Greece is one of the top countries in the world for yacht charters, and it’s easy to see why. With ideal weather, a long summer season, and countless picturesque islands, Greece is one of the best places in the world to be on a boat.
More specifically, there has been an increasing demand for catamaran charters, according to a report by yachting experts Riginos. According to the data, out of 2580 vessels up for charter in Greece, 740 of them were catamarans. The top areas for yacht availability in Greece are Athens (with Alimos and Lavrion as the main hubs) as well as Lefkada, Corfu, and Preveza on the Ionian islands. In 2023, many yachters were coming from Germany, France, England, Austria, and the US.
Yachting Licenses in Greece
According to Yachtico, an international yacht booking platform, there must be at least one skipper on board with a certification, as well as an experienced crew member above 18 years old. This doesn’t necessarily need to be you, but at least somebody on board should be able to anchor, to moor in varying weather conditions, to pilot, and to navigate. Both the skipper and the crew member should have a certification from a recognized sailing association. You can find the complete list of accepted certifications here.
Yachts and Racing in Greece
Many races go on in the Greek seas, and they are organized by the 134 sailing clubs operating in the country. You can find more information about these events on the website of the Hellenic Yachting Federation.
Yachts and the Meltemi Winds
If you choose to take your yacht to certain areas of the Aegean Sea, you can expect strong winds in the summertime, known as the “Meltemi.” They are dry and seasonal, and if you have ever been to the Cyclades (think Santorini, Mykonos, Paros, or Tinos), you’ve likely experienced this breeze – or you may have even been swept off your feet! In some parts of the country, the Meltemi winds can reach speeds of 100 kilometers per hour. If you are a sailor and familiar with the Beaufort scale, the Meltemi winds can reach 7-8 Beaufort.
Taking Advantage of the Meltemi Winds
The best way to enjoy the Meltemi winds is to be on the water. Even without sails, the wind is a great way to cool off in the strong summer sun. Conveniently, the wind tends to slow down in the nighttime, so will likely be able to eat dinner outside under the Aegean sunset. A few potential routes to consider are outlined here.
Where to Take a Yacht in Greece
Greece is full of charming harbors, fishing villages, and coves that are a paradise for yachts. Altogether, Greece has thousands of islands, and there are many to choose from based on the size of the boat and your favorite things to do when traveling. Below, we’ll cover just a few of the top destinations in Greece for taking a yacht.
Santorini
The big advantage of yachting in Santorini is that if you don’t go onto shore, you get to enjoy the beauty of the island without the crowds. If you do go ashore, it doesn’t take longer than forty minutes to get anywhere on the island, and taxis and car rentals are available. The best views of the sunset are easily accessible from the top of the caldera, but a sunset from the deck of your boat is much more private.
You should also consider the size of your boat. The marinas in Santorini don’t serve yachts that are over 25 meters, so in this case you will need to use an anchor.
Kefalonia
Kefalonia is the largest island in the Ionian group and is found west of the mainland. The high peaks and peaceful coves are the setting for Louis de Bernières’ novel Captain Corelli’s Mandolin, as well as the film which was named after it. Yachting in this area captures the imagination and it is an excellent starting point to see the rest of the Ionian islands.
Skopelos
Compared to some of the most popular islands in Greece, Skopelos is not a household name. It is however breathtakingly beautiful and is part of the Sporades archipelago in the Aegean Sea. The small island is full of lush pine trees, whitewashed houses, and turquoise waters. This is also where the film Mamma Mia was filmed, and this is the island’s claim to fame. The beauty of yachting in Skopelos is the island’s quiet, relaxed vibe. Stepping onshore to Skopelos Town, you will be greeted with terracotta roofs and bright bougainvillea flowers.
Corfu
Also known as “Kerkyra” or “The Grand Lady of the Ionian”, Corfu is a beautiful island in the Ionian Sea that offers history, culture, and natural scenery. It truly has it all, with quaint villages, ancient UNESCO Heritage sites, and foodie destinations. The beauty of yachting in Corfu is that you get to experience one of Greece’s most diverse islands from a unique perspective. You get access to a wealth of architectural, cultural, and gastronomic traditions which you won’t find elsewhere in Greece, while always having the option to retreat to your castle in the sea.
