Yacht Charter in Greece

Why charter a yacht in Greece?

Choosing a yacht charter in Greece is the ultimate way to experience the highlights of this diverse country. Greece has become one of the most popular yacht charter destinations due to the wide variety of things you can see and do here.

With over 6,000 unique islands, exploring Greece by yacht gives you the advantage of endless options for places to stop. You can discover world-famous islands such as Mykonos, Santorini and Rhodes or find secret hideaways in Hydra, Spetses or Kastos.

You get a sense of exclusivity here, as you travel crystal clear waters and peaceful harbours with incredible sunshine and temperatures between 22 and 35°C.

Embrace the natural beauty of your surroundings and enjoy any of the 10 National Parks, with sights including rocky mountains and sea cliffs, to long sandy beaches and hidden coves.

Discover rural villages with olive groves or spot ancient ruins amongst the 19 UNESCO World Heritage Sites. These significant areas include Old Towns, sacred archaeological sites, and famous Greek ruins.

Don’t miss seeing the Acropolis of Athens, Delphi, Olympia or Knossos Palace, for an unforgettable experience. These sites showcase the history of Greek civilisation through their democracy, mythology, religion and art.

Travelling in Greece on an East Mediterranean yacht charter allows you to travel at your own pace and learn about the rich culture of each island. Shaped over centuries of history, each Greek island offers a distinct, genuine warmth and hospitality – built on the concept of filoxenia (love of strangers).

Enjoy the customs, architecture and fantastic cuisine (think fresh seafood, vegetables, olive oil and grains). In many of the coastal towns, you can amble through lively festivals and markets, soaking in the Greek lifestyle.

There is also a vibrant nightlife across the Greek islands, with venues to suit every style. Enjoy world-class beach clubs with international DJs, waterfront bars or casual cocktail lounges. You can discover high-energy clubbing or low-key seaside evenings.

A Greek yacht charter offers total freedom to create the perfect holiday. Whether you’re looking for a luxury experience or exciting adventure, relaxation or cultural exploration, Greece offers it all.

To get your adventure started, contact our team at Princess Charter. Simply fill in our enquiry form, give us a call on +44 (0) 1489 557 755 or email info@princessyachtcharter.com.

What cities can I reach on a yacht in Greece?

Travelling in Greece on a yacht charter allows you to create your own itinerary, visiting multiple places in one trip. In Greece, there are hundreds of incredible and unique spots to choose from across its numerous islands.

To help you find the places that most interest you, we’ve listed the best cities and towns that you can visit on a Greece yacht charter below.

Athens

Head to the mainland to visit Athens, the great historical capital of Greece. This is the perfect place to start your yacht charter, as it combines fantastic marinas with a thriving city, all while being magically entwined with ancient wonders.

Key attractions here include famous landmarks like the Acropolis and Parthenon. This ancient citadel sits high above the city and is home to ruins dating back thousands of years. The Parthenon is a particularly iconic temple, built between 447 and 432 BCE. It’s well preserved and demonstrates the masterful marble constructions and sculptures of ancient Greece.

Athens is full of impressive ruins, including the Ancient Agora, the Temple of Olympian Zeus, and the Panathenaic Stadium. Surround yourself with large, marble temples and stunning theatres, or walk in the footsteps of ancient gladiators or scholars.

Athens also offers excellent museums, such as the National Archaeological Museum and the Acropolis Museum, where you can learn more about the ancient world beneath your feet.

In addition to these fascinating sites, you can also enjoy the lively culture and hospitality on offer in the surrounding neighbourhoods. You can wander the old Plaka and Monastiraki areas below the Acropolis to experience traditional tavernas, energetic markets and boutiques.

Head to Psirri or Exarchia to enjoy street arts, alternative shops, quirky bars and a thriving music scene. Try Kolonaki if you prefer upscale boutiques, art galleries and wine bars.

The marinas in Athens are highly praised for their ease of access and high-end facilities. The Alimos and Flisvos marinas offer waterfront promenades, excellent seafood restaurants and beautiful surroundings.

There is also a great nightlife across Athens, ranging from rooftop cocktail loungers to dance clubs or underground music venues. You can often find festivals, open-air cinemas and local markets adding to the city’s energy levels.

Athens offers travellers a truly dynamic experience, blending inspiring ancient history with modern city living.

