Greek Island Yacht Charter Holidays
Think of Greece as a charter destination for your fully crewed yacht charter and think of the beautiful Aegean, bounded on one side by Greece and to the East by Turkey.
Greece has several cruising areas all to itself. One of the most popular groups of Greek islands in the Aegean is the Cyclades which includes the famous islands of Santorini, Naxos, Paros and Mykonos - islands with the picture post-card views and vibrant nightlife and all available to you from a sailing or motor yacht.
For lovers of ancient Greek sites the Saronic Gulf has most to offer. And despite the seasonal windy conditions of the central Aegean mid-summer, there is a more-sheltered alternative such as the Ionian Islands to the west of the mainland.
Cyclades Yacht Charter Vacations
The Cyclades are probably best known for the hedonistic isles of Mykonos and Santorini, just two of nearly 200 islands, each with its own unique feel and character. Authentic, white-washed villages, rugged natural island beauty, secluded anchorages and lively towns with a cosmopolitan style, these dramatic Greek islands have so much to offer for all types of charter yachts and charterers. Your charter is most likely to start in Athens or Mykonos.
The famous Meltemi winds are particularly challenging in the Cyclades in July/August making this a better destination to explore either early or late in the yacht charter season.
Kea (Tzia)
If starting your luxury yacht Cyclades sailing or motor yacht holiday in Athens, your first stop could be Kea. The lovely Greek island of Kea doesn’t have the whitewashed cubic houses and blue-domed churches associated with most Cycladic islands. Instead, its architecture involves neo-classical houses with grand, elegant architecture, often painted in earthy colours. Kea's inland is a lush natural paradise with rare plant species, birds and reptiles. Ioulida, the island’s capital is a beautiful village with no cars! The island also has a rich history Greek mythological history.
Mykonos
Main town Mykonos is the entertainment hub of the island. Luxurious hotels, award-winning restaurants, cosmopolitan ambiance, designer boutiques, elegant bars, nightclubs, terrific party scene and vivid nightlife. something for everybody. And very busy during the summer with charter yachts and land-based tourists.
From you prive yacht visit Little Venice with its traditional houses and colourful balconies situated precariously on the waterfront and where there are many bars offering some great cocktails with amazing views. Sunset would be a good time to visit before heading back to your yacht for dinner …. before a night out on the town.
The beaches are beautiful here, although they can get very busy. Some are good for water-sports and the beaches on the north of the island are slightly less developed – some are nudist.
Famous for its typical Cycladic architecture, Mykonos is full of traditional whitewashed houses and blue-domed churches. The Church of Panagia Paraportiani is one of the most photographed churches in the world. The island's other trademark is the beautiful traditional windmills.
Santorini
Another of the world-famous islands, Santorini in the Cyclades has a dramatic rocky landscape and a volcanic history. Visit the large crescent-shaped caldera (large water-filled cauldron-like hollow formed after a volcanic eruption). At the northernmost point of the caldera lies the charming town of Oia with picture-postcard-like scenery and another of the most photographed places in Greece.
The beaches of Santorini are very different from the ones of other Cycladic islands
because the past volcanic activity has resulted in a unique type of beach with black and red sand or pebbles. Red Beach is the most impressive.
Paros
Paros is more or less at the center of the Cyclades island group and combines the modern with traditional elements - Cycladic whitewashed cubic architecture, vibrant nightlife, endless golden beaches, crystal clear sea, enchanting rural villages and historical monuments. Pariki and Naoussahe are the two main villages of Paros and are where the heart of the island’s nightlife beats. Find traditional taverns, luxurious restaurants and sophisticated bars. By contrast, showing a completely different face of the island are the tranquil traditional villages of Lefkes and Marpissa.
The famous beaches of Paros are busy, although there are quieter ones which your charter yacht Captain will find for you. For water-sports enthusiast Paros has ideal wind conditions and ranks as a top destination for windsurfing and kitesurfing.
Naxos
Despite being relatively low-profile, compared to neighboring Cycladic islands, Naxos is one of the most enticing destinations in Greece and also the biggest of them. It has a glorious ancient past with the strong influences of the Venetians and the Franks (5th century) hense the abundance of ancient sites. The most iconic of them is Portara the remaining gate of an ancient temple dedicated to the Olympian god Apollo.
The island boasts a beautiful natural landscape and it is the greenest of the Cyclades islands. Imposing mountains, green valleys, beautiful beaches and rural mountain villages. Hike up to mount Zas which according to mythology, is where Zeus, the king of the Gods, grew up. Or visit the Cave of Zas where according to Greek mythology, he found shelter from his father, Titan Cronus. Naxos Town is a wonderful mixture of Venetian and traditional Cycladic architecture with an imposing medieval Venetian castle.
The coastline of Naxos is fringed with small coves, creating an array of beautiful sandy and uncrowded beaches with cobalt waters. Wonderful beaches for swimming from and water sports such as windsurfing and kitesurfing.
