Chartering a yacht in Greece is one of the most rewarding ways to explore the country’s stunning islands, hidden coves, and vibrant coastal towns. The process is straightforward when you know the steps: start by choosing the right yacht broker, select your group and yacht type, decide on your general itinerary, secure your booking, and prepare for a flexible, unforgettable adventure. Greece’s diverse regions, from the Cyclades to the Ionian Islands, offer something for every traveler, and with the help of a professional charter team, you can customize your journey to match your preferences and budget. For a crewed yacht experience, this guide will walk you through every stage of chartering a yacht in Greece.
Why Charter a Yacht in Greece
Greece is a premier destination for yacht charters, boasting over 4,000 islands and a rich maritime heritage. Chartering a yacht allows you to explore secluded beaches, historic ports, and local culture at your own pace. The flexibility of a private yacht means you can set your own schedule, tailor your itinerary, and enjoy personalized service whether you opt for a crewed or bareboat charter.
Who Should You Book a Yacht Charter in Greece With
Choosing a reputable yacht broker is the first and most crucial step. A professional broker will guide you through the process, provide up-to-date information on available yachts, and ensure your charter meets all legal and safety requirements. Look for brokers with years of experience, strong industry connections, and positive client reviews. The Valef Yachts team, for example, offers personalized service and access to a wide range of luxury yachts, ensuring a seamless booking and chartering experience. If you have specific needs or questions, don’t hesitate to contact the Valef team for expert advice.
Step-by-Step Guide to Chartering a Yacht in Greece
Chartering a yacht in Greece is an adventure that promises breathtaking views, rich history, and a flexible vacation experience. The process is designed to be straightforward, but understanding each step will help ensure a smooth and memorable journey. Here’s a detailed look at what you need to know, from assembling your group to preparing for your departure.
Assemble Your Group
Before browsing yachts or planning routes, decide who will join your charter. Your group determines the size and type of yacht you’ll need, your budget, and your preferred sailing style. Families, couples, and groups of friends each have different requirements, so it’s essential to communicate your needs clearly from the start. In Greece, most yachts are legally limited to carrying up to 12 guests due to international maritime regulations, regardless of the yacht’s size or number of cabins. This means even if a yacht has 10 cabins, it can only host 12 guests for safety and legal reasons. If you’re planning a larger group event, such as a family reunion or corporate retreat, some superyachts and specialized vessels like gulets or mini cruisers can accommodate more, but these are rare and require advance booking. For groups larger than 12, tandem charters are a popular solution, allowing everyone to stay connected while complying with local laws. For families seeking the perfect vessel, our guide on choosing the best private charter yacht for a family vacation offers tailored advice to help you make the right choice.
Choose the Right Type of Yacht
Selecting the right yacht is about more than just looks. Consider factors like group size, sailing comfort, speed and desired amenities. Sailing yachts are perfect for those who enjoy the thrill of the wind and quieter anchorages, while motor yachts provide speed, luxury, and comfort for longer distances. Catamarans offer spacious layouts and stability, making them ideal for families or groups seeking comfort and ease of movement. If you’re unsure about which yacht type suits your needs, our guide on what type of yacht you need can help clarify your options.
Select Your Destination and Itinerary
Greece’s diverse regions offer a variety of experiences. The Cyclades are famous for their whitewashed villages and lively nightlife, while the Ionian Islands provide lush landscapes and tranquil bays. When planning your route, consider the sailing season, weather patterns, and your group’s interests. Whether you want to visit historic sites, enjoy local cuisine, or relax on secluded beaches, Greece’s islands offer endless possibilities for customization. If you’re particularly interested in the Ionian Islands, our dedicated guide on Ionian Islands yacht charters in Greece can inspire your itinerary and help you discover the best spots for your group.
Secure Your Yacht
Once you’ve chosen your dates and yacht, your broker will help you secure your booking. This involves signing an internationally recognized charter agreement and paying a deposit. The contract is between three parties; the Owner, Broker and Charterer. Many brokers offer an “option” period, allowing you to hold a yacht for a few days while you finalize travel plans. Book early, especially during peak season, to ensure the best selection. The charter agreement will detail all vital information, including dates, yacht, cost, cruising area, and embarkation/disembarkation ports. Payment terms are also clearly defined in the contract. If you need assistance or have questions, our team is ready to help you navigate the process and find the perfect yacht for your adventure.
Prepare for Your Charter
Before your trip, provide your broker with a full list of passengers and passport details. Complete any required questionnaires, including preferences for food, activities, and itinerary. This information helps your crew prepare for your arrival and ensures a smooth start to your charter. You’ll also need to communicate any special requests, such as dietary restrictions, accessibility needs, or planned excursions. The more detailed your preferences, the better your crew can tailor the experience to your group’s wishes.
