Hiring a yacht and sailing through the crystal-clear waters of Greece is on many people’s travel wish list. Pulling up to a secluded beach or tying up to a waterside taverna for a long lunch is the vision, but how do you turn it into reality?
Before you embark on your journey, there are a few things you need to know and consider.
1. Choose the right time of year.
The best time to hire a yacht in Greece is between May and September, when the weather is warm and sunny. However, be aware that this is also the peak tourist season, and prices are likely to be higher. If you are looking for a more affordable option, consider travelling outside of the peak months of July and August.
Mid to late September is a perfect time for a yacht charter as the weather is still warm but the crowds have gone and price is generally cheaper.
2. Decide on the type of yacht you want.
Yachts come in various sizes and styles, so it's important to decide what type of yacht is best for you. If you're travelling with a large group, you may want to consider a motor yacht, which has more space and facilities than a sailing yacht. If you're looking for a more intimate experience, a sailing yacht or catamaran may be a better option.
Catamarans are more stable than a sailing yacht and generally have more space to relax.
3. Size does matter.
Once you have decided on the style of yacht, the next decision is how big. How many cabins will you need? If it is more than one family, or people not used to living with each other, you might need more space so that you don't feel you are living on top of each other.
Mooring superyachts on Spetses Island.
4. How many crew will you need?
Obviously, you will need a skipper (unless you have the qualifications to be able to hire a “bareboat”), but most charters will also hire a hostess/cook as well, because after all, Mum needs a holiday too! The Skippers are knowledgeable about the area and can help you plan your itinerary and avoid any potential hazards. Depending on the size of the vessel you charter will depend on how many crew are required to run a safe charter. The crew are a very important part of your charter as they can make or break your vacation. They become a part of your holiday, almost like pseudo-family members.
The crew will add to the enjoyment of your charter.
5. Decide on where.
While most charters start in Athens and sail the Saronic islands, including Hydra, Poros, and Spetses, there are also main charters out of Lefkada that cover the Ionian islands. Kos is the base for Dodecanese charters and Mykonos is a good start to explore the famous Cycladic islands that include Paros, Santorini and Naxos. Generally, charters finish at the same port that you started, but some will allow you to end the charter at a different location, but you will pay for a relocation fee to get the yacht back to the starting marina.
Sailing around Astypalea Island to find hidden coves.
6. Consider your itinerary.
Decide which islands and ports you want to visit, but don’t get fixated as you need to be flexible. While your own yacht charter gives you the freedom to go wherever you want, when you want, your actual itinerary will be guided by your captain and the weather forecast.
The waters around Folegandros are so clear the boats look like they are floating in shallow waters, but you can pull up for lunch at one of the seaside tavernas.
7. Budget accordingly.
Hiring a yacht in Greece can be expensive, so it's important to budget accordingly. You need to factor in the cost of the yacht, fuel, food, and any other expenses, such as docking fees, which can add up to around 40% on top of the charter fee. You will also have to add approx 13% VAT. Then there is the tip; 10%-15% is customary in the Mediterranean.
Greece is the perfect place for a yacht charter.
Hiring a yacht in Greece is a fantastic way to experience the beauty of the Aegean and Ionian seas. By planning and working with a travel professional, you can ensure that your trip is a success and that you will create memories that will last a lifetime.
