The Best Greek Yacht Charter Guide for 2025-2026
Soak up the Greek Island Charm of the Cyclades, Saronic Gulf, and the Ionian Sea on a Luxury Yacht or Catamaran Charter in Greece for 2025 and 2026
About Greece | Greece Crewed Motor Yachts | Greece Crewed Sailing Yachts | Best Greece Crewed Catamarans | Greece Bareboat Catamarans | Greece Bareboat Sailing Boats | Key Greek Charter Destinations | Sustainable Chartering in Greece | Getting to Greece | Greece Climate | Greek Cuisine | Cyclades Islands Itinerary | Ionian Islands Itinerary| Saronic Gulf Itinerary
A luxury yacht charter is the perfect way to experience the unmatched beauty and hospitality of Greece. Cruise across these stunning waters onboard a crewed motor yacht, a catamaran, or a sailing boat and enjoy the alluringly authentic balance between modern indulgence, and classical culture in the Greek islands.
Everything about your luxury charter in Greece will exceed expectations as you discover the hidden treasures that abound across the Cyclades, Saronic Gulf, Ionian Islands, and Dodecanese, above and below the waterline. Offering a unique blend of stylish hillside resorts and rustic tavernas fringed by olive groves, Greece is the ideal destination to venture out on a luxury yacht, and our Boatbookings Charter Experts can help you plan the perfect itinerary.
There is truly something for everyone on a luxury yacht charter in Greece, with the glamorous restaurant scenes of Mykonos and Santorini in the Cyclades Islands, the authentic islands of Hydra and Spetses in the Saronic Gulf, perfect for some romantic escapism, and the islands of Zakynthos and Kefalonia in the Ionian Islands which are simply ideal for families. Whether you want to plan the perfect celebratory birthday trip, swing at anchor in a paradisal bay and explore the surrounding area on water toys and tenders, or venture onto the islands to discover their secrets, there is nowhere quite like Greece.
Cruising the Greek Islands by private yacht or catamaran is the best way to truly embrace their charms. Our Charter Experts will tailor your itinerary to meet your party's needs. So whether you select a crewed motor yacht, a crewed catamaran, or a bareboat sailing boat, you will experience a vacation like no other sailing the stunning waters of Greece.
Our Top Greek Charter Yachts and Catamarans for 2025 and 2026
An Introduction to Chartering in Greece
The majority of Greek luxury yacht and catamaran charters begin in Athens. The city is a must-visit on any trip to Greece because of fascinating historical sites like the Acropolis, and Syntagma Square, and because Athens has been the hub of maritime activity in Greece for centuries, it is the perfect place to embark upon your crewed motor yacht, bareboat sailboat, or catamaran. Once onboard, it is time to embrace the island-hopping lifestyle as you cruise through turquoise waters from one idyllic town of white-washed houses and fishing boats to the next.
On your next charter, you can explore the islands of Greece and discover the fantastic secrets hidden in every region from the every-popular Saronic Gulf and the Cyclades to the more remote regions like the Dodecanese. There is something for everyone in Greece, and a luxury yacht charter is the best way to take advantage of your time in the islands. Our Boatbookings Charter Experts have years of experience organizing unforgettable charter vacations and have some insider tips like recommending charters around the Ionian Islands of Kefalonia, Zakynthos, and Ithaki during the summer high season to avoid the crowds and Meltemi winds. For more information regarding the weather in Greece, please read our Greece weather guide, or keep reading to discover your perfect Greek charter vacation below!
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Greek Crewed Motor Yacht Charters
One key advantage to chartering a crewed motor yacht is speed. You will be able to cover larger distances between islands significantly faster than you would onboard a sailing yacht or catamaran, giving you time to do everything you want to while on charter. With large alfresco dining areas, sunbathing spaces, and a plethora of water toys, a Greek crewed motor yacht is the boat of choice whether it is spring, summer, or autumn.
Additionally, renting a crewed motor yacht in Greece provides guests with endless possibilities to enjoy the country's most spectacular anchorages and natural bays. From Navaggio beach on Zakynthos in the Ionian Islands to the buzzing beach clubs of Mykonos in the Cyclades, and the secluded anchorages of the Saronic Gulf, there is something for everyone in Greece.
Crewed Catamaran Charters in Greece
A Greek crewed catamaran is the most comfortable and stable way to cruise Greece's waters, and in particular, crewed catamaran charters in the Ionian islands are growing more popular each year. Featuring sets of double cabins, they are perfect for couples or friends sharing the cost. Catamarans are the perfect platform to host friends and family for gourmet alfresco meals designed around all your dietary requirements and prepared by the yacht's private chef.
