Charter a sailing boat in Greece

Discover Greece by sailboat

Are you looking for a unique and unforgettable way to explore the stunning beauty of Greece? 

Look no further than a Greece sailboat rental. With its azure waters and picturesque islands, Greece is the perfect destination for a sailing adventure. With a Greece sailboat charter, you can experience the enchanting Greek landscapes and coastline like never before. With thousands of islands scattered across the Aegean and Ionian Seas, Greece offers endless opportunities for sailing exploration and discovery.

Greece is famous for its picturesque islands, and renting a sailboat allows you to effortlessly hop from one island to another, exploring hidden gems and secluded coves. Each island offers unique beauty and charm, from the iconic Santorini and Mykonos to the lesser-known gems like Milos and Naxos. Witness the breathtaking beauty of the Greek coastline from a different perspective. The tranquil surroundings and mesmerising sunsets create a truly unforgettable experience.

Greece has a long-standing tradition of sailing, dating back to ancient times. The country's favourable winds, calm waters, and well-established sailing infrastructure make it an ideal destination for sailors of all levels. Whether you are a seasoned sailor or a novice, Greece offers a variety of sailing experiences to suit your preferences.

Should I rent a sailboat in Greece with or without skipper?

A skipper is an experienced professional who can navigate the waters, handle unexpected situations, and ensure safety throughout the journey. Skippers possess in-depth knowledge of the best sailing routes, hidden gems, and local customs, enhancing your overall experience and providing valuable insights into Greece's rich history and culture. By entrusting the sailing responsibilities to a skipper, you can relax and enjoy the voyage without worrying about navigation, anchoring, or docking.

If you have sailing experience and prefer to captain the sailboat, renting without a skipper is an option. However, sailboats typically require a valid sailing licence or proof of competency. Demonstrating your ability to handle the sailboat and navigate safely in Greek waters is essential.

Find the ideal sailboat for your next sailing trip

When selecting the ideal sailboat for your next sailing trip, consider the following factors:

• Capacity: On average, sailboats can typically accommodate 4 to 8 passengers or plus.
• Cabins: Assess the number of cabins available for overnight stays. A typical sailboat may offer 1 to 3 cabins, providing comfortable sleeping arrangements for all passengers.
• Length (in feet): Consider the length of the sailboat, which correlates with its overall space and comfort level. Sailboats range from around 25 feet for smaller vessels to 60 feet or more for larger yachts.

By considering these factors and matching them with your preferences and the needs of your sailing trip, you can find the ideal sailboat for a memorable and comfortable journey.

Are there any extra facilities/activities?

Sailboat charters often go the extra mile to provide a memorable experience, offering a range of additional facilities and activities. From catering services or the option to bring your own provisions, to accommodating well-behaved dogs, these charters strive to meet your needs. You can also indulge in water sports like snorkelling, kayaking, or paddleboarding with the provided equipment. Sailboat charters offer extra facilities and activities for a memorable experience, including catering, water sports, onboard grills, entertainment systems, and even the option to bring pets. Some charters also provide Wi-Fi and professional crews for ultimate relaxation.

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

Chartering a sailboat in Greece typically costs between €1,000 to €10,000+ per week. Prices vary depending on the size and type of the sailboat, the number of passengers and the season. You can rent a sailboat for a day with average prices ranging from €100 to €4,000 and for a week with average prices ranging from €700 to €28,000. Mooring fees range from €20 to €100 per night. Charter prices usually cover the boat rental, while extras like fuel, crew, and cleaning may incur additional charges. Amenities such as bedding and safety gear are typically included. Please check directly with the boat owner for any specifications.

What is included in the cost?

Charter prices usually cover the boat rental, while extras like fuel, crew, and cleaning may incur additional charges. Amenities such as bedding and safety gear are typically included. Please check directly with the boat owner for any specifications. Fuel will more than likely be an additional cost and consumption for a sailboat in Greece can vary depending on factors such as the size of the boat, weather conditions, sailing speed, and the distance travelled. 

The price of your Greek sailboat rental also depends on whether you choose a bareboat rental or a skippered/crewed boat charter. Skipper prices vary depending on different factors such as the boat brand, on the length and on the boat capacity, but they usually start at €150.

Where to sail in Greece?

Greece offers numerous stunning sailing destinations:

Saronic Gulf: Close to Athens, featuring historic islands like Aegina, Poros, and Hydra with charming harbours and traditional villages.

Cyclades: Iconic islands such as Mykonos and Santorini, known for their vibrant nightlife, beautiful beaches, and whitewashed architecture.

Ionian Sea: Green, lush islands like Corfu, Kefalonia, and Zakynthos, perfect for calm waters and scenic anchorages.

Dodecanese: Islands like Rhodes, Kos, and Symi, combining history, crystal-clear waters, and diverse landscapes.

Sporades: Less crowded islands such as Skiathos, Skopelos, and Alonissos, offering pristine beaches and marine parks.

Crete: The largest Greek island with diverse sailing routes, stunning coastlines, and rich cultural heritage.

Each region has its unique charm, making Greece a premier sailing destination with varied experiences for all types of sailors. 

