SUPERYACHTS & LUXURY CATAMARANS
Luxury Yacht Charter Across the Greek Islands
A Greece yacht charter offers one of the world’s most diverse and rewarding cruising experiences. As part of our wider Mediterranean yacht charter collection, Greece combines ancient history, crystal-clear waters, dramatic coastlines and refined island life — all best explored by luxury yacht.
Chartering a yacht in Greece allows guests to move effortlessly between iconic islands and hidden anchorages, enjoying complete privacy, flexible itineraries and exceptional onboard service throughout one of the Mediterranean’s most legendary yachting destinations.
Explore our curated collection of luxury yachts and crewed catamarans. Our independent brokers can also introduce you to exclusive yachts beyond the published selection.
THE destination advantage
Why Charter a Yacht in Greece?
Greece rewards guests who want genuine variety within a single country — few Mediterranean destinations offer this much contrast in one charter. The whitewashed villages and nightlife of the Cyclades, the calm green landscapes of the Ionian, the Dodecanese‘s proximity to Turkey, and the Sporades‘ protected marine parks are all reachable within the same fleet, often the same week. That range is what sets Greece apart from a single-region destination.
Greece is one of the world’s premier yacht charter destinations:
✔ Vast variety of islands and cruising areas
✔ Short distances between anchorages
✔ Excellent weather and long charter season
✔ Rich cultural heritage and ancient landmarks
✔ Clear waters ideal for swimming and snorkeling
✔ Wide selection of luxury yachts and crews
A luxury yacht charter in Greece suits both first-time charterers and experienced guests seeking variety and authenticity.
YBH Charter Expert Insight – “Guests often try to plan a Greece charter around the Meltemi as if it’s a problem to avoid. Think of it as a scheduling factor: Athens gives you the flexibility to adjust in real time, while the Dodecanese and Sporades stay sheltered even at the height of summer. The wind doesn’t rule out a great charter — it just narrows which base makes sense.”
Top Yacht Charter Areas in Greece
Greece is divided into genuinely distinct cruising regions, each with its own landscape, pace and character — not just a different name on the map. The Cyclades deliver the iconic image most guests picture first: whitewashed villages and vibrant island life. The Ionian, on the western side, is greener and calmer, well suited to families and first-time charter guests. The Dodecanese sit close to Turkey and reward guests willing to cruise a little further. The Sporades protect some of the clearest water in the Aegean inside marine parks, while Crete adds scale and ancient history to any itinerary.
Exploring these areas by yacht allows genuinely seamless transitions between contrasting island groups — something few charter destinations anywhere in the world can offer within a single country.
Cyclades
Whitewashed villages, vibrant nightlife and iconic scenery define this world-famous island group.
Ionian Islands
Lush landscapes, calm waters and relaxed cruising make the Ionian ideal for families and first-time guests.
Dodecanese
Culturally rich islands close to the Turkish coast, offering longer routes and a sense of exploration.
Sporades
Green islands with protected marine parks, quiet anchorages and pristine waters.
Crete
Greece’s largest island, combining dramatic coastlines, ancient history and diverse cruising options.
THE CHARTER JOURNEY
Suggested Greek Yacht Charter Itineraries
Greece’s itinerary options are as varied as its geography — from a compact week entirely within the Cyclades to a longer route stitching together two entirely different island groups in one trip. Below are four starting points we return to most often, each built around a distinct character rather than simply a different set of names on a map.
7-Day Cyclades Highlights
Athens – Mykonos – Paros – Naxos – Santorini
Ionian Islands Relaxed Cruise
Corfu – Paxos – Lefkada – Kefalonia – Zakynthos
Dodecanese Discovery
Rhodes – Symi – Kos – Patmos
Extended Greece Exploration
Combine two island groups over 10–14 days
Explore in depth: 7-Day Athens to Santorini Catamaran Itinerary (Cyclades Highlights) / 14-Day Ionian Itinerary from Lefkas (Ionian Relaxed Cruise) / 10-Day Dodecanese Itinerary (Dodecanese Discovery)
Every itinerary here is a starting point, not a fixed package — your broker will adjust timing, pace, and stops around your group, the season, and the yacht you choose.
