DRIFT — Greece Yacht Charter

Why Greece?

White-cube villages tumbling down volcanic cliffs. Tavernas where the octopus dries on a line in the sun. Over 6,000 islands — 227 inhabited — connected by sapphire water and the Meltemi wind. Greece is the original sailing paradise, and nothing else comes close to the feeling of dropping anchor in a new Greek harbor every night.

Best Season

May through October. The Meltemi wind blows strong (20-30 knots) from the north in July–August — exhilarating sailing but demanding. Shoulder months (May–June, September–October) offer 10–15 knot breezes, warm water, and thinner crowds.

Perfect For

Culture lovers, history buffs, foodies, and experienced sailors who want more wind. The Cyclades reward confident crews with some of the most dramatic landscapes in sailing. The Ionian is gentler — perfect for families and first-timers.

Must-Visit Spots

Where to drop anchor

Santorini — Caldera Anchorage

Anchor beneath the famous cliffs and dinghy ashore to Fira or Oia. Watching sunset from the caldera aboard your yacht — with a glass of Assyrtiko from the island's volcanic vineyards — is simply unmatched.

Mykonos — Ornos Bay

The Cyclades' party island has quieter corners. Anchor at Ornos Bay for easy access to Mykonos Town's windmills, Little Venice waterfront, and legendary nightlife. Or stay on the yacht and enjoy the scene from the water.

Paros — Naoussa

A whitewashed fishing village with Venetian architecture, exceptional seafood tavernas, and a protected harbor. Less hectic than Mykonos, with the same Cycladic beauty. The anchorage at Kolimbithres beach offers surreal rock formations.

Milos — Kleftiko Bay

Accessible only by sea. Towering white rock formations, sea caves, and aquamarine water. Once a pirates' hideout (kleftiko means 'stolen'). Snorkel through the caves — the water glows.

Corfu — Paleokastritsa (Ionian)

On the Ionian side, Corfu's northwest coast has dramatic cliffs, hidden coves, and Venetian architecture. Paleokastritsa offers multiple bays with crystal water and a hilltop monastery.

Sample Itinerary

7 days in Greece

Day 1: Athens (Lavrion) → Kea

Depart Lavrion marina southeast of Athens. A short 15-mile sail to Kea (Tzia), the closest Cycladic island. Anchor in Korissia Bay, hike to the ancient Lion of Kea.

Day 2: Kea → Kythnos → Serifos

Sail to Kythnos for a lunch stop at Kolona Beach — a double-sided sandbar. Continue to Serifos, a dramatic island with a hilltop Chora and the secluded bay of Psili Ammos.

Day 3: Serifos → Sifnos

Known as the culinary island of the Cyclades. Anchor at Vathy Bay, dine at a traditional taverna in Apollonia. Try mastelo — lamb slow-cooked in wine and dill.

Day 4: Sifnos → Milos

Sail to Milos, the island of 70 beaches. Afternoon at Kleftiko (sea caves, snorkeling). Evening in Adamas harbor — waterfront dinner with views of the volcanic landscape.

Day 5: Milos → Folegandros

One of the least touristed islands in the Cyclades. The clifftop Chora is breathtaking — winding alleys, bougainvillea, tavernas perched over a 200-meter drop. Anchor at Karavostasis.

Day 6: Folegandros → Santorini

Arrive at the caldera. Anchor off the volcanic island of Nea Kameni for a hot springs swim. Dinghy or tender to Fira. Sunset from the yacht is unforgettable.

Day 7: Santorini → Paros → Lavrion

Sail north to Paros. Stop in Naoussa for a final Greek lunch. Continue to Lavrion for checkout (or extend to Mykonos if time allows).

Greece