Serifos
A more off the beaten track island, Serifos doen’t have the over-whelmimg number of tourists as some other islands. Dramatic rocky landscape and lush vegetation, Serifos will appeal to yacht charterers seeking to explore Greece's nature and discover a bit more about Greek mythology. The island has a serene ambiance and numerous nature trails that lead to breath-taking sights. There are dozens of churches and historic monuments to explore including the Monastery of Taxiarches dating from the 16th century.
In main town Serifos, expect traditional Cycladic architecture of whitewashed houses, paved streets and is one of the most picturesque capitals in the Cyclades perched on the slopes of a hill.
Kythnos
Kythnos has a distinctive and peaceful ambiance - quiet sandy beaches surround the island. The most impressive beach is probably Kolona beach both sides of a narrow strip of land joining Kythnos with the islet of Agios Loukas. Your yacht should be able to anchor here in the sheltered waters.
Expect to find picturesque quaint villages. Loutra, one of the most popular villages, is known for its thermal springs. There are excellent walking or hiking trails and good scuba-diving sites.
Sounio
Heading back to Athens at the end of your yacht charter, stop near Cape Sounion on the mainland. Here is the Temple of Poseidon, long associated with Greek mythology and history. Poseidon, the god of the sea, was a hugely important god to the ancient Greeks, and the Temple of Poseidon reflects this. Sounio also offers a wonderful, panoramic view of the Aegean Sea, with a magical sunset. Treat yourself with some fresh fish in the local tavernas and with a refreshing swim in one of the neighbouring beaches.
There are so many more islands you could visit on a private yacht charter in the Cyclades. Too many to visit in one week and certainly too many to list here.
Ionian Islands Yacht Vacations
The Ionian Islands are another of the popular cruising grounds for a yacht charter in Greece. They benefit from a less extreme climate as some other island groups and well away from the seasonal Melteme strong winds of the Aegean. Ideal sailing conditions with a mix of short and longer sailing passages, spectacular scenery, idyllic beaches, secluded anchorages, picturesque harbours, excellent nightlife and crystal-clear waters are all here.
In the north is Corfu, where your charter might start.
Paxos (Paxi)
Explore Paxos just south of Corfu and her neighbouring islet Antipaxios, bursting with olive groves and vineyards (which produce a rich red wine), stunning white-sand beaches and shallow waters and with tavernas overlooking the sea. The crystal-clear waters of AntiPaxos are idyllic and wonderful for swimming. Voutoumi and Vrika are the two main beaches of Antipaxos and are located at the north end of the islet.
Lefkas (Lefkada)
To the south is Lefkas. Dramatic cliff backdrops, white sand and pebbles glistening in the Ionian sun, crystal clear, turquoise waters and a natural landscape make Lefkas famous for its beaches and known as the ‘Caribbean of Greece’. Monasteries, museums, and seafront or mountainous villages give it a unique charm and places of interest to visit.
Ithaca
Ithaca is the mythical birthplace of Ulysses from Homer’s poem Odyssey. It also has an incredible natural beauty with lush greenery, quaint villages and exotic beaches. Vathy, Kioni, and Frikes are the most picturesque villages and remarkably they’ve managed to keep their traditional identities and charm.
Kefalonia
is not only the biggest Greek island in the Ionian Sea but also one of the most beautiful! It was the setting of the novel and movie 'Captain Corelli’s Mandolin'. Beaches with exotic turquoise waters, picturesque villages such as Fiscado and Assos, mysterious caves such as the Melissani Cave, delicious food and a lively atmosphere surrounded by lush natural interior make up the magical landscape of Kefalonia.
The Saronic Gulf Yacht Charter Vacations
Dominated by the magnificent Acropolis and Parthenon temple, Athens deserves some time to be explored before you set off on your charter. The centre is packed with historic sites and it also has a modern sophistication characterised by lively street life, cosmopolitan hotels and bars and excellent restaurants.
After enjoying the city embark from on your superyacht charters from one of several first class marinas to explore the beautiful Saronic Islands of Aegina, Hydra, Spetses and Poros. Lying on the eastern coast of the Peloponnese Peninsula of mainland Greece, these islands offer unspoiled anchorages, quaint fishing harbours, archaeological treasures, and quayside bars and taverns.
The Saronic Islands are more sheltered than the Cyclades from the Melteme winds, and sea conditions here are therefore generally good for the whole season.
Hydra
Cars are banned in Hydra and people normally get around by foot while mules and donkeys carry essential supplies. The atmosphere through the narrow, quaint cobbled streets of the main port is peaceful with charming shady courtyards for restaurants while the waterfront is crammed with tavernas and bars spilling out onto the quay – a fun place to watch the bustle of the donkeys being loaded with goods straight off the small ferries. The charming atmosphere of the island has attracted many international personalities, like the singer/songwriter Leonard Cohen, who had a house here.
Spetses
Spetses is a popular destination in Greece for short getaways for people from Athens, but it is an essential stop on your yacht charter vacation. The island has impressive mansions, boutique hotels, sophisticated restaurants, a marina, traditional boat-building yard and secluded beaches with clear turquoise waters. There are few cars on the island, but a good bus service, bicycles and horse-drawn carriages which is a fun thing to try.
