5 Best Places to Visit While Renting a Yacht in Greece

Sailing the Cyclades and Ionian Islands

Why Greece is a Yachting Paradise

Greece’s labyrinth of sun-drenched islands, ancient ruins, and crystalline waters makes it a top destination for yacht charters. From the iconic white-washed villages of the Cyclades to the emerald bays of the Ionian Sea, each region offers a unique blend of adventure, culture, and relaxation.

The Cyclades: A Postcard-Perfect Archipelago

Highlights of the Cyclades

• Santorini: Famous for its caldera views and sunset cruises.
• Mykonos: Blend cosmopolitan energy with secluded beaches.
• Paros & Antiparos: Explore hidden coves and mystical caves.

For food lovers, dock at waterfront tavernas. Discover more in our guide to Greece’s best nautical restaurants.

Best Time to Sail the Cyclades

The ideal window is May to September. Learn more in our best time to charter a yacht in Greece guide.

The Ionian Islands: Emerald Waters and Venetian Charm

Family-Friendly Anchorages

• Corfu: UNESCO sites and hidden bays like Canal d’Amour.
• Lefkada: Windsurfing at Porto Katsiki.

For yacht selection tips, see how to choose the right yacht.

 

Exploring the Saronic Gulf and Dodecanese Islands

The Saronic Gulf: Sailing Near Athens

Must-Visit Islands

• Hydra: Car-free streets and sunset tavernas.
• Spetses: Pine forests and historic festivals.

Explore routes in our Saronic Gulf sailing guide.

The Dodecanese: History Meets the Aegean

Top Islands

• Rhodes: UNESCO Old Town and Anthony Quinn Bay.
• Kos: Ancient ruins and windsurfing havens.

Sailing on a Budget

Save with off-peak travel and self-catering. Read budget charter tips.

 

Sailing the Sporades & Beyond

The Sporades: Greece’s Emerald Archipelago

Island Highlights

• Skiathos: Cosmopolitan beaches and medieval ruins.
• Skopelos: “Mamma Mia!” filming locations.

Family-Friendly Sailing Tips

• Rent kid-friendly water toys.
• Visit interactive sites like marine reserves.

Extending Your Voyage to Croatia

Combine Greece with Croatia’s Dalmatian Coast. Explore our Croatian island guide.

Your Sailing Questions Answered

What are crew members on a boat called?

Crew members include the captain, deckhands, and hostesses.

Do I need to tip the hostess?

Tipping is discretionary (5–15% for exceptional service).

Hostess obligations?

Meal prep, cleaning, and guest services. Details in our hostess guide.

 

Frequently asked questions

How do I book a yacht charter on Europe Yachts?

Choose your dates and destination, browse our fleet, and use request a quote to lock in pricing. Our team confirms availability with the agency and emails the booking summary within 24 hours.

Do I need a sailing license?

For most bareboat charters in the Mediterranean you need a recognised skipper certificate (RYA Day Skipper, ICC, or equivalent) plus a VHF licence. If you don’t hold one, we book a professional skipper alongside the boat for the week.

What’s included in the price?

The base charter fee covers the boat, standard equipment, insurance, and final cleaning fee in most cases. Extras such as fuel, port fees, transit log, tourist tax and skipper service are billed separately and explained in the booking summary.

How far in advance should I book?

For peak weeks (mid-July to late August) we recommend booking 6–9 months ahead to lock in the boat and the early-bird discount. Shoulder seasons (May, June, September) usually have availability up to a month before departure.

About this guide

This guide was prepared by the Europe Yachts Charter editorial team — a group of charter brokers and sailors who have been organizing yacht charters in the Mediterranean since 2007. Every itinerary, marina, and pricing range described here reflects current first-hand fleet experience and direct partnership with licensed charter agencies. Last reviewed: May 2026.

If a detail looks out of date, write us at www.europe-yachts.com/contact — we update guides quarterly.