For over 14 years, we've shared our passion as owner-operators, running private sailing cruises through the Greek islands for couples, friends, and adventurous families seeking a raw connection with the sea. This isn't just a charter; it's an honest journey into the soul of the Aegean and the Cyclades.
For over 14 years, we've shared our passion as owner-operators, running private sailing cruises through the Greek islands for those seeking a raw connection with the sea. This isn't just a charter; it's an honest journey into the soul of the Aegean and the Cyclades.
Whether you are a seasoned explorer or a non-sailor seeking your first true experience at sea, our skippered sailing holidays in Greece offers the rare freedom to explore the Cyclades at your own pace.
Your journey is guided by a permanent skipper who handles every technical detail'from anchorages to Aegean weather patterns'leaving you free to immerse yourself in the scenery.
While many find their rhythm in a standard 1-week trip, we also offer 9 or 10-day Greek islands sailing vacations for those who wish to dive deeper into the hidden corners of the archipelago.
It is the ultimate unpack once way to travel - a premium, private experience where the only schedule is the one we create together each morning.
The Personal Touch: 14 Years of Owner-Operated Skippered Sailing.
We are a small, family-owned sailing company with just two boats - and that is our greatest strength. Unlike large-scale crewed sailing holidays Greece often provides via third-party agencies,
you deal directly with the owners from the first email. On board Freedom, you sail with the owners themselves; on boat Albatross, you are welcomed by our trusted, long-term captain.
By removing intermediaries and sales agents, we ensure a seamless skippered sailing experience with no last-minute surprises. For over a decade, our goal has remained simple: to turn your Greek islands sailing holiday with skipper into an authentic, stress-free reality.
Imagine a Greek islands sailing vacation where time slows down. Mornings begin with a swim in clear blue water, and every decision is guided by the sea, the wind,
and your curiosity. A sailing holiday with skipper aboard Albatross or Freedom adapts effortlessly to the way you like to travel - whether that means relaxed days at anchor or island-hopping filled with discovery.
Greek island private yacht cruises offer a completely different perspective from the classic ferry + hotel approach. You visit a new island almost every day without ever repacking a suitcase.
Weather permitting, if a place captures your heart, we stay longer. This level of flexibility is something land-based travel simply cannot match.
Instead of fixed routes, you enjoy a private skippered sailing experience shaped around your interests and the real-time conditions of the Aegean. Skippered sailing allows you to slow down and truly connect with the islands as they are meant to be seen: from the water, calm and unhurried.
Greece is one of the world's most inspiring sailing destinations - not just for the turquoise waters, but for the raw feeling of freedom. Waking up to a new horizon,
swimming straight from the deck, and ending the day beneath a sky full of stars creates a connection to the sea that a resort cannot replicate.
We don't simply sail from island to island. Each day of your sailing with skipper in the Greek islands is planned together,
allowing you to discover quiet bays and authentic villages that match your mood. With no strangers on board and no rush to follow a corporate itinerary, your Cyclades sailing holiday unfolds naturally.
If this unscripted way of traveling speaks to you, we are here to bring it to life. Reach out to us, and let's start shaping a skippered sailing experience that feels effortless, authentic, and entirely yours.
We want you to see what a sailing vacation in the Cyclades actually feels like. This isn't a polished corporate commercial; it's a window into the rhythm of our skippered sailing holidays in Greece.
We are a boutique yacht charter company devoted to creating deeply personal sailing experiences. We started this journey 14 years ago with a simple mission: to offer the kind of private yacht cruise in Greece we would want ourselves - relaxed,
welcoming, and thoughtfully tailored to every guest. Because our boats are not just our business but our passion, every skippered sailing holiday in Greece we host is a reflection of our reputation and our commitment to the sea.
Meet Edouard: Captain of AlbatrossA passionate sailor who began his career as a sailing instructor in Northern France, Edouard spent years navigating the Mediterranean - from Spain to Italy - before the magic of Greece captured his heart. 