Zakynthos (Ionian Islands)

West of Greece lies the Ionian Sea, and a series of scenic islands, including the popular yacht charter spot of Zakynthos (also known as Zante). Here you will find exclusive beaches, intriguing caves and perfect waters for swimming and snorkelling.

The island’s lush green landscapes and dramatic coastline make it an ideal spot for nature lovers and those with a sense of adventure. Some of the most famous attractions here include Navagio Beach (Shipwreck Cove).

With stunning turquoise waters, this cove is possibly the most famous beach in Greece. A striking rusted shipwreck sits perfectly on the white sands, as cliffs surround the bay with a surreal sense of calm.

While the cove is not to be missed, the Blue Caves are another dazzling spot you must include on your tour. These caves are known for their shimmering, brilliant blue waters where you can swim and snorkel.

Head into Zakynthos Town to discover the island’s exciting culture and Venetian history. This port town offers waterfront shops, cafes and a variety of restaurants and bars. Here you can spot 15th-century Venetian architecture, ancient ruins and learn about the island’s past at the Zakynthos Byzantine Museum.

If you enjoy exploring the natural beauty of the Greek islands, you will also enjoy the spectacular landscapes and scenery on a yacht charter in Croatia. With over 1,000 unique islands and 8 National Parks, there is so much to do! Speak to our team about discovering Croatia.

Mykonos (Cyclades)

Heading southeast from Athens, you’ll find the glamorous island of Mykonos. A premier yacht charter destination, here you can enjoy incredible scenery and architecture, with famous beaches such as Psarou, Paradise, and Super Paradise – each offering pristine beaches, with inviting waters, exciting beach clubs and daytime parties.

Visit Mykonos Old Town (Chora) to wander through its alleys, browse designer boutiques or relax in quaint cafés. You’ll also find art galleries, ancient churches and the iconic hilltop windmills.

Take a walk through Little Venice and enjoy a burst of colour as you admire the Venetian-style buildings lining the water’s edge. Take the chance to enjoy the bars here and perhaps sip a cocktail as you watch the sunset.

For a little more of the historic, travel to nearby Delos Island, a UNESCO-listed island that is said to be the birthplace of the gods Apollo and Artemis. This sacred spot is home to extensive ancient ruins and is one of the most important archaeological sites in Greece.

Mykonos is also famed for its nightlife, offering a mix of upscale beach clubs with lively bars and world-renowned nightclubs. You can enjoy daytime parties at the beach, with international DJs, or enjoy sunset views at waterfront bars.

Santorini (Cyclades)

Sailing south from Mykonos, you can head to the beautiful island of Santorini. This iconic location is the result of a huge volcanic eruption, which left a giant lagoon (caldera) encircled by cliffs. The dramatic scenery here, paired with blue-domed churches and teetering hillside villages, creates a unique atmosphere.

The island itself offers incredible sights, and you can tour the caldera by boat, or see the two volcanic islets (Nea Kameni and Palea Kameni) in its centre from atop the cliffs in the main towns.

You can also experience the surreal joy of Santorini’s coloured beaches, with a visit to the black sands of Perissa and Kamari beaches, or delight in the bright red volcanic cliffs at Red Beach.

With the benefits of a yacht charter, you can even anchor near Palea Kameni to swim in the hot springs of the volcanic waters. If you enjoy more adventurous activities, you can also walk the caldera-edge trail and see incredible views of the entire island.

Travel inland and explore the lively towns and villages perched along the cliffs. Fira is the central town here and offers an exciting mix of restaurants, shopping boutiques and art galleries. There are also bars and nightclubs for more entertainment in the evenings.

There is also a rich history associated with Santorini that can be discovered in its many archaeological sites and museums. The most striking may be the ruins of Akrotiri and Thera, the site of a volcanic eruption which left a Bronze Age settlement preserved in ash.

Rhodes (Dodecanese Islands)

The island of Rhodes is the largest in Greece’s Dodecanese region. It’s known for its medieval charm, layers of fascinating history, and beautiful natural surroundings.

If you anchor at Kolona Harbour, you’ll be greeted by Rhodes Old Town. This UNESCO World Heritage site is famous for being one of the most well-preserved medieval cities in Europe. This fortified city was built by the Knights of Saint John, and you can walk its ancient cobbled streets, exploring the old buildings and inns.

