More and more of our clients are looking for boats and sailing trips. While Croatia remains a top spot for Mediterranean sailors, it seems Greece’s remoteness is no longer the obstacle it once was. In this article, we explore why Greece is booming for yachting and why Croatia is starting to frustrate some sailors. Find out why to sail in Greece – and what benefits you can look forward to.
How easy is it to get there?
Of course, it depends on where you’re travelling from. Many sailors drive to Croatia, either by car or long-distance bus. Fewer go cross country to Greece – it’s possible, but it’s a long journey. The best way to reach the Greek islands? By air. Greece is well-connected, with direct flights to Corfu, Lefkada, Kos, Rhodes, Zakynthos, Crete, Skiathos, and more. In high season, major capitals offer daily direct flights.
Is transport expensive?
That depends on your budget. If you’re driving to Croatia, you need to factor in fuel costs, motorway tolls, parking fees at the marina, and an extra day of travel.
It obviously depends on where you are travelling from, but here’s an estimate for a round-trip drive to Croatia of approx. 2,000 km (think Prague, or Berlin):
| Fuel for 2 vehicles | 674 EUR |
| Motorway tolls for 2 vehicles | 221 EUR |
| Marina parking for 2 vehicles | 105 EUR |
By contrast, flights to Croatia (commonly Split or Zadar) from European capitals can cost up to €100 return in high season.
What about Greece? Most sailors fly there. Here’s an idea of return flight costs from European cities to Greece in 2025:
| Athens | approx. 100 EUR |
| Lefkada | approx. 100-200 EUR |
| Skiathos | approx. 120-250 EUR |
| Corfu | approx. 100-150 EUR |
Boat charter prices – is there a difference?
Surprisingly, no. Charter prices in Greece and Croatia are comparable. Whether you’re looking for budget-friendly boats or luxury yachts, both markets offer a wide range. If cost is your main concern, it’s best to look at the overall expenses for the trip, rather than just the boat price.
YACHTING.COM TIP: Wondering where to set sail from in Greece? Check out our clients' 3 favourite marinas in Greece. From there take a look at our guides to sailing from Corfu and 3 easy routes in Greece.
Anchoring fees – this is where Greece wins
When it comes to overnight mooring, prices vary significantly between Croatia and Greece.
In Croatia, while you can anchor in a secluded bay for free, mooring at a buoy, pier, or marina comes at a cost. Prices have risen sharply, with many marinas charging well over €100 per night, and buoys typically starting at €50 per night.
In Greece, mooring is often free. The typical setup is anchor-shore, where you tie up to a bollard, tree, or rock. In small bays, you rarely pay for mooring, and even large, well-equipped marinas charge significantly less than in Croatia — around €80 per night. If you moor at a pier without additional facilities, the cost is usually just a few euros.
This means that while flights to Greece might be more expensive, the savings on mooring fees can make up for the difference — making Greece an even more attractive choice for sailors.
YACHTING.COM TIP: You'll find the art of anchoring much more useful in Greece. So practice stern-to-pier (or shore) mooring, and make sure you can handle anchoring in a storm. You can also take a look at our complete guide to mooring and don't forget the benefits of using a snubber!
Anchoring in Greece is usually done anchor to the shore
Gastronomy at its best – for less
Greece is a paradise for food lovers. With fresh local ingredients, plenty of seafood, fish, and vegetables, its cuisine is both delicious and healthy. On remote islands, traditional tavernas still offer an authentic, homey atmosphere — and at surprisingly low prices compared to other destinations. Discover our tips on what delicacies to sample in Greece.
Greek gastronomy is both delicious and healthy.
Number of other sailors
Greece offers quieter bays, seas, and towns, though not everywhere. The Ionian Sea is already popular, with an expanding yachting infrastructure, but sailing here can require more skill than in Croatia.
For true solitude, the Aegean is a great option — though its stronger winds and unpredictable weather demand experience. The Sporades also offer peaceful sailing, with fewer charter boats, while the Bay of Petalioli remains one of the least-visited yachting areas. If you’re after empty bays and fewer crowds, Greece is the clear choice.
Don't expect crowds. In Greece, you'll often have the bay to yourself.
Wind and sailing
Sailing conditions in Croatia and Greece are similar in many ways, but there are key differences. Greece tends to be warmer, with a longer summer, but also sees stronger winds—even during peak season—when the Meltemi blows. Croatia isn’t wind-free either, with the Bora and Jugo sometimes creating challenging conditions. Ultimately, it all depends on your luck for the week you sail.
If you're looking for a thrilling sailing experience, the Cyclades are known for their strong, near-daily winds and rougher seas. For an adrenaline-filled adventure, head there in spring or autumn, when you'll enjoy some of the best sport sailing. Find out more reasons why you should sail in autumn.
YACHTING.COM TIP: Watch out for medicanes — small Mediterranean hurricanes that are becoming more frequent in Greece. Stay safe by keeping an eye on the CAPE index, your best tool for storm warnings.
Greece vs Croatia – What makes each unique?
Greece — ancient ruins, sun-drenched beaches, charming fishing villages, and breathtaking mountain backdrops that look like a painting. Croatia — picturesque stone towns, rugged coastlines, homemade wine, and dramatic cliffs plunging into the sea.
Each country has its own magic. Want to dive deeper? Check out our full comparison — Croatia vs. Greece. Which provides better sailing?
YACHTING.COM TIP: We've covered Greece extensively! Check out our guides to 15 Greek islands to visit, 7 top sailing destinations, and 7 stunning sights to explore by boat.
We write about Greece often
Explore the best sailing trips and destinations across Greece:
Zakynthos is one of the few places where you can see sea turtles in the wild.
Interested in sailing in Croatia, Greece or anywhere else? Get in touch, and I’ll help you find the perfect yacht for your adventure.
