A sailing expedition around the famous Greek island of Santorini offers the perfect opportunity to live out an unforgettable cruising trip. With over 3,000 islands to choose from, a trip over water is the perfect adventure one can have with families and friends.
If a part of your dream is to hire a boat, then Santorini is just the place to turn them into reality. Here you have the choice to opt for a vessel with a licensed crew and captain or simply charter a boat only, under 30hp, even if you have zero sailing experience and without a boat license.
Hiring a motorboat in Santorini gives you the option to explore the island in privacy and at your own space. Most of the boat charter companies will give you a comprehensive training course before renting out their boat for your expedition.
Hiring a boat with skipper
A popular choice, both among experienced skippers and those without a boat license is to hire a boat with a captain to take the stress out of the holiday.
Despite your past sailing history, having someone on board who knows the area well is a great asset. With a skipper to watch the boat, your holiday can be more relaxed as you can partake in off-boat activities.
With a knowledgeable and professional hand on deck, you should,preferably, book a week-long trip in order to freely explore most of the islands. Note though, that trips for shorter periods or even day island-hopping trips are also available.
Hiring a boat with full crew
If you do not have a boat license and are looking for a complete sailing experience in Santorini, then you should book a boat with full crew, including skipper, cook, hostess and even a trained sailing instructor to show you the ropes, should you fancy to steer the vessel from time to time. This trip may be more expensive, but is the best way to sail through the Greek islands stress-free.
Rental information
Several reliable and experienced companies like - https://santoriniboatrental.gr give out their boats on rent on the island of Santorni. A majority of them offer the services of a captain, fresh meals onboard and drinks to ensure a first class experience. The most popular ports for a boat hire in Santorini are Ammoudi and Vilchada Marina.
All yacht charters start from Santorini and can be booked for a private excursion to the nearby islands or a multi-day trip as far as Cyclades. Wedding ceremonies, bachelor parties, honeymoon trips or other events can also be arranged and made extra special.
Sailing tips
Other packing tips
When you plan on spending some time out on the water in Santorini, you would not like to leave anything behind, lest you ruin your sailing trip. Here are some essentials to have:
Costs
Yacht charters in Santorini can cost between $3587 per day or $21,523 per week during high season. Every boat is equipped with the latest sophisticated safety system such as GPS tracker, safety equipment and rows, GPS plotter and spare engine.
For shorter motorboat trips of three hours you can sail for €350 per person. Other suggested rates are:(all rates per person)
For semi-private catamaran trips:
Price includes third party insurance, map to bypass dangerous areas, emergency support, transfer company and one tank of petrol. Upon arrival, every customer needs to give a refundable security deposit of €500.
Remember there will be extra expenses to cover while on your rented boat, especially if you hired a fast one or a yacht, as the extra cost of fuel will need to be factored. Additionally, mooring at the marinas, other than that the port of origin, are not included in the boat rental and will be charged extra as well.
Safety rules
While renting a boat in Santorini without a license is a lot of fun, there are some golden rules to follow to make the most of your trip.
