fbpx
Photo: Moofushi, YFS Magazine, Adobe Stock

Discover Hidden Greece on a Luxury Yacht Charter

Enjoy a luxury Greek yacht charter. Discover the beautiful archipelagos of Greece, packed with historical sites, fascinating culture, and scenic coves.


Exploring the beautiful archipelagos of Greece by superyacht is a definitive way to uncover some truly exceptional locations. From spectacular anchorages to golden-sand beaches, ancient ruins to enchanting temples, there is an island for everyone accompanied by a traditionally warm Greek welcome.

Whether seeking solace on quiet shores or the buzz of sparkling nightlife, each of the five island groups offers its own unique magic where an idyllic opportunity to get away on a luxury yacht charter awaits.

 

Exploring Greece

Rest and relaxation come easy amidst the chilled atmosphere that radiates from the Ionian Islands. It is no wonder that the concentrations of light and color drawn from the multi-hued sea and sky have long been a huge inspiration for writers and artists.

Mirroring a line of stepping-stones, the islands trail the western coast of mainland Greece, with sandy strips at the base of soaring hills where dense olive groves thrive on the fertile land. Twelve islands, the smaller six being uninhabited, present the perfect opportunity to enjoy a crewed yacht charter in Greece. Blessed with deep anchorages, sheltered coves, and bustling waterfronts, the mild and temperate climate adds to the islands’ inherent appeal.

 

Photo: Piotr Krzeslak, Assos beach, Kefalonia, Greece | Credit: Adobe Stock, YFS Magazine
Photo: Piotr Krzeslak, Assos beach, Kefalonia, Greece

 

What to see

The World Heritage Site of Corfu has an old town peppered with fascinating architecture, well worth leaving the beaches to explore, while the year-round celebrations and culinary feasts on offer provide diverse cosmopolitan experiences.

In Paxos, not forgetting smaller sibling Antipaxos, simplicity is ubiquitous, where fishermen haul the daily catch ashore and tavernas, vineyards, and anchorages abound. From medieval castles and picturesque villages to fascinating monasteries and lively tavernas, world-renowned Kefalonia is oozing with laid-back appeal. Discover ancient rock formations in the caves at Drogarati, dive into the Melissani Sea Cave, and visit the fabulous Sclavos family wineries.

 

Archipelagos of Greece

An Aegean archipelago displaying breath-taking beauty, the Sporades hug the eastern coastline of central Greece. Comprising some 24 islands, only four of which are permanently inhabited, the white sandy beaches, ancient ruins, and abundant sea life are a big draw. Providing an ideal location to enjoy a tranquil luxury Greek yacht charter, these stunning isles bask in natural splendor, their shores lapped by sparkling blue waters peppered with quiet spots to anchor.

Enjoy lunch on beautiful Skiathos island and soak up the quaint charm of Platania Bay. Take the opportunity for some snorkeling and water sports in the clear water, then sample the abundance of nightlife in Skiathos Town until the sun comes up. Make a stop at peaceful Skopelos where fragrant pines stretch to the shore and friendly beachfront tavernas serve delicious just-caught Illex squid. Characterful neighbor Skyros, where traditional crafts flourish, is peppered with sugar-cube hillside houses topped by the ancient ruins of the Saint George castle delivering spectacular views.

 

Photo: Cátia Matos, YFS Magazine, Pexels
Photo: Cátia Matos, Chania, Greece; YFS Magazine

 

On a Greek Yacht Charter

A superyacht charter in the Saronic Gulf follows a blissfully relaxed pace of life where island clusters are packed with character and whitewashed tavernas emanate an easy-going atmosphere. Wide-open landscapes beg walkers to explore their rugged paths with pine-strewn shores dotted far and wide along undulating coastlines.

History aficionados will relish the treasure trove of ancient culture and ruins that provide spellbinding appeal, where local legends, fables, and mythology are ever-present. Romantic Hydra, dubbed the St Tropez of Greece, boasts a fabulous port where a nod to history sits in the proud cannons and transport is only available by donkey. Furthest from Athens and steeped in a rich heritage, Spetses is adorned with old neoclassical captain’s mansions and a vortex of café culture, while distinctive black and white choklakia mosaics stand out from the crowd.

 

Why Charter a Yacht in Greece

The beauty of a crewed yacht charter in Greece amongst the picture-perfect Cyclades is the freedom to island-hop wherever the mood takes you. Chartering a boat in Greece provides you the freedom to discover the warm, calm waters and ribbons of sandy beaches, alongside the cool coastal vibe found in relaxed towns. This dense group of islands scattered across the central Aegean benefit from the Meltemi wind, ideal for thrill-seeking watersports enthusiasts.

Expect fresh-from-the-sea cuisine, genuine hospitality, and striking Cycladic scenery. In pretty Paros wander the labyrinth of Parikia’s whitewashed streets, visit characterful Lefkes for handmade pottery and explore the attractive 15th-century castle on diminutive neighbor Antiparos is the spot for superb windsurfing in the reliable afternoon breeze, while the town’s windmills and stunning Magganari Beach are equally pleasing. When the sun goes down the high tempo action starts, and the nightlife experience in Ios is a wild ride.

 

Photo: Dimitris Mourousiadis, Pexels, YFS Magazine
Photo: Dimitris Mourousiadis, Zakinthos, Greece; YFS Magazine

Closer to Turkey than mainland Greece, the Dodecanese Islands are flung far to the southeast of the Aegean. Brimming with charming architecture, ancient ruins, and Ottoman monuments, the isles serve as a bridge between east and west. Characterized by rich sea life and equally flourishing flora and fauna ashore, a yacht charter in this region delivers a heady blend of natural charm. Walk the atmospheric cobbled streets in Rhodes flanked by Byzantine edifices, where a multitude of secluded bays offering charming anchorages dot the coastline.

Yachting haven Symi is blessed with crystal clear waters prime for snorkeling, and dreamy Arksi, the legendary home of goddess Kalypso, is an escape to nature where sea turtles and dolphins thrive. Cosmopolitan Kos is a popular hotspot, strewn with untold treasures from ancient landmarks to vibrant beach clubs, not forgetting hilltop Zia which is a must at sunset for unbeatable front seat views.

Wherever a luxury Greek yacht charter may take you, island hopping brings the opportunity to enjoy an intoxicating blend of adventure, atmosphere, and relaxation that will create unforgettable memories to last a lifetime.

 

Having been part of the luxury yachting industry for over 30 years, Amanda Thibaut is well versed in covering exceptional charter destinations and glamorous superyachts. The Greek Islands are a particular favorite, offering so much color and personality, plus a frequently chosen destination for her summer getaways!

 

© YFS Magazine. All Rights Reserved. Copying prohibited. All material is protected by U.S. and international copyright laws. Unauthorized reproduction or distribution of this material is prohibited. Sharing of this material under Attribution-NonCommercial-NoDerivatives 4.0 International terms, listed here, is permitted.

   

In this article