Embark in Athens and sail into the Saronic Gulf or the Cyclades islands, depending on the weather conditions. Once you are underway, take advantage of the beautiful and expansive deck spaces to relax and soak up the Mediterranean sun while on your Greek crewed catamaran.
With the fantastic variety of yachts available in Greece, including a range of superb Sunreef sailing catamarans, the latest Fountaine Pajot crewed catamarans, and the most experienced Lagoon catamarans in Greece, you will have the most unforgettable Greek sailing experience. Our Boatbookings Charter Experts and your local crew know the islands inside out and will ensure your itinerary is tailor-made and offers five-star service.
Crewed Sailing Yacht Charters in Greece
With six thousand islands and more than 16,000km of coastline, the Greek archipelago is one of the most sought-after sailing destinations in the world and the perfect destination to charter one of our crewed sailing yachts. With tranquil anchorages available all over the Ionian Sea and Saronic Gulf you can relax and enjoy the summer sun while swimming in turquoise waters. Alternatively, in the Cyclades, the Meltemi winds create exhilarating summer sailing conditions for those looking to stretch some canvas. There is something for everyone here in the Islands of Greece and exploring them on a luxury sailing yacht should be on everyone's bucket list.
A crewed sailing yacht in Greece is one of the best ways to experience a Greek sailing yacht charter itinerary with fantastic service, and gourmet food designed around your preferences. With so much to discover, these enchanting islands will have you returning year after year. Whether you are looking for a Hanse sailing boat, a classic Nautor`s Swan, or a Perini Navi luxury sailing yacht, our Boatbookings Charter Experts will find the best sailing yachts that meet your requirements.
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Greek Bareboat Catamarans
Discover Greece onboard your own private bareboat catamaran and explore some of the most incredible sailing grounds in the world. Offering the newest and most varied fleet of catamaran boats in the Mediterranean, Greece has a catamaran for every sailor. There is no better way to freely travel these waters. The freedom chartering or renting a bareboat catamaran in Greece offers, will have you returning over and over to explore new sets of islands.
For first-time guests looking for relaxed sailing, the picturesque islands of the Saronic Gulf are perfect for you. Alternatively, if you are tempted by quieter anchorages and want to avoid the windy weather in the summertime, the Ionian Islands are the most suitable option. For more experienced sailors who can handle heavier winds, the Cyclades Islands are calling your name, with the Meltemi Winds making them a more difficult area to sail.
Boatbookings has access to the latest Lagoon bareboat catamarans in Greece and popular Fountaine Pajot catamarans that are perfect for a relaxed charter. See our range of Greek Island itineraries for inspiration and feel free to reach out to our Boatbookings Charter Experts in order to discover the most suitable yachts for your next luxurious Greek getaway.
Greek Bareboat Sailing Yachts
Greece is the ultimate bareboat sailboat destination for both first-time and seasoned sailors. With its variety of different island groups, each with its own unique personality - Greece can provide something for everyone to enjoy and a bareboat yacht charter gives you the freedom to decide what you do. Boatbookings has a selection of the ever-popular Jeanneau, Hanse, and Dufour bareboat sailboats available for charter, and can help you find the perfect match for all your needs.
Not quite ready to skipper the yacht yourself? No problem! Our Boatbookings Charter Experts can help arrange a skipper or arrange for a hostess on your charter. They will be on hand to guide you through the many islands that Greece has to offer, showing you the best-kept secrets that only locals know about.
Getting to Greece & to Your Boat
The best yachts for charter in Greece are based in Athens, which has world-class marinas and all the amenities you could need. To get to Athens, you can fly into Athens International Airport Eleftherios Venizelos.
From the majority of Europe, Athens is extremely accessible. Direct flights from most major cities are available throughout the year, making it amazingly easy to charter here.
From the United States of America, there are direct flights from New York JFK, Philadelphia, and Washington DC in the summer season or connecting flights from European cities, depending on your airline.
If you are traveling from Canada, there are many direct flights from the likes of Toronto and Montréal, or, as with flights from the USA, change at a European airport.
Once you arrive at the airport, it is a simple matter of taking a taxi to the port where you can embark upon your luxury charter vacation.
