Greece offers one of the longest sailing seasons in the Mediterranean, so take advantage of the favourable climate and go on an expedition around the famous Greek islands. Historically a popular holiday destination for boat lovers, the Greek islands are the perfect peaceful destination to relax as well as the perfect place to live out your sailing adventures. The best part? A boat licence to sail in Greece is not necessary. Hire a skipper and enjoy the moment without worrying about anything on your vacation!
Borrow A Boat is the leading boat holiday platform, offering over 30,000 boats across 500 destinations worldwide. We cater both to licensed sailors looking to book a boat only and to those with no sailing experience, interested in hiring a boat together with a captain and optional crew.
Everything You Need To Know About Boat Licences in Greece
Hire a Motorboat in Greece Without a Boat Licence
If part of the dream is to be your own captain on a boat, the Greek islands are the best place to turn this into a reality.
TIP: A motorboat is classified as any boat with an engine not considered as a speedboat/powerboat that can be hired without a crew. The option to hire a motorboat without a boat licence in Greece is available for small vessels with less than 30 hp.
With over 3,000 islands to explore, hiring a boat with your family or friends is the perfect way to set out on an adventure. You can sail from Athens to Corfu, Rhodes or Santorini, the list is endless.
This option allows you to explore the islands in privacy and at your own time and pace. Most motorboat companies will provide you with comprehensive training before allowing you to man the boat and set off on your expedition. Check out our “8 Myths about Sailors” article.
Sailboat Hire: Do You Need a Boat Licence to Sail in Greece?
If you come from the UK, you will need to be in possession of an RYA Day Skipper Practical certificate or equivalent from a recognised sailing organisation. To charter a bareboat, the authorities require that two people be in possession of a licence, namely the skipper and co-skipper. If the co-skipper does not have a licence, a ‘declaration of honour’ will be required. This is a legal document that declares to the Greek Port Authority that the second crew member has enough competency to co-captain a chartered boat.
Are you sailing for the first time? Rest assured and learn the guide for beginner sailors.
Hire a Boat Without a Boat Licence in Greece But With a Skipper
The most popular option for adventurers in Greece without a boat licence, or even experienced skippers looking for a stress-free holiday, is to hire a boat in Greece with a skipper. Most companies offer this method and there are many alternatives to choose from. You can book week-long trips around the islands providing you with the opportunity to freely explore most of the islands, accompanied by an experienced guide. Shorter hire periods are also available for day trips or island hopping.
Crewed Charter: Do You Need a Boat Licence to Sail in Greece When Sailing With a Crew?
For the full experience without a boat licence in Greece, you can book a crewed charter. You will get complete assistance from a crew including a skipper, cook, hostess – and if you wish you can bring an instructor from a sailing school to show you the ropes. Although this might cost more, a crewed charter is the best way to comfortably sail without stress through the Greek islands.
Speedboat or Jet Ski Charter in Greece?
Adrenaline seekers wishing to hire a Jet Ski or PWC (Personal Water Craft) will be required to be over 16 years of age and to be in possession of a valid PWC or speedboat licence, regardless of the model type.
Ferry Transport
Getting around by ferry does not require you to have a boat licence – if you are traveling alone or want to spend more of your time exploring more of the islands than the surrounding waters, then this option is great and slightly cheaper.
Important: Boat Owners Need a Licence to Sail in Greece
If you own a yacht and hired a skipper, you will be required to provide valid documentation before entering Greece:
- A valid VHF/Radio licence
- An original insurance certificate
- The skipper must possess an ICC (International Certificate of Competence)
Get in touch with one of our experts at Borrow A Boat before planning your trip. We will help come to the best solutions to ensure that you make the most of your Greek islands holiday trip. We will help you will all the sailing issues or any additional questions you might have before your trip.