Greece Superyacht Charter & Mega Yacht Vacations

Overview

Overview – Greece

There’s a lifetime of adventure on a Greece superyacht charter across the waters of the Ionian and Aegean Seas, surrounding the European country of Greece. From exploring ancient Greek ruins in Athens to lounging on breathtaking, cliffside beaches, Greece offers delights for boaters, history buffs, shoppers and food enthusiasts alike.

With 315 cloudless days, steady winds and 80°F weather during the peak sailing season, vacationers hit the waters every April to October. Yacht charterers can choose from several vastly different itineraries, or plot their own course on a bareboat excursion. Island hop within the Cyclades, Dodecanese, Sporades or Ionians— much like you would in the Caribbean — or extend your stay to explore multiple regions. The choice is yours when sailing between the Greek islands.

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Events & Activities

Activities & Events – Greece

No matter where you anchor, Greece is lined with lush greenery, brilliant blue backdrops and charming architecture. From the coastline of Athens to faraway island escapes in the Aegean, the southern side offers days of adventure. Likewise, Greece’s western Ionian Sea welcomes many yachters, all eager to see the pastel-colored buildings of Corfu or pass the time on the open sea. The region’s annual events are the cherry on top of your international getaway— extra fun with locals, to immerse yourself deep into Mediterranean culture.

Here’s a preview of a few things you can expect during your Greece Superyacht charter with Virgin Island Sailing®:

Sunshine and steady sailing winds, as well as calm waters in tucked away coves and bays, like the Saronic Gulf
Incredible Greek cuisine like sweet and crispy baklava, authentic Greek salads, gyros and pasta— at upscale restaurants, esteemed cafes and casual beach bars
Iconic ruins and rich history, including restored temples and museums, surrounding Greek mythology and the region’s ancient past
Lively or serene beaches, perfect for sunbathing or swimming

A Few of the Best Places to Visit in Greece:

Athens. Athens is paradise for history buffs and peaceful explorers. No trip here would be complete without stopping at the iconic Parthenon. The ruins of this ancient Greek church are utterly beautiful— and when paired with a walk through the Acropolis Museum, you’ll come to appreciate the culture of this city’s remarkable past. Those fascinated by Greek history should also sail to Cape Sounion Bay for a sight of the Temple of Poseidon, a white marble structure from 440 B.C., dedicated to the god of the sea. Another popular stop is Hydra, a relatively close Saronic Island that’s further from tourists, but an easy route for yachters. Here, cars and bikes are banned— walking and donkeys are your only means of travel. It’s a quaint spot to sunbathe on the beach, dreamily, on your own slice of paradise. Afterwards, head to another quiet port at Kythnos Island, for a relaxing dinner with friendly locals.
Mykonos. This island is well known for its unique landmarks: 16 towering windmills. These 16th century powerhouses once converted grain into energy, and while they’re no longer operational, the structures make for an incredible picture— in addition to Mykonos’ lovely lemon vineyards. Considered one of the best places to shop in Greece, Mykonos offers abundant local art, jewelry and more to take back as souvenirs. Walk the narrow streets and marvel at the coastline fishing houses in Little Venice, an area that resembles the Italian city of Venice. Here, you’ll find fresh seafood and quaint cafes. Two big reasons travelers stop by Mykonos is for its lively parties and magnificent beaches— and Paradise Beach, on the southern coast, is a place to enjoy both. Sip drinks at the Tropicana Beach Bar, or, head to the more family-friendly Ornos Beach. There’s something for everyone here.
Santorini. Experience incredible hiking, ancient history and exquisite bays at Santorini— just a short sail from Mykonos. Start at Kamari Beach and put your feet in the island’s unique black sand, a reminder of its volcanic past. In fact, many come to Santorini for this reason: to circle the ruins of Ancient Akrotiri, a prehistoric settlement destroyed by a volcanic eruption. Others simply float around Amoudi Bay for views of red cliffs and anchor to enjoy one of the village’s popular taverns. The adventurous can take a scenic six mile hike through four of the towns, from Fira to Oia, for a glimpse of the island’s diverse culture. Be sure to stop at a winery— as Santorini is known as one of the best wine destinations in all of Europe.
Corfu. This large Ionian Island offers days of yachting and inland fun. This area features over four million olive trees, making almost any village an excellent spot to sample true Mediterranean olive oil. Enjoy the view of the groves from Kalami Bay or navigate to Petriti, one of the few beaches with soft sand— a wonderful spot to swim, snorkel or kayak. The island is also known for boasting over 800 churches and monasteries. Many visit the majestic Paleokastritsa Monastery, nestled on a hill and still active, to admire the unique architecture amongst somber monks. Many travelers can’t resist walking the cobbled streets of Corfu Town, passing pastel-colored homes or clinking wine glasses over a romantic dinner. Lovebirds can swim through the Canal d’Amour. Nicknamed “the love canal,” it’s said that waders who swim under the cliffs are destined to get wed post dip.

