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Greece
Sailing yacht charter in Santorini
Engines off: proper sailing beneath the volcanic cliffs, with a spell at the wheel for anyone curious.
Sailing yacht charter in Santorini appeals to those who would sooner feel the breeze than admire the caldera from behind a window. The Bavaria Cruiser 46, a German monohull of 14.3 metres, glides past the lava walls with barely a murmur once her sails fill. She is also the most budget-friendly route to a private boat on the island, with only your own party aboard.
Two wheels flank the cockpit, and the skipper gladly lends you one, so even complete novices get to steer by the wind. A swim platform at the transom makes climbing in and out of the sea simple, and with four cabins she doubles as floating accommodation rather than just a day boat.
Ten is the maximum for a day sail, which suits couples, small families and groups of friends. Week-long trips are where the Cruiser 46 shines: the meltemi that makes motorboats bounce gives a sailing yacht exactly the push it wants, and Ios, Sikinos, Folegandros and Milos lie within a few hours. She averages around seven knots, so plans leave slack for lingering.
Sailing yachts in Santorini
What it costs
The lowest indicative prices among the yachts of this type on this page.
- Full day
- from €1,200 / day
- Week-long charter
- from €5,500 / week
Indicative "from" market prices for this destination. The exact price depends on dates, duration and the specific yacht, and comes in your personal quote.
Usually included
- A skipper who trims the sails and coaches you at the helm
- Insurance for the yacht
- Linen and an end-of-charter clean when you stay aboard
- Lifejackets and simple swim gear
Usually extra
- Provisions — stocked beforehand or paid from the APA
- Diesel for motoring plus marina charges
- A cook or hostess if you would rather not run the galley
- Getting to and from the marina
Exact inclusions depend on the yacht and are always listed in your written offer.
Where you go
Her home berth is on the island's southern side, usually Vlychada. A day out works along that coast, then into the crater towards the warm springs and the shores of Thirassia. On a week the loop begins and ends at Santorini, with brief hops to Ios and Sikinos and longer passages on to Folegandros and Milos.
Marinas
- Vlychada Marina
- Ammoudi Bay (Oia)
- Athinios Port
When to go
Sailing runs from spring into late October. Newcomers will be happiest in May, June or September; seasoned hands may actively prefer high summer, when the meltemi sets up a firm, consistent wind and the skipper just shortens the daily legs. On a day sail, mornings and the early afternoon see fewer boats inside the crater.
Sailing yacht charter in Santorini: FAQ
Does anyone in our group need to know how to sail?
Not at all. The skipper runs the boat, and your involvement is up to you — anything from dozing on the foredeck to hauling sheets and steering. Going without a skipper would mean holding a recognised certificate.
Isn't July too windy?
The meltemi blows hard, yet for a sailing yacht that is simply good going. Legs are kept manageable, and if a gale is due the boat waits it out in a protected bay. Should someone in your party dislike heeling, aim for June or September instead.
Monohull or catamaran — which is better here?
A monohull leans into the wind and feels livelier, which makes it the better classroom. A catamaran offers more room and stability for bigger parties and dinners at dusk. The Cruiser 46 takes ten, while Santorini's cats hold twelve.