How to Book a Yacht Charter from Athens in Greece for Next Summer

The allure of Greece, with its pristine waters, rich history, and mouth-watering cuisine, is undeniably magnetic. But, to truly experience its magic, one must take to its waters. Booking a yacht charter from Athens offers you a front-row seat to the heart of the Aegean and Ionian seas, allowing you to explore hidden coves, ancient ruins, and picturesque islands. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to seamlessly book your next yacht charter from Athens for a perfect summer vacation.

1. Set Clear Objectives:

Before you delve into the details, determine what you want from your yachting experience. Do you want a peaceful getaway or an action-packed adventure? Your goals will shape your booking decisions.

2. Determine Your Budget:

While yachting in Greece promises luxury, there are options to cater to varied budgets. From extravagant superyachts to more budget-friendly catamarans, understanding your budget helps narrow down choices.

3. Choose Your Yacht:

Your choice of yacht should mirror your vacation goals:

• Motor Yachts: Best for speed and luxury.
• Sailing Yachts: Ideal for a genuine sailing experience.
• Catamarans: Great for stability and space.
• Gulets: Traditional wooden boats well-suited for larger groups.

4. Understand Charter Types:

• Bareboat: If you have a licensed skipper in your group.
• Skippered: Comes with an experienced skipper.
• Crewed: A complete crew including a captain, chef, and stewards.

5. Research and Choose a Charter Company:

Always go for reputed charter companies. Reviews, testimonials, and industry certifications can guide your decision.

6. Set Your Route:

While Athens is your starting point, plan where you wish to sail. Popular destinations include Santorini, Mykonos, and Crete.

7. Get Your Documentation in Order:

Ensure you have necessary documents such as a valid passport, sailing license (for bareboat), and any other required permits.

8. Inspect Your Chosen Yacht:

Before finalizing, inspect the yacht or get a detailed report. This ensures the yacht meets safety standards and your expectations.

9. Secure Your Booking:

Once satisfied, proceed with the booking. Most companies require a deposit, with the balance payable closer to the charter date.

10. Plan Ahead for Provisions and Activities:

Most charter companies offer provisioning services. Additionally, plan onshore activities. Greece is rich in history, culture, and culinary delights.

11. Safety First:

Ensure you’re aware of all safety protocols. If unfamiliar, many companies offer brief safety orientations.

12. Prepare to Set Sail:

Pack essentials such as swimwear, sunscreen, comfortable clothing, and a spirit for adventure. Now, you’re ready to explore the Grecian seas!

Chartering a yacht from Athens is not just about the booking process but about envisioning an experience. Whether you’re seeking solace in hidden coves or dancing the night away in Mykonos, booking the right yacht charter from Athens is your gateway to an unforgettable Greek summer.

Additional Questions Answered:

How much does it cost to charter a yacht in Greece?

Costs can vary widely depending on the type of boat, season, and duration. While smaller boats can start from a few hundred euros a day, luxury yachts might cost several thousand euros daily.

What is the season for yacht charters?

The main season stretches from April to October, with July and August being peak months.

What do I need to charter a yacht in Greece?

For a bareboat charter, a sailing license and VHF certificate are mandatory. If you lack these, consider a skippered or crewed charter.

Where is the best place to charter in Greece?

Athens is a popular starting point due to its connectivity. Other sought-after spots include the Cyclades Islands, Ionian Islands, and the Dodecanese.

Related reading

Planning your trip? Request a quote for your charter or check our charter FAQ and request a personalized quote for your dates.

Other guides you might find useful:

• How far in advance should I book a yacht for a summer trip?
• What period is best to charter sailing in Greece
• Tips on How to Prepare for a Sailing Holiday in Greece

Mediterranean weeks reward shore-side detours — a bottle of Pošip with peka in a Hvar konoba, fresh seafood and Assyrtiko on a Cyclades terrace, or a quick stop in a Sardinian trattoria before the Mistral builds. Each coastline carries its own taste.

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.