The Yachtsman Report

Your Essential Guide to Chartering in Greece

Embarking on a yacht charter in Greece is one of the most inspiring ways to explore the Mediterranean. From hidden coves to timeless villages, a private yacht offers freedom, comfort, and privacy.

To make the most of your charter experience, we’ve assembled key tips — covering what to bring, how the A.P.A. works, laundry policies, and more — so you can step on board fully prepared.

QUICK NAVIGATION

Before you set sail | Packing Tips | Guests Preferences & Provisioning | Laundry Policy on board | Planning Your Itinerary | Marinas and Ports | Understanding the A.P.A. | Etiquette & Routine | Crew Gratuities | Water Toys & Rentals | A Few Final Notes | Environment Impact 

Before you set sail

Climate & Time Zone

Expect long, sun-filled days and warm breezes between May and October. Greece operates on GMT + 3, perfect for late sunsets and evening swims.

Power & Connectivity

Electric current is 220 V with Type C (two-pin) outlets. Adapters are essential if your devices use other plug types. Wi-Fi is available on most yachts, though coverage may vary in remote bays.

Local Practicalities

Shops typically open 09:00 – 21:00, while banks close by 14:00. The local currency is the Euro (€), and the country code is +30.

Packing Tips for a Yacht Charter

• Choose light, breathable fabrics for warm weather.
• Pack sunscreen, sunglasses, a hat and long sleeve tops— the Aegean sun is strong but nights can get cool on the islands.  
• Bring soft duffel bags instead of hard suitcases to save space in cabins and avoid scratching the surfaces while navigating through the yacht.
• Many yachts feature Bluetooth speakers, so feel free to bring your own devices and playlists.

The yachts are equipped with first aid kits, but you should bring any prescription medicine from home.

Guest Preferences & Provisioning

Before boarding, each guest completes a preference sheet — your crew will tailor menus, drinks, and service accordingly. Please fill in all the requested information including passport numbers, birthdates, dietary restrictions and allergies. The more information we have from you, the better for the crew and the more satisfied you will be on board.

In order to have your favorite drinks and cocktails on board, we need you to provide us witη drink quantities and brands. (e.g. how many sprites? 6 cans? 12?)

The water on the yachts is not drinkable. Therefore it is necessary that the crew adds drinking water to your drink list.

After receiving your preference list, we will send you back a proforma invoice for the drink order so you can give your approval.

Please be specific regarding your transfers in the preference sheet (date, number of persons, from – to airports, luggage items, any baby seats required and your contact number). At the airport, the driver will hold up a sign with the contact name provided. When the driver is about to collect you from your hotel, he will inform the reception. Sharing your transfer details helps the crew plan smooth embarkation.

Click here to view our preference form.

Laundry Policy on Board

Laundry service varies by yacht. Due to limited space and depending on the number of interior crew, not all yachts offer laundry facilities.

If laundry service is important for your charter, please confirm the yacht’s specific policy with your broker before your cruise. Some yachts may offer light laundry (e.g., small loads or pressing) while others may arrange shore-based service at ports.

Planning Your Itinerary

Greece offers a rich variety of islands, each with its own character, and most itineraries group them into clusters for efficient cruising.

• Cyclades: Famous for iconic whitewashed villages, vibrant nightlife, and dramatic landscapes. Popular islands include Mykonos, Santorini, Ios, and Milos. Best time to visit: May to October, with July and August being the peak season, though the Meltemi* winds are strongest during these months

• Ionian Islands: Known for calm seas, lush greenery, and Venetian influence. Kefalonia, Ithaki and Paxos are top choices. Best time to visit: May–October 

• Dodecanese: Off-the-beaten-path gems with historical towns and medieval architecture. Rhodes, Kos, and Patmos stand out. Best time to visit: May to June or September to October for fewer crowds 

• Saronic Gulf: Closer to Athens, ideal for shorter itineraries or as a combination with the Cyclades. Hydra, Poros, and Spetses are highlights. Best time to visit: April–October, with spring and early autumn offering mild weather and quieter ports.

