Poseidon Boats Greece is a yacht charter and boat rental company operating in the Greek islands, offering a fleet of motor yachts, sailing yachts, and catamarans for daily excursions and multi-day cruises. The company is known for its base locations in popular destinations like Athens, Mykonos, and Santorini, and it provides both crewed and bareboat charter options. For travelers planning a Greek island hopping trip, Poseidon Boats serves as a practical booking platform for exploring the Aegean and Ionian Seas by sea.
Background of Poseidon Boats
Poseidon Boats was established to cater to the growing demand for private boat rentals in Greece, a country with one of the longest coastlines in Europe and thousands of islands. The company positions itself as a one-stop shop for charterers, offering a range of vessels from small motorboats that require no license to larger yachts that come with a professional crew. Its name references the ancient Greek god of the sea, which aligns with the nautical focus of the business. Over the years, it has expanded its operations to include multiple bases, allowing clients to start their journey from different islands without the need for a long repositioning sail.
How Boat Chartering Works in Greece
Booking with Poseidon Boats typically follows a straightforward process. First, you select a vessel type and size based on your group size and itinerary. Then you choose a base location and travel dates. The company then provides a quote that includes the base rental fee, taxes, and optional extras like a skipper, hostess, or fuel package. For bareboat charters (where you sail without a crew), you must present a valid sailing license recognized by the Greek authorities. For crewed charters, no license is required, as the captain handles all navigation. On the day of departure, you meet the team at the marina, complete a check-in briefing, and receive a walkthrough of the boat’s systems.
Fleet and Vessel Types
Poseidon Boats offers a diverse fleet to match different preferences and budgets. The main categories include:
- Sailing yachts – Ideal for those who enjoy the traditional experience of wind-powered travel. These range from 30 to 50 feet in length and are suited for couples or small families.
- Catamarans – Popular for their stability and spacious decks. They are a good choice for groups of 6–10 people, offering more privacy and comfort than monohulls.
- Motor yachts – For faster travel between islands, these boats range from 40 to 80 feet and often include cabins with en-suite bathrooms.
- RIB boats and day cruisers – Smaller, open boats that are perfect for day trips to secluded beaches and coves. Some can be rented without a license if the engine power is below a certain threshold.
Popular Destinations and Itineraries
The company’s bases are strategically placed in the most visited island groups. From Athens (Alimos Marina), you can easily reach the Saronic Gulf islands like Aegina, Poros, and Hydra. From Mykonos, you can sail to Delos, Paros, and Naxos. Santorini is a starting point for exploring the Cyclades, including Ios and Folegandros. Poseidon Boats also offers pre-planned itineraries, but most charterers prefer to customize their route. A typical 7-day itinerary might include a mix of popular harbors and quiet anchorages, with daily sailing distances of 20–40 nautical miles.
Costs and What’s Included
The cost of a charter with Poseidon Boats varies widely based on the season, boat size, and duration. High season (July–August) rates are roughly 30–50% higher than in May or October. For a bareboat 40-foot sailboat, expect to pay around €1,500–€2,500 per week. A crewed catamaran might cost €4,000–€8,000 per week. The base price usually includes the boat, standard inventory (linen, kitchenware, safety equipment), and basic insurance. Extras like a skipper (around €150–€200 per day), hostess, fuel, food, and marina fees are typically not included. It is essential to read the contract carefully to understand what is covered, as some companies charge extra for outboard engines, paddleboards, or final cleaning.
Common Challenges and How to Avoid Them
First-time charterers often face challenges with weather, navigation, and local regulations. The Meltemi wind, which blows strongly in the Aegean during summer, can make sailing challenging for novices. To avoid issues, it is wise to choose a crewed charter if you are not experienced. Another common problem is underestimating distances between islands; always plan for longer passages than expected. Also, many Greek marinas are crowded in August, so booking a berth in advance is recommended. Finally, be aware of the Greek law that requires a sailing license for bareboat charters; if you do not have one, you must hire a skipper.
Safety and Regulations
Safety is a priority for Poseidon Boats, and all vessels are equipped with life jackets, flares, fire extinguishers, and a first aid kit. The crew (if you hire one) is trained in safety procedures and knows the local waters. Before departure, you will receive a safety briefing. Greek law mandates that all boats must have a valid insurance policy, and Poseidon Boats typically includes third-party liability insurance in the charter fee. It is also important to check weather forecasts daily and follow the advice of the local coast guard. For those with no sailing experience, a crewed charter is the safest option, as the captain is responsible for the vessel and the passengers.
Alternatives to Poseidon Boats
If Poseidon Boats does not meet your needs, there are several other reputable charter companies in Greece. For example, Moorings and SunSail have a strong presence in the Ionian and Aegean seas, offering flotilla sailing tours where you sail in a group with a lead boat. Dream Yacht Charter is another option with a wide range of catamarans. Alternatively, you could book a day trip on a traditional Greek kaiki (wooden boat) from a local operator, which is a more budget-friendly way to explore the islands without the commitment of a full charter. For those who prefer not to sail at all, ferry services and island-hopping tours by bus are common alternatives.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a license to rent a boat from Poseidon Boats?
If you choose a bareboat charter (without a skipper), yes, you need a sailing license that is recognized in Greece, such as an International Certificate of Competence (ICC) or a national license from your home country. However, if you hire a skipper from Poseidon Boats, no license is required—you can simply relax and enjoy the trip.
Can I book a boat for just one day?
Yes, Poseidon Boats offers daily rentals for smaller boats, such as RIBs and motor cruisers. These are perfect for exploring nearby islands and beaches. For larger yachts, the minimum rental period is usually one week during high season, but you may find shorter charters in the shoulder season.
What is the best time of year to charter a boat in Greece?
The best time is from late May to early October. May and June offer pleasant weather, fewer crowds, and lower prices. July and August are the hottest and windiest months, with the Meltemi wind providing good sailing but also challenging conditions. September is often considered ideal due to warm water and calmer winds.
Are there any hidden costs I should be aware of?
Common extras include fuel (unless you choose an all-inclusive package), marina fees, food and drinks, and a refundable security deposit (usually €500–€2,000 depending on the boat). Some companies also charge for final cleaning or for using the outboard dinghy. Always ask for a full breakdown of costs before booking.
Can I bring my own food and drinks on board?
Yes, you can bring your own provisions. Most boats have a refrigerator, stove, and basic cooking equipment. However, some crewed charters offer a provisioning service where they stock the boat with groceries for an additional fee. If you have dietary restrictions, it is best to bring your own items.
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