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In our humble opinion, traveling is one of the best gifts that you can give to yourself. However, we’ve all been in that situation where you’re traveling to a country where English is not as widely spoken as you’d wish and you cannot seem to communicate with the people that you meet.

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Source: Honeymoons.com

Case in point: Greece. It’s no secret that we’re in love with the country around here. However, it is not always easy to get your message across, especially if you are traveling somewhere that is off the beaten track and away from the principal touristic areas.

So, we thought that it might be useful to round up some handy phrases and keywords for you. Now, you can set sail in Greece at ease.

Ordering Food

Let’s face it; this is the most crucial category. There is nothing more frustrating than being hungry and not being able to communicate your order.  So, here are some simple words to help you while ordering food (and keeping those #hangry situations under control).

menu – menoúportion – merida
plate – piatoglass – potíri
bon appétit – kalí órexithe bill – o logariasmós

Greetings and Polite Expressions

It’s always nice to be able to reciprocate the greeting of a friendly local in the street and it doesn’t hurt to know a few elementary words or polite phrases that you can use while you’re out and about.

yes – naíno – óchi
good morning/afternoon/night – kaliméra kalispera – kalinychtahello – geia sou
please – parakalothank you – efcharistó

Directions

With the advent of technology and the increased availability of navigation tools such as GPS or Google Maps, it is nowadays easier to find your way while you’re abroad. However, it is still important to know a few keywords in this area…particularly if you’re renting a car and Google Maps thinks that it is a good idea to pass through a pedestrian zone.

street – drómosaround the corner – stin apó ti gonía 
left – aristerá right – dexia 
entrance – eísodosexit – éxodos 

Shopping

If you desperately feel the need to indulge in a spot of retail therapy and those handmade leather sandals are calling your name, do not worry because we’ve got you covered.

shoe size to – mégethos tou papoutsioúclothing size – mégethos roúchon
bigger – megalýterosmaller – mikrótero
price tag – timíchanging room – dokimastírio

Basic Sailing Words

We’ve said it before and we’ll say it again; Greece is the perfect destination for a summer holiday and an incredible sailing hub too. If you’re considering the option of renting a boat in Greece and setting sail in Greece, here are some terms to keep in mind.

boat – skáfossail – pleo
port – limániskipper – ploíarchos
yacht – skáfos anapsychísmast – katárti

Miscellaneous but Useful

We’re also including an assorted selection of words and phrases that may be helpful at some point during your trip.

doctor – giatrósairport – aerodrómio
police station – astynomikó tmímaferry – porthmeío
insurance – asfalisihotel reservation – krátisi xenodocheíou

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.