Greece Yacht Charter: Top Sailing Destinations for Luxurious Holidays
Imagine yourself on an exclusive luxury yacht charter in Greece, gliding through the azure waters and savoring the delectable Mediterranean cuisine. From pristine emerald beaches to historic sites and picturesque islands, Greece offers a unique experience reserved for the discerning few.
In recent years, Greece has become an increasingly popular yacht destination, attracting sailors worldwide. Be it the sandy beaches, secluded anchorages, warm people, and vivid nightlife, this country offers it all. Whether you’re a yachting veteran or a complete newbie, the Aegean and Ionian Sea offer an unparalleled sailing experience.
Embarking on a yachting adventure in Greece is an experience of a lifetime. With a myriad of destinations to choose from, the possibilities are endless. In this article, we’ve handpicked our top recommendations and invaluable tips to help you craft an unforgettable itinerary. Let’s dive in!
1. Argosaronic Gulf
Just a breath away from Athens, the Argosaronic Gulf is your fastest escape to island life. With its small islands known for their peaceful ports and unspoiled anchorages, you’ll forget you’re only a short distance from the city bustle. Reliable winds and calm waters provide a smooth sailing experience for island hopping.
Start your journey from Aegina and the nearby Agkistri for a strong dose of authentic Greece. No polished hotels and fast food restaurants here, just local cuisine and genuine people. Visit the nearby Poros for its crystalline waters and lush greenery, and stop at Porto Cheli to admire the luxury mansions and fragrant olive oils.
The island of Spetses awaits you with its hidden coves and idyllic sunsets. Don’t leave Hydra out of your itinerary, or you’ll miss out on one of the most cosmopolitan islands in Greece, with fantastic architecture and no cars anywhere in sight!
2. Cyclades
The Cyclades, Greece’s most sought-after island complex, is a treasure trove of beauty and allure. Comprising 23 large islands and 200 smaller ones, also known as the Small Cyclades, it’s a paradise for discerning sailors. Influenced by the Meltemi winds blowing from the north from June to September, they offer a steady breeze for exhilarating sails.
Paros, Mykonos, Milos, and Santorini are renowned worldwide for their sparkling waters, traditional villages, and breathtaking landscapes. Standing like precious stones amidst the Aegean, they welcome thousands of visitors yearly for the best yacht charter in Greece. If you embark on a sailing vacation in the Cyclades, we recommend starting and ending your itinerary on one of these islands.
This will give you access to international flights and save time by avoiding the 5+ hour sail from Athens with a catamaran. Skip the hassle of anchoring in crowded ports and discover hidden gems like the Small Cyclades. Plus, avoid the upwind sail to the north and back to Athens, where winds may be unkind.
Don’t forget to explore less famous but equally beautiful islands like Ios, Sifnos, Amorgos, and Serifos. Golden sand beaches, volcanic landscapes, delectable cuisine, and vivid nightlife are bound to seduce you!
3. Ionian Islands
Following the Cyclades, the Ionian islands are the third most popular Greek complex, deeply routed in Italian influences. Located in the western part of Greece, they boast a rich culture, stunning architecture, and a long history from the Venetian occupation. Gentle winds and calm waters provide predictable sailing conditions, especially during summer.
A distinctive element of the Ionian islands is their lush vegetation and cobalt-blue beaches. Corfu, Zakynthos, Kefalonia, Paxoi, Ithaca, and Lefkada are the most popular destinations for a yacht tour in Greece (and rightfully so). Their tropical beaches resemble the Caribbean, offering an experience of a lifetime. Fishing villages in sweet pastel shapes, isolated picturesque coves, hospitable residents, and mouth-watering traditional dishes will remain etched in your memory forever.
If you start your luxury yacht rental in Greece from here, make sure you early-book, as fleets tend to sell out. We recommend beginning and ending your yacht charter from Lefkada, Corfu, or nearby Preveza, offering international flights. Don’t forget to set anchorage to less known islands in the Ionian Sea, such as Antipaxoi, Meganisi, Atokos, and Erikoussa, for relaxed holidays away from the crowds.
4. Dodecanese Islands
The Dodecanese islands are located on the south-eastern side of Greece, between the Cyclades and the coasts of Turkey. Distinguished for their Medieval architecture, sandy beaches, and emerald waters, they’re a timeless destination for yacht charters in Greece.
Like most islands in the Aegean, they experience the Meltemi winds for exciting sailing with plenty of sheltered spots and calm bays. The most popular Dodecanese islands are Rhodes and Kos, featuring numerous archaeological sites and cosmopolitan vibes. Karpathos has also become famous for its untouched beauty and centuries-old traditions.
At the same time, Kalymnos is developing a reputation as a rock-climbing destination and an oasis for sponge divers. Leros offers a plethora of diving options, perfect for exploring shipwrecks dating back to World War II. Patmos is also famous for its spiritual character, attracting religious tourism. Don’t skip visiting the gorgeous Astypalaia, Kassos, Nisyros, and Halki for a colorful tapestry of civilization.
5. Sporades
Sporades are located between the Greek mainland and the Greek islands of the north-eastern Aegean, almost in the center of the Aegean Sea. Four islands of unrivaled beauty, abundant entertainment options, and jaw-dropping nature will be a feast of emotions. The islands benefit from the prevailing Meltemi winds during summer, providing a reliable Greece yacht charter.
The most popular island is Skiathos, which mainly attracts younger audiences with its lively atmosphere. Skopelos, the renowned Mamma Mia island, is also a favorite among tourists and locals for its lush flora, hidden coves, and azure seas. Alonnisos is mainly preferred by families for leisurely cruises beneath the pine forests. For those on the hunt for hidden gems, Skyros will draw you in with its secluded beaches, lilliputian ponies, and lobsters!
During your all-inclusive yacht charter in the Sporades, you will likely find more bareboat than crewed vessels. You can start your journey from Athens and disembark on your favorite island or hop from one island to another for a dynamic sailing itinerary.
Embark on Your Yacht Tour in Greece
Dreaming of world-class beaches, legendary cuisine, and endless Mediterranean vibes? Greece is the destination for yacht charter aficionados. From the tranquil seas of the Argosaronic Gulf to the iconic Cyclades amidst the deep blue Aegean, there’s something for every taste.
For a luxurious yacht rental in Greece, consider catamarans during the summer (June to September) for optimal sailing conditions. While island hopping over long distances may be limited, you’ll enjoy smoother sailing and cost-effective fuel.
Opting for a motorboat offers more island exploration, though weather challenges and higher fuel costs for longer distances are factors to consider. Explore diverse clusters sailing from the Cyclades to the Dodecanese and back to the Sporades.
Planning your dream yacht escape without professional help can be tricky. At G2G Yachting, we’re here to make your Greece yacht charter a breeze with expert tips and customized itineraries. Talk to our agents today and let your yacht tour in Greece in expert hands!
Writer: Anna Skyfta