Charter itineraries will either focus on one cluster at a time, or a combination minimizing long daily sails and maximizing time to explore. Your captain will tailor the route based on seasonal weather, local conditions, and your preferences to ensure a safe and enjoyable journey.

*The Meltemi is a strong, dry northerly wind that typically blows during the day and reaches its peak in July and August. It can intensify rapidly, sometimes climbing to 7–9 Beaufort within a short period. For your comfort during these months, it’s advisable to plan your route around areas sheltered from the Meltemi.

Upon arrival, you will review your final itinerary with your captain. They will have access to the most up-to-date weather forecasts and can recommend the safest and most enjoyable route based on current conditions, ensuring a smooth and relaxing journey. Flexibility is key. Your captain and crew have deep local knowledge of the cruising grounds and seasonal weather patterns. Trust their expertise when shaping your itinerary, and understand that changes may occasionally be necessary. If weather, timing, or other circumstances make it impossible to visit a specific destination, please follow your captain’s advice. Their priority is your safety and comfort, and they will always strive to deliver the best possible charter experience under the conditions.

Marinas and Ports

There is no option to reserve a berth in advance for overnight docking in most Greek marinas. During the high season, ports can become particularly busy, so it’s best to arrive early in the afternoon to secure a space. Many harbors also offer nearby sheltered bays where yachts can anchor for the night. When anchored, the crew can easily take you ashore by tender to explore the port and enjoy the local atmosphere.

While Santorini is world-renowned for its breathtaking sunsets and dramatic views, it is unfortunately not well-suited for yachts. The island lacks proper marinas or docking facilities, and the surrounding waters are too deep for safe anchoring.

A more practical way to experience Santorini is by taking a ferry from nearby islands such as Ios or Milos — approximately 40 minutes and two hours away, respectively.

Understanding the A.P.A. (Advance Provisioning Allowance)

The Advance Provisioning Allowance (A.P.A.) covers all operational expenses during your charter — including fuel, food and beverages, mooring fees, transfers, and other incidentals.

• Sailing yachts: approximately 30 % of the charter fee
• Motor yachts: around 35-40 %
  
• If a special or high-value order (for example, premium wines or rare spirits) significantly exceeds the planned budget, our team will notify you in advance. This allows you to adjust your A.P.A. balance or modify your order as you prefer.
  
• Throughout the charter, your captain maintains a detailed record of all expenditures. At the conclusion of your trip, the captain will present a full statement, complete with receipts and a summary of expenses. After your review and signature, any remaining funds will be refunded to you, either in cash or via bank transfer. If a top up is required, you may pay in cash or by wire transfer ahead of your disembarkation.

Life On Board: Etiquette & Routine

We, together with your crew, are dedicated to making your time on board an exceptional and unforgettable experience. To ensure everything runs smoothly, a bit of cooperation and understanding from your side also helps make the magic happen. 

Embarkation & Disembarkation

Standard embarkation and disembarkation times are set for 12:00 noon. If you arrive earlier than your scheduled boarding time, please don’t expect immediate access to the yacht — simply stop by to greet the crew, let them know you’ve arrived, and share where you’ll be waiting.

Your crew requires the full 48-hour turnaround period between charters to prepare and refresh the yacht. This allows them to welcome you on board a vessel that is immaculate, fully stocked, and ready to exceed your expectations.

Footwear on Board

When boarding, please remove your street shoes. A shoe basket will be available near the entrance to store them safely until you go ashore again.
On board, guests usually go barefoot or wear clean, light-soled boat shoes reserved only for use on the yacht.

Settling In

Upon boarding, the crew will guide you to your cabins, assist with your luggage, and walk you through the yacht’s key systems — such as toilet and shower use, lighting, water systems, and electrical outlets — to ensure you feel completely at home.

Before departure, your captain will conduct a full safety briefing. Please listen carefully and respect all safety instructions; they are designed for your comfort and well-being throughout the journey.

Daily Planning & Communication

During your cruise, your captain and crew are happy to help arrange island excursions, local transfers, car or bike rentals, and restaurant reservations. Please share your plans and preferences so they can assist you efficiently.