Types of Yacht Charters: Crewed vs. Bareboat
Choosing between a crewed and a bareboat charter is a basic decision you’ll make when planning your yacht holiday in Greece. Each option offers a distinct experience, tailored to different preferences and group needs. Greece’s diverse fleet ensures there’s a perfect yacht for every traveler. To explore the full range of vessels available, browse our yacht charter fleet and find the ideal match for your next journey.
Crewed Charters
A crewed charter includes a captain, chef, and other staff who handle navigation, meals, and onboard services. This option is ideal for those who want a luxurious, hassle-free experience. The crew caters to your needs, allowing you to relax and enjoy your vacation. Crewed charters are perfect for families, groups, couples or anyone seeking a high level of comfort and personalized service. The captain and crew are experts in Greek waters, ensuring safety and providing local insights, while the chef prepares meals tailored to your tastes.
Bareboat Charters
A bareboat charter means the yacht comes “bare” and you add on extras such as linens, sea toys and up to 3 crew members as needed. You can skipper the yacht yourself, if you hold a valid sailing license recognized by Greek authorities. Bareboat charters offer more freedom and are perfect for experienced sailors who want to explore at their own pace. These charters run Saturday to Saturday, check-in at 17:00 and check out at 09:00. This option offers a more casual and less luxurioys experience and is ideal for budget conscious adventurous travelers and those who want to sail themselves.
What’s Included in Your Charter Fee?
Your charter fee covers the core components of your yacht experience: the rental of the yacht for the agreed period, the services of the professional crew, and access to all onboard amenities. This includes the use of air-conditioning, Wi-Fi, linens, hair dryers, bath and beach towels, basic toiletries, and a selection of sea toys. Larger yachts may also offer extras like sun creams and a wider range of water sports equipment. The base fee ensures the yacht is fully equipped, insured, and ready for your adventure, with all crew wages, their F&B and insurance covered by the owner.
How Much Does It Cost to Charter a Yacht in Greece?
Charter costs in Greece depend on yacht type, size, season, and amenities. For a weekly bareboat charter, prices can start as low as €3,000 weekly in the low season, while luxury catamarans or motor yachts in peak season can reach €15,000 or more per week. Crewed charters for larger yachts or superyachts typically range from €10,000 weekly to well over €200,000 per week, depending on the level of luxury and services provided, with many mega yachts reaching the millions per week.
In addition to the base charter fee, you’ll need to budget for:
- VAT (typically 5.2%, 6.5% and 12% in Greece)
- APA (Advanced Provisioning Allowance), depending on the yacht type, usually 25% to 40% of the charter fee, which covers fuel, food, beverages, port fees, etc.
- Crew gratuities (customarily 10% to 20% of the charter fee)
- Any special requests or premium services
These extra costs are not included in the base fee and are essential to factor into your budget. Always clarify with your broker exactly what’s included and what additional expenses you might expect, so there are no surprises at the end of your charter.
What to Expect During Your Charter in Greece
During your yacht charter in Greece, the crew will handle all aspects of navigation, meals, and onboard services, ensuring a seamless and luxurious experience. You’ll have access to a wide range of amenities, including air-conditioning, Wi-Fi, linens, bath and beach towels, and an assortment of sea toys such as paddleboards, kayaks, snorkeling gear, and sometimes even jet skis or seabobs. The crew will provide a thorough safety briefing at the start, covering regulations and procedures, and will be on hand to assist with any questions or special requests. Throughout your journey, the captain will tailor your itinerary to your preferences, whether you want to visit bustling ports, secluded beaches, or historic sites, and will be ready to adapt plans based on weather or local events. The crew will also help organize any excursions or activities ashore, ensuring you get the most out of each destination.
A typical day onboard starts with a delicious breakfast served on deck, often featuring fresh local produce and gourmet dishes prepared by your chef. After breakfast, you can choose to swim, snorkel, or explore the coastline, or simply relax on the sun deck with a book or a glass of wine. The afternoon might include lunch at a picturesque bay, more water sports, or a visit to a charming coastal town. As the sun sets, you can enjoy cocktails and a gourmet dinner, either onboard or ashore, depending on your mood and plans. The yacht usually pulls into harbor before dusk. The crew will support your choices and ensure every detail is taken care of, so you can focus on making unforgettable memories. If you need assistance or encounter any issues, the charter company you booked with provides support throughout your journey, ensuring a smooth and enjoyable experience from start to finish.
Frequently Asked Questions for Chartering a Yacht in Greece
Are there age restrictions?
No, all ages are welcome, and special arrangements can be made for families or those with specific needs.
Can I bring pets?
Pets are generally not allowed, but special permission can be requested.
Is smoking permitted?
Smoking is usually allowed only in outdoor areas.
Can I invite extra guests?
Yes, but the number is limited by safety regulations, typically to 12 guests while cruising and more while docked.
Do I need a license for water sports?
Yes, licenses are required for activities like SCUBA diving and jetskis.
