We love yachting in Greece for at least a million reasons (not that we’re counting). The seemingly endless islands are begging to be explored, there’s fresh cuisine on every corner, and the incredibly kind locals are some of our favorite things about luxury yachting in Greece.
Vibrant Greece is hands-down the place to be for year-round yachting. Ninety-five percent of private yacht charters for July and August are booked by May. However, strategic travelers can take advantage of the *occasional* gaps in the busy seasons and escape the crowds during May, June, September, or October.
What are the Top Yachting Hotspots in Greece?
Yachters of every budget can agree on one thing — Greece is one of the most desirable yachting destinations in the world. With over 6,000 islands and rich historical locales, Greece is the perfect combination of cosmopolitan cities and quaint seaside villages. There’s simply something for everyone here in the Greek isles.
The Main Cruising Areas of Greece
1. The Saronic Islands are close to Athens and a high starting point for popular spots like Hydra, Poros, Spetses, and Nafplio. Nafplio is a must-see city on the mainland and the original capital of Greece.
2. The Cyclades Islands are southeast of the mainland in the Aegean Sea. Board your sailing yacht to follow the ancient trade routes and explore the wild and untamed landscapes. The entire area, which includes Mykonos and Santorini, is home to some of Greece’s most important archaeological ruins.
3. The Ionian Islands, which include Paxi and Lefkada, are the place to be for mesmerizing beaches and coastal fun. Many attendees and captains at a recent yacht show in Greece coined this chain of islands as their must-visit favorite. Soak in the Italian cultural influences as you wander the centuries-old streets.
4. The Dodecanese Islands are found closer to Turkey in southeastern Greece and offer notoriously wild and uninhabited locales. Come here for the fabulous fishing and the quaint luxury of Greece.
5. The Aegean Islands feature endless itineraries, with Turkey to the east and the adventures of mainland Greece to the northwest. Indulge in the Aegean during the summer for warm, temperate weather and beautiful scenery.
Tips for Luxury Yachting in Greece
- It’s impossible to see all of Greece in one week. The area boasts over 6,000 islands and miles of turquoise Aegean seas. Work with your H2O Luxury& Epic Yacht team to curate the perfect itinerary.
- Ferries are a simple, affordable way to travel around the islands.
- American dollars aren’t accepted anywhere in Greece. Plan to exchange your dollars for euros before embarking on your yachting vacation.
- If you plan on yachting in Greece during the “cold season” between October and June, your hotel may not offer air conditioning.
- Just before and after the peak season is the best time to visit the islands. May, June, September, and October still offer great weather without the stress of the crowds. This advice rings especially true if Mykonos or Santorini is on your itinerary.
- Keep your eyes peeled for traditional tavernas while visiting. They’re a great way to indulge in authentic Greek food without breaking your budget. Expect fresh fish, cured meats, homemade cheese, fresh bread, and seasonal vegetables.
- Have your hotel call you a proper taxi while in any big city. If you need a taxi service equipped to process credit cards, it’s essential to request this in advance.
- Breakaway from the big cities and explore the spots favored by locals!
- Aegean Yachting just may the best thing since sliced bread!
Have a question that we didn’t answer? We’re here to help.
A Sample Yachting Itinerary for Your Visit to Greece
Indulge yourself in this picture-perfect itinerary our team followed on a recent trip to the Greek isles via Divine motor yacht. If you want luxurious accommodations for 10-to-12 guests with the perfect combination of relaxation and adventure, this is the itinerary for you.
Nafplio is approximately an hour south of Athens airport and the perfect spot to board your motor yacht. Soak in the stately castles, olive groves, and impressive scenery that line the Nafplio coastline. Wander the town’s ancient, romantic streets that were once home to Greece’s capital until 1834.
Historic Nafplio
You could spend a whole day simpling strolling through shops, eating ice cream, and observing street artists. Like gelato is to Italy and daiquiris are to the Bahamas, Nafplio claims to serve the best ice creams in the Aegean, and we happen to agree!
We chose to stay at the Kyveli Suites and would be remiss if we didn’t pass on the recommendation. You can’t ask for a better location within walking distance to restaurants, the boardwalk, the marina, and quaint shops.
Side note: Don’t be surprised to see a few cats roaming the streets. Cats are loved all around Greece and add to the distinct charm of the area. If you hear an old man yelling “Chichi” after sunset, you know it’s feeding time.
Prepare for the stairs that are inevitable at most boutique hotels in the area. Of course, all of the walking is worth it when you collapse into your plush king-size bed or your large Jacuzzi tub.
Board your yacht right along the boardwalk to be greeted by an excellent crew. Settle into your luxe accommodations while your captain sails the vessel up to Agioi Anargiri Beach on Spetses.
Spetses is a vehicle-free island with the primary forms of transportation being foot, motorbike, or public transport. After a few secluded hours spent on your deserted beach, head to the port of Dapia to people watch at one of the local cafes. Head into town for late-night dancing with the locals before calling it a night on your private vessel.
Explore the Countless Cobblestone Towns While Yachting in Greece
The magic of the Greek islands reveals itself in many forms, one of our favorites being the traditional cobblestone streets. Heavy foot traffic from tourists and locals alike have worn the stone into ancient remnants of a once-modern town.
Look to the left of the high hills for views of the Maritime Academy, which was donated by the Tsamados family, who once used the property as their private residence.
After a relaxing night in the village, head to the twin-island pair of Poros, which consists of Sphairia and Kalavria. Stroll the streets that lead to the gigantic 1927 clock tower and the gorgeous neo-classical houses.
Visit Primasera, our favorite traditional taverna in the area, for a classic feast of Greek seafood preparations. Chat with Tassos, the owner, for some help navigating the delicious menu. After a fabulous meal, walk the quaint streets of Palapas to take in the twinkling lights seen only at night.
Reserve Your Luxury Greece Yacht Charter Today
We love our job for so many reasons, but our favorite is helping travelers like you discover this beautiful world. One of our favorite places to send our clients is Greece, and we couldn’t be more excited to help bring your dream yachting trip to life.
The Greeks are some of the kindest people on the planet, serving excellent food and drinks at inexpensive prices. Visit for the postcard scenery, but stay for the mesmerizing water, generous hospitality, and Greek simplicity.
From the elegant resort towns of Mykonos and Santorini to the idyllic fishing villages of Spetses, we will match you with the perfect luxury yacht charter for your dream getaway. Please take a look at our yachting destinations and reach out to our H2O & Epic Yacht team for a quote.
Check out our recent blog post on Greek Yacht Charters for more details on this special country.
Call Kerry your Greek luxury charter yacht broker. My heart is still wandering the idyllic streets and islands. We’d love to meet you there!
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