What to Bring on a Sailing Trip with a Charter Yacht in Greece

Preparing for a sailing adventure in Greece is exciting, but it’s important to pack efficiently for comfort, safety, and enjoyment. Here’s a comprehensive list of what to bring:

1. Clothing:

• Light, breathable clothing: Greece can be hot, especially in summer, so lightweight clothes (cotton, linen) are ideal for daytime.

• Swimwear: You’ll want to swim and sunbathe frequently, so pack multiple swimsuits.

• Cover-ups: For when you’re on deck or at port, bring a sarong or cover-up for easy comfort.

• Evening wear: Casual outfits for dinners or evening outings in port towns. Light layers for cooler evenings.

• Hat and sunglasses: A wide-brimmed hat and UV-blocking sunglasses to protect from the sun.

• Water shoes or flip-flops: Comfortable footwear for both on board and ashore.

• Non-slip shoes (for on deck): A pair of sturdy shoes with good grip for walking on deck, particularly in windy conditions.

2. Toiletries and Personal Items:

• Sunscreen: High SPF is a must to protect against the strong Mediterranean sun.

• After-sun lotion: Aloe vera or moisturizers to soothe your skin after a day in the sun.

• Personal hygiene items: Toothbrush, toothpaste, deodorant, shampoo, conditioner, etc.

• Prescription medications: Don’t forget any required personal medications.

• Insect repellent: Useful when stopping at secluded or forested areas.

3. Documents and Essentials:

• Passport or ID: Essential for check-in and port requirements.

• Boat charter agreement: Bring a printed or digital copy of the charter agreement and any necessary paperwork.

• Travel insurance details: Make sure you have insurance that covers your sailing trip.

• Credit cards or cash: Some smaller ports or local markets may only accept cash, so it’s good to have both options.

4. Electronics and Tech:

• Phone and charger: Consider a waterproof case for your phone to protect it from the elements.

• Power bank: For charging devices while on the go.

• Camera or GoPro: To capture the beautiful sights of the Greek islands.

• Adapters: If traveling from outside Europe, bring a plug adapter for your devices.

5. Snacks and Beverages:

• Preferred snacks: While your hostess or crew will handle meals (if included in your charter), you may want to bring your favorite snacks (such as energy bars, nuts, or chocolate) to enjoy during your trip.

• Thermal water bottle: Stay hydrated with a reusable, thermal water bottle to keep your drinks cool throughout the day.

6. Miscellaneous:

• Books, magazines, or e-reader: For relaxing on deck.

• A light rain jacket: Greece is generally sunny, but occasional showers can occur, especially in the spring or autumn.

• Small dry bags: Useful for keeping valuables safe from water when you’re on the move or at the beach.

• Waterproof bags for wet clothing: Handy for storing your swimwear and towels after use.

7. What You Don’t Need to Bring:

• Heavy luggage or excessive clothing: Space on a yacht can be limited, so pack light and practical.

• Towels: These are typically provided by the yacht, but you may want to bring your own beach towel if preferred.

• Formal attire: You won’t need anything too formal unless specifically requested for a particular event.

Additional Notes:

• First aid kit: A comprehensive first aid kit will be available on the boat for any minor medical needs.

• Snorkeling equipment: Basic snorkeling gear is provided on the yacht, so no need to bring your own unless you prefer.

• Hostess (optional at bareboat charters): If you’re opting for a bareboat charter, a hostess is optional. However, if you choose to have one, they will handle meal preparations, shopping, and assist with cleaning the communal areas, providing a more relaxing experience on board.

With this checklist, you’re ready for a comfortable, stress-free sailing experience while exploring the stunning Greek islands!

Hiring a skipper for a charter boat offers numerous advantages. First and foremost, a professional skipper brings expert knowledge of local waters, ensuring a safe and smooth journey. They handle all navigation, allowing you to relax and fully enjoy the experience. While you can still take the helm whenever you wish, a skipper handles the more challenging aspects of sailing, such as docking and departing, letting you avoid the stress of those procedures.

All of our suggested skippers are not only fully trained and experienced, but also discreet and adaptable to your needs, ensuring a personalized and seamless experience. They are equipped to handle any situation with professionalism, and can provide valuable insights about the area, including hidden spots and local attractions. With all the operational details in their capable hands, you can focus on leisure—whether you’re cruising, relaxing, or exploring new destinations.

Our team will work closely with you to select the perfect crew, ensuring an unforgettable sailing experience tailored to your needs.

