A Guide to the Greek Islands, according to our brokers
With over 6,000 islands and islets to choose from, you could spend a lifetime cruising around the Greek islands. Luckily, with our expert brokers available to point out the most magical spots, secluded swimming coves, al fresco restaurants and cocktail bars, you can head straight to the best parts.
Edmiston Superyacht brokers Charlotte Hanlon, Charles Crane and Leif Gruner have spent years visiting and researching the Greek coastline, and advising others on where to go. “One of my favourite spots to recommend for charter is the Ionian Islands,” explains Charlotte. “Unlike the southern Greek islands, this island group boasts jewel-green landscapes, peppered with cypress trees, and towns steeped in Italian architecture. With crystal clear waters, quiet bays home to hidden gems of local tavernas and plenty of cruising opportunities, it is the perfect place to visit by yacht.”
“The Cyclades are a yachting paradise.” describes Charles. “These islands offer a huge variety of activities, you can taste their delicious local wine while enjoying a tour of the vineyards, stroll through pretty, cobbled streets of one of their cities or discover secret coves and dive in those crystal-clear waters filled with mesmerising marine life. The Greek coastline is one of the only places you can anchor off land, which makes it easy to find your own secluded spot.”
Leif prefers the untouched beauty of the Sporades Islands. “Most people tend to charter around the southern part of Greece, which means the Sporades islands are usually quieter and offer a bit more intimacy for your charter. Beautiful bays, sandy beaches, pine forest landscapes allow for a relaxing escape, while quaint old town crowned by Venetian-era castle and traditional tavernas will immerse you in Greek history.”
Here, our brokers share some of their favourite spots across the Greek islands, as well as the pick of the best superyachts to explore them on.
Paxos
With pebbly beaches and just three charming little towns to explore, the tiny island of Paxos requires a ferry from Corfu for most visitors. Arrive on a superyacht, however, and the journey is magically easy, gliding through the impossibly turquoise waters at your own pace.
The island is known for its picturesque villages and olive groves, which are perfect for leisurely walks and bike rides. An easy day trip away, cruise over to Anti Paxos, a tiny island just south of Paxos which is known for its stunning beaches and turquoise waters. It’s a popular spot for swimming and snorkelling, so head here early to find the best anchorage spots.
Yacht: Magnificent 64m sailing yacht ATLANTIC blends historic design with modern capabilities, for a truly one-of-a-kind charter experience around Paxos, the Ionian islands and beyond. If you prefer to get around by motor, 55m custom-built SEVERIN*S is an excellent choice for these sometimes slightly more choppy waters.
Mykonos
The island is known for its picturesque villages and olive groves, which are perfect for leisurely walks and bike rides. An easy day trip away, cruise over to Anti Paxos, a tiny island just south of Paxos which is known for its stunning beaches and turquoise waters. It’s a popular spot for swimming and snorkelling, so head here early to find the best anchorage spots.
It’s hardly a hidden gem, but Mykonos really does encompass the best of both worlds. By day, you have some of the prettiest beaches in Greece, with calm, family-friendly stretches of sand such as Lia, trendy beach clubs like Psarou, or secret and secluded coves such as Agios Sostis. By night, meanwhile, the party scene comes alive, with both vibrant clubs and sophisticated cocktail spots and fine dining restaurants.
This year’s hottest opening is the redesigned Bill & Coo Beefbar, which celebrates the island’s traditions and materials while bringing in a new era of cool. Anchor in Ornos or Psarou Bay, which are large and deep enough to hold a superyacht, and take a tender to shore.
Yacht: For lavish all-night parties on board, chartering 63m LADY BRITT will make it difficult to ever find a reason to step ashore. This summer, her crew includes a Michelin-starred chef (with his legendary 52-flavour ice-cream dream fridge), who seems to have no end to his imagination. For something more classical, 56m sailing yacht ROSEHEARTY offers an unforgettable sailing experience around Mykonos and the Cyclades this summer.
Rinia
Just south of Mykonos, cruise over to the small, uninhabited island of Rinia. The island is accessible only by boat, making it a secluded and peaceful retreat for visitors looking to escape the hustle and bustle of its more famous neighbour. Rinia boasts crystal-clear waters, pristine beaches, and unspoiled natural beauty. It is a perfect spot for swimming, diving, and sunbathing, and visitors can also take a hike to explore the island’s rugged interior. There are no restaurants or tavernas, so you can have your chefs prepare you a candlelit dinner on the beach in complete solitude. Make a beeline to Skiloni Beach – situated on the eastern coast of Rinia – a small and secluded cove with crystal-clear waters and stunning natural scenery.
Yacht: If you are looking for the ultimate high-performance superyacht to charter this season, why not go for a sailing yacht like CROSSBOW to explore the smaller and more remote Greek islands under your own power.
Alonissos
Those who like nature and marine parks should head straight for the island of Alonissos in the Sporades. The island is covered in pine forests and surrounded by crystal-clear waters, making it a haven for nature lovers, hikers, and beachgoers. Alonissos also has a rich history, with ancient ruins and traditional villages that provide a glimpse into the island’s past. But what makes Alonissos truly special is its commitment to sustainability and conservation, with the creation of the Alonissos Marine Park, which protects endangered species and marine life, making it a unique and unforgettable destination for eco-conscious travellers.
Yacht: Designed by and built for iconic fashion designer Giorgio Armani, MARIU is nothing if not elegant and sleek. Glide into the protected marine park of Alonissos and switch off completely.
Kefalonia
For a true sense of true history, head to Kefalonia, the largest of the Ionian islands and one of the most diverse. The island has a rich cultural heritage, with traditional villages, ancient ruins, and monasteries just waiting to be explored. Visitors can indulge in local cuisine, with fresh seafood and traditional dishes like Kefalonian meat pie among the must-try dishes. Kefalonia is also known for its wine, with several vineyards and wineries offering tours and tastings. Be sure to explore the extraordinary Drogarati Cave while you’re here, which is some 150 million years old.
Yacht: Splashy and playful, 46m MYSTIC is an excellent base for getting around larger islands like Kefalonia. The motor yacht can comfortably host 12 guests in six cabins, making it a perfect cruiser for families or groups of friends.
Charlotte will be heading to the Mediterranean Yacht Show in Nafplion, Greece this weekend (29th – 30th April 2023), so will be having a close look at the market to know exactly what yachts are available. Go and say hello to her if you’re there, or get in touch with us here to enquire about yacht charters in and around the Greek islands this summer.