Greece yacht charter: itineraries, prices and best weeks (2026 guide)
Pricing by segment (20 m to 70 m+), APA, Greek VAT, meltemi winds and three 7-day itineraries: Cyclades, Ionian Islands, Dodecanese.
TL;DR — A yacht charter in Greece costs between €35,000 and €950,000 per week excluding APA (~30% additional costs: fuel, marina, crew, provisions). Greece is on average 15-20% cheaper than the French Riviera for equivalent standards. High season (July-August) concentrates demand on the Cyclades; June and September offer the best weather/serenity balance. Three itineraries dominate: Cyclades, Ionian Islands, Dodecanese — each doable in 7 days.
Pricing by segment
| Yacht size | Price / week (excl. APA) | Guests | Typical crew |
|---|---|---|---|
| 20 m | €35,000 – €65,000 | 6-8 | 2-3 |
| 35 m | €90,000 – €220,000 | 8-10 | 5-7 |
| 50 m+ | €250,000 – €500,000 | 10-14 | 10-14 |
| 70 m+ | €550,000 – €950,000 | 12-18 | 16-24 |
The APA (Advance Provisioning Allowance) covers fuel, marina fees, provisions and beverages — typically 25 to 35% of the charter rate.
When to charter in Greece?
- June — warm sea, meltemi still moderate, rates 15-20% below high season.
- July – August — peak season. Stronger meltemi in the Cyclades (great for sailing, to be planned for under power). Heavy crowds in Mykonos and Santorini.
- September — often considered optimal: warm sea, calmer winds, fewer crowds.
3 key itineraries
1. Cyclades (7 days)
Athens (Lavrio) → Kea → Paros → Naxos → Santorini → Mykonos
- Day 1-2 — Lavrio / Kea: boarding near Athens, first Cycladic coves.
- Day 3 — Paros: Naoussa, white sand beaches.
- Day 4 — Naxos: long beaches, medieval village.
- Day 5-6 — Santorini: caldera, anchorage facing Oia.
- Day 7 — Mykonos: Chora, lively beaches, return or flight from Mykonos.
2. Ionian Islands (7 days)
Corfu → Paxos → Antipaxos → Lefkada → Ithaca → Kefalonia
- Day 1-2 — Corfu: UNESCO old town, northern coves.
- Day 3 — Paxos / Antipaxos: turquoise water, sea caves.
- Day 4 — Lefkada: Egremni beach.
- Day 5 — Ithaca: Kioni village, authentic atmosphere.
- Day 6-7 — Kefalonia: Myrtos beach, return to Corfu or Preveza.
3. Dodecanese (7 days)
Rhodes → Symi → Tilos → Nisyros → Kos
- Day 1-2 — Rhodes: medieval old town, harbour.
- Day 3 — Symi: colourful houses, secluded coves.
- Day 4 — Tilos: nature reserve, tranquillity.
- Day 5 — Nisyros: volcanic island, wild anchorages.
- Day 6-7 — Kos: beaches, return to Rhodes or Kos.
APA, VAT and taxes: what to budget
- APA — 25-35% of the charter rate.
- Greek charter VAT — around 12% of the rate, pro-rated over days spent in Greek waters (a mixed Greece-Türkiye itinerary applies Turkish VAT, ~8%, on days in Turkish waters).
- Mooring fees (marina/port) — vary by island, generally covered by the APA.
- Crew gratuity — customary 5-15% of the charter rate.
How to book with Naxelio
Naxelio selects the right yacht, negotiates terms and coordinates logistics with crew and marinas — a firm quote within 15 minutes of your brief. Explore our yachts →
FAQ
How much does a yacht charter in Greece cost?
Between €35,000 and €950,000 per week excluding APA, depending on yacht size.
Is Greece cheaper than the French Riviera for a yacht charter?
Yes, on average 15 to 20% cheaper for equivalent standards.
What is the best time for a yacht charter in Greece?
June and September offer the best weather/crowds balance. July-August remains peak season, with stronger meltemi winds in the Cyclades.
What budget for a week in the Cyclades?
A 35 m yacht generally costs €90,000 to €220,000 per week excluding APA.
Does the meltemi affect summer cruising?
Yes, the meltemi strengthens in July-August across the Cyclades; motor yacht itineraries are generally less affected than sailing ones.
Which Greek islands are most in demand?
Santorini, Mykonos and Corfu concentrate the strongest demand, especially in high season.
Can the Cyclades and Dodecanese be combined in one week?
Distances make it difficult in 7 days; two separate itineraries are generally recommended.
Is a crew gratuity mandatory?
No, but the customary range is 5-15% of the charter rate.
What yacht size suits a group of 8?
A 20 to 35 m yacht generally accommodates 6 to 10 guests.
How do I get a quote for a yacht charter in Greece?
Through the Naxelio form (destination, dates, number of guests) — a firm quote within 15 minutes.