Rent a boat in Athens with or without a licence

Discover Athens by boat

Athens, the mesmerising capital of Greece, has a history that dates back over 3,400 years. This iconic city is renowned for its ancient landmarks, including the majestic Acropolis, the Temple of Olympian Zeus, and the ancient Agora, making it a top destination for history enthusiasts. Beyond its historical significance, Athens also boasts a vibrant coastal life, offering lots of activities and sights to explore from the water. 

A yacht charter in Athens opens up a whole new dimension to your travel experience, allowing you to soak in the city's rich culture and natural beauty. Greece is a popular holiday destination for sailing enthusiasts. With thousands of islands, pristine bays and a long coastline, it’s a fantastic destination for a sailing holiday! Whether you're an experienced sailor or a novice, Athens offers diverse sailing experiences to suit everyone.

What type of boat is best for Athens?

Choosing the right boat for your yacht charter in Athens can sometimes seem difficult, especially with so much choice.

When deciding which type of boat rental to choose in Athens, it's essential to consider the duration of your stay on board. If you want to spend a short time on the water, RIB and motorboats are perfect for a day trip.

However, if you intend to spend a more extended period on the boat, selecting a vessel with ample space and a range of amenities would be more suitable. For longer journeys, boats such as catamarans and yachts are perfect options as they are more spacious. A sailboat is ideal for you if you want a typical sailing experience but requires some previous experience!

Take a look at available boat rentals in Athens in the table below: 

Consider your group size, desired comfort level, and activities planned when choosing the best boat type for exploring Athens and its surrounding areas.

How much does it cost to rent a boat in Athens?

Prices vary depending on the type of boat and the high or low season. Renting a boat in Athens or Greece is relatively cheap compared to other European destinations. The average price of boat rental in Athens is €600 per day. Below are starting prices of boat rental in Athens: 

Sailboat: Prices start at €160 per day and €1,120 per week
Motorboat:  Prices start at €165 per day and €1,155 per week
RIB: Prices start at €260 per day and €1,820 per week
Boat without licence: Prices start at €144 and €1,008 per week
Catamaran: Prices start at €413 per day and €2,891 per week
Gulet: Prices start at €721 per day and €5,047 per week
Yacht: Prices start at €500 per day and €2,961 per week

What is included in the cost?

When you charter a yacht in Athens, the cost includes using your chosen vessel for the duration of your trip. The essential safety equipment will be included to ensure that you and your guests have a secure and worry-free journey! We aim to make sailing accessible and have a safe sailing holiday. The final cost may differ depending on the additional services and extras that the boat owner provides. Fuel will typically require an additional payment and will depend on the type of boat you choose and the length of your journey.

What season is the best to charter a boat in Athens?

The best time to sail with your boat rental in Athens will depend on the getaway you seek! The high season in Athens corresponds to the summer months of June, July and August. The weather is generally warm and sunny during this period, making it an excellent time for boating activities. The temperatures range from 25°C to 35°C during the day, providing a pleasant environment for sailing.

The shoulder season in Athens, which includes April to May and September to October, balances favourable weather conditions and lower tourist crowds. During these months, temperatures range from 18°C to 28°C, providing pleasant sailing conditions.

Where to charter a boat in Athens?

Athens has several marinas and ports where you can charter boats. Some popular options include:

Alimos Marina: Situated about 8 kilometres from Athens city centre, Alimos Marina is the largest marina in Greece. It offers an extensive range of boat options and excellent facilities.

Flisvos Marina: Located in the upscale neighbourhood of Paleo Faliro, Flisvos Marina is known for its modern amenities and proximity to Athens' attractions.

Lavrion Marina: If you wish to explore the Cyclades islands, Lavrion Marina is a convenient starting point due to its proximity to these stunning islands.

Agios Kosmas Marina: Offering a scenic setting, Agios Kosmas Marina provides a relaxed atmosphere and easy access to the city centre.

Where to sail in Athens?

Sailing in Athens presents breathtaking destinations to explore. Greece is known as a country with rugged coasts, many islands and beautiful bays. A yacht charter in Athens is the perfect way to discover the country. Athens is located directly on the waterfront, and from several ports, you can quickly go in all directions:

Mykonos

Mykonos is one of the most beautiful islands of Greece, with its stone walls and charming living architecture, and is located quite close to Athens. Known for its windmills, beautiful sea, long sandy beaches and hilly areas, the island will surely appeal to every tourist. The most recognisable part of Mykonos is known as Little Venice, with colourful houses, facades and balconies.