Alternatively, visit the coastal town of Lindos just south west of the Old Town. Here you can climb to the hilltops to see the spectacular ancient Acropolis, which includes a series of ruins, including marble columns, temples, walls and sculptures.

There are also great beaches around Rhodes for you to take advantage of on your yacht charter. Lindos has beautiful blue waters and tranquil spots to discover, such as Anthony Quinn Bay with its clear waters, just ready for swimming or snorkelling.

If you’re interested in authentic experiences, with a glimpse into the history and ancient lives of a location, then you would enjoy a yacht charter in Turkey. Not far from Rhodes, Turkey is a rich and colourful place to explore, with incredible food, hospitality and layered history. Speak to your charter team about including Turkey on your next adventure.

What to see on a trip to Greece

A yacht charter in Greece allows you to experience a wide range of places and activities. With so much on offer, we’ve picked some of the best things you can see and do around Greece to help you make the most of your trip.

We’ve included these picks below, based on areas of interest.

Historical interest

Travelling around Greece on a yacht charter is perfect for those who enjoy experiencing the history of other cultures. There are endless ways to do this when island-hopping. Some highlights include:

The Acropolis (Athens)
This UNESCO World Heritage site is a symbol of ancient Greece and is a must-see when visiting Athens. Perched above the city, it offers breathtaking views and the site includes iconic landmarks like the Parthenon, Erechtheion, and Temple of Athena Nike.

For the best experience, visit early in the morning or at sunset to avoid crowds and consider pairing it with a trip to the nearby Acropolis Museum.

Accessible from marinas like Alimos, Zea, or Flisvos, it’s an easy and unforgettable detour from the sea.

The islands of Delos (Near Mykonos)
This small, uninhabited island is perhaps the most important archaeological and mythological site in Greece. A UNESCO World Heritage site, thought to be the birthplace of the gods Apollo and Artemis, is home to remarkable ruins. Here you can explore the remains of huge temples, theatres and ancient homes.

Akrotiri archaeological site (Santorini)
Explore the site of an advanced Bronze Age civilisation that once thrived on Santorini.
Often referred to as the “Minoan Pompeii,” this remarkably preserved city was buried under volcanic ash. Today, you can view multi-story buildings, vibrant frescoes, and everyday artefacts still in place.

Visit the nearby Museum of Prehistoric Thera to see the most significant finds from Akrotiri and learn more about the island’s history.

See the Old Towns
Throughout the Greek coast, there are some incredible Old Towns that showcase ancient architecture and design, whilst still thriving as a modern centre. Most of these are UNESCO-listed and offer a chance to embrace the culture and background of these areas. Some of the best to visit include:

Rhodes Old Town
Imposing medieval walls, grand gates, and the Palace of the Grand Master, all clustered beside a lively yacht-friendly harbour.

Corfu Old Town
Winding streets, historic squares, fortresses, and modern extras just steps from the marina.

Mykonos Town (Chora)
Famous for vibrant nightlife, meandering alleys, “Little Venice,” and easy sailing access.

Nature and adventure

In a beautiful part of the world like Greece, you can’t help but find incredible sights and locations based in nature. Whether you love water sports, beach lounging or treks over hills and through forests, you’ll find it here.

Beaches
With such a large number of islands around Greece, you can find many beaches! Some of the best include:

Navagio Beach (Shipwreck Cove) in Zakynthos
Famous for its dramatic shipwreck, white sand and turquoise water. Only accessible by boat, this is an iconic stop.

Elafonissi Beach in Crete
The soft-pink sands, shallow waters and protected dunes make this a favoured stop on the southwest coast.

Kleftiko Caves in Milos
These stunning sea caves make for an exciting place to snorkel, swim or simply enjoy the natural rock formations.

Myrtos Beach in Kefalonia
Perhaps the most beautiful beach in Greece, Myrtos is a breathtaking bay with a backdrop of steep mountains surrounded by vibrant blue waters.

Wildlife encounters
You can enjoy spotting or encountering wildlife on several islands. For example:

Zakynthos Marine National Park
Located across the sandy beaches of Zakynthos, such as Laganas Bay, Marathonisi (Turtle Island), and Keri Caves, are nesting sites for endangered loggerhead turtles. Visitors can spot turtles swimming or laying eggs on protected shores.