After breakfast each morning, it’s helpful to discuss the day’s itinerary with your captain — including destinations, cruising times, and meal preferences. Open communication ensures everyone is aligned, making your journey seamless and enjoyable.


Smoking Policy

Smoking, including e-cigarettes, is generally permitted only in designated exterior areas. Some yachts, however, enforce a strict non-smoking policy throughout the vessel. If smoking is important to you, please check with your broker in advance to confirm the yacht’s specific policy.

WC Disposal

Many yachts in Greece have sensitive plumbing systems, and toilet paper or other objects must not be flushed. Please use the bins provided to avoid blockages and maintain the yacht’s systems in good condition.

Water Conservation

Fresh water on board is a limited resource, so it’s important to use it responsibly. We kindly ask guests to take short showers and be mindful of overall consumption to help preserve water supplies during your voyage.

The Galley

The galley (kitchen) is the crew’s workspace and a place where they also take their meals and short breaks during the day. Out of courtesy, please visit only when invited, and allow the crew to work efficiently behind the scenes to prepare your meals.

Dining Ashore

If you plan to dine ashore instead of on board, please inform the chef or stewardess in advance. This allows the crew to adjust provisioning and meal preparation accordingly, avoiding unnecessary waste.

Additional Guests

Should you wish to welcome extra guests on board — provided the total number remains within the limits specified in your charter contract — please notify your broker beforehand. This ensures that the captain and crew can complete the necessary paperwork, and the chef can provision and plan appropriately.

Portholes
For safety reasons, all cabin and bathroom portholes must remain closed while the yacht is under way. This prevents water ingress and helps maintain the comfort of the interior during navigation.

Disembarkation Day

On your final day, the yacht will return to port approximately one hour before your scheduled transfer or disembarkation. This allows time for refueling and settling your A.P.A. accounts. If you wish to arrive at the marina earlier for sightseeing or a stroll ashore, simply inform your captain — they’ll be happy to accommodate your plans whenever possible.

Crew Gratuities

At the end of your charter, we truly value your feedback. Consider the following questions to reflect on your experience:

• Did you enjoy your time on board?
• Did the yacht and crew meet your expectations?
• Were you pleased with the food and service provided?
• Did you find the captain and crew courteous and professional?
• Did you feel safe and comfortable throughout your journey?

If you were satisfied with your experience, you may wish to show your appreciation through a gratuity.
Tipping is entirely at your discretion, though in the yachting industry, it typically ranges between 10% and 20% of the charter fee.

As a general guide:

• 10% reflects satisfaction with good service,
• 15% acknowledges excellent service, and
• 20%+ is reserved for service that goes above and beyond expectations.

Your generosity directly rewards the crew who worked to make your journey memorable.

Water Toys & Rentals

Enhance your charter with the latest water toys. Many yachts include a core selection, and additional items can be pre-arranged and paid through the APA. 

* Early booking is recommended to guarantee availability.

Please note that certain water toys may not be available for rental, depending on the yacht’s storage capacity and equipment limitations. Additionally, operating a jetski in Greece requires a valid licence, such as a basic speed-boat licence.

A Few Final Notes

• Drugs, including marijuana, are illegal in Greece — penalties are strict.
• Treat the crew with courtesy; they work hard to create a seamless experience.
• Above all, take time to unwind, explore, and savour the beauty of the Greek islands from your private yacht.

Ready to Begin Your Greek Yacht Adventure?

With thoughtful preparation and a touch of flexibility, your yacht charter in Greece will be as effortless as it is unforgettable.

Last but not least

We recently set-out to contribute to the protection of the environment and marine life by financially supporting credible organisations such as Archelon. If you are reading this blog, you are most likely interested in enjoying life at sea. If doing so by yacht you may be interested in reading "Captain Petros' Map to Sustainable Yachting". This is a guide prepared for and distributed to all owners, charterers and crew that we interact with in an effort to raise awareness about the simple things we can all do while yachting that make little difference to our lives, and have a large impact on our environment.