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Key Charter Destinations in Greece
The Saronic Islands Yacht Charter
The Saronic Islands, comprising Agistri, Aegina, Spetses, Hydra, Poros, Salamina, and the peninsula of Methana are a wonderful region all year round for a luxury yacht charter due to its sheltered location and breathtaking natural beauty. Located just 12 nautical miles from Athens, The Saronic Gulf is a postcard-pretty and understated group of islands that has so much to offer every visitor including natural anchorages for swimming and water sports, ancient ruins, and historic towns, boutique shops, bars, and gourmet restaurants.
If you are concerned that there is not enough to do, the island of Hydra has many bars, there is a Nikki Beach in Porto Heli and the historic town of Nafplio has a variety of late-night bars to keep everyone entertained. Our Saronic crewed motor yacht itinerary and crewed catamaran itinerary will give you a greater understanding of all the opportunities on offer. Both of these itineraries can also accommodate a Greece bareboat charter rental.
Saronic Islands Yachts Saronic Gulf Charter Guide
The Cyclades Islands Yacht Charter
The Cyclades are the most famous and popular island chain in Greece. There are only 24 inhabited islands that have become a magnet for sailors all over the world. The most famous and popular islands within the Cyclades are Delos, Mykonos, Naxos, Paros, Santorini, and Sifnos, all with their own identity and diversity to offer an unforgettable Greek yacht charter vacation. For fun-filled vacations, there is no better island than Mykonos which has a plethora of beach clubs, bars, and restaurants to cater to your every wish. Enjoy long lunches at Nammos and Scorpios Mykonos before dinner at Nobu and dance the night away at Cavo Paradiso.
Cyclades Islands Yachts Cyclades Itinerary
The Ionian Islands Yacht Charter
The Ionian Islands can be found in the cool deep waters off the west coast of Greece. These 12 islands and islets offer authenticity, a bohemian buzz, and charming villages. Corfu, Lefkada, Kefalonia, Zakynthos, Ithaca, and Paxi are the six large Ionian Islands and Antipaxi, Erikousa, Mathraki, Othoni, Meganisi and the deserted islets of Strofades south of Zakynthos make up the rest. In Zakynthos, the Blue Caves and Shipwreck Beach are worthwhile visits, where a rusting liner leans into the chalky cliffs creating a dramatic and impressive view.
Ionian Islands Yachts Ionian Islands Guide
The Sporades Islands Yacht Charter
The Sporades Islands lie on the eastern coast of mainland Greece and consist of 11 islands of which only 4 are inhabited: Skiathos, now known by many for this is where the worldwide acclaimed feature Mamma Mia was set, Skopelos, Alonnisos, and Skyros. These idyllic islands are a fertile and green archipelago known as the Emerald of the Aegean. They differ from the other islands in Greece, with pine-forested mountains sloping down to idyllic beaches and clear blue-green Mediterranean waters. These beautiful islands present the opportunity for a simple and slower way of life, so you can truly unwind and enjoy a therapeutic holiday in the sunshine while on charter.
Sporades Islands Yachts Sporades Islands Guide
Dodecanese Islands Yacht Charter
Travel back through time as you sail the Dodecanese Islands. You can expect to find stunning beaches, traditional Greek towns, imposing monuments, and typically excellent Greek gastronomy. These islands have a fascinating history and
Located in the south-east of the Aegean Sea, just off the Turkish coast, Astypalea, Leros, Lipsi, Nisyros, Kalymnos, Karpathos, Kastellorizo, Kos, Patmos, Rhodes, and Tilos are just a few that make up this beautiful island group. Rhodes, for instance, has reinvented itself with hilltop castles, emerald coves, and powdery, golden beaches, and be sure to head to Mavikros restaurant for the unrivaled view!
Dodecanese Islands yachts Dodecanese Yacht Guide
Climate in Greece
The Greek Islands tend to have a "Dry Mediterranean" climate, which makes them perfect for chartering during the non-winter months - from April to October. The weather in the islands is almost always sunny and dry during the summer, with the temperature hot during the day and pleasantly warm at night. Winters are chilly and wet and therefore make chartering less appealing, but summer in Greece lasts longer than in the likes of France and Italy, extending the charter and sailing season and allowing you more time to sail!
The Etesian winds generally blow from May to October but can be quite strong in July and August, particularly in the Cyclades islands. Please read the information about wind in each region below and discuss your Greek yachting itinerary with one of our Boatbookings experts when organizing and booking your Greece charter. To find out more localised weather information take a look at our weather page.