Week long sailing itinerary in Greece:

Day 1: Volos to Trikeri Island (19NM | 2HRS 43 MIN)
Set sail from Volos to the tranquil Trikeri Island, enjoying scenic views of the Pagasetic Gulf.
Day 2: Trikeri Island to Skiathos Island (22NM | 3HRS 08 MIN)
Cruise to Skiathos Island, famous for its lively atmosphere and beautiful beaches.
Day 3: Skiathos Island to Skopelos Island (16NM | 2HRS 18 MIN)
Sail to Skopelos Island, renowned for its lush landscapes and picturesque towns.
Day 4: Skopelos Island to Alonnisos Island (15.5NM | 2HRS 12 MIN)
Head to Alonnisos Island, known for its marine park and crystal-clear waters.
Day 5: Alonnisos Island to Peristera Island (5.2NM | 44 MIN)
A short sail to Peristera Island, offering secluded bays perfect for anchoring.
Day 6: Peristera Island to Kyra Panagia Island (8NM | 1HR 09 MIN)
Navigate to Kyra Panagia Island, with its serene coves and rugged beauty.
Day 7 and 8: Kyra Panagia to Skiathos (30NM | 3HR 44MIN) then to Volos (41NM | 5HR 07MIN)
Return to Skiathos for a night of relaxation, then sail back to Volos, completing your Aegean adventure

You can find a more detailed version of this Greek sailing itinerary here.

If you're not sure of where particualrly to sail in Greece, you can look at the Click&Boat blog to check out the best Greek sailing routes!

Where to charter a sailboat in Greece?

Greece offers several ports and marinas where sailboats can be rented.

Marina Zeas: One of Greece's largest marinas, located in the port city of Piraeus. It offers around 670 berths, accommodating boats and yachts of various sizes. Marina Zeas provides comprehensive facilities, including a fuel station, water, electricity, showers, toilets, Wi-Fi, restaurants, bars, and shops. Its proximity to Athens makes it a popular starting point for exploring the Greek islands.

Alimos Marina: Also known as Kalamaki Marina, is another prominent marina near Athens. It is one of the largest marinas in Europe, offering over 1,000 berths. The marina provides all the necessary services and amenities, including a fuel station, water, electricity, showers, toilets, Wi-Fi, restaurants, and shops. Alimos Marina is a convenient base for sailing the Saronic Gulf and exploring the nearby islands.

Marina Gouvia: Located on the island of Corfu in the Ionian Sea. It is a popular destination for yacht charters and offers approximately 960 berths. The marina provides a full range of services, including fuel stations, water, electricity, showers, toilets, Wi-Fi, restaurants, bars, and shops. Its location in the northern Ionian Sea makes it an excellent starting point for exploring the beautiful Ionian Islands.

Marina Mykonos: A well-equipped marina that offers around 120 berths for boats and yachts. It provides essential services such as a fuel station, water, electricity, showers, toilets, Wi-Fi, and a restaurant. Marina Mykonos is an ideal base for enjoying the cosmopolitan atmosphere and exploring the Cyclades Islands.

Marina Kos: Located on the island of Kos in the Dodecanese archipelago. It offers approximately 250 berths and facilities, including a fuel station, water, electricity, showers, toilets, Wi-Fi, restaurants, and shops. The marina is a gateway to exploring the Dodecanese Islands and is conveniently located near the vibrant town of Kos.

Which is the best season to rent a sailboat in Greece?

Greece enjoys a Mediterranean climate, with mild winters and hot summers. The sailing season typically begins in April and extends through October. May, June, and September offer pleasant temperatures, fewer crowds, and favourable winds, making them popular months for sailing. July and August are peak tourist seasons, characterised by warmer weather and bustling ports.

Greece hosts numerous cultural events and festivities throughout the year. Planning your sailing trip to coincide with traditional festivals can add a unique cultural dimension to your experience. Festivals like Easter, Carnival, and local religious celebrations showcase Greece's rich traditions and vibrant heritage.

Sailing conditions in Greece

Sailing conditions in Greece are generally favourable, with the little wind providing excellent sailing conditions in the Aegean Sea during the summer. The Mediterranean climate ensures sunny summers and mild winters. Navigation is generally reliable, but caution is needed around rocky coastlines. Greece offers diverse anchorages, adapting to various preferences.

Frequently Asked Questions about Greece

What is the price of renting a sailboat for a day in Greece?

The average price of renting a sailboat for the day in Greece is €600. A few factors can determine the cost of the rental, such as the time of year, how old the boat is, and the boat equipment. Depending on these factors, the price of renting a sailboat can range from €50 and €13,440.

What is the typical daily cost of hiring a skipper in Greece?

The cost of hiring a skipper can differ based on the destination and the owner of the boat. In Greece, the typical rate of a skipper is €205 per day.

What is the typical rental period for a yacht hire Greece?

The rental period for a sailboat in Greece can vary considerably. However, on average it is rented for 4 days.

What is incorporated in the price of a sailboat charter in Greece?

In Greece, the rental price for a sailboat usually includes GPS, Bimini, Automatic pilot etc.

What is the passenger limit on a sailboat in Greece?

The passenger limit on sailboats in Greece is 100 persons. It is worth noting that when you rent a boat with skipper, they also count to the number of people onboard.

Good to know