DISCOVER ALONG THE WAY
Best Places & Experiences in Greece
From ancient sanctuaries and whitewashed island towns to secluded bays, celebrated beach clubs and waterfront dining, Greece rewards exploration both aboard and ashore. These are some of the places and experiences we recommend weaving into a Cyclades yacht charter from Athens, depending on your route, interests and the conditions during your week.
Island
Ionian Islands
Paxos & Antipaxos
Paxos and Antipaxos are made for exploring by yacht. Cruise along the limestone coast of Paxos, discover its dramatic sea caves and picturesque Gaios harbour, then continue to Antipaxos for swimming in brilliantly clear water around beaches such as Voutoumi.
Island
Ionian Islands
Ithaca & Vathy
Ithaca offers a quieter style of Greek island cruising, with a deeply indented coastline, small bays and traditional villages. Spend the day swimming in secluded coves before entering the natural harbour of Vathy for a relaxed evening ashore.
Landmark
Ionian Islands
Meganisi & Papanikolis Cave
Meganisi is an ideal yacht destination thanks to its protected anchorages and irregular green coastline. Cruise into Papanikolis Cave, stop for swimming in quiet bays and tender ashore to one of the island’s small waterfront villages for lunch or dinner.
Island
Ionian Islands
Corfu & Paleokastritsa
Corfu offers one of the Ionian’s most varied yacht experiences. Explore the island’s coastline and anchor around Paleokastritsa for swimming beneath dramatic green hills before heading ashore to discover Corfu Town, its elegant architecture and lively waterfront atmosphere.

Port
Saronic Islands
Hydra Harbour
Hydra makes a memorable arrival from the sea. Enter its horseshoe-shaped harbour beneath historic stone mansions, then step ashore into a car-free town of narrow lanes, galleries, waterfront restaurants and elegant terraces. It is one of the defining stops of a Saronic yacht charter.
Port
Saronic Islands
Spetses & the Old Harbour
Spetses combines beautiful swimming with one of the Saronic Gulf’s most sophisticated evenings ashore. Cruise the pine-covered coastline before heading into the Old Harbour, where traditional boats, yachts, waterfront restaurants and historic mansions reflect the island’s long maritime heritage.
Landmark
Cyclades
Milos & Kleftiko
Milos is an exceptional island to explore from the water, and Kleftiko is its signature yacht experience. Cruise among sculpted white rock formations, caves and natural arches, stopping to swim and snorkel in brilliantly clear water before exploring more of the island’s volcanic coastline.
Island
Cyclades
Polyaigos
Between Milos and Kimolos, largely uninhabited Polyaigos is exactly the kind of destination that becomes special when explored aboard a yacht. Spend the day moving between remote coves, swimming in luminous turquoise water and enjoying the quiet before continuing through the western Cyclades.
Island
Cyclades
Mykonos & Delos
A yacht allows you to experience two very different sides of the Cyclades in one day: the ancient sanctuary of Delos and the beaches, restaurants and celebrated social scene of Mykonos. Cruise between the islands before heading ashore in Mykonos for an evening in town.
Island
Cyclades
Paros, Antiparos & Naoussa
Cruise between Paros and Antiparos, stopping to swim around their small bays and islets before heading ashore. Naoussa offers an atmospheric harbor, excellent restaurants, and lively summer evenings, while Antiparos provides a more relaxed counterpoint nearby.
Island
Dodecanese
Symi Harbour & Agios Georgios
Arriving in Symi’s Gialos harbour by yacht is unforgettable, with colourful neoclassical houses rising amphitheatrically above the water. Explore the island’s rugged coastline and stop for swimming beneath the towering cliffs of Agios Georgios before returning to the harbour for dinner ashore.

Island
Dodecanese
Patmos & Chora
Spend the day exploring Patmos’ intricate coastline and quiet swimming bays before heading ashore. Above the harbour, the beautifully preserved Chora and Monastery of Saint John create a remarkable contrast between a relaxed day on the water and an atmospheric evening inland.
Island
Dodecanese
Astypalaia
Astypalaia rewards yacht guests looking beyond Greece’s most familiar islands. Its deeply indented coastline creates numerous opportunities for swimming and anchoring, while the whitewashed Chora and hilltop castle provide a striking backdrop for an evening ashore.
Protected Area
Northern Sporades
Alonnisos Marine Park
The National Marine Park of Alonnisos and the Northern Sporades offers one of Greece’s most nature-focused yacht experiences. Cruise among remote islands and clear-water bays in an exceptionally protected marine environment, always respecting navigation zones, wildlife and local regulations.