Hiring a hostess for your sailing trip offers a truly elevated experience, ensuring both comfort and convenience throughout your charter. A professional hostess takes care of the daily shopping, prepares and serves delicious breakfasts and light lunches, tailored to your personal preferences and dietary needs. This means you can fully relax, knowing that meals are planned, prepared, and served with care, allowing you more time to enjoy the water and your surroundings.

Beyond meals, the hostess is also responsible for maintaining the cleanliness of the communal areas, ensuring the yacht always feels fresh and welcoming. With their support, you won’t have to worry about the details—whether it’s navigating the local markets for the best produce or helping the skipper during docking and anchoring. Available from 8:00 AM to 8:00 PM, a hostess can also assist with any other requests, making your experience on board completely stress-free. Whether you’re cruising in the morning or relaxing in the afternoon, a hostess ensures your time on the yacht is effortless, enjoyable, and tailored to your needs.

Our team will work closely with you to select the perfect crew, ensuring an unforgettable sailing experience tailored to your needs.

Hiring a cook for your sailing trip on a charter boat offers a unique opportunity to indulge in the flavors of Greece while enjoying the convenience and luxury of having all your meals expertly prepared. A professional cook will craft delicious meals tailored to your preferences, giving you the chance to savor authentic Greek cuisine, from fresh seafood to classic Mediterranean dishes. In addition to the rich local flavors, the cook will manage all aspects of meal planning, shopping, and preparation, allowing you to fully relax and immerse yourself in the experience. Whether you’re craving fresh local ingredients or international cuisine, the cook will accommodate your dietary needs and preferences. With a cook onboard, you’ll have more time to enjoy the stunning views, water activities, and the company of your guests—while savoring every bite of expertly prepared, locally inspired meals.

Our team will work closely with you to select the perfect crew, ensuring an unforgettable sailing experience tailored to your needs.

Children of all ages are warmly welcome aboard our charter yachts. To
ensure a truly relaxing experience for the whole family, CALYIA can provide a dedicated nanny for the trip upon request. Additionally, safety measures such as a safety net, childrens life jackets, and other precautions can be arranged to ensure a smooth and carefree family holidays on a yacht.

Feel free to bring along your four-legged family member on your sailing
adventure! Please note that on some boats, an additional cleaning fee may be required prior to embarkation, which you will be informed of during the booking procedure.

The Charterer is responsible for covering all operating expenses related to the charter for the entire duration of the charter period. Payments for the Advance Provisioning Allowance (APA), special requests, and other Charterer-related expenses can be made directly to the Captain in cash.

The APA amount stated in this agreement is an estimate and may not reflect the total expenses incurred by the Charterer. Actual expenses by the end of the charter period may be higher or lower than the APA provided.

The Charterer is required to forward the APA to the Captain within a
reasonable time before the charter's start date. This allows the Captain to make preparations in accordance with the Charterer’s preferences and requirements prior to embarkation.

Once the APA has been paid, the Captain will provide the Charterer with regular updates on its disbursement. Should the remaining balance become insufficient due to ongoing expenditures, the Captain may request an additional cash payment to maintain an adequate credit balance. The Charterer is responsible for ensuring sufficient liquidity to cover all foreseeable expenses, given the vessel’s itinerant schedule.

At the end of the charter period, and prior to disembarkation, the Captain will provide a detailed account of expenditures. Any unused APA funds will be refunded to the Charterer either in cash on-site or via wire transfer. If there is an outstanding balance for expenses (APA debit balance), the Charterer must settle the amount in cash before disembarking.

Extraordinary expenses, such as special requests, additional equipment, shoreside transportation, excursions, third-party equipment rentals, or tour guides—expenses not typically considered part of the vessel’s operating costs—are also the Charterer’s responsibility. Payment for these may be required in advance through the Broker or in cash to the Captain upon embarkation, in addition to utilizing funds from the APA if applicable.

The Advance Provisioning Allowance (A.P.A.) is a prepayment made to cover the estimated operating costs of the charter. This fund is used for expenses such as yacht preparation, requested supplies, port fees, mooring charges, fuel and diesel, communications, crew gratuities, and any extras. The exact amount depends on the guest’s specific requests, including itinerary, food, beverages, and other services.
If there is any unused A.P.A. balance at the end of the charter, it will be refunded to the Charterer. However, if expenses exceed the initial A.P.A., the Charterer will be asked to cover the additional amount.
All outstanding accounts must be settled directly with the Captain onboard, either in cash or via credit card, before disembarkation. If a refund is due, it will be processed and wired to the Charterer on the first business day after disembarkation.