Events – Check out a few of the exciting celebrations happening during your trip:

Greece and its many neighboring islands commemorate the region’s rich culture with a number of events and activities throughout the year. Whether you attend the Athens Epidaurus Festival for unbelievable theater, ballet, opera and jazz performances or join in on unique European unification or independence day celebrations, there’s no way you won’t leave without a greater appreciation for the Mediterranean. Explore what’s happening the month of your Greece yacht charter and pencil in time to mingle with locals.

January New Year’s Day celebrations Feast of St. Basil The Epiphany	February The Carnival “Apokries”	March Feast of the Annunciation Greek Independence Day
April Easter celebrations The Feast of Saint George	May The Feast of the Flowers Anastenaria Firewalking Festival Unification of the Ionian Islands	June Hellenic Festival European Music Day Rockwave Festival
July Naxos Festival Athens Epidaurus Greek Festival Athens Open-Air Film Festival	August Full Moon Festival Megaro Gyzi Festival The Day of the Assumption of the Virgin Mary	September
October	November Thessaloniki International Film Festival	December Christmas celebrations New Year’s Eve celebrations

Weather & Seasons

Weather & Seasons – Greece

There’s no short supply of sun in the Mediterranean. Greece in particular experiences roughly 315 beautiful, cloudless days a year. During the region’s sailing season— from April to October— you’ll find clear horizons and pleasant temperatures. Midsummer is a favorite time to charter, as the winds are most gentle and the evenings long, perfect for enjoying colorful sunsets.

The waters of the Aegean and Ionian seas are affected by two dominant winds— Meltemi and Sirocco— however, the intensities will vary on the time of year you travel and which region of Greece you sail. For example, those in the Saronic Gulf (near Athens) often enjoy its more flat waters. But because winds can reach up to 40 knots and be quite unpredictable almost anywhere, all Greece yacht charters must have previous sailing experience, a license and at least one certified skipper aboard. Overall, warm 70-80°F breezes and the variety of itineraries make any cruising day a thrilling adventure.

Average Weather Statistics – Greece:

	Temp Max (°F )	Temp Min (°F )	Avg. Water Temp (°F )	Avg. Rainfall (in)	Avg. Wind Speed (kts)
January	55	43	61	2.2	11
February	55	43	59	1.9	14
March	61	45	59	1.8	11
April	68	50	61	1.1	10
May	77	57	64	0.8	9
June	86	66	70	0.4	10
July	90	70	75	0.2	10
August	90	70	75	0.3	10
September	84	64	75	0.5	10
October	73	57	70	2.1	13
November	64	50	66	2.4	10
December	57	46	63	3.0	11

Sample itinerary

Sample Itinerary - Greece -The Cyclades

Day1

ATHENS TO KEA: Kea is a popular weekend destination for the people of Athens. There are many medieval cobblestone paths and walking and hiking trails filled with wild orchids, wild roses, rare mushrooms and colorful lichens that guide you to remote and secluded beaches or beautiful ruins of ancient cities.

Summer is the most popular time to visit Kea, as the island hosts many cultural and festive events. One of the most original is the Fairy Tale Festival where storytellers, musicians and artists gather from around the globe to celebrate the art of spoken heritage and the stories and myths that have been shared from generation to generation since antiquity.

Kea also has an outside movie theater that shows first run movies in English and is known for some of the best restaurants in Greece.

Day2

TINOS TO MYKONOS: The majority of visitors to Tinos are there to pay homage to the Greek Orthodox Church of Panagia Evangelistria, where a nun from Tinos (referred to as Saint Pelagia) was visited by visions of the Virgin Mary instructing her where to find sacred icons that have healing powers. This has encouraged mass pilgrimages for many years.. The church is draped in valuable jewels, donated by those who declare to have had healing miracles happen while they visited the church. Modest clothing is required while visiting the grounds.

After leaving Church of the Panagia Evangelistruia, the island houses some of the most artful marble sculptures and buildings in Greece. Be sure to visit the quarries of Pyrgos in the north, and more than forty ornamented villages can be found near secret coves and terraced hillsides nearby. The island boasts of magnificent foods such as sausages, tomatoes, wild mushrooms, cheeses and artichokes to make a lovely seaside lunch.

Mykonos, named after Apollo’s grandson is the home to Greece’s Sun God. It is a very cosmopolitan island offering exciting nightlife, World Class shopping, stunning examples of Cycladean architecture and culture, and magnificent sun kissed exotic beaches. Delight in Greek cuisine such as Soutzoukakia, grilled fish, octopus, and Myconian Honey Pie offered by the many acclaimed seaside eateries. While on your yacht charter in Greece, be sure to visit local restaurant “Hippie Fish”, where the film Shirley Valentine was filmed.

Day3

DELOS TO PAROS: Only a few miles from the bustle of cosmopolitan Mykonos is Delos, which is the island in the center of the kyklos (circle) of islands. Delos is the ultimate glory of the Greek civilization, as it is the sacred island that Apollo and Artemis were born on. As the cradle of gods, it was deemed that no mortal should ever be born or die there. In ancient times, a pregnant woman or a dying mortal would be taken by boat to the neighboring island of Rineia to keep the island sacred. The ruins of Delos are the most magical and intact ruins on the planet. Be sure to see the Terrace of the Lions. Originally there were 16 of these awesome statues which were offerings from the people of Naxos, presented to Delos to protect and guard the sacred grounds.