Alonissos Marine Park, Northern Sporades
This is Europe’s largest marine protected area, where rare monk seals, dolphins and seabirds can be spotted. A great area for snorkelling.

Samaria Gorge National Park, Crete
A trip inland from Crete will lead you to this UNESCO Biosphere Reserve. Spot kri-kri wild goats and birds of prey as you hike the beautiful trails here.

Diving and watersports
If you’re a fan of getting in the water and exploring, here are some great ways to do so:

Snorkel the Blue Caves in Zakynthos and Paxos
Dive and snorkel in the waters of these glowing sea caves, with striking blue light reflections.

Cave snorkelling in Milos and Koufonisia
Discover hidden coves and sea caves carved into the coastlines. Here you can snorkel or paddleboard and enjoy a calm, shallow exploration.

Windsurfing and kitesurfing in Naxos and Paros
Make the most of the breezy Cyclades and enjoy windsurfing and kitesurfing in prime locations, Mikri Vigla (Naxos) or Golden Beach (Paros).

Cliff jumping in Milos and Amorgos
With dramatic rock formations, these islands offer a safe spot for thrill seekers looking to cliff jump, as you dive into deep blue waters.

If you’re a nature lover and you want to explore more of the world’s best locations, you would enjoy a yacht charter in Montenegro. Its beautiful scenery, diverse wildlife and national parks offer ample opportunities to explore. Speak to your charter team about how you can visit Montenegro.

Food and dining

One of the best parts of travel is trying new foods and experiencing the culture and hospitality around dining. Greece is renowned for its cuisine, and you can enjoy some of the following things on your yacht charter.

Celebrated dishes
Here are some famous dishes and ingredients not to miss.

Island seafood specialities
Including grilled octopus, calamari, kakavia (fisherman’s stew), mussels saganaki (in spicy tomato-feta sauce), and fresh shellfish.

Souvlaki and Gyros
Chargrilled skewers of pork, chicken, or lamb (souvlaki) and a gyro pita wrap with tomatoes, onions, and creamy tzatziki.

Moussaka and Pastitsio
Baked dishes with layers – Moussaka is eggplant, potatoes, meat, and béchamel, while pastitsio is macaroni, minced meat, and béchamel.

Don’t miss the chance to try classic Greek salads, local cheeses and produce, meze platters and delicious sweet baklava!

Dining experiences
Across the islands, you experience dining in seaside restaurants, lively beach clubs or elegant venues. However, there are options to experience traditional dining in local tavernas. These are usually family-run, offering warm hospitality and the freshest flavours.

Some popular tavernas include Nammos Mykonos and To Perasma on Symi for the freshest catch and stylish ambience.

Tasting tours
If you’re a big fan of local products, particularly wines or cheeses, there are some great tasting tours you can try around Greece.

Wine tours and tastings
Santorini, Rhodes and Ithaca have incredible wineries where you can tour the estates, enjoy guided tastings or even take part in cooking classes. Santorini estates like Santo Wines or Venetsanos will allow you a taste of their unique volcanic wines.

Olive oil and produce
You can visit ancient olive groves in Crete and Corfu, and enjoy samples of award-winning oils. Alternatively, in Rhodes, you can find organic honey and traditional mead.

Distilleries
If you prefer something a little stronger, visit the distillery in Naxos for a citrus-based liqueur (and taste the local graviera cheese).

Culture and nightlife

Travelling in a unique and varied area like Greece allows you to really experience different cultures and atmospheres across many islands. Here are some of the best ways to ensure you get the most from your trip.

Traditions and festivals
Exploring festivals and traditions is a great way to feel more connected to the culture of a place. Some of the festivals you could enjoy include:

Panigiri village festivals
Throughout the summer, many islands celebrate their saints’ feast day (panigiri). This includes outdoor feasts, live music and dancing long into the night. 7

Athens & Epidaurus festival
From June to August, you can enjoy open-air theatre, music and dance staged in ancient venues.

Art galleries and museums
Visit some of the best museums and galleries around Greece to see some important historic relics and inspiring art collections.

Acropolis Museum and National Archaeological Museum (Athens)
See incredible Greek sculpture and artefacts from ancient times.

Basil & Elise Goulandris Foundation (Athens)
Gaze at inspiring art from the greats, including Picasso and Monet.

