Yacht Charter Greece
Greece is one of the world's top sailing destinations...
...offering an unparalleled combination of stunning landscapes, crystal-clear waters, and thousands of islands waiting to be explored.
Whether you're looking for an affordable yacht charter in Greece, a family-friendly sailing holiday in the Ionian Sea, or a private catamaran charter for couples in the Cyclades, the Greek seas provide the perfect backdrop for unforgettable adventures.
From the tranquil bays of the Ionian to the wind-swept Cyclades, every corner of Greece offers something unique.
It's not just a sailing trip;
it's an odyssey through unparalleled beauty and culture.
And of course, there's the gastronomy — a celebration of longevity and taste.
★ See Life Aboard a Catamaran in the Greek Islands
Curious to see what life aboard a catamaran really looks like?
Watch and immerse yourself in the everyday adventure of sailing through the Greek islands.
★ Types of Yachts for Charter
Monohull, Catamaran, or Motor Yacht:
Upwind Performance, Comfort, or Stability - Which Do You Prefer?
⚫ Monohull Sailing Yachts
Ideal for those who enjoy the authentic sailing experience.
These yachts rely primarily on wind power, offering a more eco-friendly and quiet way to explore the Greek islands.
They're perfect for those who want to feel the wind and waves while navigating through Greece's scenic waters.
⚫ Sailing Catamarans
Known for their stability and spaciousness, catamarans are ideal for families or groups.
With two hulls, they offer more deck space, multiple cabins, and a smoother sailing experience, especially in rougher seas.
Catamarans are a great choice for comfort and relaxation while island-hopping.
⚫ Motor Yachts
For those seeking luxury and speed, motor yachts offer the quickest way to travel between islands.
These yachts combine performance with comfort, providing spacious interiors, luxurious amenities, and the power to cover longer distances in less time.
Each yacht type caters to different sailing styles and needs, allowing you to choose the one that best fits your vacation plans in Greece.
★ Popular Sailing Destinations in Greece
Greece offers some of the most stunning sailing destinations in the world, each with its own unique charm.
Here are the most popular Greek islands regions for sailing holidays:
⚫ Saronic Gulf
Aegina, with its ancient Temple of Aphaia, Poros, known for its lush pine forests and neoclassical charm, Hydra, the car-free island loved by artists, and many more serene escapes, make up the idyllic Saronic Gulf islands, just a short sail from Athens.
Its calm seas make it perfect for beginners and families.
Why the Saronic Gulf?
- Its proximity to Athens makes it a convenient option for shorter trips.
- The sheltered waters are perfect for less experienced sailors, and the islands offer a mix of history, culture, and natural beauty without the need for long passages.
➡️ Book Your Saronic Yacht from Kavas Yachting's Alimos Marina Base
⚫ CYCLADES
Santorini, with its iconic sunsets and volcanic landscape, Mykonos, the cosmopolitan island known for its vibrant nightlife, Milos, famed for its otherworldly beaches and the Venus de Milo, Delos, the sacred birthplace of Apollo, and many more sun-drenched islands form the heart of the Cyclades.
Expect strong winds, making it a thrilling option for experienced sailors.
The mix of lively nightlife and serene beaches provides something for everyone.
Why the Cyclades?
If you're looking for adventure and breathtaking scenery, the Cyclades are a must.
- The famous Meltemi winds offer challenging sailing conditions, ideal for seasoned sailors.
- The vibrant mix of cosmopolitan destinations and quiet, traditional villages gives you the best of both worlds.
➡️ Book Your Cyclades Yacht from Kavas Yachting's Alimos Marina Base
⚫ IONIAN SEA
Corfu, the island of the Venetians and British influence, Zakynthos with its famous Shipwreck Beach, Ithaca, home of Odysseus (Read more about Odysseus' journey here), and many other hidden gems make up this stunning archipelago.
This region is perfect for relaxed, family-friendly sailing, with beautiful bays, clear waters, and safe anchorages.
The gentle winds make it suitable for sailors of all levels.
Why the Ionian Sea?
- The Ionian islands are a haven for nature lovers and those seeking peace on the water.
- The gentle breezes and short distances between islands create a stress-free sailing experience, perfect for families and those looking for a slower pace.
➡️ Book Your Ionian Yacht from Kavas Yachting's Lefkada Marina Base
⚫ DODECANESE
Rhodes, the island of the Knights, Patmos where John wrote the Apocalypse, Kos home of Hippocrates and many more less familiar consist this group of islands.
