Private Yacht Charter Greece: Crewed, Bareboat & Luxury

We’re about to set sail on a dream that few experience every day.
Picture a private yacht gliding across the Aegean, the sun gilding the deck, and you—book a private yacht—in command of your own slice of paradise.
It’s not just a trip; it’s a passport to the hidden coves of Mykonos, the cliff‑side sunsets of Santorini, and the crystalline waters off Crete.
Our guide is built on years of navigating Greece’s charter market, from seasoned captains who know every windward reef to brokers who have matched couples to the perfect vessel.
We’ve sifted through data on seasonal demand, pricing tiers, and the latest legalities that keep your journe smooth and compliant.
In the next section, we’ll break down the three main charter types—crewed, bare‑boat, and small luxury—highlighting capacity, onboard amenities, and the bespoke services that turn a voyage into an unforgettable celebration.
Stay tuned as we unveil curated itineraries, insider tips on local cuisine, and a step‑by‑step booking playbook that will have you charting your own route in no time.
When you decide to book a private yacht, the decision isn’t just about a vessel—it’s about an experience that blends luxury moments with tailored itineraries. Whether you’re planning a Greek island yacht charter or simply exploring luxury sailing Greece, understanding the charter types is essential. For those dreaming of a private yacht holiday, the choice of charter type sets the tone for the entire experience.
Charter Types Unveiled
The market splits into three clear categories: Crewed Charters, Bareboat Charters, and Small Luxury Vessels. Each offers a distinct blend of autonomy, service, and scale, making them uniquely suited to different traveler profiles.
Crewed Charters are the flagship of exclusivity. A professional skipper, chef, and deckhand attend to every detail, allowing guests to simply relax. Vessels range from 30‑to‑45‑meter catamarans to 50‑plus‑meter monohulls, comfortably hosting 12‑18 guests. Onboard amenities include infinity pools, Jacuzzis, private cinemas, and gourmet kitchens that showcase regional Greek cuisine.
Bareboat Charters cater to seasoned sailors who prefer full control. The owner provides a licensed skipper and a minimal crew, but the guest drives the ship. Boats typically span 20‑to‑30 meters, seating 8‑12 guests. While the onboard facilities are more modest—think open deck, basic galley, and a lounge area—this option delivers the freedom to chart your own course, a prized feature for adventurous couples.
Small Luxury Vessels strike a balance. These 25‑to‑35‑meter yachts come with a small crew—usually a skipper and a cabin steward—while offering intimate luxury. They accommodate 6‑8 guests and boast high‑end interiors, spa‑style bathrooms, and a dedicated chef, making them ideal for honeymooners seeking privacy without sacrificing comfort.
From a capacity standpoint, crewed charters dominate with the largest guest rooms and crew quarters, followed by small luxury vessels, then bareboats. Amenities scale similarly: crewed charters feature full‑service dining, water‑sports gear, and entertainment suites; small luxury vessels offer curated menus and spa treatments; bareboats provide essential comforts, leaving the rest to the guest’s imagination.
Crew roles differ markedly. On crewed charters, the skipper manages navigation, while the chef crafts multi‑course menus, and deckhands handle maintenance and guest requests. Bareboat charters rely on the guest’s own crew or a hired skipper; the owner supplies only the vessel and safety equipment. Small luxury crews focus on personalized service, often acting as concierge and entertainment director.
Pricing reflects these differences. In 2025, a crewed charter in the Cyclades averages €12,000–€18,000 per week. Bareboat charters range from €6,000–€9,000 for a 2‑week charter, while small luxury vessels sit around €8,000–€12,000. Seasonal demand spikes in July‑August, pushing prices up 15‑20%, whereas the shoulder months of May‑June and September offer discounts of 10‑15%.
The next step is to understand how these categories translate into pricing and seasonal availability, setting the stage for our detailed cost analysis.
Signature Island Itineraries: Mykonos, Santorini, Crete, and Hidden Gems
We’ve mapped a series of itineraries that blend the iconic with the off‑beat. Each day is a carefully choreographed blend of sun, sea, and local flavors. The routes balance the famed blue‑white charm of Mykonos, the volcanic allure of Santorini, the ancient grandeur of Crete, and the untouched serenity of lesser‑known isles. Our recommendations cover daily highlights, top dining spots, and on‑board catering that showcases Greek culinary heritage. We also weave in seasonal weather insights, UAE‑specific travel regulations, and expert commentary to keep you fully prepared.
Mykonos: 3‑Day Luxury Loop
Day 1 – Mykonos Town: Dock at Little Venice, stroll the wind‑tapped streets, and savor a sunset cocktail at Cavo Paradiso. For lunch, book a table at M-e-Mykonos, where the chef’s feta tart is a must‑try. Onboard, our catering menu offers fresh octopus salad, grilled lamb chops, and a local ouzo tasting.
Day 2 – Delos Excursion: A short sail to the archaeological site of Delos. The morning tide brings a calm harbor for a quiet brunch on deck. The crew will narrate the island’s mythic history, adding depth to the experience. The afternoon sails past the Mykonos coast, offering a panoramic view of the windmills.
