Greece and her shimmering Mediterranean islands have firmly sealed their place amongst the most popular destinations in the world for yacht charters. And with good cause. Few other destinations can offer such an extensive panoply of delights for yachties: fine white-sand beaches, year-round glorious weather, and enticing coves and cave formations, to name a few. But what is it that is truly unique about Greece ? The medieval walled towns ? The volcanic islands with smouldering thermal springs ? We would argue it is the variety.
Few Countries if any can match the array of distinct regions which Greece offers, each with their own highly-prized yachting itineraries, and each proposing something different for the visitor. From the imposing castles and fortresses of the Dodecanese, to the dramatic sheer cliff faces and sandy coves of the Ionian islands, there is a variation of history, geology and culture on display which makes each year’s yacht charter in Greece a unique and fascinating experience.
Here we list, in no particular order, three of the many such regions which have established themselves as firm favourites on every visiting sailor’s wish list. Just don’t ask us to choose the best (it’s an impossible task ).
The Argo-Saronic Islands
Hugging the coast just off mainland Greece between Athens and the Peloponnese, the Argo-Saronic Islands have a rich history on account of their proximity to the traditional mainland seats of power. These islands became prosperous as a result of their control of the historic trading routes into Athens, as evidenced by the extravagant temple of Apollo on Aegina, which is still open for visitors.
Today, the area’s calm waters offer protected navigating conditions for a circuitous sailing route from Athens down to the stunning secluded coves and beaches of Hydra, with a stop along the way to visit the picture-postcard perfect Poros town, with its magical nested position at the foot of a peninsula adjacent to a natural ford.
The Ionian Islands
A hugely popular region for yacht charter vacations in Greece, the Ionian Islands have a little bit of everything to offer to any lucky sea-borne visitor. The islands have a hugely important place in Greece’s historical and cultural heritage; offering everything from the birthplace of Homer’s Odysseus to a proud sea-faring ancient people who brought culture to many Greek islands in classical times. However it is perhaps the soft sand of Kafalonia’s stunning beaches (amongst the best in Greece) and the jaw-dropping rugged vistas of Zakynthos’s sweeping bays which are the most favoured today by aspiring yachties.
The popular route starts in Lefkas and travels down the west coast of the the islands before an easterly return up through Ithaka and Kalamos.
The Dodecanese Islands
The diverse Dodecanese are the most south-easterly group of Greek islands, and were the last territories to be incorporated into modern Greece. What makes these islands of huge interest, from an archaeological point of view, is that they were historically subject to fierce waves of successive invasions, with each occupying power leaving their mark on the landscape. Here you will find the magnificent castles of the crusader knights, imposing Ottoman architectural influences, as well as some of the best beaches in Greece on the south side of Kos.
Usually, charters in this region will depart from Rhodes (don’t miss a visit to the Old Town) and will take in Kos Island, the famed birthplace-island of Hippocrates , as well as a visit to the the breath-taking town overlooking the harbour at Symi, one of the most beautiful in Greece.