You'll discover medieval castles, charming harbors, and a mix of Greek and Eastern influences.
The moderate winds and sheltered bays make this an enjoyable sailing region.
Why the Dodecanese?
- For sailors who love combining culture and history with their sailing adventures, the Dodecanese offers a unique blend of influences.
- The calm seas and steady winds provide an excellent balance between adventure and comfort.
➡️ Book Your Dodecanese Yacht from KAVAS YACHTING, Kos marina base
⚫ Sporades
Less crowded but equally beautiful, the Sporades islands are known for their pristine beaches and forested landscapes.
Skiathos, Skopelos, and Alonissos offer a more tranquil sailing experience, with crystal-clear waters and abundant marine life, perfect for those seeking peace and nature.
Why the Sporades?
- The Sporades are ideal for sailors who want to escape the crowds and enjoy unspoiled nature.
- The clear waters and serene anchorages make it a perfect destination for relaxation and a closer connection to Greece's natural beauty.
★ Pricing for Yacht Charter and Mooring in Greece
⚫ Yacht Charter Prices
When chartering a yacht in Greece (bareboat charter), several factors influence the price, including the type of yacht (monohull or catamaran):
- the size
- the age of the vessel
- the season (low - high).
For instance, prices for a one-week charter of a monohull or catamaran typically range between €12,200 and €2,200 per week, depending on these factors.
Catamarans are generally more expensive than monohulls due to their larger size and increased comfort.
Note: The prices shown in the image represent the general average rates across the KAVAS YACHTING fleet.
⚫ Extras
Naturally, the need for extra services raises the cost of the boat, such us:
- Skipper: € 1330 per week, plus food
- Hostess: € 1190 per week, plus food
- Mobile internet: € 80, per booking
- Rail (safety) net, junior life jackets: € 250 per booking
- Outboard: € 80, per week
- Stand up paddle (SUP): € 130, per week
- Air condition: € 130, per booking (requires the use of the yacht's generator.)
⚫ Hot Deals
But you can bring the cost of your sailing vacations even lower, as long as you keep an eye out for deals and offers.
Such cases where boat rental prices dip are the following:
• One Way offers: This is the combination of a holiday with a boat transfer to a destination.
For example, you take the boat to Lefkada Greece and deliver it to Corfu 1 week later.
• Last minute: You can take advantage of the chartering of boats just canceled by others.
In addition, we offer exclusive benefits to our loyal clients:
- Silver Clients: If you've booked a yacht with us before, you are entitled to a 50% discount on the security deposit for your next charter.
- Gold Clients: If you've chartered a yacht at least three times before, you can benefit from a flat €500 payment for the security deposit.
If you want to be the first to know about Hot Deals, you can register your email in our mailing list (see in the right side of this page).
⚫ Public Port Mooring Fees
Unlike marinas, public ports in Greece offer more budget-friendly options.
Mooring fees for yachts vary depending on the size of the vessel and the location.
For example:
Smaller towns and islands:
Many smaller harbors may offer free mooring, with minimal charges for water and electricity.
In some cases, electricity and water cost around €5 per day.
Typical costs:
In ports like Naxos and Rhodes, mooring fees are typically between €6 and €15 per night, including water and electricity
Cost per meter
In many places, the fee is calculated by the length of the vessel. For instance, in Syros, the rate is around €0.47 per meter per day, plus VAT, with additional costs for utilities such as water and power.
This pricing provides a more affordable alternative for those looking to moor in public ports, especially compared to the higher fees associated with private marinas.
★ Weather conditions in the Greek Seas
Greece has a Mediterranean climate, offering ideal sailing conditions for much of the year.
Here's an overview of the weather patterns and what sailors can expect in the two major seas surrounding Greece — the Ionian Sea to the west and the Aegean Sea to the east.
⚫ Temperature
In both the Ionian and Aegean Seas, temperatures begin rising in the spring, starting from around 15°C (59°F) and peaking in July and August, when they can reach up to 31°C (88°F).
By October, the temperature typically cools down to around 23°C (73°F).
During the height of summer, the Aegean benefits from the Meltemi winds, which provide a cooling effect throughout the islands.
These strong northerly winds can make the actual feel of the temperature a few degrees cooler than the mainland.
