One of the top destinations for yachting in Greece is Athens. This location serves as the starting point for many exciting itineraries. We’ve compiled the most useful information for your holiday boat hire in Athens. Let’s plan an unforgettable trip together!
Discover Athens as a yachting destination
Explore routes, sailing spots and charter yachts in Athens. Plan the perfect itinerary, select the right yachts and book at the best price.
Sailing Itinerary in the Athens
Sailing season
Summer
Travel season
Year-round
Available Marinas
5
Charter Boats
983
Worth knowing
Telephone code:
+30
Language:
Greek
Timezone:
GMT+2
Currency:
EUR
Yachting spots in Athens
The Athens region is perfectly designed and organized for yachting. There are plenty of modern marinas, and all the necessary infrastructure and logistics are in place. There are also many charter companies here offering boats of all types and for every kind of sailing trip.
Sailing yacht holidays in Athens can combine a sea voyage with a vacation in Greece’s historic capital. Before setting sail, you can stroll through the Acropolis of Athens and take photos along the waterfront. Enjoy a delicious meal at a local restaurant. Then head out to the islands with their quiet coves and small ports.
The region has a Mediterranean climate. Summers here are hot and dry, and the yachting season lasts most of the year. In the Saronic Gulf, the sea is fairly calm compared to regions in the Aegean Sea. Thanks to these conditions, the region is ideal for both novice sailors and experienced captains.
The main yachting season in Athens runs from April through October. The best conditions for sailing are in May, June, and September, when the weather is stable and temperatures are comfortable for long voyages.
Why Choose Athens for Your Next Yacht Charter
Athens is undoubtedly a beautiful and fascinating region. First and foremost, it is the country’s capital and a major city with a centuries-old history. This is the perfect place to begin your dream yachting vacation and your exploration of Greece.
The abundance of sailing destinations in Athens is one of the region’s main advantages. Beginners often opt for calm crossings between the islands of the Saronic Gulf. More experienced skippers frequently plan routes toward the open waters of the Aegean Sea.
The city’s vicinity is home to the country’s largest charter marinas. For example, Alimos Marina and Lavrion Marina. A wide selection of yachts is available here, ranging from elegant sailboats to high-speed motor yachts. The rental terms are as simple and flexible as possible for every traveler.
Another advantage is the opportunity to combine exploring the sea with city sightseeing. It’s impossible to list all of the city’s attractions. That means it’s definitely worth stopping by Athens for at least a couple of hours.
The region is also convenient from a logistical standpoint. Athens International Airport is located near the main marinas, so you can reach your yacht quickly without needing additional domestic flights.
Worth knowing
Top Marinas for Yacht Rentals in Athens
Let’s take a look at the main marinas in the region that are worth your attention. Alimos Marina is one of the largest in the region. It’s an ideal starting point for exploring the Saronic Gulf. Most yacht charter companies are concentrated here, offering excellent prices and a wide selection of boats.
Another option is Lavrion Marina. From here, you can set sail for the Cyclades. The marina is popular with independent skippers. Flisvos Marina is also worth keeping in mind. This modern, premium marina near the center of Athens is ideal for luxury charters.
So, marina yacht rental in Athens is definitely a viable option. Marinas offer not only the opportunity to rent a boat but also full-service maintenance.
Yachts for Rent to Visit Top Destinations in Athens
Athens is already looking forward to the new season and welcoming sailors. Could that be you? Choose a catamaran, sailboat, or motorboat to explore yacht charter routes in Athens. Charter independently or with an experienced crew who will help ensure a safe voyage.
Each listing includes information on capacity, equipment, home port, and available rental dates. Choose the right yacht and set off on an adventure near Athens.
Holiday Boat Hire Options in Athens
The Athens area offers a wide selection of yachts and boats for leisure in Greece. From one of the local marinas, you can arrange anything from a short day trip to a full week-long voyage.
Let’s take a look at the main boat rental options:
- Sailing yachts. These are a timeless classic in the world of maritime recreation. They’re perfect for a leisurely getaway and are better suited for longer voyages.
- Catamarans. The best choice for family vacations and group getaways thanks to their spacious cabins and stability on the water.
- Motor yachts. Just what you need for quick travel between locations.
- Gulets. They stand out for their comfort and allow you to enjoy the cruise to the fullest.
Bareboat charter is available if you have a license and want full control over the voyage. You can also opt for a skippered charter—a yacht with a skipper for a vacation without any sailing experience. Another option is a crewed charter—a full-service experience with a captain and crew, where you won’t have to worry about a thing.
We’re confident you’ll find the perfect option to explore the best places for sailing in Athens. Thanks to a wide selection of vessels and marinas, Greece remains one of the most convenient yachting hubs in the Mediterranean.
