Yachting in the Aegean

Greece Yacht Charter Guide

A perfect place to experience on a yacht charter, Greece has many beautiful anchorages only accessible by yacht, and off-the-beaten-track coves to spend your days soaking up the sun. The beautiful crystalline Greek waters have attracted visitors for centuries, drawn to the charming islands and secluded bays, and always welcomed by the warm Greek hospitality.

The alluring Aegean seas offer travellers an assortment of large and rugged isles blessed with warm winds and plenty to discover off-the-beaten-track. Scattered across the Aegean Sea, located to the southeast of the mainland, the 220 islands of the Cyclades are the most popular yachting destination in Greece. Easily accessible from Athens, the archipelago is known for the white-washed, cube houses built on hillsides leading down to glittering azure waters. The Cyclades are a must for anyone with a thirst for architecture, archaeology and beautiful views. Enjoy the nightlife in cosmopolitan Mykonos, take an afternoon to explore Apollo’s temple in Delos, and enjoy the famous Santorini sunset with a glass of ouzo and a bowl of glossy olives.

The twelve Dodeanese lie less than a hundred miles from the Turkish coast and are positively soaked in rich and complex ancient history. The smallest of these islands offer a range of secluded harbours – a relic of their trading past – whilst all offer an abundance of stunning beaches and dramatic terrain, best viewed from the water, of course. Across all twelve islands and 150 less known islets are countless of Byzantine churches and medieval castles, and the climate is between temperate and dry tropical, with an extended dry summer period.

Cyclades Islands

A private yacht charter in the Greek Aegean sea is an experience of a lifetime. But to explore the Cycladic Islands by luxury yacht is a dream come true. Drink in the views of white-washed, sugar cube houses perched in the hills of picture-postcard Greek towns, amongst windmills and church domes painted in vibrant bright blue. Explore hundreds of secluded Cycladic beaches and peaceful anchorages where an afternoon can be spent snorkelling crystalline waters and sunbathing in privacy before cruising onward for a romantic supper under the stars. Talking of night time, sunset over Santorini is an ethereal experience perhaps best witnessed from the deck of your charter, whilst fabulous Mykonos boasts some of the most glamorous nightlife the Mediterranean has to offer.

Whilst Ios, Mykonos and Santorini are perhaps the best-known Cycladic Islands, Paros, Naxos and Milos exude just as much charm and beauty as their more fashionable siblings, whilst verdant Kea, dramatic Andros, and Kythnos with its hot springs are lesser-known and hence quieter than their neighbouring islands. Arranged loosely in a ring (the word ‘Cyclades’ refers to their circular formation), the Cycladic Islands lie in close proximity to another, enabling guests to adopt a relaxed approach to their vacation and enjoy a week or two of peaceful island-hopping from the sheer luxury of their private yacht. At the centre of the Cyclades, like a precious gem, lies the sacred island of Delos – the birthplace of Apollo.

For those keen on sailing and wind based water sports, the warm and northerly Meltemi winds are more than accommodating, blowing along the Aegean Sea during the summer months and creating spectacular sailing conditions. With over 200 islands making up the Cycladic Islands, what makes this region particularly special for those visiting by private yacht charter is that there is a secluded corner and a quiet, private anchorage for everyone – even in peak season. For all the hustle of bustle of cosmopolitan Oia and glamorous Chora, you can go off the beaten track and lose yourself for an hour, a day, a week in Folegandros, Serifos and Koufonisia. So if your dreams of yacht charter in the Greek islands are all about unspoiled views, rustic charm, and utter peace and privacy, the Cyclades are for you.

Paros

Paros, known for its beaches and traditional villages, is one of the most popular of the Cycladic islands. Spend an afternoon in Paroikia and visit Panagia Ekatontapiliani, a Byzantine church built in the 4th century A.D. Naoussa is a picturesque fishing harbor on the northeast of the island filled with seafood restaurants, bars and coffee shops. Enjoy a swim at Kolimbithres, an impressive beach where naturally sculpted rocks form swimming coves.

Koufonisia

Koufonisia, meaning “Hollow islands” consist of two small islets Pano (upper) and Kato (lower) Koufonisi. Kato Koufonisi is an uninhabited island accessible only by boat. This hidden gem has some of the most magnificent beaches in Greece, offering a range of secluded harbors to enjoy in privacy. With only 400 inhabitants, Pano Koufonisi, is a tiny island where it seems that time has stopped. Pori is the most beautiful beach on the island; enjoy a great lunch at taverna Kalofeggo.

