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Charter portYacht charter in Heraklion
230 boats available to charter in Heraklion, Greece — compare motor yachts, catamarans and sailing boats from verified operators.
Verified operatorsCaptained or bareboatConcierge offers in 24hAbout chartering in Heraklion
Chartering in Heraklion offers a vibrant blend of historic ambiance and pristine Aegean waters, with most trips launching directly from the city center. The primary departure point is the iconic Old Venetian Harbour, situated right in front of the ancient fortress, providing a unique start to your journey. For larger vessels, the modern Heraklion Port serves as an alternative, while nearby bays like Agia Pelagia offer quieter options for day charters.
A standard day trip from Heraklion reaches the uninhabited Dia Island, a protected nature reserve just 6 nautical miles offshore. This short sail is the absolute must for almost all charters, allowing guests to swim, snorkel, and enjoy a quiet lunch in crystal waters away from the city. While a multi-day charter can reach Santorini, a single-day trip is best focused on the Cretan coastline and the immediate beauty of Dia Island.
Boats available in Heraklion
Captained or bareboat. Book direct with verified operators.
Boat types & prices in Heraklion
Live availability from verified operators; day rates converted to USD.
| Boat type | Available | From (per day) |
|---|---|---|
| Yacht | 113 | $129 |
| Sailing yacht | 99 | $58 |
| Catamaran | 15 | $357 |
| Boat | 3 | $64 |
Find your perfect boatWhere do yachts depart from in Heraklion?
Most private charters depart from the Old Venetian Harbour of Heraklion, right in front of the historic fortress. Other popular pickup points include the modern Heraklion Port for larger yachts, Ammoudara Beach, and the nearby resort bay of Agia Pelagia. These locations provide flexible access to the open sea for both sailboats and motorboats.
What is the best day-trip route from Heraklion?
The primary destination for almost all 5-to-8-hour charters departing from Heraklion is Dia Island. Located just 6 nautical miles off the coast, it is a perfect short sail for swimming, snorkeling, and enjoying a quiet lunch. Sticking to the Cretan coastline and Dia Island is highly recommended for a standard day trip rather than attempting a long crossing to Santorini.
When is the sailing season in Heraklion?
The sailing season in Heraklion is active during the high season, typically from late spring through early autumn, when average prices are approximately $664 per day. During the low season, rates drop to around $553 per day, making it a budget-friendly time to visit. The weather windows are generally favorable for sailing, with calm seas ideal for exploring the nearby islands.
What licence is required to charter in Greece?
In Greece, you can charter a boat with or without a licence, as many options are available for bareboat or crewed charters. If you do not have a licence, you can hire a captain, with 58 boats in Heraklion available with a skipper. The average cost for hiring a skipper is around $136 per day, depending on the destination and boat owner.
How do I get to Heraklion for my charter?
Heraklion is accessible via Heraklion International Airport "Nikos Kazantzakis," which is the nearest airport to the departure marinas. The transfer time from the airport to the Old Venetian Harbour or Heraklion Port is roughly 15 to 20 minutes by car or taxi. This short transfer makes it convenient to begin your charter immediately upon arrival.
Heraklion yacht charter — FAQ
How much does a boat rental in Heraklion cost?
From around $232 per day, with average prices around $480 per day depending on the boat type and season.
What is the best island to visit on a day trip from Heraklion?
Dia Island is the absolute must-visit, an uninhabited nature reserve with crystal waters located just 6 nautical miles offshore.
Can I sail to Santorini from Heraklion on a day trip?
No, a day trip to Santorini involves a long crossing of about 2 hours each way; most guests prefer a multi-day charter for this route.
Is a skipper licence required for bareboat charter in Heraklion?
No, you can charter with or without a licence, as many boats are available for bareboat or with a crewed option.
What types of boats are available for charter in Heraklion?
Available types include motorboats, sailboats, catamarans, RIBs, and luxury yachts, with options for both skippered and bareboat charters.
Is Heraklion suitable for family or group charters?
Yes, the average boat capacity is 10 people with a maximum of 49, making it ideal for families and larger groups.
Boat types
Browse by boat type
From RIBs and motorboats to catamarans and crewed superyachts.
YachtYacht charters
Luxury cruising with full crew
8–16 guests ·
from $480/day
CatamaranCatamaran rentals
Stable, spacious, perfect for groups
10–12 guests ·
from $280/day
SailboatSailboat rentals
Wind, sails and slow island hopping
6–10 guests ·
from $130/day
MotorboatMotorboat rentals
Fast day cruises without the captain
4–10 guests ·
from $90/day
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