Popular Docks and Anchorages in Athens
The Athens coastline and the waters of the Saronic Gulf offer a wide range of convenient marinas and anchorages for yachts. Here, it’s easy to combine city marinas with quiet coves near the islands. We’ve compiled a list of the most convenient anchorages for your sailing yacht holidays in Athens.
One of Athens’ main charter marinas is Alimos Marina. This is where most yacht routes begin. The marina is suitable for both large sailing and motor yachts. What landmark should you look for? The southern coast of Athens, in the Kalamaki area.
If you’re looking for a more upscale marina, check out Flisvos Marina. What’s the best landmark to look for? The coastal area of Palaio Faliro, near the Athens waterfront.
To stay near the port of Piraeus, consider Zea Marina — Piraeus. Here you can make a short stop before your next trip to the beautiful islands.
When sailing from Athens, take note of the anchorage in Aegina Bay. The calm waters and convenient access make it a good place to spend the night. What landmark should you look for? The western part of Aegina Island, near the port.
These moorings and anchorages are suitable for both short stops and longer yachting charter routes around Athens and the nearby islands.
1315 €
per week
4
People
2
Cabins
32 ft
Length
2012
Built in
1325 €
per week
6
People
2
Cabins
35 ft
Length
2012
Built in
1349 €
per week
4
People
2
Cabins
33 ft
Length
2014
Built in
1414 €
per week
8
People
3
Cabins
37 ft
Length
2015
Built in
1469 €
per week
6
People
3
Cabins
39 ft
Length
2002
Built in
1480 €
per week
10
People
4
Cabins
43 ft
Length
2000
Built in
1487 €
per week
8
People
3
Cabins
41 ft
Length
2015
Built in
1597 €
per week
7
People
3
Cabins
41 ft
Length
2020
Built in
1620 €
per week
8
People
3
Cabins
41 ft
Length
2015
Built in
Yacht charter locations
Explore the charm of the Athens Riviera with a short-term yacht charter. It offers ideal sailing spots along the Apollo coast. The coastline features palm-lined beaches and lively town centers. They create a perfect blend of leisurely Mediterranean sailing and vibrant waterfront activities.
Renting a yacht in this region opens up romantic and mystical panoramas. It transports you back to ancient times. Marvel at iconic landmarks like the Temple of Poseidon and the Temple of Apollo Zoster. For beach enthusiasts, Anavyssos, a resort town renowned for its excellent seafood, is a must-see.
You may embark on a journey through the Attica peninsula. Here, you'll discover a tapestry of beaches, lakes, ancient monasteries, and mosaics. Experience the rich history and natural beauty of Athens and its surroundings from the unique perspective of a yacht charter.
Countless charter companies offering yacht charters Greece rentals have their base in Alimos Marina. On the other hand, Greece charter yachts available for rental with a crew are dispersed across the various marinas in Athens.
Charter Boat Routes & Itineraries in Athens
Athens is a convenient starting point for yachting trips around the Saronic Gulf and the Cyclades, allowing you to discover all the beauty Greece has to offer. The most popular 7-day itinerary takes you through Aegina, Poros, Hydra, and Spetses. It’s suitable even for beginners, as the legs are short and the weather is generally calm.
For experienced captains, routes from Lavrion Marina toward Mykonos, Paros, and other Cycladic islands are popular. Short weekend cruises along the Athenian Riviera and Cape Sounion are also in high demand.
Best Bareboat Destinations in Athens
Athens is considered one of the best regions in Greece for bareboat charters. Even novice sailors can feel confident here. Nearby islands offer short crossings, calm bays, and convenient marinas, making the region ideal for independent skippers. How many top bareboat destinations are there in Athens? Let’s find out more.
Aegina is a popular destination for first-time trips from Athens. The island is located close to the mainland and is ideal for relaxed sailing.
Who chooses Poros? Those who want to sail in sheltered harbors and stay at convenient anchorages. The narrow strait between the island and the mainland makes maneuvering easy.
Hydra is a picturesque harbor straight out of a postcard. It also offers the atmosphere of a traditional Greek island. It’s a convenient stopover during week-long itineraries.
For captains with some experience, routes toward the Cyclades, including Kea and Syros, are suitable. This region features more open crossings and stronger meltemi winds. By the way, a honeymoon yacht charter in Athens in this location is definitely the right choice.
Convenient logistics, well-developed marinas, and straightforward navigation make Athens one of the most popular bases for independent yachting in the Mediterranean.