Santorini

Rising brusquely from the Aegean Sea, the island of Santorini is surrounded by steep cliffs, 1.000 feet high, resulting from one of the biggest volcanic eruptions ever recorded  in history, which made a circular island into a crescent that wraps around a caldera crowned with whitewashed settlements that cling to their tops and trail down their sides. Santorini is situated at the most southern point of the Cyclades in the Aegean Sea and is probably the most famous of the islands.

Santorini, considered one of the most romantic places on earth,  is famous for its incredible sunsets, fine wine and breath-taking views and is certainly a must destination for a yacht charter. The island has some of the most unique beaches in Greece, including “Red Beach” a pebbly beach with a stunning red backdrop and  “Kamari” characterized by its impossibly black sand.

Oia is the most famous village in Santorini, known for its quiet life and stunning sunsets. This complex of charming houses in narrow streets, blue domed churches, and sun-bathed verandas  is carved right on the cliffs and visitors will enjoy walking around the picturesque village admiring the traditional Greek architecture, cafes and tourist shops. Oia has several cultural attractions, including the Maritime museum, and one can easily distinguish between the houses built for Venetian sea captains and the more traditional “cave houses” of the villagers. Oia also has a small port called Ammoudi, which can be reached by a set of 300 steps leading down.

Thirasia & Aspronisi

Just a few miles away  you can find two tiny islands called Thirasia and Aspronisi, which are part of a volcanic crater that emerged from the sea. Thirasia is serene and undeveloped and untouched by tourism to this day. It is characterized by narrow streets, colourfully painted blue, green and yellow houses and plenty of flowers that have been planted throughout. The capital, Manolas, is situated right opposite Santorini and has a beautiful monastery called Koimiseos from which visitors can enjoy a magnificent view. Apsronisi, literally meaning “white island’, is a small rocky uninhabited private island. It has two pebbly beaches and a small harbor, and as it is not visited by tourist boats, can make for a beautiful secluded anchorage.

Mykonos

The cosmopolitan island of Mykonos is located in the heart of the Cyclades Islands in the Aegean sea and could be a yachting destination all on its own. The island is home to some of the most beautiful beaches in Greece, countless restaurants ranging from well known brands to simple tavernas, and numerous bars and nightclubs to enjoy until the early morning hours. Mykonos is the ideal yacht charter holiday destination and can be enjoyed by people of all ages and preferences.

Mykonos town, also known as Chora, is a typical Cycladic village built amphitheatrically, with a maze of narrow streets leading to the sea. It features the typical architecture of the Cyclades with whitewashed cubic houses that beautifully contrast with their colored wooden doors and windows. The heart of the town is  only accessible to pedestrians making the walk among the labyrinth streets particularly agreeable.

Exploring Mykonos

Ornos bay is a good location to anchor your yacht and use as a base for exploring the island. Kalo Leivadi, Elia beach and Psarrou are some of the most popular and beatiful beachhes in Mykonos. Agios Sostis, another stunning bay, has one of the most picturesque restaurants on the island called Kiki’s taverna, that is certainly worth the wait. For anyone looking for a full day of partying Super Paradise is the place to be. Nammos Restaurant by the Sea at Psarou beach is another ‘it’ location on the island; guests can enjoy a delicious lunch, which will certainly turn into an afternoon on dancing and partying.

Hydra

Widely considered one of the most beautiful Islands of Greece , Hydra is a short sail from the bustle of Athens but feels a world away. Step back in time on this island, where the only transport is by donkey and the craggy coastline is dotted with hundreds of secret coves and secluded bays. While the island retains a rustic feel, the atmosphere is one of discreet decadence with some of the best restaurants in Greece and quietly stylish cocktail bars. A Hydra yacht charter will place you at an idyllic gateway to the Greek islands. Admire the beauty of the island from the deck of your charter yacht, and put ashore to leave the rush of modern life behind and spend some time enjoying the island lifestyle.

• Best Time To Visit: The weather is warm year round, but June – August are the hottest months.
• Key Cruising Areas: Situated in the triangle of islands now dubbed the New Greek Riviera, Hydra is surrounded by breathtaking cruising routes. Explore the Saronic Island for unsurpassed views, historical monuments and secluded bays.
• Don’t Miss: While Hydra is not known for its nightlife, Amalour will satisfy your wild side. Open until dawn the fun, colourful atmosphere and famous cocktails are favoured by locals and visitors alike.
• Best Spots for Wining and Dining: For great service and tranquil views, head to Anthony Rampias’ restaurant “Sunset”, and see why it is ranked as one of the most outstanding gastronomic experiences in Greece. Each dish is uniquely crafted by talented chefs – try the caramelised octopus with yellow split pea mousse.

