Why Greece Is Perfect for a Gulet Holiday
A gulet charter in Greece is a slow and steady way to travel Greece. Greece has a long coastline, mild winds, and many islands, which makes it one of the best regions for
Greek sailing holidays. The Greek coast is full of variety, from the cliffs of the
Cyclades to the green bays of the
Ionian and the calm waters of the
Dodecanese.
Gulets fit this landscape well. Their shallow draft lets them anchor close to beaches and small fishing harbors. They move easily between islands and offer a mix of tradition and comfort.
A
luxury Greek cruise follows a natural rhythm. Mornings begin under sail, afternoons are for swimming, and evenings end with dinner on deck. The calm seas and steady summer winds make sailing smooth and safe for families and new travelers.
What Is a Gulet?
A gulet is a handcrafted wooden yacht, traditionally built along the
southwestern coast of Turkey and now popular throughout the eastern Mediterranean. Originally designed for fishing and cargo, these vessels have evolved into comfortable charter yachts ideal for sea vacations.
Modern gulets mix traditional design with modern comfort. They have wide decks, large cabins, and shaded areas for dining and relaxing. Life on board happens mostly outdoors. Guests eat on deck, rest under the awning, and swim straight from the stern.
A crewed gulet charter in Greece usually includes a captain, a chef, and a deckhand. They handle everything on board, including sailing, cooking, and maintenance. Guests enjoy privacy and calm without the fixed routines of a cruise ship. This mix of comfort and authenticity is what makes
gulet holidays in Greece so enjoyable.
Why Choose a Gulet Over a Hotel
Choosing a
gulet charter in Greece over a traditional hotel stay changes the nature of a holiday completely. Instead of waking to the same view, guests wake to a new horizon each morning.
A gulet gives more privacy than any resort. There are no crowds and no fixed plans. You unpack once and let the journey set its own pace. Meals, routes, and timing adjust to what guests want.
Gulets travel along the Greek coast, stopping at quiet coves, small harbors, and island towns. Meals are prepared on board, and evenings are calm and quiet at anchor. It feels like a small moving home that blends comfort with simplicity. A luxury Greek cruise is ideal for travelers who value peace, space, and time away from routine.
Other Yacht Options Available
Motor yachts: For guests who prefer speed, modern comfort, and the ability to cover longer distances between islands.
Catamarans: For families or groups who enjoy stability, wide decks, and relaxed sailing in calm waters.
Sailing Yachts: For travelers who appreciate traditional sailing, quiet movement, and a closer connection to the sea.
Best Time to Charter a Gulet in Greece
The charter season in Greece runs from May through October, with summer offering warm seas and consistent weather.
- May and June: Ideal for quiet sailing, moderate temperatures, and wildflower-covered landscapes.
- July and August: Peak season, warm and lively, perfect for social sea vacations and family charters.
- September and October: Calmer anchorages and gentle breezes, suited for couples or relaxed luxury Greek cruises.
Outside these months, many gulets undergo maintenance. Booking early ensures the best vessel and route availability for your gulet holidays in Greece.
Life Onboard a Gulet Charter in Greece
Life on board moves with the sea. Mornings start with a swim, followed by breakfast on deck. The crew raises the sails or starts the engine and sets course for the next bay.
Meals are simple and fresh. Grilled fish, salads, olives, and fruit are served at the table. Afternoons are quiet, with reading, swimming, or resting in the shade. As evening comes, the gulet anchors near a small harbor or a calm cove. Dinner is served under soft light, one of the best moments of any gulet cruise Greece.
This slow pace defines Greek sailing holidays. It is calm, natural, and shaped by the sea rather than by time.
Andros, Pylos, and Crete
Each part of the Greek coast tells a different story, shaped by the sea and the landscape.
- Andros Greece feels calm and open, with quiet beaches and small fishing harbors. It is close enough to Athens for short trips yet far enough to feel removed from daily life. The island suits travelers who prefer peaceful sailing, time at anchor, and simple days by the water.
- Pylos Greece lies in a wide, green bay on the Peloponnese. The waters are gentle, and the air carries the scent of pine and salt. Many gulets stop here overnight to rest and enjoy the stillness before continuing along the coast.
- Crete Greece is larger and more dramatic. Its northern harbors welcome gulets and sailing yachts, while the southern side remains quiet and untouched. Many travelers end their voyage here, spending a few days on land before returning home.
From
Andros to Crete, sailing the Greek coast feels calm and timeless, shaped by wind, light, and the steady rhythm of the sea.
Planning Your Gulet Charter
When organizing a gulet charter in Greece, travelers can choose between private or shared charters. Private charters provide full use of the yacht, while cabin charters allow smaller groups to join others on board.
Early planning ensures the best selection of vessel and crew. Discussing preferences such as routes, menus, and activities helps create a smooth
luxury Greek cruise experience.
At
Best Choice Yachting - Yachtvermietung, specialists match every guest’s expectation with the right yacht, ensuring comfort, safety, and professional service throughout the charter.
Why a Gulet Charter Is the Perfect Greek Escape
Sailing on a gulet is not about how far you go. It is about enjoying the journey. Each stop brings a new view of the Greek coast, from quiet beaches to small island harbors.
A gulet charter in Greece gives you complete freedom. If you like a bay, you can stay longer. If the wind changes, so can your route. This kind of travel follows the sea, not a plan. It is the true spirit of
gulet holidays in Greece.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which Greek island has the best sailing holidays?
The Ionian Islands are often considered the best area for
Greek sailing holidays. The winds are mild, the water is calm, and the distances between islands are short.
Lefkada and
Zakynthos are ideal for relaxed routes, while
Corfu adds culture and green scenery. The Cyclades have stronger winds and wider routes, which suit experienced crews. Every part of the
Greek coast has its own charm, so the best choice depends on how you prefer to travel, either quiet and steady or open and adventurous.
What is the best month to cruise the Greek islands?
The best months to enjoy a gulet charter in Greece are May, June, September, and October. The weather is warm, the sea is calm, and harbors are less crowded. July and August bring strong winds and more visitors, though the energy is lively. For a calm luxury Greek cruise, choose early or late summer. The water stays warm, the days are long, and evenings are perfect for dining on deck under quiet skies.
Which Greek islands should travelers avoid?
There are no unsafe islands in Greece, but some can feel crowded during summer.
Mykonos and Santorini are famous but often busy in July and August. Travelers looking for peace often prefer smaller islands in the Dodecanese or Ionian regions. Choosing less-visited harbors keeps gulet holidays in Greece calm and personal. The best way to avoid crowds is to travel in shoulder months or let your captain guide you to quiet coves along the Greek coast.
How much is an average holiday to Greece?
Costs depend on where you stay and how you travel. A week-long gulet charter in Greece usually ranges between €8,000 and €15,000 for a private group, including the crew and basic expenses. Shared or cabin charters are more affordable. Onshore stays in hotels or villas vary from €150 to €400 per night. Greece also offers many simple, local options, so sea vacations can suit different budgets while keeping comfort and quality high.
Greek Islands
