Yacht charter in Greece

When to go

Season

Summer charters run around the meltemi, the strong northerly wind that shapes sailing in the Aegean from June to September.

Peak

July and August, which are also when the meltemi is usually strongest and most persistent.

Quieter months

June and September, when the meltemi is moderate or easing.

Winds

The meltemi (or Etesian wind) blows mainly June to September, strongest in July and August. The Cyclades, including Mykonos, Paros and Naxos, are the most exposed. The Ionian Sea and the Saronic Gulf are more sheltered alternatives.

Where charters start

Athens (Alimos and Lavrion), Lefkada, Corfu, Kos, Rhodes, Paros, Volos.

Licence and paperwork

The person in command needs a licence recognised by Greek port authorities, such as an ICC, RYA Coastal Skipper Practical or higher, or ASA 104. RYA Day Skipper alone has not been accepted since March 2019. Bring the original card. A second experienced adult must be on the crew list, and bareboat charter is limited to yachts up to 24 metres; larger yachts need a professional captain.

Rules change and each charter company can ask for more. Confirm what your company accepts before you pay a deposit.

Types of charter here

• Bareboat

  You skipper the yacht yourself. Usually needs a recognised licence and proof of experience.

• Skippered

  You hire the yacht with a professional skipper, so no licence is needed.

• Crewed

  A full crew sails, cooks and looks after the yacht. You just pick the route.

• Catamaran

  Two hulls: more space and less heel, popular with families and groups.

Sources: kavas.com, filovent.com. Last checked 3 November 2026.