Hire a boat in Santorini with or without a licence

Boat hire in Santorini with Click&Boat

Santorini is part of the Cyclades Islands, nestled in the Aegean Sea in the form of a ring composed of 5 beautiful, picturesque islands. Despite its well-deserved popularity, Santorini attracts attention not only for its tourist attractions, but also for its stunning nature, rugged terrain and volcanoes. A boat hire in Santorini is by far the best way to explore and get the most out of this island.

Rent a motorboat, sailboat, catamaran or yacht, take the opportunity to explore the most remote and hidden corners of Santorini's coastline, to swim at wild paradise beaches or even in the open sea, dive or snorkel in search of breathtaking views of the underwater world and its unique marine life.

What type of boat is best for a yacht charter in Santorini?

With Click&Boat select from a diverse fleet of boats in Santorini where you can find the perfect sailboat, motorboat or catamaran for your Santorini sailing holiday. You can search among all kinds of boats, prices and duration of rentals. Below is a table of available boats for hire in Santorini:

How much does it cost for boat hire in Santorini?

In general, the price of a boat depends on several factors such as type of boat, capacity and size of the boat, number of days (or hours) of the rental, presence or absence of a skipper, additional services or equipment on board and the time of year (low vs high season). The average price of boat hire in Santorini is £900 per day. Below are starting prices of available boats in Santorini:

What is included in the cost?

At Click&Boat, customers can select whether they want to hire boats with or without a skipper or crew. Normally, fuel is not included in the rental price and is charged at how much you consume during the rental period. To ensure transparency, it is advisable to have a conversation with the boat owner about any additional extras, such as fuel and water sports, that may or may not be included in the rental.

What season is the best to charter a yacht in Santorini?

The weather in Santorini is typically warm and sunny, with hot summers and mild winters. The high season for boat rentals in Santorini runs from May to September, coinciding with the peak tourist period.

During these months, the weather is at its best, with long days of sunshine and warm sea temperatures, making it an ideal time for swimming, snorkelling, and sunbathing. However, it's important to note that this period can be quite busy, and boat rentals may be in high demand, so it's advisable to book in advance.

The low season in Santorini spans from October to April, offering a quieter and more tranquil experience. While the weather may be cooler and the sea temperature slightly lower, it's still possible to enjoy boat rentals during this time.

Where to hire a boat in Santorini?

One of the most popular ports is the Athinios Port, located approximately 8km from Santorini Airport. It provides various facilities, including parking, restaurants, and shops, making it a convenient starting point for your nautical adventures.

Another popular option is Ammoudi Bay, situated below the picturesque village of Oia.

Where to sail on your yacht charter in Santorini?

Ancient Greece

If you are a history and culture enthusiast, and don't want to miss the major monuments, you definitely need to visit the Akrotiri Archaeological Site. You can also visit Fira, an ancient city that offers breathtaking views, as it is located on top of a high hill. Here you will find ancient ruins of temples and theatres, residential buildings and the market square. If you want to dig deeper, the city also offers several museums dating back to prehistoric times.

Unusual Beaches of Santorini

If your soul calls for unusual landscapes and scenery, you should definitely visit the Beach of Vlychada: for a few moments you may feel that you are not in Santorini, but on another planet, due to the unusual rock formations, the rugged coastline and the sand and pebble beach, which make this beach different from the others in Santorini.

Also, the Perissa Beach, for example, boasts a strip of black sand. All this contrasts with the brilliant blue of the Aegean Sea and the imposing Mount Mésa Vounó, at the foot of which the beach is located, creating a stunning landscape. Another totally unbelievable beach in Santorini is the Red Beach of Akrotiri.

Island hopping

Island hopping from Santorini offers a magical journey through the Cyclades. Start with a short ride to Ios, known for its vibrant nightlife and golden beaches. Next, head to Naxos, the largest Cycladic island, boasting rich history and beautiful landscapes. Continue to Paros for its charming villages and crystal-clear waters. Don't miss Antiparos for its serene atmosphere and stunning caves. End the trip in Mykonos, famous for its cosmopolitan vibe, luxury resorts, and iconic windmills. Each island provides unique experiences, blending ancient ruins, pristine beaches, and authentic Greek culture.

For a more detailed description of an island hopping route, visit the Cyclades 2 week sailing itineraries on the Click&Boat blog!

Hire a boat with or without a skipper in Santorini?

No licence is required to sail around Santorini. You can charter a boat with a skipper, or even with an on-board crew, which will ensure you and your family a serene journey across the Mediterranean Sea.

Choosing between hiring a boat with or without a skipper in Santorini depends on your preferences and experience. With a skipper, you'll benefit from expert navigation and local knowledge, ensuring a stress-free experience and access to the best spots in Santorini.

Without a skipper, you enjoy complete privacy with the freedom to explore at your own pace. However, this option requires boating experience and the responsibility for navigation and safety.