For example, while the temperature might reach 31°C, the perceived temperature due to the Meltemi can feel like 26-28°C (79-82°F), offering significant relief from the summer heat.
⚫ Rainfall
Rain is scarce in the Greek seas during the sailing season.
In spring and autumn, there is occasional rainfall, especially in the Ionian Sea and along the western coast of Greece.
However, during the summer months, the chances of rain are almost nonexistent, ensuring clear skies and perfect sailing conditions.
⚫ Wind
The wind conditions vary significantly between the regions, making each sea suitable for different types of sailors:
★ Gentle Winds for Relaxed Sailing
Ionian Sea & Saronic Gulf: Known for their mild winds, these areas are perfect for those looking for a calm and relaxed sailing experience.
The winds in Ionian are generally light, ranging from 2-4 Beaufort, making these areas ideal for families and beginners.
★ Strong Winds for Adventure Seekers
Aegean Sea: The Aegean is home to the famous Meltemi winds, which blow steadily from the north during the summer months, often reaching 6-7 Beaufort.
The Aegean stronger winds provide more challenging conditions, ideal for experienced sailors looking for a more dynamic and adventurous sailing experience.
Whether you're seeking a peaceful, leisurely sail or a more sporty, wind-driven challenge, Greece offers a variety of sailing experiences suited to all preferences.
★ Legislation and Chartering in Greece
Chartering a yacht in Greece involves specific legal requirements that sailors must be aware of, particularly if you're opting for a bareboat charter.
Greece requires that at least one member of the crew hold an official sailing license or certification, recognized by Greek authorities, while a second crew member should have basic sailing experience.
When chartering a bareboat yacht, sailors are also required to carry the proper documentation, such as the crew list, the yacht's registration, insurance papers, and proof of competence.
Local port authorities may request these documents at any port during your journey.
For a comprehensive guide to legislation and all the steps involved in bareboat yacht charters, you can visit Kavas Bareboat Yacht Charters.
This page provides detailed information about the documentation needed, insurance policies, and other legal aspects of sailing in Greece.
★ Popular Activities While Sailing in Greece
Exploring the Greek islands by sail offers more than just the thrill of navigating through crystal-clear waters.
The islands are brimming with activities that make every stop a memorable experience.
Here are some of the most popular things to do while sailing in Greece:
⚫ Stand-Up Paddleboarding Experiences in the Greek Islands
Take your sailing holiday to the next level with our exclusive SUP Cruise experiences.
In partnership with SUP Cruise, we offer an all-inclusive stand-up paddleboarding experience across the beautiful Greek islands:
- Guided stand-up paddleboarding tours at breathtaking locations in the Greek islands.
- Explore hidden bays and paddle through crystal-clear waters.
- Discover untouched coastlines that are accessible only by boat.
- Perfect for all skill levels, with experienced guides ensuring a safe, enjoyable experience.
- Pricing starts at just €2200 per person for a double cabin.
- Special group rates available for families and friends.
- And of course, endless blue sea, joy, and laughter await you!
Inclusions:
- One meal per day, with all-day snacks and drinks.
- A personal SUP, just for you.
- Guided SUP tours exploring hidden bays, crystal-clear waters, and secluded coastlines accessible only by boat.
- A dedicated crew of three: a skipper, a SUP instructor/guide, and a cook.
Add this unique experience to your Greek sailing holiday, and make memories you won't forget!
Contact us at our Alimos base to book your adventure and secure your place on this unforgettable journey.
⚫ Diving and Snorkeling
Greece offers an incredible range of diving experiences, from recreational dives to historical explorations
- Recreational Diving & Spearfishing:
Enjoy crystal-clear waters and vibrant marine life, ideal for both casual diving and spearfishing. - Introductory Diving:
If you've always wanted to try diving, Greece offers ideal conditions for beginners to explore shallow reefs and colorful marine life. - Ancient Shipwrecks:
Explore ancient shipwrecks like the Dokos Shipwreck (2200 BC), one of the world's oldest, offering a dive into Greece's maritime history. - WWII Wrecks:
Dive into history with wrecks like the HMS Perseus, a British submarine from WWII near Kefalonia.
For more information or to connect with diving schools that can enhance your experience, contact Kavas Yachting.
We'll help you find the best options for your underwater adventure.
⚫ Museums
Visiting Greece's museums is a must for anyone who wants to truly understand the country's rich cultural heritage.