A steep climb to Mt. Kynthos offers a magnificent view of the surrounding islands and hosts the Sanctuary of Zues Kynthios and Athena Kynthia and the Temple of Hera. It is an island of monumental antiquities, and amazing Greek art, it is an island where the only inhabitant is history itself.

Paros is the somewhat shyer version of Mykanos. It’s lively capitol, fashionable resort towns, beautifully intact rural villages are perfect for visitors of all ages, and to many, appealing because of the lack of crowds. Blue domed churches, whitewashed houses and paved roads are beautiful examples of Cycladician architecture.

Paros has long been famous for it’s deposit of perfect white marble, most famously, Venus de Milo was carved from the marble of Paros, as was Napoleons tomb.

Golden beaches invite you to the warm exotic waters of the Aegean Sea. Windsurfing is a popular sport on the southern and eastern shores. Paros also offers some of the most innovative restaurants in the Greek islands.

Day4

IOS-SANTORINI: There is no other way to put this. Ios has a global reputation as the stomping grounds of booze filled sexually promiscuous straight out hedonism for the young and intentionally misguided. That is not to say that there are not beautiful villages and beaches to be enjoyed throughout the day, however, there is a mecca to town each night from June to August for non-stop liquidation. Party on dudes.

The off season caters to families and your more refined mature travelers looking for a quieter pace. The most remarkable pieces of history on Ios is that Homer, the poet and author of Greek epics such as The Odyssey and The Iliad, took his last breathe on Ios and lies buried in his grave at Plakoto, on the most northern tip of the island.

Santorini is the most popular and well known islands in Greece, perhaps the world. There is no doubt that your imagination has visions of its splendor because it’s reputation and beauty is so far reaching.

There are so many things to experience on your yacht charter in Greece; beautiful beaches, ancient cities, splendid scenery, and an active volcano to keep things lively. Santorini’s past and present intrigue is readily available to tour. Be sure to visit the Minoan site of Akrotiri and the hilltop village of Oia.

Santorini relishes its past, but also juxtaposes a very current lifestyle of artists, designers, wineries, award winning breweries and distilleries and an extremely avant garde culinary scene.

Day5

SIFNOS TO SERIFOS: the first records of Sifnos date back to 3000BC. The island consists of three whitewashed villages, the Capitol being Apollonia. It is a mountainous island with fertile agricultural valleys and beautiful clean beaches.

Sifnos was the first island in Greece to create a plumbing and water purification system for the island waste which make the beaches and ports the cleanest in the area. There are over 300 churches on this small island.

This is the perfect island for people who like to walk and swim on uncrowded beaches. it is also known for an array of excellent eateries.

In Greek mythology, Danea and her infant son Peseus were set adrift to sea from Sarifos by Danea’s father in response to an oracle that the infant son would grow up to kill him. Years later, Perseus returned to Serifos with the head of Medusa and turned his enemies into stone. Today, blocks of marble surround the medieval castle which is the center of Chora.

The most spectacular ruins on Serifos are the Watchtowers, the most famous being the megalithic Psaros Pyrgos or “couch of the cyclopes”.

Day6

KYTHNOS TO SOUNION: Life is slow and friendly on the island of Kythnos. Island history dates back to 9000BC. The island is named for Kyhno, the leader of the Dryopons and is said to mean “dark place to hide”, referring to its rugged valley’s and steep mountainsides, caves and nines.

The most sought after attraction on Kythnos are the thermal baths where the hot waters flow from an underground source from Versuvious and mix with the crystal blue Aegean waters. These spa waters have been used from ancient times and are known to cure rheumatism.

Small seaside cafes dot the coast, beautiful beaches and local crafts such as pottery and baskets make for a lovely time in Kythnos.

Sounion is the home to one of the most famous and important ruins of all, the Temple of Poseidon. The temple is perched on a jagged and rocky hilltop overlooking the gleaming Aegean Sea. The temple was built in 444BC and many of its original Doric style columns are still standing.

Look carefully, and you might actually find a piece of graffiti done by none other than Lord Byron! There are numerous cafes and eateries dotted along the road. Most people love to be at the Temple of Poseidon at sunset.

Travel Info

Travel Info – Greece

Because we offer several different sample itineraries for a Greece superyacht charter, those who travel with us launch and depart from a number of different Mediterranean ports. No matter if you’re exploring the Ionian Islands, the Cyclades or the Dodecanese Islands, many travelers arrive via the Athens International Airport (ATH) or the Mykonos International Airport (JMK). From the U.S., various airlines, including Emirates, offer direct flights from certain cities. Or, oftentimes cheaper connections are an option through American Airlines.

Passports are required for U.S. citizens who visit Greece, and bareboaters must come with a special sailing license to hit the waters. Although traveling to Europe can be lengthy, it’s well worth it! Our team at VI Sailing can help you find lodging, should you need to book a hotel prior to or after your charter, as well as to provide options for trip insurance. Just give us a call. We make sailing the Mediterranean a breeze!