Zakynthos

Another fascinating sailing destination is the island of Zakynthos, where some of the most famous beaches, such as the shipwrecked beach of Navigo. Zakynthos is part of the Cyclades archipelago. It is a popular sailing destination, perfect for island hopping. The picturesque island is a popular holiday destination known for its beautiful beaches, historic town centre and many vineyards.

The Sporades

The Sporades, consisting of several islands including Skiathos, Skopelos, Alonissos, Skyros and some other smaller islands, are centrally located in the middle of the Aegean Sea.

Aegina

Explore the charming island of Aegina, known for its historical sites, pistachio groves, and beautiful beaches.

Hydra

Experience the unique charm of Hydra, where no motorized vehicles are allowed, creating a peaceful and idyllic ambience.

Sounio

Sail to Cape Sounio and marvel at the ancient Temple of Poseidon overlooking the deep blue sea.

Athens 1 week sailing itinerary 

Day 1: Athens to Kea Island 10NM | 1.25HRS
Start your journey from the vibrant city of Athens and sail to the charming Kea Island, known for its picturesque villages and serene beaches.
Day 2: Kea Island to Syros Island 35NM | 4.38HRS
Sail to Syros Island, the capital of the Cyclades, where you can explore its stunning neoclassical architecture and vibrant cultural scene.
Day 3: Syros Island to Mykonos Island 25 NM | 3.13HRS
Head to the world-famous Mykonos Island, renowned for its lively nightlife, luxurious resorts, and iconic windmills.
Day 4: Mykonos Island to Naxos Island 28NM | 3.5 HRS
Journey to Naxos Island, the largest of the Cyclades, offering a mix of beautiful beaches, ancient ruins, and traditional villages.
Day 5: Naxos Island to Paros Island 18 NM | 2.25HRS
Sail to Paros Island, celebrated for its charming old town, pristine beaches, and excellent windsurfing conditions.
Day 6: Paros Island to Serifos Island 50NM | 6.25HRS
Navigate to Serifos Island, where you can enjoy its rugged landscapes, beautiful beaches, and the picturesque hilltop Chora.
Day 7: Serifos Island to Athens 60NM | 7.5HRS
Return to Athens, concluding your adventure through the Cyclades with memories of stunning islands and unforgettable experiences.

For a more detailed version of this itinerary and for more sailing route ideas, visit the Click&Boat blog!

Renting a boat with or without a skipper?

Whether you're a novice or an experienced sailor, Click&Boat has the perfect yacht hire options. The team of highly skilled and knowledgeable professional skippers will take care of all the technicalities. From navigating the Aegean Sea to handling docking and anchoring, our expert will ensure a smooth and worry-free sailing experience. What sets our skippers apart is their extensive local knowledge. With their insider tips, you can explore the most breathtaking islands, secluded coves, and vibrant coastal towns, making the most out of your holiday in Athens.

On the other hand, renting a bareboat is a great option if you possess a valid boating licence and have experience navigating similar waters. This option grants you the freedom to plan your route and enjoy a more private experience.

At Click&Boat, your safety is our top priority. Before setting off, the boat owner may require proof of experience and a sailing licence to ensure your safety and that of your guests onboard.

Frequently Asked Questions about Athens

How much does it cost to rent a boat in Athens for a day?

The average cost of renting a boat in Athens is around €887 per day. Various factors can influence the cost of a boat charter, such as the season, the year the boat was built, and the equipment. The prices can vary between €50 and €14,710 per day.

How much does a skipper cost per day in Athens?

The price of a skipper varies depending on the destination and the owner of the boat. In Athens, you can expect to pay an average of €197 per day for a skipper.

What are the most popular boat manufacturers in Athens?

The most popular boat manufacturers in Athens are Marinello and Dufour.

Can I add equipment like snorkel gear, SUP boards or a wakeboard to my boat rental in Athens?

Many owners offer various extras that you can add to your booking in Athens. This can be for example GPS, Bimini or Automatic pilot.

Can you rent a boat in Athens without a license?

In Athens there are 292 boats that you can rent without a license. You can also rent many boats with a skipper.

Good to know