Athens, capital of Greece, is also the second-oldest city in Europe, dating back 3000 BC. Sailing the Aegean Sea, Athens's itinerary will allow you to discover the scenic Saronic Islands.
To know more, scroll to the bottom of the page to read Useful Information to Charter a Yacht in Athens, Greece.
Athens is a great place to start a sailing vacation in the Aegean Sea.
Here are some things you can do in Athens during your sailing vacation:
Visit the Acropolis: The Acropolis is a must-see attraction in Athens. It is a historical site and a symbol of ancient Greece. The Parthenon, the Temple of Athena Nike, and the Propylaea are some of the main attractions in the Acropolis.
Explore Plaka: Plaka is the oldest neighborhood in Athens. It is a charming neighborhood with narrow streets, small shops, and traditional tavernas. It is a great place to walk around, have a meal or a drink, and soak up the atmosphere.
Visit the National Archaeological Museum: The National Archaeological Museum is the largest museum in Greece. It houses a vast collection of ancient artifacts, including pottery, statues, and jewelry. It is a great place to learn about the history of Greece.
Go to the beach: Athens has several beaches that are easily accessible from the city center. Some of the most popular beaches are Glyfada, Vouliagmeni, and Varkiza. These beaches have clear waters and are great for swimming, sunbathing, and relaxing.
Enjoy the nightlife: Athens has a vibrant nightlife with plenty of bars, clubs, and restaurants. Some of the most popular areas for nightlife are Gazi, Psiri, and Kolonaki. You can enjoy live music, dance, and try traditional Greek drinks and cuisine.
Visit the Saronic Islands: The Saronic Islands are a group of islands close to Athens. Some of the most popular islands are Aegina, Poros, and Hydra. These islands have beautiful beaches, picturesque villages, and historical sites.
Sail to Cape Sounion: Cape Sounion is a peninsula located about 70 kilometers southeast of Athens. It is home to the Temple of Poseidon, which is a popular attraction. The temple is located on a cliff overlooking the Aegean Sea, and it offers stunning views of the sunset.
Athens, Greece is a popular tourist destination and can be reached by various means of transportation:
By Air: Athens International Airport, also known as Eleftherios Venizelos, is the main airport in Athens. It is well-connected to major cities around the world and has several airlines operating flights to and from Athens. From the airport, you can take a taxi or the metro to the city center.
By Train: Athens has good train connections with other major cities in Greece, including Thessaloniki and Patras. There are several types of trains available, including the high-speed train and the intercity train. Train tickets can be booked online or at the station.
By Bus: Athens has a well-developed bus network that connects the city to other parts of Greece. The main bus station in Athens is the Kifissos Bus Station, which has regular services to cities such as Thessaloniki, Patras, and Ioannina. Bus tickets can be purchased at the station or online.
By Ferry: Athens has several ports that serve as the gateway to the Greek islands. The most popular port is Piraeus, which has regular ferry services to islands such as Santorini, Mykonos, and Crete. Ferry tickets can be booked online or at the port.
By Car: If you are traveling from other parts of Greece, you can reach Athens by car. The national highway system in Greece is well-developed, and Athens is connected to major cities by highways. However, driving in Athens can be challenging due to heavy traffic and narrow streets.
The best time to charter a yacht in Athens is during the summer months, from late May to early October. During this time, the weather is warm and sunny, and the sea is calm, making it perfect for sailing and swimming.
The peak season for yacht charters in Athens is from July to August when the weather is hot, and the beaches are crowded.
If you prefer to avoid crowds and high prices, it is best to book your yacht charter during the shoulder season, which is from May to June and from September to early October. During this time, the weather is still pleasant, and you can enjoy fewer crowds and lower prices.
Athens has a plethora of yacht charter destinations to choose from, ranging from secluded bays to vibrant ports. Each yacht charter destination has its own unique charm and offers a range of activities and attractions for visitors.
Here are some of the best yacht charter destinations in Athens:
Cyclades Islands: The Cyclades Islands are a group of islands located in the Aegean Sea, southeast of Athens. These islands are famous for their stunning beaches, picturesque villages, and historical sites. Some of the most popular islands in the Cyclades include Mykonos, Santorini, and Paros.
Saronic Gulf Islands: The Saronic Gulf Islands are a group of islands located near Athens. These islands are known for their crystal-clear waters, secluded bays, and quaint fishing villages. Some of the most popular islands in the Saronic Gulf include Hydra, Poros, and Aegina.
Sporades Islands: The Sporades Islands are a group of islands located in the northwest Aegean Sea, northeast of Athens. These islands are known for their unspoiled nature, turquoise waters, and charming villages. Some of the most popular islands in the Sporades include Skiathos, Skopelos, and Alonnisos.
Peloponnese: The Peloponnese is a peninsula located in southern Greece, west of Athens. This region is known for its stunning coastline, ancient sites, and picturesque villages. Some of the most popular destinations in the Peloponnese include Nafplio, Monemvasia, and the Mani Peninsula.
Ionian Islands: The Ionian Islands are a group of islands located in the Ionian Sea, west of Athens. These islands are known for their lush vegetation, turquoise waters, and charming villages. Some of the most popular islands in the Ionian include Corfu, Zakynthos, and Kefalonia.
The cost of chartering a yacht in Athens can vary widely depending on various factors, such as the size and type of yacht, the length of the charter, the season, and the level of opulence desired.
As a rough estimate, the cost of chartering a yacht in Athens varies from a few hundred Euros to tens of thousands of Euros per week or more for a large and luxurious yacht. This cost typically includes the yacht rental, crew, and basic amenities on board but may not include additional expenses such as fuel, food and drinks, mooring fees, and other incidentals.
