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BAREBOAT YACHT CHARTERS

Your Private Sailing Adventure in the Greek Islands

For experienced sailors holding the required sailing qualifications, Fournaros Yachts offers fully equipped sailing yachts and catamarans available for bareboat charters in Greece, allowing you to explore the Greek islands with complete freedom and independence.

Our bareboat fleet consists of carefully selected and well-maintained yachts and catamarans, ranging from modern, recently built models to older vessels maintained to high technical and safety standards. We work with renowned international shipyards such as Beneteau, Jeanneau, Lagoon, Bavaria, Hanse, Dufour, Fountaine Pajot, Bali and Nautitech, ensuring reliability, comfort and excellent sailing performance.

 

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BAREBOAT CHARTER

License Requirements

To charter a bareboat yacht in Greece, at least one member of the crew must hold a valid sailing license, while a second experienced crew member is required by Greek port authorities to act as co-skipper. This regulation ensures safety and smooth sailing throughout your holiday.

In most cases, ASA and RYA certifications are accepted by Greek authorities. However, some Day Skipper certificates may be subject to additional verification depending on the local port authority. If this is your first time bareboat chartering in Greece, or if you are unsure about the validity of your license, our team will be happy to review your qualifications and guide you through the process, ensuring a stress-free start to your sailing experience.

Our Bases in Greece

Fournaros Yachts offers bareboat yacht and catamaran charters from carefully selected bases across Greece. While the availability of specific yacht models may vary by location, our fleet is organised to ensure that you will always find a yacht or catamaran well suited to your sailing plans.

Choosing the right charter base usually depends on flight connections, ease of access, and the sailing area you wish to explore.

For guests arriving in Athens, we operate from Alimos Marina as well as from Salamina Marina, a particularly convenient option for sailing itineraries in the Saronic Gulf. Both bases provide fast access to nearby islands and mainland ports, making them ideal starting points for flexible and time-efficient sailing holidays. A third option, Lavrion, located approximately 30 minutes from Athens International Airport, is also available and well suited for routes towards the Cyclades.

For those planning to sail in the Ionian Sea, with its calm waters and green landscapes, we operate from Lefkas, Preveza and Corfu, all easily accessible via regional or international flights.

Guests wishing to explore the Dodecanese islands can begin their journey from Kos, offering direct access to an authentic and less crowded sailing area in the southeastern Aegean.

Finally, for guests travelling by road and looking to explore the Sporades, Volos remains a convenient mainland departure point, combining easy access with excellent sailing routes.

 

BASES MAP

Frequently Asked Questions – Bareboat Charters

WHICH ARE THE BEST DESTINATIONS FOR SAILING HOLIDAYS IN GREECE?

  • Ionian Islands
    The Ionian Islands offer some of the most relaxed sailing conditions in Greece, with a long season from April to October. The area is known for its sunny weather, mild temperatures, and generally gentle winds, making it an excellent choice for first-time sailors and families. During the summer, afternoon northwesterly breezes typically range from Force 2 to Force 5, providing comfortable and enjoyable sailing without demanding conditions.
  • Saronic Gulf
    Close to Athens and ideal for shorter sailing itineraries, the Saronic Gulf combines easy access with diverse island experiences. Distances between ports are short, allowing for relaxed cruising even on limited time schedules. Winds are generally moderate, though the Meltemi can occasionally reach Force 5 to 6 during peak summer months. Thanks to its southern location, the area enjoys warm weather throughout the season, making it a popular choice for both beginners and experienced sailors.
  • Dodecanese Islands
    Located in the southeastern part of Greece, the Dodecanese Islands enjoy the country’s warmest climate. Sailing conditions are generally pleasant, although occasional stronger winds can be expected, especially during the summer months. As the area lies at the edge of the Meltemi zone, winds are usually less intense than in the Cyclades, making the Dodecanese well suited for intermediate sailors or skippered charters seeking a balance between adventure and comfort.
  • Cyclades Islands
    The Cyclades are Greece’s most iconic and dynamic sailing destination, offering dramatic landscapes and vibrant island life. During the summer, the region is influenced by the Meltemi, a northerly wind that can create challenging conditions, particularly from July to mid-August. With winds often reaching Force 5 to 7 and occasional stronger gusts, the Cyclades are best suited to experienced sailors or crews accompanied by a professional skipper.
  • Sporades Islands
    The Sporades Islands are known for their lush landscapes and clear waters, offering a varied sailing experience throughout the season. In spring and autumn, steady winds of Force 3 to 5 create ideal conditions for less experienced sailors. During the summer, stronger winds may develop, increasing the level of challenge and making the area more suitable for confident sailors or skippered charters.

WHAT QUALIFICATIONS DO I NEED TO CHARTER A BAREBOAT?

To charter a bareboat yacht in Greece, at least one member of the crew must hold a valid sailing license, while a second experienced crew member is required by Greek port authorities to act as co-skipper. Internationally recognised certifications such as RYA and ASA are generally accepted. However, the acceptance of Day Skipper certificates may vary depending on the issuing authority and the local port office.

If you are unsure whether your qualification meets the requirements, or if this is your first time bareboat chartering in Greece, our team will be happy to review your license in advance and guide you through the process, ensuring a smooth and stress-free start to your sailing holiday.

