“Greece is the word” for sun-bleached, whitewashed, rustic charm and pure seafaring bliss, making it one of the most iconic regions for luxury yacht charters by motor or sail. The Peloponnese on the Greek mainland is becoming increasingly fashionable. Visit the fairy tale castle city of Monemvasia and the hip Kyrimai Hotel, known for its Michelin-starred menu and timeless atmosphere.
The Cyclades island chain encircles the sacred island of Delos, the mythical birthplace of Apollo and Artemis and a protected archaeological site. Each sun-soaked island has its own character, yet ancient ruins, crystal clear waters and sweeping views are the constant theme throughout. On Mykonos, hoteliers and restaurateurs have brought a new refinement to this legendary party island, sparking a vibrant revival. At Santorini, the remnant of a collapsed volcanic caldera, motor and sailing yachts can anchor in the dramatic natural harbour beneath the town of Firá. The nearby fishing port of Oia has been in use for three thousand years and remains famous for its sunsets.
In contrast, the leafy Ionian Islands that stretch from the Adriatic to the Peloponnese are the greenest in Greece. They are studded with cypress trees, olive groves and vineyards. Cephalonia, the setting of Louis de Bernieres' Captain Corelli's Mandolin, is the largest yet least developed. Visit the pretty fishing village of Fiskardo, the beautiful anchorage of Assos and the striking white arc of Myrtos Beach. Away from the crowds, Corfu is carpeted with wild olive trees that give the island a romantic, half-untamed feel. In summer, villages celebrate panegyria with music and market stalls, often advertised on posters fixed to olive trees. Northeastern Corfu is dotted with private villas, traditional tavernas and sheltered pebbly coves, while the beaches along the west coast are among the finest in Greece.
The Dodecanese form a chain of islands scattered along the captivating Turkish coastline. Moving between the two regions by yacht creates an Odyssey of your own, perfect for those seeking a luxury charter that blends culture, history and unforgettable cruising.