Greece is four charter markets sharing one name, and the wind is what separates them. The Saronic is sheltered and easy, the Ionian is the gentlest sailing in the country, the Cyclades are windy and demanding, and the Dodecanese sit somewhere between. Choosing between them matters more than choosing the boat, and almost no quote will make the distinction for you.
The four cruising grounds
The Saronic, from Athens: Aegina, Poros, Hydra and Spetses, short hops and reliable shelter. The Ionian, from Lefkas or Preveza: flat water, gentle afternoon breezes and the easiest bareboat week in Greece. The Cyclades, from Lavrion or Paros: spectacular, exposed and hard work in the meltemi. The Dodecanese, from Rhodes or Kos: a good middle option with short hops and interesting harbours.
What it costs
The Moorings publishes $2,634 to $36,999 for a 7 day charter for 2 people out of its Greek bases, which is the only published Greek weekly range in this record. Seafarer Sailing, with twelve Greek bases, publishes nothing at all and routes you into an availability search. That pair describes the Greek market fairly: a number exists and most companies will make you ask for it.
The meltemi is the planning problem
The meltemi is a strong northerly that blows through the Aegean in July and August, sometimes for days. In the Cyclades it decides where you can go and when; in the Ionian it barely registers. If your dates are fixed to high summer and your crew is not experienced, that argues for the Ionian or the Saronic rather than for a bigger boat.
Questions people ask about charter yacht greece
How much is a yacht charter in Greece?
The Moorings publishes $2,634 to $36,999 for a 7 day charter for 2 people out of its Greek bases, read on 9 September 2026. Most Greek operators publish nothing and quote on enquiry.
Which part of Greece is best for a first charter?
The Ionian, from Lefkas or Preveza: flat water, short hops and a gentle afternoon breeze. The Saronic from Athens is a close second.
What is the meltemi?
A strong northerly that blows across the Aegean in July and August, sometimes for days. It dominates Cycladic planning and barely affects the Ionian.