book2sail-Symi Greece

Greece may have made the headlines for all the wrong reasons in these recent years, with an economy still struggling to pull through what was probably its most troubled period in modern history. However, the seas are as resplendent as ever and its beaches, taverns and traditions can still charm anyone who sails to their coast. While chartering a sailing boat in Greece is the smoothest bit of work you will have to do, choosing which spots to visit may be overwhelming. With over 200 inhabited islands, narrowing your search down to a handful can take quite a toll on the planning of your yachting holiday in Greece. More so if you decide to skip the more touristic options and go for the quaint and less busy of the islands. This is why we have laid down the groundwork for you and selected our top five “secret” islands to discover on your very own, chartered sailing boat.

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Kastellorizo

book2sail-kastellorizo harbour greece

Source: Conde Nast Traveller

Its remote position as part of the Dodecanese archipelago in the south-east has given this island it’s own mood and setting, removed and yet still very much a part of, the traditional Greek atmosphere. As soon as your sailing boat enters its sweeping harbour, you will realise this is a sleepy island, soothed by the sea which brought both danger and wealth to its shores. Find peace in its tranquillity and relish in the mix of influences from Greece, Turkey, France, Italy and even Britain.

Milos

book2sail-milos greece

Source: YouTube

Milos is aptly known as the island of colours for good reason; the strange geological formations aided by volcanic activity in the area, its 70 brilliant beaches with colours to rival azure gems and the pretty syrmata houses cover the island in a resplendent blanket of a million hues. Follow the colourful bougainvillaea as it snakes its way up the golden stone of the buildings on Plaka, one of the largest towns perched on the mountainside, and a smaller version of Olympus if we ever saw one. Take this all in as your boat sways gently in the harbour and enjoy some of the most beautiful sunsets in the world.

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Hydra

book2sail-Hydra Greece

Source: Mysterious Greece

Perhaps more up-market than the rest in this list, Hydra lacks the beauty of some of Greece’s most noteworthy beaches but offers much in return. You cannot hope to ferry your vehicle across – residents and visitors get around by mules and there’s a ban on construction projects, leaving the city in a fixed, timeless era which visitors immediately come to love. Its stunning rocky shores can only be reached by boat, making it the perfect, tranquil haven for your yachting trip. Visit the island in late June for the Miaoulia, a traditional festival celebrating Greek naval victories with fireworks in the picturesque harbour.

Alonissos

book2sail-alonissos

Source: discovergreece.com

Found at the very centre of a National Marine Park, Alonissos is the perfect sailing destination for the opportunity it offers to fish and spot the protected Mediterranean monk seal. Forget the white-washed buildings and rugged terrain on Greek postcards. At Alonissos, you can immerse yourself in dense woodlands, follow the less beaten track and enjoy the stunning views this island allows you to glimpse between one pine tree and another.

Symi

book2sail-symi 3948860 1920

Source: pixabay.com/users/manfredrichter

Enjoy the true Mediterranean lifestyle in Symi, a tiny island also part of the Dodecanese archipelago just off the Turkish coast. Its colourful houses stand boldly against the green mountainous backdrop and the smell wafting from taverns of freshly caught fish will truly put you in the quintessential Greek mood. As your sailing boat makes its way to Symi’s amphitheatrical port (a national monument in itself), bathe in the island’s simple beauty and let your senses enjoy every second of this destination.

Greece offers more than meets the eye: a small detour on your boating trip will take you past coastlines which seem to jump straight out of a mythical tale and every rocky bend is a rich discovery. Charter a sailing boat with Book2Sail and discover Greece’s best-kept secrets.

Frequently asked questions

  • 1
    What are some of the key preparations I should consider prior to my yacht charter?
    • Travel Documentation

      Always ensure you have some form of acceptable identification, in legible condition and valid.

      Medication

      Double check that both you and other individuals in your group remember to bring important medications that you are currently being prescribed, accounting for the amount of time you will be at sea.

      Money & Additional expenses

      It would be prudent to budget for slightly over what you anticipate spending. Charter related expenses will be made known, however you never know whether you will need something once travelling.

      Research

      Set aside some time look up the areas you intend on visiting, both whilst chartering (as part of your anticipated itinerary) and whilst travelling to the location at which you will begin your charter.

      Supplies

      As with any journey or holiday, ensure you have adequate toiletries, perhaps some favored foods and snacks.

      Clothing

      Bring the types of clothing that will, in your estimation, suit the weather conditions of the location in which you will be chartering. It may be handy to spend some time researching a few sailing blogs and weather forecasts.

      Equipment

      All necessary equipment should be found already aboard (including safety equipment and anything required to properly operate the vessel. Though you may like to bring a few extra mod-cons to ensure you have the best of experiences.

  • 2
    What is the best way to choose the right vessel and charter for me?
    • Choosing the best vessel for you and those joining you on your yacht charter, would be dependent on your personal preference. Though we recommend considering the following points:

      • Your level of experience
      • Where you will be chartering
      • The time of year and associated weather conditions
      • The ages and competence of both yourself and those in your group

      It would be very helpful for you to conduct some basic research pertaining to all of the above, by way of asking those who you know have chartered the type of vessel or been to the location you are considering, before. Yacht charter blogs and other relevant websites that will offer you an understanding of the key factors you should consider.

      And of course, we are more than happy to help you with your decision.

  • 3
    Do I need a licence to charter a yacht?
    • That all depends on where you intend to charter. If you would like to charter a yacht within Europe, the answer would be yes. It is important to remember that the correct licencing and/or documentation for your charter is your responsibility and we would strongly advise you to enquire into the legal prerequisites of your chosen charter region, taking care to note any differences if you are to cross maritime boarders.

      Regarding Europe, you will require an International Certificate of Competence, also known as the ICC.

  • 4
    What is an APA?
    • As a rule of thumb, the fee you pay for your charter, includes the rental of the vessel and the necessary crew to operate it, all other expenses associated with the charter are separate and are financed by the APA, which stands for the Advance provisioning allowance.

      The APA generally amounts to 30% of the total charter fee, though this may vary depending on the vessel.

      Dockage fees, fuel, communications and food & beverages will all be financed by the APA. Any remaining money from the APA at the end of the charter, will be returned to you.

  • 5
    What happens if the owner/captain does not show up, or is late?
    • All boat owners are bound to have someone meeting charterers on the day of charter. It is important that you as a charterer notify us if there is something wrong with your charter. For more information read the charterer’s policy.

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Charter a yacht with Book2Sail

Book2Sail makes you feel that when it comes to chartering a boat, there is no limitation. You can choose any form of boat at any time and anywhere (catamaran, sailboat, motorboat, jet ski). Whether you’re sailing in August with a catamaran to explore the Dalmatian coastline or spending Easter holidays in the French Riviera, you will find your dream boat.

Our team of chartering specialists are ready to assist you to make your chartering experience as easy as possible. We have different itineraries to cater for any type of activity you choose to do, once you are ashore.

Get in touch now and Book2Sail today.