Greece 2025: New rules for charter boats with a foreign flag

A blow for boaters setting sail in Greece this summer: To operate a charter boat in Greece, the requirements for boats with a foreign flag had been modified in the middle of high season. The license needs to be renewed every year, instead of every four years as before.

Greece: New Licensing Requirements

This change caused major disruption this summer at charter bases such as Gouvia, Preveza, Lefkas and Alimos, the biggest marina in Greece. Approximately one in three boats was immobilized due to not having an up-to-date stamp. In the meantime, some boaters were transferred to other vessels via partners, but often in a hurry.

The concerned charter companies have to go to the Maritime Affairs offices or the port police to regularize the situation of their boats. This may take a few days, but the situation should be back to normal within the next few weeks at the latest.

Additional requirements

In Greece, boats are legally required to carry certain safety equipment. This includes life jackets for all passengers, fire extinguishers, a first aid kit, distress flares, and sound signaling devices. If traveling more than three nautical miles from shore, additional gear such as life rafts and EPIRBs must also be on board. Having this equipment is not only a legal obligation but also vital for passenger safety. Speed limits are closely monitored, particularly near ports and along the coast, where vessels must not exceed 5 knots within 200 meters of the shoreline.

For boats with engines up to 30 HP you don't need a skipper license, but for more powerful vessels, an International Certificate of Competence (ICC) or an equivalent qualification is mandatory.

Additionally, some areas, such as military zones and marine protected regions, have restrictions or bans on navigation. To avoid violations and fines, boaters should check local notices to mariners or consult the nearest port authority for guidance.

It’s also important to keep all relevant documents, such as registration papers, on board, since Greek authorities perform random inspections to ensure regulations are followed.

For the moment, all GlobeSailor customers have been repositioned on sailboats that comply with the new measure. If you are affected by these changes, our team remains available to assist you and manage the situation with your boat rental company. Please do not hesitate to contact your advisor.