Luxury yacht charter in the Eastern Mediterranean: Spotlight on Greece

From sun-drenched beaches to rugged islands dotting the turquoise sea, Greece is a perennial favourite for travellers. Its breathtaking landscapes, warm hospitality, and deep-rooted history make it an irresistible destination, especially by luxury charter yacht, where a tailor-made itinerary ensures the perfect voyage.

Antipaxos, Greece | Ph: Capt. Tom Rohde Pearce

With thousands of islands scattered across the Aegean and Ionian Seas, Greece is a paradise for exploration. As the writer Henry Miller once said, “It takes a lifetime to discover Greece, but only an instant to fall in love with her.”

Choosing the Right Yacht

With miles of coastline and endless options, Greece offers an array of yachts for charter. However, choosing the right one requires research or the expertise of a reputable broker. Keep in mind that beyond the base cost, you’ll need to budget for a 20-30% APA (Advanced Provisioning Allowance) and a discretionary tip of up to 20%. Whether you’re a family or a group of friends, there’s a perfect yacht to suit your needs.

Where to Go: Greece’s Island Groups

Greece’s islands are grouped into four main regions, each offering unique experiences. Your itinerary can include one or more of these, depending on how much time you have.

Corfu, Greece

Ionian Islands

Nestled off the west coast, the Ionian Islands blend vibrant hotspots like Corfu with tranquil gems like Paxi. According to legend, Poseidon split Paxi from Corfu with his trident.

Corfu is known for its resorts, but its UNESCO-listed Old Town, Renaissance architecture, and stunning landscapes make it a must-visit. Kefalonia, immortalized in Captain Corelli’s Mandolin, is a snorkeler’s paradise, home to rare sea turtles and monk seals. Zakynthos (Zante) boasts lush landscapes and an astonishing 7,000 species of flowers. The island’s main town is rich in history, while ‘Prosilo’ serves up innovative Greek cuisine.

Aegean & Sporades

The lesser-known Aegean Islands offer a quieter yachting experience, perfect for history buffs. Islands like Samos and Lesvos are rich in culture, while tiny Agios Efstratios offers a glimpse into ancient Greece.

The Sporades gained fame as the setting for Mamma Mia! Skopelos, blanketed in pine forests, is famous for its strifti (cheese pie). For nightlife, Skiathos delivers, with lively bars by the Old Harbour and superclubs near the airport.

Cyclades

The Cyclades are Greece’s most iconic islands, ideal for island-hopping. Cosmopolitan Mykonos blends luxury with local charm, featuring whitewashed houses and world-class restaurants. Nearby Paros and Naxos attract Athenians looking for an authentic Greek retreat.

Mykonos, Greece

Santorini’s dramatic black sand beaches are a result of its volcanic origins, with the famous ‘caldera’ offering mesmerizing views. Syros combines culture with elegance, hosting music and arts festivals. Dining at Avant Garden in Ermoupolis promises an unforgettable experience in a classic Cycladic setting.

Dodecanese

The Dodecanese, near Turkey, reflect an intriguing Ottoman influence. Sun-soaked Rhodes, the largest island, has a rich maritime history and is a fantastic cruising destination.

Rhodes island in Greece

In contrast, Symi is a tranquil escape with charming hillside architecture. A yacht allows you to explore its old-world charm, dine by the harbour, or climb to Choria for breathtaking views.

The Charter Experience

While island-hopping is thrilling, don’t forget to savour life on board. Your crew, often locals, bring the experience to life with their knowledge and hospitality. From themed nights to gourmet meals, they ensure your journey is as unforgettable as the destinations.

Greece’s islands may tempt you to see them all but remember—this is a vacation. Slow down, soak up the sun and enjoy the magic of a Greek yacht charter.

Our charter brokers have personal experience of charters in Greece and around the world, understand what makes a great charter vacation and can recommend the best yachts and itineraries.