WHAT TYPE OF YACHT SHOULD I CHOOSE BASED ON THE NUMBER OF PEOPLE IN MY CREW?

Choosing the right yacht depends on both the number of guests and whether your charter is bareboat or skippered.

  • 2–4 guests:
    A small sailing yacht with 3 cabins is ideal for a bareboat charter.
    If you choose a skippered charter, keep in mind that the skipper will usually need one cabin, reducing guest capacity.

  • 4–6 guests:
    A 3-cabin sailing yacht works well for bareboat charters.
    For skippered charters, a 4-cabin yacht is often recommended to ensure comfortable accommodation for everyone.

  • 6–8 guests:
    A 4-cabin or 5-cabin sailing yacht or a small catamaran is suitable for bareboat charters.
    With a skipper on board, choosing a 5-cabin yacht will provide better comfort and privacy.

  • 8–10 guests:
    A catamaran is usually the best option, especially for skippered charters, as it offers more space and often dedicated crew accommodation.

  • 10+ guests:
    A large catamaran or fully crewed yacht is recommended, offering separate cabins for crew and a more relaxed onboard experience.

Although yachts are certified for a maximum number of people, for a skippered charter it is important to allow one cabin for the skipper, or choose a yacht with a dedicated skipper cabin, to ensure a comfortable and enjoyable sailing holiday for everyone.

WHY TO CHARTER WITH FOURNAROS YACHTS?

At Fournaros Yachts, we are not just a charter company, we are active yacht owners and operators. This means we understand sailing from both the technical and the guest’s perspective, ensuring that every yacht we manage meets high standards of safety, maintenance and comfort.

We focus on quality over quantity, working with a carefully selected fleet and trusted partners across Greece. Our yachts are professionally maintained, thoroughly inspected and fully equipped, allowing you to sail with confidence.

From your first enquiry to the moment you step on board, our team provides personalised support, honest advice and local insight — not automated responses. Whether you are an experienced sailor or planning your first sailing holiday in Greece, we are here to make your charter experience smooth, safe and unforgettable.

WHAT KIND OF SUPPORT CAN I EXPECT DURING MY CHARTER?

Throughout your charter, Fournaros Yachts provides 24/7 technical and operational support, ensuring that help is always available whenever you need it.Our team is on call to assist with any technical issues, questions or unexpected situations that may arise during your sailing holiday. In addition, we work with a trusted network of local partners and technicians on key islands and mainland ports, allowing us to respond quickly and efficiently in case of an emergency.

Whether the issue is minor or requires on-site assistance, our priority is to minimise any disruption to your trip and ensure you can continue your charter safely and with peace of mind.

WHAT IS USUALLY INCLUDED IN THE YACHT CHARTER PRICE?

The charter price usually includes the use of the yacht for the agreed period, fully equipped and ready to sail, along with standard onboard equipment such as safety gear, kitchen utensils, and bed linen.

In most cases, the price also includes:

  • The yacht’s insurance

  • VAT

  • Dinghy and basic equipment

  • 24/7 technical support during the charter

WHICH ARE THE STANDARD EXTRA COSTS?

In addition to the charter price, there are some standard extra costs to consider when planning your yacht holiday in Greece.

These usually include:

  • Fuel, based on consumption during your trip

  • Skipper and crew fees (if not included in the charter price)

  • End cleaning

  • Marina and port fees

  • Food and drinks for the crew (if applicable)

Optional extras may also apply, such as:

  • Hostess or additional crew

  • Water toys (SUP, sea scooter, etc.)

  • Wi-Fi, early check-in, or special equipment

These extra costs vary depending on the yacht, itinerary, and level of service, and are typically paid separately from the charter fee.

WHAT IS THE CHARTER DURATION AND WHAT ARE THE CHECK-IN & CHECK-OUT TIMES?

Yacht charters in Greece are typically offered on a weekly basis, with the standard charter running from Saturday to Saturday.

  • Check-in: Usually takes place on Saturday afternoon around 17:00, once the yacht has been prepared and fully checked.

  • Check-out: Typically on Friday evening the yacht must return to the base marina for the inspection process and final check-out is on Saturday morning until 09:00.

Shorter or longer charters may be available on request, depending on yacht availability and the season.

Exact check-in and check-out times are confirmed before departure and may vary slightly between marinas and yachts.

ΗΟW DO I ARRANGE FOOD ON MY SAILING HOLIDAYS?

On sailing holidays, you have several convenient options. You can stock up at local supermarkets before or during your trip, making it easy to prepare meals on board. Most of our boats feature a fully equipped kitchen, allowing you to cook breakfast, lunch, or dinner while enjoying the sea. Alternatively, you can also dine ashore at local taverns, restaurants, or seaside cafes during stops, experiencing the local cuisine along your route. This flexible approach lets you combine self-catering with dining out for a varied and enjoyable culinary experience.

WHAT IS THE REFUNDABLE SECURITY DEPOSIT AND HOW DOES IT WORK?

The refundable security deposit is a safety guarantee held for the duration of your sailing holiday. It covers any accidental damage or extra cleaning costs. The deposit is fully refundable at the end of your trip, provided the boat is returned in the same condition as received. Payment is usually made before departure and returned shortly after check-out, once the boat has been inspected.