Dodecanese Islands

When it comes to selecting a destination for your luxury charter yacht, Greece is the top choice for many discerning travellers looking for a memorable blend of culture, stunning scenery and incredible food. The Dodecanese (which translates as ‘twelve islands’) belong to Greece, but many of these isles lie but a short cruise away from the southwestern coast of Turkey – most notably the islands Kos and Rhodes. In fact, the western coast of Asia is only one hundred miles from this scattering of islands, so here you will find lands fought over for centuries by the Crusaders and the Ottomans – each island revealing the footprints of its previous settlers in the flavours of their cuisine and the style of their architecture.

The Dodecanese islands seem unchanged since the times of Odysseus, immersing you in the feel of ancient Greece. The marks of those that have travelled through the region are found, from the Romans and ancient Greeks, through to medieval knights; the rich heritage also infused with hints of the Byzantine and more recent Italian occupation.

The striking island of Rhodes is perhaps the largest and most well-known of the Dodecanese islands.

Some of the prettiest and most unspoiled islands can be found if you venture along the archipelago and explore the smaller islands from your luxury yacht. With limestone cliffs to climb in Kalymnos, beautiful mansions and a picturesque harbor to admire in Symi, and numerous beaches and historical sites, there really is something for every taste. Nisyros is something a little different – built on an active volcano with suitably dramatic landscapes best viewed from the sea. Leros and Tilos are small and charming, and historical Patmos is where St. John wrote his Book of Revelation.

A greek charter yacht holiday would not be complete without a swim in the crystal blue sea. On your luxury vacation you will find yourself surrounded by stunning blue water at every turn, contrasting against the white rocks to create the most magical views. The winds can be spectacular for those who dream of sailing the Greek islands, with the Meltemi winds providing an exhilarating ride across the Mediterranean Sea.

• Best Time To Visit: Mild winters and long hot summers make Skiathos a great destination year round.
• Key Cruising Areas: With plenty of beaches only accessible by boat, sailing around the island can easily fill a week. Continue on to explore more of the Sporades islands, and further south the islands of Skopelos, Alonissos and Kira Pangia have some beautiful bays and pretty anchorages.
• Don’t Miss: Skiathos is full of activities for those who love exploring nature. A highlight of a visit to the island is the riding centre in Koukounaries. With a modern set up, they offer memorable trips riding in high mountains and paths that aren’t accessible by hiking.
• Best Spots for Wining and Dining: The best tavernas and more highly regarded restaurants can be found above the old port and around the marina. For a menu created with premium, organic ingredients and Greek flavour, head to Ergon Cuisine.

Peloponnese Islands

Still a secret of Greece the small peninsula of the Peloponnese is not a heavily cruised area. Escape the crowds and discover the special ambience of this enchanting sailing destination. With a yacht charter in the Peloponnese you can moor up in historic ports, relax on some of the best sand beaches in Greece, and explore hiking trails through beautiful mountains. The region is the home of legends, filled with the stories of Hercules, Paris of Troy and the Argonauts and tangible history in the ancient ruins of cities and Ottoman fortresses. The peninsula is a foodies heaven; being cut off by the mountains and gorges means that the region has its own autonomous gastronomic culture. Locals are so passionate about food that they hold a festival to commemorate the summer eggplant harvest. A perfect blend of the best of the good life, the Peloponnese is a truly special destination.

• Best Time To Visit: May to September offers the most pleasant weather.
• Key Cruising Areas: Circumnavigating the pleated coastline of the peninsula is a lovely cruising trip. Further afield, this is an ideal starting point to sail to the Aegean or Ionian Islands.
• Don’t Miss: The cave networks in the Peloponnese intrigue visitors and geologists alike. Take a tour of the caves in Diros where the reflections of amazing rock formations ripple in the water or explore the stalactites and white and red rock cascades of Kastania caves.
• Best Spots for Wining and Dining: The pretty port of Gerolimenas has a history built on cuisine, with an economy based on selling quails to French restaurants, and the town retains its passion for gastronomy. Sample the innovative twists on authentic cuisine at the restaurant of the hotel Kyrimai, where the chefs promise an experience like no other, which you will enjoy at sea level, where waves lap the rocks beside you.