Day 3 – Private Beach: Anchor at Psarou Beach for an exclusive beach club lunch. The crew can arrange a private massage on the sand. Weather in July averages 27 °C with minimal wind – perfect for sunbathing and snorkeling.
Santorini: 4‑Day Sunset Circuit
Day 1 – Fira Arrival: Start with a sunrise cruise over the caldera, then dine at Selene in Pyrgos, renowned for its tomato‑based sauces. The onboard menu mirrors the restaurant’s menu, featuring fresh seafood and a glass of Assyrtiko.
Day 2 – Oia and Imerovigli: Sail to Oia, known for its iconic sunset. A lunch stop at Kouros offers grilled octopus and a view of the Aegean. The crew will guide you to the best cliff‑side photo spots.
Day 3 – Red Beach & Akrotiri: A short hop to the volcanic Red Beach for a beach‑side picnic. The afternoon includes a guided tour of the Minoan ruins at Akrotiri, where an expert will explain the frescoes.
Day 4 – Return & Farewell: On the return leg, enjoy a sunset cocktail at Myrto on the deck, followed by a farewell dinner featuring fava and local wine. The July weather remains warm, but the evening breeze offers a refreshing escape.
Crete: 5‑Day Historical Voyage
Day 1 – Heraklion Port: Dock and explore the Palace of Knossos. Lunch at Peskesi showcases traditional Cretan dishes. Onboard, the catering menu includes dakos and lamb shank.
Day 2 – Elafonisi & Balos: Sail to the pink‑sand Elafonisi, followed by Balos Lagoon. A beachside lunch of grilled sardines and local olives. The crew will note the best snorkeling spots.
Day 3 – Rethymnon & Chania: Anchor in Rethymnon’s harbor, then sail to Chania. Dinner on deck features moussaka and local wine, while the crew shares stories of Venetian influence.
Day 4 – Samaria Gorge: A short cruise to the gorge’s base, with a guided walk for those who wish to trek the 16 km trail. The crew can arrange a picnic lunch with local cheese and honey.
Day 5 – Return to Heraklion: Sunset on the Aegean, with a farewell dinner of souvlaki and koulouri. The August weather is hot, but the evening breeze keeps the deck comfortable.
Hidden Gems: 3‑Day Secluded Escape
Day 1 – Syros: Explore the neoclassical capital, then sail to the secluded beach of Koufonisia. The crew will prepare a beachside meze platter.
Day 2 – Kythnos: A calm day of swimming in the volcanic springs. Onboard, the catering menu features fresh kalamata olives and local cheeses.
Day 3 – Ios & Milos: Finish with a sunset cruise over Ios, then a night anchoring in Milos for stargazing. The crew will set up a telescope and explain the Milos meteorite history.
Practical Tips for UAE Travelers
- Documentation: UAE passport holders need a valid passport, a Greek visa (e‑visa available), and a health certificate. The yacht’s crew will assist with paperwork.
- Insurance: All vessels carry comprehensive liability insurance; additional travel insurance is recommended.
- Seasonal Weather: July–September is peak season; expect high temperatures but calm seas. The crew monitors wind patterns to adjust routes.
- Legalities: The yacht must be registered in Greece or a member state of the EU. UAE nationals must comply with the Greek maritime regulations and customs duties.
“The key to a flawless charter is aligning the crew’s expertise with the client’s desires,” says Captain Maria Pappas, a seasoned Aegean skipper. “We tailor every detail, from the menu to the sunset timing.”
These itineraries are designed to give you a taste of Greece’s most celebrated islands while unveiling hidden treasures. The next section will dive into pricing structures, seasonal variations, and the booking process, ensuring you’re fully equipped to transform this vision into reality.
Pricing & Booking Blueprint: Seasonal Rates, Inclusive Services, and Process Steps
When you decide to book a private yacht, the moment you set foot on the deck feels like stepping into a living postcard. The Aegean’s turquoise waters promise adventure, but the real luxury lies in the seamless blend of privacy, bespoke itineraries, and expert crew. We’ve distilled the industry’s latest data to give you a crystal‑clear view of what to expect when you book a private yacht in Greece. From the high‑sun peak season to the tranquil shoulder months, prices shift, but the experience remains unforgettable. Ready to chart your own course?
Seasonal pricing follows a predictable pattern: peak (April–October) averages €3,200–€5,000 per day for a 60‑ft cruiser, while off‑peak (November–March) drops to €2,100–€3,400. The most popular routes—Mykonos to Santorini, Santorini to Crete, and the hidden Cyclades—carry a premium due to demand and exclusive anchorages. We’ve mapped these ranges to give you a realistic budget for each itinerary.
| Service | Including | Additional | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Catering | Local Greek cuisine, fresh seafood, wine list | Specialty menus | Seasonal menu changes |
| Fuel | Full tank for itinerary | Extra fuel surcharge | Based on distance |
| Insurance | Comprehensive liability | Optional upgrades | 24/7 support |
| Crew | Captain, chef, deckhands | Extra crew options | Customizable |
Booking timeline:
- Initial inquiry – Submit your preferences and dates.
