Greece witnessed its biggest tourist season ever in 2015, with more than 25 million tourists proving, that this southern European country remains a welcoming and safe place to enjoy a sailing holiday.
The best way to experience Greece is on a sailing holiday, exploring ancient ruins and sampling traditional meze at waterside tavernas. With over 8,000 miles of Mediterranean coastline and more than 2,000 islands to explore, what better way to do this than by taking the helm of a beautiful Greek bareboat charter?
Chartering a Boat in Greece
Bareboat charter holidays give you the freedom to do what you want and not be tied to schedules and timetables. If you have experience in sailing, charter a bareboat and pick your own path along the Grecian coastline. If you don't want to go it alone, a skippered charter is the way to go. You can still set your own course, but you will benefit from the experience of a skipper and improve your sailing skills as and when you want.
Accommodation
If you have never been on a Greek bareboat charter, your first time will certainly not be your last. The yachts are well maintained and kept spotlessly clean. They vary in size from 32 to 51 feet and are equipped to the highest standard, thus ensuring your comfort and safety. Accommodation varies from two double cabins to four doubles with one twin-bunk cabin, so however large or small your party, there is a suitable yacht for you. All are fitted with refrigerators, CD players, showers and autopilots.
Sailing
The best area of Greece for sailing is the Ionian Sea, a subset of the Mediterranean, which has flat waters and perfect wind conditions. The Ionian Islands are fairly close together, so your journeys won't be too long. The islands are divided into two sections: the north Ionian would have a starting base in Corfu, whereas the south Ionian starts from Lefkas or Preveza. The seven main Ionian Islands are located on the western side of mainland Greece and have rich fertile soil, hillsides covered in olive groves and crystal-clear blue waters.
Leisure
There is very little commercial marine traffic in the Ionian Sea, so a novice sailor has no worries about getting in the way of cargo carriers. There are no tides or dangerous currents, so relaxation is the name of the game. Sunbathe on deck or snorkel in the clear warm blue waters before enjoying an evening meal with a glass or two of traditional raki or tsipouro. Greek cuisine uses a wide range of vegetables, olive oil, grains, fish, wine and meat. Meats include rabbit, lamb, poultry and pork.
If you decide to charter a bareboat, you won't be disappointed. There is so much to do, from water sports to visiting historic sites; shopping in cobblestone villages; relaxing with a good book; taking amazing photographs; and eating and drinking delicious food and wine. Obviously, you will get a great tan and be able to watch a gorgeous sunset every night. What are you waiting for? Give it a go.
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