Aegina
Aegina is a beautiful, fertile, and verdant island, full of pine trees and olive trees, picturesque villages, fine beaches and archaeological monuments, such as the magnificent Temple of Aphaia built in the 5th century BC. The island was prosperous, mainly because of trade and shipping.
The island’s capital, Aegina Town on the western side of the island, is the main port. In this colorful little town, you’ll find a great selection of cafes, restaurants, traditional taverns, and shops, especially along its bustling waterfront which is packed with small traditional fishing boats.
Aegina is also the land of pistachios and they can be bought from stalls and shops in the main town.
Poros
Lush vegetation, beautiful small beaches, a picturesque capital town the island of Poros is another gem to be visited from your charter yacht or catamaran. Built on a hillside, the Town of Poros is very quaint and dominated by the clock tower built in 1927 and visible from anywhere on the island. Poros Town is the centre of the island’s activity with many shops, traditional taverns and restaurants along the waterfront.
Poros has some excellent beaches set in sandy bays and surrounded by lush vegetation. Askeli, Love Bay and Neorio are the most popular while your yacht captain will find the more secluded seashores to enjoy along the island’s coastline.
The Dodecanese Islands Yacht Charter Vacations
The Dodecanese Islands offer a more authentic Greece. Located in the south-eastern Aegean Sea close to the Turkish coast, the Dodecanese comprise twelve large and numerous smaller islands, all steeped in history and bearing the traces of both the Byzantine and Ottoman Empires. They are some of the most beautiful and fascinating islands Greece has to offer.
Rhodes
You might start your yacht charter in Rhodes, one of the larger of the islands and with a major international airport. Also known as the "Knights’ island", Rhodes combines a rich history, impressive medieval architecture, amazing beaches and a lovely natural scenery!
The Old Town of Rhodes with its elegant mansions is a listed World Heritage Site and one of the best-preserved medieval towns in Europe. Stroll around the paved alleys, visit the Venetian Castle, the Street of the Knights and the Palace of the Grand Master. But beware….it can be overwhelmed with tourists so choose your time to visit – later in the day should be quieter.
Visit the imposing Acropolis of Lindos, the Valley of butterflies, the monastery of Filerimos
Kos
The island of Kos is known for its historical sites, beautiful beaches, and lush vegetation. Kos has been influenced by many cultures - the Ancient Greeks, the Romans, the Venetians, the medieval Knights, and the Ottomans – visit medieval castles and churches. Asklepieion, was one of the top holistic healing centers of the ancient world, which followed the medical guidelines of Hippocrates, the father of modern medicine.
Kos is also a good island to explore by bicycle - try the 13 km long cycling road, from Faros beach to Psalidi beach or one of the many mountain cycling trails.
Patmos
Main town Patmos has traditional Greek architecture with whitewashed houses, narrow paved alleys and a wonderful view of the Aegean Sea. The island's most important monument is the Monastery of St John which is situated on the top of a hill above the town. The monastery is protected by walls, which make it look like a fortress. Another important site is the cave of the Apocalypse, a UNESCO world heritage site, where, according to tradition, St John the Apostle was inspired to write the Book of Revelation – the last book of the New Testament. There are many other monasteries around the island and the spiritual character of the island is very strong.
The beaches on Patmos are beautiful and include a number which are very secluded and perfect to visit by tender from your yacht.
Kárpathos
Located at the southern end of the Dodecanese, Kárpathos is a remote paradise with stunning beaches and good sites for windsurfing and kitesurfing. Quaint little villages ooze a traditional charm such as Olympos, a picturesque mountainous village where every house has its windmill and church and the women wear traditional costumes in their everyday life.
Kálymnos
Close to the Turkish mainland, Kálymnos is known for its rocky natural landscape and is known as a climbing destination with an annual climbing festival. In addition to its lovely scenery, Kalymnos has a long sponge-diving tradition.
Symi (Simi)
Symi is one of the most picturesque, charming and romantic islands. The port of Gialos is a major attraction with its mansions, old streets and alleys with flights of stairs leading up from the waterfront. The whole main town has a peaceful atmosphere and is a splendid photogenic setting with lovely sea views.
This is old Greece at its finest, and the consistent breezes combined with moderate to long distances, helps make the Dodecanese the ideal destination for yacht charter guests seeking lesser-known islands.
The Sporades Yacht Charter Vacations
The beautiful Sporades Islands of Northern Greece are still wonderfully unspoilt by tourism. Of the twenty-four islands, only four are permanently inhabited, making this the most secluded of all Greek sailing and charter yacht destinations.
Visit the Sporades Islands for spectacular scenery, white sand beaches and quiet night-time anchorages.
This Greek yacht charter itinerary could start from the forested island of Skiathos, which shot to fame as a location for the movie “Mamma Mia”. Verdant countryside, rural monasteries and a cobbled maze of an old towns are just part the island’s attractions such as glorious beaches.