Island
Northern Sporades
Skopelos & its Hidden Coves
Skopelos offers a greener and more tranquil version of the Aegean. Cruise along pine-covered shores, stop for swimming in secluded coves and beaches accessible most naturally from the water, then head ashore to discover the island’s traditional villages and relaxed waterfront atmosphere.
destination insights
Expert perspectives and practical guidance for planning your yacht charter.
Greece's Sailing Season, Month by Month
The prime yacht charter season in Greece runs from June through September, when warm temperatures, abundant sunshine, and inviting sea conditions create ideal conditions for island-hopping. June and September are particularly attractive for guests seeking warm weather with fewer crowds, while July and August deliver classic peak-summer conditions. In the Aegean, especially around the Cyclades, the Meltemi can bring stronger northerly winds during July and August; the Ionian Islands and Saronic Gulf generally offer more sheltered alternatives. May and October can also be excellent for quieter cruising, particularly for guests who value privacy and flexibility over peak-summer temperatures.
Greece offers one of the longest and most varied sailing seasons in the Mediterranean — but it’s also one of the few destinations where the wind itself, not just the temperature, genuinely shapes where you should base your charter. Here’s how the season actually breaks down.
✔ May – June: Ideal weather and fewer crowds
✔ July – August: Peak season with lively island atmosphere
✔ September – October: Warm seas and relaxed cruising
Unlike most Mediterranean destinations, timing a Greece charter isn’t only about temperature — the Meltemi genuinely changes which base makes sense. July and August still rate “Very Good” rather than “Excellent” here for exactly that reason, even at peak warmth: Athens departures give you more flexibility to adjust around it, while the Dodecanese and Sporades stay sheltered regardless.
YBH note: One of the best months for a yacht charter in Greece, with warm weather, long sunny days and generally comfortable cruising conditions before the July and August peak.
Wind Conditions & Choosing the Right Departure Port
Greece’s summer sailing season is shaped by the Meltemi — a strong, dry north wind that dominates the Aegean from July to August. While ideal for seasoned sailors seeking dynamic sailing conditions, the Meltemi can impact cruising comfort and route flexibility.
For this reason, Athens is often the smartest departure port. Starting from the mainland lets your captain adjust itineraries between the exposed Cyclades, Crete and the more sheltered Saronic Gulf, ensuring your route matches real-time weather conditions.
By contrast, island departure points like Mykonos or Paros offer fewer alternatives if winds intensify. For guests sailing during peak Meltemi periods, the Dodecanese, Sporades, and North-Eastern Aegean islands also provide excellent alternatives with more protected waters.
Choosing the right base is not just a logistical decision — it’s a strategic one. Our charter experts will guide you toward the best starting point based on your timing, comfort level, and cruising preferences.
Types of Yachts Available in Greece
Greece offers one of the widest ranges of charter yachts anywhere in the Mediterranean — a direct result of the sheer variety of cruising grounds on offer. Families heading to the sheltered Ionian often choose a catamaran for stability and space; guests island-hopping fast through the Cyclades frequently prefer a motor yacht’s speed between anchorages; and those drawn to the slower, more traditional side of Greek sailing can charter a luxury crewed gulet — a style of yacht more commonly associated with Turkey, but genuinely available here too. Add superyachts capable of covering multiple regions in a single charter, and Greece arguably supports more distinct ways to experience a destination by yacht than anywhere else we work.
✔ Luxury motor yachts
✔ Classic and modern sailing yachts
✔ High-end crewed catamarans for guests seeking space and stability
✔ Luxury crewed gulets for a slower, more traditional style of cruising
✔ Superyachts operating across multiple regions
Whichever style suits your group, matching the yacht to the right region is where local expertise matters most — the same week in Greece looks completely different depending on which of these you choose.
All the yachts selected by YBH operate under MYBA terms or equivalent international charter standards.
