Sailboat Charter in Greece

Three Reasons to Charter a Sailboat in Greece

1. The World’s 11th Longest Coastline

With over 3,700km of coastline to explore and some of the world’s best beaches, Greece will not disappoint. Access to the Ionian, Aegean and Mediterranean seas means there is something to suit every preference and every ability, with beaches for couples or families, and islands for explorers or sunbathers… renting a sailboat here will be the start of an unforgettable holiday!

2. Islands upon islands upon islands…

Greece is home to some of Europe’s most picturesque islands, and with several different archipelagos there is more than enough choice; so a sailboat charter will allow you to explore the ones you want, at your own pace, to make your perfect holiday!

3. A Nautical Haven

Aside from the multitude of choice of islands and thousands of kilometers of coastline, Greece has been a sailor’s paradise for years due to its close-to-perfect navigation conditions! Its popularity with sailboat charters means the country is home to the biggest charter fleet in the world and therefore many well-established, safe harbours with all resources and services you might need. In addition, the climate could not be more ideal; with milder winds in the sheltered Saronic Gulf, suited to the less experienced sailors, as well as stronger winds in the Cyclades for the hardcore sailors! From April – September, temperatures average 25 degrees Celsius, and with sunshine, blue skies, consistent trade winds and clear waters, what could be better?

24 Hours in Athens

One day in Athens is never enough, but however long you can spend before embarking on your sailboat charter adventure will give you a taste of what life is like in this magical city. Whether you rent a boat directly from one of the charter bases or just stop off for a night or two along your navigation, make sure you give yourself at least 24 hours to uncover some of the city’s treasures.

Moor your sailboat in Marina Alimos, Kalamaki and head on land early and grab a coffee in the beautiful Kotzia Square before heading to the city’s most famous attraction, the Acropolis. You can hike up the hill to reach these globally-important ancient ruins, or take a metro from Monastiraki station if you don’t fancy the walk! When your stomach starts rumbling, head to the charming Gazohori village square for ‘mezedes’ or sample some delectable local dishes. Then work off your lunch with a walk up (or enjoy a more relaxed cable car journey to) Lykavittos Hill, for photo opportunities and an incredible view of Athens – said to be the best views in the city! In the early evenings, there is no place more quintessentially Greek than the old open-air café, Dexameni. An old favourite with poets and artists, this spot is bustling with life and will feel like you’re really living the city life! On summer evenings, there are open air cinemas in the scattered across the city, which are definitely worth a visit, and for a spot of dinner, head to Dionysos. Serving traditional Greek food, you will dine with the best views of the Acropolis lit up at night, and then, because you probably won’t want to leave, head to the Warehouse bar and sip on wine and cocktails until the sun comes up, before returning to your boat for the night (or rest of the morning!)

Gourmet Greece

Greek cuisine is famous for its olive oil, pita breads, moussaka and baklava, but there are so many tempting dishes to be tasted during your sailboat charter experience! If you sail all the way to Santorini, you must try ‘Tomatokeftedes’ from Penelope’s, by the church in Pyrgos, where the owner-come-cook has been serving local specialties since 1999. Or if you charter a boat from Athens, experience the Michelin-starred fresh seafood from ‘Varoulko Seaside’ in Piraeus, overlooking the Mikrolimano harbour. If you moor your sailboat in Corfu, visit ‘Rex’; a family run restaurant established in 1932 serving up island delicacies – be sure to try their mouth-watering Patisada!

Getting There

Greece is well connected, with various international airports located both on the mainland and on the islands, so reaching your sailboat charter base is simple!

• Athens: Athens International Airport is Greece’s busiest, located 20km east of central Athens.
• Volos: Nea Anchialos National Airport is located near Nea Anchialos, and serves the city of Volos.
• Rhodes: Rhodes International Airport is located 14km southwest of the island’s capital, Rodos.
• Kos: Kos International Airport, “Hippocrates” is located near Andimachia village.
• Heraklion: Heraklion International or “Nikos Kazantzakis” Airport is Greece’s second busiest, located 5km east from Heraklion city centre.