Don't hesitate to contact Seeksail and let us know your specific needs and requirements to get an accurate quote. You can also visit https://www.seeksail.com for instant quotes tailored to your preferences.
To ensure that your yacht charter in Athens goes smoothly, it's essential to have all the necessary documentation ready.
The required documents include a valid passport or national ID card, a sailing or skipper's license, a crew list, proof of insurance, a booking confirmation or contract, and a credit card for payment.
It's crucial to ensure that your passport or ID card is valid for your sailing vacation and that you have the necessary licenses and insurance in place.
Yes, you can bring your own food and drinks or hire a professional chef to prepare meals for you. Most luxury boats come with a well-equipped kitchen, making cooking your own meals onboard convenient.
Yes, you can rent water sports equipment, such as kayaks, paddleboards, and snorkeling gear, while yacht chartering in Athens. These activities can be arranged through Seeksail.
Here are some local customs and etiquette to be aware of while on a yacht charter in Athens:
Greeting people: When greeting people, it is customary to shake hands or give a light hug or kiss on each cheek. It is also common to use the formal greeting "yassou" for strangers or older people, and "yallo" for friends or younger people.
Dress code: Greece is a conservative country, and it is important to dress modestly, especially when visiting religious sites. Avoid wearing shorts or revealing clothing in these places. On the yacht, casual clothing is acceptable, but it is always a good idea to bring a sweater or jacket for cooler evenings.
Tipping: Tipping is not mandatory in Greece, but it is appreciated. If you receive good service at a restaurant or bar, it is customary to leave a small tip of 5-10% of the bill.
Table manners: Greeks enjoy their food and take their time during meals. It is considered impolite to start eating before the host or to leave the table before everyone has finished. Also, it is customary to share food and drinks, so don't be surprised if your host offers you some of theirs.
Language: While many Greeks speak English, it is always appreciated if you learn a few basic phrases in Greek, such as "yassou" for “hello” and "efharisto" for “thank you”.
There are various types of yachts available for charter in Athens, depending on your preferences and needs.
Here are some of the most common types of yachts available for charter in Athens:
Motor Yachts: A popular choice for those who prefer speed and luxury. These yachts are powered by engines and can reach high speeds, making them ideal for exploring the Greek islands quickly and comfortably.
Sailing Yachts: The classic option for those who love the thrill of sailing and the romance of the sea. These yachts are powered by sails and the wind, making them ideal for exploring the calm waters of the Aegean Sea.
Catamarans: Another popular alternative for yacht charters in Athens. These yachts have two hulls, making them more stable and spacious than traditional monohull yachts. They are perfect for families or groups of friends who want to enjoy a comfortable and relaxing sailing experience.
Gulets: Traditional Turkish yachts that are becoming popular for yacht charters in Athens. These yachts are spacious and luxurious, with plenty of outdoor space for sunbathing and relaxing. They are perfect for those who want to enjoy a unique sailing experience while exploring the beautiful Greek islands.
There may be a few important restrictions on yacht chartering in Athens. Restrictions can vary based on the charter company's policies and local regulations.
Below are some common restrictions:
Age limit: Most yacht charter companies require the charterer to be 18 years old.
Sailing zone: Some charter companies may restrict the sailing area where you can take the yacht for safety reasons or to protect the environment.
Qualifications: The lead charterer is required to hold a valid sailing or motorboat license, such as a valid ASA, RYA, or ICC certificate, to operate the vessel.
Snorkeling and Diving: Water sports such as snorkeling and diving may be prohibited in certain protected areas. A license or permit is required in advance for these water activities. These measures are implemented to preserve the environment.
Maximum number of passengers: Most yachts can accommodate only a certain number of passengers, which may be regulated by local authorities or charter companies.
Pets: Some charter companies do not allow pets on board for health and safety reasons and to prevent damage to the boat.
Fishing: Take note of the restrictions on fishing while yacht chartering in Greece, such as catch limits and protected species regulations. Ensure that you are familiar with local fishing regulations before sailing.
We highly recommend that you are informed of local regulations and laws concerning yacht chartering. Abide by the speed limits, anchoring, and fishing restrictions, to enjoy an undisrupted sailing holiday.
The sailing conditions in Athens are generally favorable, with calm waters and predictable winds. The prevailing winds in the summer months are the Meltemi, which blows from the north and can be quite strong, but also provides great sailing opportunities.
Yes, you can rent a yacht without a skipper in Athens if you have the necessary sailing qualifications and experience. However, it's important to note that Greek law requires a minimum crew of two people on all vessels, so you will need at least one other person with you.
Yacht chartering in Athens offers a unique and unforgettable experience, with a perfect combination of history, culture, natural beauty, and sailing adventure.
There are several benefits of yacht chartering in Athens compared to other locations, including:
Rich cultural and historical heritage: Athens is steeped in history and culture, with many ancient landmarks and monuments, such as the Acropolis and the Parthenon, that can be easily visited from the sea.
Access to beautiful islands and beaches: Athens is surrounded by dozens of beautiful islands and beaches that are perfect for exploring by yacht. Each island has its own unique character and charm, from the cosmopolitan vibe of Mykonos to the secluded tranquility of Hydra.
Warm and pleasant climate: Athens enjoys a warm and pleasant climate throughout the year, with plenty of sunshine and mild temperatures even in the winter months. This makes it an ideal destination for year-round sailing.
Excellent sailing conditions: The waters around Athens are generally calm and sheltered, with consistent winds that are perfect for sailing. There are also many well-equipped marinas and ports throughout the region that make sailing easy and convenient.
Delicious food and drink: Greek cuisine is world-renowned for its fresh and flavorful ingredients, and Athens is no exception. There are many local tavernas and restaurants that serve delicious seafood, grilled meats, and fresh vegetables, as well as local wines and spirits.