Hi There MMS

We chartered in Greece this past June and absolutely loved it! In fact we loved it so much we are planning on going back September 2016 - 53ft Jeanneau mono already booked!

First before you decide whom to charter with, you need to decide where you wish to sail, such as the Cyclades, Dodecanese, or Ionion grouping of islands. Also how long will you charter? Depending on how many days, may dictate the area you choose. In addition do you plan on anchoring or med mooring most nights? The answer to these questions may determine what type of vessel you choose and where you charter. For example it may be difficult to find med mooring spots for Catamarans in high season in some of the areas which you are planning the tail end of (end of August)

Cyclades can be rough with strong winds and distances between islands (depending on itinerary) can be 20-35 nm each day.

Dodecanese better for monohull as they offer tiny ports with limited space. Wind there can be as strong as Cyclades but the islands are closer together.

Ionian islands, shallower waters and close distances between islands (10-20 nm each day). Less wind and waves.

Last June we chartered a 43 ft Beneteau from Athens (Nautica Charters) based in Alimos Marina. We sailed one way from Athens to Paros (Cyclades) as part of a flotilla so that we could learn the procedures in the harbors, which we basically found out is first come first served - med mooring everywhere. No radioing and requesting assignments.

The weather for the most part was beautiful, however the last 2 days of our charter we experienced strong wind beaufort 7-8 and very rough seas. The waves were about 4-5 ft at a few seconds apart. Felt like being in a ringer washer, water roiling and churning. We did not feel unsafe but I would have preferred to be sailing our own boat (a Tartan mono fully equipped with all our gear).

With that said, we are choosing to sail the Cyclades again but for 2 weeks this time - no flotilla. A 7 day charter wont really get you into the heart of the Cyclades as the distances are so great. The first day or so you will still be in the Peloponnese island grouping which isn't far from Athens so they are often crowded with weekend sailors from Athens.

It is an amazing area, the people are incredibly friendly and water is beautiful. Truly magical. Happy trip planning!