- Custom quote – Receive a detailed price sheet with inclusions.
- Contract signing – Secure your spot with a signed agreement.
- Deposit – 30% of total cost, refundable with notice.
- Final payment – Balance due 60 days before departure.
- Pre‑departure briefing – Review itinerary, safety, and onboard services.
Documents required:
- Valid passport (copy)
- Proof of travel insurance covering the charter period
- Health declaration (if applicable)
- Any special dietary or medical notes
Deposit and payment terms are designed to protect both parties. The 30% deposit confirms the charter, while the remaining balance is due 60 days before sailing. Late payments may incur a penalty, and cancellations after the deposit are subject to a 25% fee.
With the financial groundwork laid, the next step is to dive into the itinerary design, where we’ll craft daily excursions that match your tastes.
Book a Private Yacht: Luxury Island Hopping in Greece
From the moment we first introduced the allure of a private yacht in the opening chapter, the promise was clear: book a private yacht and step into a realm where every sunrise is a private spectacle. In the previous section we mapped out crewed, bareboat and small luxury options, and now we bring those choices to life through sight.
Visual Storytelling
The gallery is a curated mosaic of deck views, sun‑drenched cabins, and the glitter of the Aegean at dusk. Each photo is chosen to showcase the exclusivity of space, the bespoke furnishings, and the seamless blend of interior elegance with the open sea. The high‑resolution yacht image at the top anchors the section, inviting readers to imagine themselves on a polished teak deck.
Embedding Motion
A short video follows—just a 90‑second loop of a typical Greek yacht cruise. It captures the gentle sway of the hull, the crew preparing a sunset cocktail, and the coastline sliding past like a watercolor. The clip is not just entertainment; it’s proof of the sensory experience you’ll receive.
How the Gallery Enhances Trust
Visuals act as social proof, turning abstract luxury into tangible reality. When potential guests see a polished cabin or a panoramic sunset, they can almost feel the breeze. This section, therefore, serves as the bridge between the aspirational tone of earlier chapters and the practical booking steps that will come next.
The gallery and video work in tandem to reinforce the narrative: that a book a private yacht experience is more than a trip—it’s a curated moment of exclusivity and personal attention. As we move into the next part, we’ll translate this visual promise into actionable booking guidance, ensuring the transition feels seamless and compelling.
FAQ & Call‑to‑Action: Clearing Doubts and Prompting Custom Quotes
Frequently Asked Questions
- What licensing is required for a private yacht charter in Greece?
Every vessel must carry a valid Hellenic Coast Guard license. We manage the paperwork so you don’t have to worry about receiving extra documents. - How do weather conditions affect our itinerary?
The Aegean can shift quickly. Our experienced crew monitors real‑time forecasts and will adjust routes or anchor points to keep you safe and comfortable. - What catering options are available?
Our chefs craft menus that spotlight local Greek produce. Whether you need vegan, gluten‑free, or classic seafood, we can customize every course. - Will I have reliable internet on board?
Yes—satellite connectivity ensures you stay connected, whether you’re sharing a sunset photo or streaming a live concert. - What about insurance and safety?
All vessels are fully insured and meet EU safety standards. We provide a safety briefing before departure and maintain a 24/7 support line.
Ready to Set Sail?
We’ve answered the most common concerns, but the next step is yours. Fill out our custom quote form and let us craft a bespoke itinerary tailored to your desires. Click the link below to request your custom quote.
Coming Up Next
In the following section we’ll walk through the booking steps and timeline—how to secure your spot, deposit details, and the final checklist before you set sail.
Downloadable Itinerary Planner: Your Personalized Sailing Blueprint
After mapping the best routes, we hand you a ready‑to‑use itinerary planner. It’s a simple, printable PDF that lets you slot in dates, ports, meals, and crew preferences, so every detail feels crafted for you.
How to Use the Planner
- Select the itinerary that matches your dream—Mykonos, Santorini, or a hidden gem.
- Mark your dates in the planner.
- Add personal touches—special dining requests, sunrise cocktails, or a sunset photo shoot.
- Share with your broker to streamline the booking process.
| Feature | Benefit | Why It Matters |
|---|---|---|
| Custom dates | Flexibility | Avoid peak season surcharges |
| Meal log | Culinary control | Experience local Greek cuisine on board |
| Crew notes | Personal service | Tailor the crew’s role to your needs |
Next Steps
Download the planner now and bring it to your next consultation. We’ll review your selections, fine‑tune the schedule, and lock in the best rates for your private yacht holiday. Ready to turn the dream into a booking? Let’s start the conversation—your luxury sailing adventure awaits.
Remember, the planner is just the first step; the real magic happens when we bring your itinerary to life on the Aegean.
Whether you’re dreaming of a quick escape or a longer journey.
Your perfect yacht is ready to set sail.