Some of the yachts currently available in Greece include:
Superyachts: Luna (90m) · Solandge (85.1m) · Plan B (73m) · Quinta Essentia (55m)
Motor yachts: Sunrise (43m) · Lexsea (40.8m) · Emocean (38.2m) · Angel (36.9m) · O’Rion (41m)
Crewed catamarans: Just Marie 2 · Wish · Amarea · Christal Mio · Serenissima III · Sol Madinina · Alena · D2
Featured Builders in Greece
The range of yachts operating in Greece is matched by an equally broad range of builders — from Dutch and German megayacht shipyards building some of the largest vessels afloat, to French and Italian catamaran specialists producing the sailing and power catamarans that dominate Cycladic charters. This diversity is part of why choosing the right yacht here benefits so much from broker expertise: the same region can be explored completely differently depending on which builder’s philosophy you choose.
Oceanco · Lürssen · Benetti · Rosetti Superyachts · Lagoon · Fountaine Pajot · Sunreef · Sanlorenzo
Popular Onboard Amenities
A Greek itinerary spends more time at anchor between islands than almost any other Mediterranean route, which changes what actually matters onboard. Guests moving through the Cyclades or Dodecanese often value amenities that make the hours between destinations as memorable as the destinations themselves — not just comfort, but genuine entertainment and connectivity during longer crossings.
Beach club · Deck jacuzzi · Pool · Starlink · Helipad · Massage Room · Stabilizers
Chartering Greece and Turkey Together
The Dodecanese sit close enough to the Turkish coast that combining both countries in one charter is a common request — but it isn’t as simple as crossing an open border. A yacht’s charter license determines where it can legally start and end: Greek-licensed yachts must begin and conclude their charter in Greece, though they may visit Turkish waters after guests have embarked. Turkish-licensed yachts work the same way in reverse, starting and finishing in Turkey.
In practice, this means the itinerary — not just the destinations — needs to be built around the right yacht’s license from the outset. A well-planned route linking the Dodecanese with the Turkish Riviera gives guests two genuinely different cultures and coastlines in a single week, without ever running into a legal grey area. We handle this pairing regularly and can confirm the right licensing route for your dates before you commit to a yacht.
Understanding VAT for a Greece Charter
Greece’s standard VAT rate is 24%, but that’s not the rate that applies to most charter guests. Yachts operating under a Greek charter license benefit from a significantly reduced rate — starting at 13% and potentially falling as low as 5.2% depending on two factors: whether the charter runs longer than 48 hours and how the specific yacht is classified. This is one of the more favorable VAT structures in the Mediterranean when compared with France or Italy, where the full rate applies with far fewer reductions.
Because the exact rate depends on the yacht itself, confirm with your broker before comparing charter quotes across different vessels — two similarly priced yachts can end up with meaningfully different all-in costs once VAT is applied. See our full guide to VAT on yacht charters for how Greece compares with other destinations.
Why Charter Greece with Your Boat Holiday
We’ve spent years matching guests to the right region and yacht in Greece, and we know that getting it right takes more than picking a beautiful island off a map. A yacht built for the sheltered Ionian isn’t necessarily the right choice for an open Aegean crossing between the Cyclades, and a family wanting calm, protected sailing needs a completely different itinerary from a group chasing the energy of Mykonos.
As a MYBA corporate member, we personally inspect every yacht we put forward, handle every contract to the same professional standard, and build every itinerary around how you actually want to spend the week — not a template. From your first inquiry to the moment you step off the yacht, a senior broker and 24/7 concierge will support you every step of the way.
Everything You Need to Know Before Chartering in Greece
Choosing to charter a yacht in Greece opens the door to an unforgettable journey — but also raises important questions about timing, regulations, and onboard experience. To help you prepare with clarity and confidence, we’ve answered the key questions our clients typically ask when planning their charter. Our team is always available for tailored advice, but this section is a great starting point for understanding how to make the most of your Greek yacht charter.
PRIVATE YACHT CHARTER ADVISORY
The right yacht changes everything. The right people make it yours.
Independent yacht selection, firsthand knowledge and personal assistance — from your first enquiry to your return home.
Your journey, our expertise.
Independent selection. Explore publicly listed and off-market yachts through our international brokerage network, without fleet bias.
Firsthand knowledge. We inspect yachts, meet crews and help tailor every detail to your cruising plans.
Professional credentials. Our team is active in established yacht brokerage associations, including MYBA, IYBA and CYBA.
Planning a yacht charter in Greece? Tell us your preferred dates, guests and expectations — our brokers will prepare a considered proposal.
Request Your Private Yacht Proposal
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