Citronne Gallery (Poros)
Enjoy contemporary Greek art here, attend events and admire the neoclassical mansion setting.

Nightlife hotspots
There are far too many amazing clubs and venues across Greece to possibly list them all! But if you enjoy the excitement of a good night out, here are some spots not to miss.

Mykonos
You will find everything here, from exclusive clubs, international DJs, beach parties and dancing until sunrise. Whatever kind of night you’re looking for, you’ll find it in Mykonos.

Iconic venues here include:

Scorpios Mykonos (Paraga Beach)
Cavo Paradiso (Clifftop above Paradise Beach)
JackieO’ Beach Club (Super Paradise Beach)
Nammos (Psarou Beach)
180 Sunset Bar (Mykonos Town outskirts)

Santorini
Fira, the capital of the island, has incredible views of the caldera but also offers a range of great bars and clubs. Such as:

PK Cocktail Bar
Enigma Club
Tango Bar

If you’re ready to start exploring the beautiful islands of Greece, get in touch with our team at Princess Charter. You can fill in our enquiry form, give us a call on +44 (0) 1489 557 755 or email info@princessyachtcharter.com, and we’ll get your plans underway.

Essential Greece travel information

Before any trip, it’s good to know some basic information so that you enjoy your experience fully. To help you get prepared, we’ve listed all the essential travel information for a yacht charter to Greece below.

Seasons

The best time to yacht charter Greece is between April and October. The peak season runs from June to August, when temperatures range from 24 to 35°C. This is the most lively period, but it can also be the most crowded.

Travelling in May, September and October offers warm weather and temperatures between 17 and 29°C. This is a much quieter time to travel, with fewer tourists.

Accessibility

Greece is easily reached by air, with Athens International Airport (ATH) as the main gateway. Many yacht charters begin in Athens; however, there are other airports located on the surrounding islands you could consider travelling to, including:

Mykonos-Manto Mavrogenous Airport (JMK)
Santorini (Thira) International Airport (JTR)
Corfu International Airport (CFU)
Rhodes International Airport (RHO)
Zakynthos International Airport (ZTH)
Aktion National Airport (PVK)

Our dedicated team at Princess Charter can help arrange all of your travel. We can even discuss our VIP travel options if you would prefer to organise private transport.

Currency

Greece uses the Euro (€) as its official currency.

Language

Greek is the official language; however, English is widely spoken in tourist areas.

How to charter a yacht in Greece

Ready to take a trip to some of the world’s greatest locations? It couldn’t be easier to book your yacht charter to Greece when you choose a Princess Charter.

All you need to do is pick the dates you want to travel, choose who’s coming along and get in touch! We’ll help you build a fully bespoke itinerary, so you can travel at your own pace, seeing the places you really want to explore.

When you contact our dedicated team at Princess Charter, we’ll arrange all of your travel and choose the perfect yacht. We’ll assign our experienced crew members and ensure all of your group’s needs are met.

We’re also on hand 24/7 before and during your journey to help you with any requests. Whether you need to cover dietary requirements or wish to book tickets to an exclusive event, we have you covered.

To get your yacht charter to Greece booked, get in touch today. You can fill in our enquiry form, give us a call on +44 (0) 1489 557 755 or email info@princessyachtcharter.com.

 

FAQ

What do I need to know before booking a Greece yacht charter?
All you need to decide is when you want to travel, who will join you and let us do the rest! We’ll work on a bespoke itinerary for your trip and take care of every detail. You just need to show up and enjoy the journey.

How do I secure my booking for a yacht charter in Greece?
Simply contact our dedicated team at Princess Charter. They can confirm all your details and start creating your tailored itinerary. Just fill in our enquiry form, give us a call on +44 (0) 1489 557 755 or email info@princessyachtcharter.com.

What is the yachting season in Greece?
Peak season is between June and August, which is the most lively and hottest time to travel (24 to 35°C). For a quieter trip, travel in May, September or October.

Why choose Princess Yacht Charter for my charter?
We’ve been in the yacht business for over 50 years, so we know exactly how to make a standard trip into a luxurious one. We can build a fully bespoke itinerary for you, so you travel at your own pace, only going where you want to. We have a highly experienced crew on board, and our team is available 24/7 to assist you. We do everything we can to ensure you have a holiday that’s as incredible as the location that surrounds you.