Regional Sailing Conditions:
The Cyclades- The ideal time to charter a yacht in the Cyclades Islands is June through mid-July. By the end of July and August, however, the ‘Meltemi’ wind that blows from the north, and northwest can reach Force 5-6 and even on occasion Force 7-8.
The Ionian Islands- The wind and sailing conditions in the Ionian Sea are steady and predictable which makes it fun for sailors of all abilities. Winds normally start to build around midday but drop off towards sunset – perfect for sailing to your evening destination! The mornings can be spent snorkeling and enjoying the pristine waters. From May to September, the wind tends to blow from the northwest at Force 2-5. In spring and autumn, the wind is less strong and blows usually from the southwest.
The Dodecanese- During the summer, the prevailing wind is the ‘Meltemi’, which blows from the northwest. It blows erratically through July and August but regular winds between force 4 and 6 can be expected in between these months. In the spring and autumn, the wind is usually between force 2-4 and blows from the southeast.
Sporades- The summer months in the Sporades are dry and warm. The prevailing wind in the summer is the ‘Meltemi’ (force 3-4) which provides fantastic sailing conditions but if you visit later in the season, look out for the ‘Sirrocco’, a southerly wind that blows every few weeks in the early and late season.
The Saronic, Argolic, & Eastern Coast of the Peloponnesian Gulf- A very well-protected cruising area making it fantastic for first-time charterers. There are mild winds, usually from the north to the northeast that average Force 3-4, as it is predominately sheltered from the strong Meltemi wind that affects most of the other Island groups in Greece. This sheltered location and its proximity to Athens makes it a brilliant sailing destination.
In the Argolic Gulf around Hydra Island, the wind blows mainly from the southeast. The Meltemi wind can be strong in the afternoon, but otherwise, it is normally calm. The Katabatic wind also affects the region coming off the mountaintops of the Peloponnese though very rarely reaching higher than Force 5 and blowing for short periods. The average temperature from June to September in this region is 25-34°C (77-93 °F) but in May and October, the weather is a little bit cooler.
Greek Cuisine
The specialty foods of Greece are world-famous for a reason! Simple yet delicious, these traditional meals are prepared with fresh local ingredients like olive oil, fish, and excellent wines. While dishes vary from region to region, you can taste them all while on board your next Greek luxury yacht charter.
Discover these iconic dishes at a local restaurant or ask your charter's private chef to prepare them for you and your party:
- Tzatziki.
- Greek Feta Salads.
- Gyros (Greek equivalent to a kebab. Thick pita bread with Taziki, salad, chips, meat, and sometimes with halloumi. €2-4).
- Fresh Octopus.
- Crispy Deep-Fried Aubergines (Eggplant) and Courgette (Zucchini).
- Saganaki (Similar to Halloumi).
- Grilled Fresh Fish caught locally that morning.
- Moussaka.
- Olives.
- Sweet Baklava.
- Souvlaki.
Certain islands, like Sifnos, are renowned for their fabulous cuisine, so tuck into golden Calamari, a meze platter, or local almond biscuits. But when in Athens, be sure that you dine at Kuzina, our Boatbookings Charter Expert's favorite gourmet restaurant. The food is delectable and it has an unforgettable view of the Acropolis. If you are looking to discover more fantastic restaurants throughout Greece, check out our Recommended Restaurants Page.
Sustainable Sailing in Greece
Sustainability is increasingly important in the Greek Yachting Industry. With chartering a yacht in these stunning waters becoming more popular year after year, the Ionian Environment Foundation along with a group of concerned captains, and charter companies came together to protect the fragile environment and seagrasses. Together they have created Sustainable Sailing Greece, an initiative centered around educating the yachting and tourism industries of Greece about the degradation of marine biodiversity and habitats they cause.
In particular, Sustainable Sailing Greece focuses on educating people about protecting the region's vital Posidonia seagrass meadows. They encourage yachts to avoid anchoring in the grass beds, and instead, they make sure the anchor and chair rest entirely in sand and mud beds to protect the grasses. This has the added benefit of helping ensure that your yacht doesn't drift or drag anchor across the grasses. They also distribute a Sustainable Sailing Pack with information and guides to sustainable yachting and tourism practices, making it easier than ever to stay informed. Our Boatbookings Charter Experts know all the ins and outs of chartering in Greece and can help you plan the perfect sustainable charter vacation!
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Other Greece Charter Destinations: Athens | Cyclades Islands | Ionian Islands | Saronic Islands | Sporades Islands | Dodecanese Islands