Best Places to Go Sailing in Athens
Just imagine exploring the beauty of a Greek city aboard a beautiful white yacht. A pleasant, gentle breeze and the spray of salty water. An endless horizon, beyond which lie the wonderful islands on your itinerary. Let’s make your trip perfect and include only the best places to sail in Athens.
Let’s start with Hydra. A beautiful island not far from the Greek capital. There are no cars here, and the main harbor is surrounded by stone houses and waterfront cafes. The island looks especially atmospheric from the sea.
The next interesting location is the island of Poros. It is lush with greenery and surrounded by tranquil coves. Here, you can anchor for a unique sunset.
The island of Aegina has become one of the most popular destinations for short itineraries. You’re sure to love the sandy beaches and small harbors.
Cape Sounion is where the Temple of Poseidon on the cliff and the sunset over the Aegean Sea await you. It’s truly mesmerizing.
And let’s also add Agistri Island to the list. A combination of shores sheltered by pine forests and crystal-clear water. A great place for swimming and peaceful stops away from the bustling ports.
Tips for First-Time Sailors in Athens
If this is your first yachting trip, it’s best to head toward the Saronic Gulf. Here, the crossings are short, the waters are calm, and there are plenty of sheltered bays. What else do you need to know before setting out on a charter boat trip in Athens?
Check the weather forecast as often as possible. In the summer, the meltemi wind can pick up in the open areas of the Aegean Sea, especially in the afternoon.
It is essential to familiarize yourself with stern-to mooring before your trip begins. Why? Because this is the most common way to dock in Greek marinas. For your first charter, it’s convenient to choose a yacht with a skipper or plan short day trips.
We recommend booking your yacht before the start of the season. The best and most affordable deals are snapped up several months before summer.
For a comfortable trip, pack a safe and comfortable wardrobe. Put together a first-aid kit with everything you need. Keep all necessary documents in one place in case of possible inspections.
More sailing routes around Athens
Alimos Marina
913
yachts
Zea Marina
39
yachts
Marina Delta Kallithea
24
yachts
Flisvos Marina
8
yachts
Yacht Club Amfitheas
1
yacht
Weather and winds in Athens
What should you know about the weather when planning a holiday boat charter in Athens? First and foremost, the Mediterranean climate makes this region ideal for yachting.
The season is quite long—running from April through October. In the Saronic Gulf, you can expect truly mild and calm weather.
- Spring (April–May). You can already start planning your first yacht charter trips in Athens. And although the water temperature will be no higher than 20 degrees, the air will already be warming up to 23–25 degrees. And the main pleasant bonus—there will be very few tourists around.
- Summer (June–August). Everyone sets out to explore Greece’s beauty by yacht. Endless sunny, warm days with virtually no rain. But you need to take into account the meltemi winds, which are particularly noticeable toward the end of summer.
- Fall (September–October). The perfect time for peaceful yachting without the crowds. The weather remains warm during this period.
Is it possible to plan yacht charter routes in Athens during the winter? It’s best to avoid this idea, as it’s too windy and rainy during this time.
Water Season (°C)
20-25
Air Temperature (°C)
20-30
Wind Force (Beaufort)
3-5
Skipper Requirements for Yacht Charters in Athens
So, you’ve decided to charter a yacht in Athens. Where do you start? Of course, with the organizational and paperwork aspects. And the first important point is, of course, a license recognized by Greece. The following options are acceptable: ICC (International Certificate of Competence), RYA Coastal Skipper, or a higher qualification such as ASA 104 Bareboat Cruising. You must present the original document when registering at the charter base.
However, in addition to a license, the charter company may also be interested in your experience handling different types of yachts. It’s important to have basic skills: how to moor a boat, drop anchor, and use navigation equipment.
Most bareboat charters in Athens require not only a licensed skipper but also a second adult crew member. This person must also possess the necessary yacht handling skills. In some cases, the co-skipper must sign a declaration of competence.
As a rule, the captain and co-skipper must be at least 18 years old. Some charter companies may impose additional requirements. For example, for larger boats, they may specify that the captain must be over 25.
If the captain’s qualifications or experience prove insufficient, the charter company may require you to book a charter with a skipper in Athens. Therefore, it is recommended to send copies of your documents for verification in advance, even before your booking is confirmed.
Athens
983
Lavrio
265
Nea Peramos
104
Hellinikon
21
Salamina
17
Porto Cheli
14
Piraeus
10
Kythnos
9
Elefsina
8
Glyfada
7
Aegina
2
Pachi
2
Nafplio
0
Chalcis
0
Corinth
0
Vougliameni
0
Spetses
0
Naoussa
0
Ermioni
0
Isthmia
0
Korfos
0
Lagonisi
0
Nea Makri
0
Rafina
0
Poros
0
Perama
0
Keratea
0
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