Don'miss the chance to explore these remarkable collections and gain deeper insight into the stories that have shaped this land.
Greek museums offer a rich exploration of the country's history, from the ancient civilizations of the Cyclades (3200 – 1050 BCE), Mycenae (1600 – 1100 BCE), and Minoan Crete (2700 – 1450 BCE) to the grandeur of Classical Greece (800 BCE – 300 CE) and the Roman era (146 BCE – 330 CE).
Visitors can also discover the Byzantine Empire's religious art (330 – 1453 CE), traditional folk life from the 18th to 20th centuries, and Greece's modern history, including its struggle for independence (1821 – 1830 CE).
Each museum provides a unique window into the various periods and cultures that have shaped Greece, offering a comprehensive look at its enduring legacy.
Before setting sail, research the museums on the islands you're visiting to uncover the unique stories and artifacts that bring these islands' pasts to life.
⚫ Festivals
Feasts and festivals are typical of the Greek summer.
The character of these events can be either cultural or religious.
If your visit coincides with such an event, you are likely to see locals perform traditional dances in costumes, taste local delicacies and wine, or catch a concert by a famous Greek artist, among other surprises.
⚫ Ancient Greek Theater
Watching an Ancient Greek theatre performance isn't just about entertainment...
...It's a chance to connect with timeless ideas like fate, justice, and human nature, in the same setting where these stories were first told.
You'll experience the roots of Western culture and philosophy in a way that will leave you reflecting long after the final act.
Every summer, at the Greek Ancient Theaters, the famous works Oedipus Rex, Antigone, Medea etc by Sophocles, Euripides, Aristophanes, and others are revived, bringing ancient drama to life once again.
⚫ Open Air cinema
Watching a movie at an outdoor cinema in Greece is a special summer ritual.
Under the stars, you'll experience a film in a laid-back setting that perfectly captures the charm of Greek evenings.
It's a unique blend of culture and atmosphere you shouldn't miss.
Learn more about Greece's unique traditions here.
You will find one or more summer cinemas on almost every Greek island.
As a rule, we do not compile films into the local language, so you will not have trouble watching them.
The screening of the film begins at 9 pm when the darkness has fallen.
It's a good idea to dine a little earlier, watch the movie and then go out for a drink.
⚫ Visits to Winery
It would be quite an experience to visit one of the many Greek Wineries scattered on our islands as small production units.
The wineries usually offer local cheeses and cold cuts at tastings.
★ GREEK CUISINE
During your holidays in the Greek Islands, you will have the opportunity to try the so-called Mediterranean diet, unless you cook on board daily.
For those who want a taste of the place they visit, let us recommend a few Greek dishes:
- Greek salad (easily prepared onboard).
- Stuffed vegetables (gemista), moussaka, pastiche, or roasted sardine (which will taste better at a tavern).
The mediterranean cuisine consists of the following:
- 100% pure olive oil in salads and for cooking.
- Fresh fish (not fried), lean meat, and dairy products.
- Fruits, vegetables and some red wine.
This diet appears to be healthy and contributes to longevity.
★ BEST YACHT CHARTER COMPANIES IN GREECE?
Kavas started KAVAS YACHTING in 1985 and has since grown his fleet to 56 monohulls and luxury catamarans out of three bases, the following:
- Alimos marina (Athens), which covers the Saronic gulf islands, Peloponnese and Cyclades)
- Lefkada marina, which covers the Ionian sea
- Volos marina, which covers the Central Aegean.
- Kos marina, which covers the South Aegean.
This is an actual family business with the second generation Kavas' family now running the day to day business of the Greek charter company.
Unlike many charter companies, our boats are wholly owned by the family, and you can be assured of the high quality and maintenance of the vessels at our bases on the Saronic Gulf, Aegean and Ionian seas.
Do drop by our website and Facebook page to see our insane special offers - book early as they get snapped up very quickly!
What our customers say!
Enough of what we have to say for ourselves - what about our customers?
You can rely on us for an excellent sailing experience no matter where you wish to explore this culturally rich, yet fun country!
Here are our yachts:
4.907063197026 out of 5 Based on 269 Reviews
Popular Destinations
Two seas. Four sailing areas: Ionian, Saronic, Cyclades, Dodecanese.
If you can't choose which area to choose to sail in Greece, then here you are.