigger sailing yachts, that beyond the necessary Captain also have a chef to prepare your meals, a steward or stewardess to provide hotelier sevices, a deckhand, an engineer and a host of amenities. A “Crewed Charter” in Greece is an ideal vacation for those not wanting to be involved in any aspect of running the boat and wish to have everything served on their plate. Naturally, this goes with an appropriate price tag. With a captain and crew to manage the vessel and take care of all the details, travelers can relax and enjoy their own personalized preferences while relaxing in the sun and admiring the breathtaking sights. Chartering a crewed yacht offers freedom and flexibility with an experienced captain and crew to ensure a safe and comfortable journey. Guests on a crewed yacht should take note that the crew is included in the charter fee of the yacht and every other expense (food & drink, fuel for the yacht, port fees, etc) goes on top, as with any charter; “plus all expenses” as we say in the business. Although costly, a Crewed Charter in Greece offers an unforgettable experience, on a totally different level, to those looking for a luxurious, hassle-free, hands-off voyage.
If you are interested in a Crewed Yacht Charter, please check out our crewed charter holiday options. With our experienced captains and attentive crew, treat yourself to the getaway of a lifetime!
Skippered charter holidays
With only a captain onboard – instead of an entire crew – skippered charter holidays are tailored for groups who may have some sailing experience but need the safety that an experienced skipper can offer. The skipper is in charge of running the boat, securing the safety of the vessel, looking after the boat when you are visiting on shore, and setting the course to fulfilling people’s reasonable requirements and ambitions. If you don’t need all the extra amenities that a fully crewed charter can offer or if you have a limited budget, then maybe choosing a skippered charter is the best option for you.
Bareboat charter holidays
Bareboat charter holidays in Greece are an ideal option for experienced sailors and solo travelers who want to explore the country’s stunningly beautiful coastline unrestricted. With the freedom of a bareboat charter, you can plan your itinerary and voyage at your own pace. There are more than 5,000 miles of coastline and thousands of islands to explore, so those who take the plunge into bareboat chartering will certainly be in for an adventure. The main advantage of a bareboat charter is the freedom and autonomy it provides – you can tailor your itinerary to suit your own preferences, and you don’t need to put up with other people outside of your group. On the other hand, bareboat charters require a degree of sailing experience and self-confidence, as well as good knowledge of the local navigation conditions. Because you’re responsible for your own safety, it’s important to be aware of potential risks and follow all safety regulations. Despite these added requirements, bareboat chartering in Greece is a fantastic way to explore the country’s enchanting coastline and get off the beaten track.
Take a look at the bareboat charter options that Vernicos Yachts has to offer!
Flotilla holidays
Flotilla holidays in Greece are becoming increasingly popular, with tourists flocking to the beautiful Mediterranean waters each year. A flotilla offers the chance to explore the stunning scenery, whilst also being part of a larger flotilla group. While this makes flotilla holidays a great choice for those looking to socialize and make new friends, it also means that flotilla travellers have limited autonomy in terms of where they can go and when – they have to follow a schedule. This may be a drawback for those hoping to explore the country independently, as flotilla holidays are heavily dependent on the group’s movements and decisions. Despite this, flotilla charters remain incredibly popular due to their affordability, ease of organization, and social environment.
How much does it cost to charter a yacht in Greece?
The cost of a week-long yacht charter depends on the type of vessel, season and duration. Generally speaking, prices can range from as little as €600 per person for a sailing yacht in the low season, to several thousand Euros for a luxury motorboat during high season. It’s also important to factor in all additional costs such as fuel, food and drink, as these can add up. Overall, chartering a yacht in Greece can be an affordable way to explore the islands and the coastline of the mainland but the best deals are often found during the low season. With careful planning and research, you can find a yacht charter that fits your budget and allows you to experience the beauties of Greece in the best possible way.
What is the best month to sail in Greece?
September is arguably the best month for yacht holidays in Greece. While it’s still warmer than many destinations outside of the Mediterranean, the crowds have thinned out significantly compared to the high season period. Plus, it’s still warm enough for swimming and sunbathing, making September the perfect time for a yacht charter holiday. May is also a great option, as there are fewer crowds and prices tend to be lower than in the summer months. Either way, you will experience all the natural beauty and culture that Greece has to offer. So make sure to plan your yacht charter holiday in advance, as this will help you get the best deal and ensure you have a trip to remember.
Our advice to enjoy the perfect yacht holidays in Greece
A yacht holiday is an experience that immerses you in the stunning beauty of this country while giving you a chance to explore Greece in a unique way. As you hop from one island to the next, you’ll be met with breathtaking landscapes and mesmerizing sunsets. From the whitewashed houses that adorn the coasts of its islands to the blue waters lapping against its shores, Greece is a place that provides its visitors with a sensory delight.
So why wait? Either with friends or your beloved ones, come and experience the beauty of Greece through a sailing holiday and create memories that will last a lifetime. At Vernicos Yachts we can provide you with the perfect boat for your sailing journey and we will be there every step of the way to make sure that you have an enjoyable and memorable experience.
Let us set sail together!
