Greece, with its splendid coastlines such as the Ionian Sea, ancient history, and tantalizing cuisine, is a paradise for tourists worldwide. And what better way to explore this charming country than by cruising its waters on a luxurious yacht? This detailed cost guide aims to shed light on how much a yacht charter in Greece could set you back.
KEY TAKEAWAYS
- The cost of chartering a yacht in Greece varies greatly, influenced by factors such as the type of yacht, charter duration, season, and additional services like crew and insurance. Costs can range from €1,500 for a simple sailing yacht to over €1 million for a super yacht.
- Beyond the basic charter fee, there are additional costs to consider including the Advanced Provisioning Allowance (APA), crew fees, insurance, and potential VAT. These extras typically cover expenses such as fuel, food, marina fees, crew wages, and security against potential damage.
- Even with the costs involved, there are ways to make yacht chartering more affordable. Booking in the off-peak season, splitting costs with a group, and careful planning can help reduce the overall cost while still providing a luxurious and memorable experience.
Understanding the Basics of Yacht Chartering
What is a Yacht Charter?
A yacht charter essentially involves renting a yacht for a specified period to travel across seas, oceans, or near coastal areas. Charters can range from bareboat (where you captain the yacht yourself) to fully crewed ones, where the crew takes care of everything, from navigation to cooking.
Why Charter a Yacht in Greece?
Imagine gliding through the crystal-clear waters of the Aegean Sea, docking at remote islands, and indulging in authentic Greek cuisine. Sounds enticing, doesn’t it? With the yacht charter in Greece guide, you can experience all these and more, offering a sense of freedom and luxury that traditional tourism simply can’t match.
Deciphering the Cost Guide: How Much is a Yacht Charter in Greece?
Before we dive into specifics, it’s important to note that yacht charter prices in Greece can vary, influenced by factors such as the type of yacht, the season, the duration of the charter, and additional services.
Type of Yacht
The cost of chartering a yacht in Greece depends largely on the type of yacht you choose. The selection is vast, ranging from motor yachts and sailing yachts to catamarans and gulets. Luxury superyachts with cutting-edge technology and ultimate comfort will be priced significantly higher than a simple sailing yacht.
Charter Duration and Season
The duration of your charter and the season in which you choose to sail are two other significant factors affecting the cost. The high season in Greece (July and August) sees a spike in charter prices. Conversely, sailing in the shoulder seasons (May, June, September, and October) can lead to considerable savings.
Yacht Charter Costs: Breaking It Down
Let’s delve deeper into what you can expect to pay for a yacht charter in Greece.
Cost of Different Types of Yachts
Here’s a general breakdown of costs for a week-long yacht charter in Greece:
- Sailing yacht: €1,500 to €6,000
- Motor yacht: €5,000 to €15,000
- Catamaran: €4,000 to €12,000
- Gulet: €8,000 to €20,000
- Luxury super yacht: €50,000 and upwards
Additional Costs to Consider
Remember that the charter fee is just the beginning. There are additional costs to consider like the Advanced Provisioning Allowance (APA), which covers fuel, food, marina fees, and other expenses. The APA is typically 20-30% of the charter fee.
Other Influential Factors on Yacht Charter Costs
Several additional factors can affect the total cost of your yacht charter in Greece.
Crew Fees
Crewed yacht charters come with additional costs for the crew. This includes their wages, food, and sometimes, tips. A gratuity of 10-15% of the charter fee is customary in the yachting industry.
Insurance
Yacht charters usually require a deposit as insurance against potential damage. The amount varies based on the yacht’s value but expects to reserve around 10% of the yacht’s value as a security deposit if you choose a bareboat yacht charter in Greece.
The Luxury Experience: Super Yacht Charter Costs
For those willing to splurge for the ultimate sailing experience, chartering a super yacht in Greece provides unparalleled luxury.
What Defines a Super Yacht?
Super yachts are the epitome of luxury. These vessels, usually over 24 meters long, offer high-end amenities like private chefs, jet skis, hot tubs, and state-of-the-art entertainment systems.
The Cost of Super Yacht Charters
The cost of chartering a super yacht in Greece can range from €150,000 to over €1 million per week. This depends on factors like the yacht’s size, age, brand, and onboard amenities.
How to Save on Yacht Charter Costs
Even within the realm of yacht chartering, there are ways to make your sailing adventure more affordable.
Book in the Off-Season
If your schedule is flexible, consider sailing in the shoulder season. Prices can drop by up to 30% compared to the high season.
Split the Cost
Yachting can be more affordable if you split the cost with friends or family. A yacht that costs €10,000 a week becomes much more affordable when split between several couples.
Conclusion
Chartering a yacht in Greece offers a unique way to explore this mesmerizing country. Though costs can vary, the unparalleled experience it offers makes it worth every penny. With the planning of the Itinerary and knowledge, your dream of sailing through Greece can become a reality!
FAQs
The remarkable diversity of yachts and custom itineraries in Greece is perfect for even the most discerning individuals. A broad cost estimate for a crewed yacht charter is between 8,000 – 20,000 euros per week, inclusive of everything. For the ultimate in luxury, expect to shell out up to 1 million euros per week, all-inclusive.
The cost to charter a sailboat in Greece is surprisingly affordable. Prices generally start from €200 to €256 per day, with even better deals during the off-peak season. Weekly charters can begin at a modest €1,600 per week.
While chartering a yacht, it’s essential to note that expenses like food and fuel are billed at cost without any additional markup to the charterer. Upon completing the charter, the charterer and the Captain can review the expenses, and any unused funds are returned to the charterer.
The average rate for a skipper in Greece stands around 180 euros per day, excluding meals. This option of a skippered yacht charter is available across all yacht categories in Greece.
Yes, you can charter a yacht without a license if you opt for a skippered or crewed charter. For bareboat charters, a sailing license is usually required.
The charter fee typically includes the use of the yacht, its equipment, and insurance. Additional costs like fuel, marina fees, and provisions are usually covered by the APA.
It’s advisable to book your yacht charter 6-12 months in advance, especially for peak season. This allows for the best selection and availability.
While not hidden, there are additional costs beyond the charter fee that you should be aware of. These include the APA, crew gratuities, and potentially, a VAT.
Absolutely! One of the greatest advantages of a yacht charter is the freedom to customize your itinerary.
Policies vary depending on the yacht charter company. Some allow pets, while others don’t. Always check beforehand.
