If you love sailing, you’ve probably heard many sailors recommend chartering a yacht in Greece. This part of the world is famous for its crystalline waters, sumptuous Mediterranean food and reliable breezes that make for a relaxing getaway. This wonderful place is perfect for novices and experienced sailors. Read on for our tips if you’re thinking of chartering in the region.
The charter season
The prime season for bareboat chartering in Greece runs from April to November, with the high season between the end of July to the beginning of September. During these times you’ll see high concentrations of sailors in places such as the Saronic Gulf, Corfu and Lefkas.
During high demand times, charters are more expensive than the low season. Sailing outside of the peak season is worth considering, especially in April, May or June when you’ll be rewarded with lots of blooming flowers, green islands and fun festivities related to Easter, the biggest religious holiday in the country. You’ll also be able to move around more freely, as there are fewer visitors around these times.
Categories of charter bases
Greece boasts more than 10,000 miles of coastline to explore with 2,000 islands which are categorised as the Ionian, Athens and the Saronic Gulf, The Sporades, The Cyclades and The Dodecanese.
Each category has its own distinct feel and merits. The Ionian offers a relaxed sailing experience with short passages between anchorages, while The Dodecanese offers an experience to challenge and hone your sailing skills.
You can fly into Athens and travel to your base, but depending where you are chartering from there are also smaller airports that you can fly to from a number of European cities such as Kos, Rhodes, Skiathos, Preveza and Corfu.
Greek bareboat charter requirements
Just like any country Greece has certain special requirements for bareboat charters:
- There must be at least one certified skipper on the yacht. The skipper must be able to provide proof of competency such as an international certificate of competence or ASA’s “104 Bareboat Cruising Course”.
- As well as a skipper, each group must have a second experienced crew member, and this person must be over the age of 18.
Great mooring costs
Unlike many other beautiful destinations, the mooring costs in many areas of Greece are extremely reasonable, if not altogether free. Our expert LateSail team can provide you with further information on suggested itineraries, where to moor – and where to avoid as well!
Provisioning in Greece
As an experienced host to charterers and yachting fans from around the world, most of Greece is well versed in providing great provisions to enhance your trip. The region boasts excellent olives, sardines and cheeses, all of which are great for putting together a superb snack while out on the water. If you want the dining experience, you’ll also find plenty of waterfront tavernas serving excellent seafood and many other types of regional specialities. Don’t forget to sample the selection of good wine abounds and stock up on Mythos and other Greek beers to keep you satiated throughout your journey.
Flotilla charters
If you’re not quite ready for a full on bareboat charter in Greece, then you can also easily join a flotilla. Greece is a popular cruising ground for these fleets of boats, and they have several distinct benefits.
Choose a flotilla and you’ll have an expert lead boat to help chart the course and help if any issues arise. The charter schedule is relaxed, allowing you to set off early or take your time before meeting up with the other boats at the next planned stop. You also have a built-in group of sailors to dine with in the evenings, although you can also choose to relax in privacy. Your flotilla can be what you make of it. If this sounds just the thing, give us a call at LateSail so we can also help you book a flotilla charter.
For more information on sailing in Greece, feel free to visit our Greece section online or give us a call on 877-292-0737.
Sporades | Athens | Cyclades | Dodecanese | Ionian
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