Today, he brings that technical "French school" precision and a deep love for the Cyclades to every private sailing cruise in Greece. Having sailed with his father since childhood, the sea is in his blood. For Edouard, every day on the water is an opportunity to share the joy of navigation and the breathtaking landscapes of the Aegean, ensuring a safe, serene, and soulful private yacht cruise of the Greek islands. Every day at sea is an opportunity for Edouard to pass on this passion and create the best skippered sailing holidays in Greece. |
Meet Adriana & Radu: Owners & Your Local ExpertsAs boat owners and lifelong adventurers, we have spent 14 years exploring the Greek islands we now proudly call home. Having sailed thousands of miles across the Aegean, we've mastered the rhythms of the winds and the hidden gems of the archipelago. Our approach is simple: we create private cruise experiences in the Greek islands that feel effortless and authentic. 
Adriana - Planning & Guest Experience: Adriana is the architect of your journey. From your first inquiry to the fine details of life on board, she ensures every aspect of your sailing vacation in Greece is thoughtfully planned. Her focus is on clear, direct communication and a honest, detail-oriented approach to avoid any on-board surprises. Radu - Skipper & Navigator: Radu is a highly experienced skipper with an intimate, "insider" knowledge of the Greek seas. While safety is his top priority, his passion is finding the magic in every mile. Radu's expertise ensures ensures you experience the best of the Greek islands on your private charter cruise - Instead of just following a standard route, he aims for quiet anchorages and genuine places that still hold the authentic character of the islands, even in a well-traveled archipelago. |
Albatross : Albatross is our sturdy and reliable specialist vessel, designed for travelers seeking an authentic skippered sailing holiday in Greece. This is a high-performance boat built in Greece specifically to handle the unique wind patterns of the Cyclades with stability and grace.
Freedom: The Boutique Space & Design : Freedom is a 52-foot sailing yacht that prioritizes a more spacious interior and classic lines.
In a market where many modern yachts are "over-cabined" to fit as many people as possible, Freedom is designed for a more open and breathable yacht sailing vacation in Greece.
Off-Grid Engineering: We have modified both Freedom and Albatross with robust battery systems and water capacity that allow us to stay at anchor longer. This is the perfect way to experience the islands'avoiding the crowds and staying where the water is clearest.
For a detailed list of the amenities please check your yacht page.
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Use the buttons below to select your trip duration and view the
charter rates for your selected period :
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ALBATROSS sailboat
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What is included in the base charter rate (a) Your sailing yacht - accommodation on board
 Snorkeling equipment (mask, snorkel and short fins)
 Floats for non swimmers (6 noodles)
 All amenities as described at
your yacht (hot water shower, fridge, etc)
 Linens & Towels (1 set / week)
 Flexibility: customized itinerary, flexible start
date (other than the tipical Saturday) and duration.
 charter rate VAT
 Use of
1 stand up paddle board (SUP) -150 /week FREE
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Skipper and boat expensesb) "All costs included" combo - 350 euro / day / boat. Includes: b1) Essentials pack :
Fuel for any of the routes listed, end of-cruise cleaning and domestic
essentials (cooking gas, dish-washing liquid, two dishcloths, one sponge,
trash bags, toilet paper).
 b2) Skipper pack :
VAT not included -
recommended to be paid on board directly to the captain.The above packs will make it super easy to plan and budget for your sailing vacation. No hidden costs and a flat rate for the extra expenses associated with hiring a boat.
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We offer our guests the advantage to pay a flat rate prior to setting sail, and that's it!
After researching various options for yacht sailing vacations in Greece, you may have noticed that many companies structure their pricing like a car rental.
The base "charter rate" covers only the hire of the yacht itself. Much like renting a car doesn't include the fuel, tolls, most charters expect you to cover fuel, mooring fees, and skipper services as they arise.
The trouble with this traditional approach is that the final price'including all the mandatory extras'is often 40% to 50% higher than the advertised base rate.
This creates unnecessary anxiety for the charterer. We take an easier approach to budgeting for your private yacht cruise in Greece by offering a clear, upfront structure.
In order to provide the most predictable and all inclusive skippered sailing holidays in Greece, we offer an optional flat-rate bundle of 350 EUR per day per boat. This package is designed to eliminate the need for keeping an expense account or worrying about fluctuating fuel prices.
A common question for those planning a private sailing vacation in the Cyclades is: "If we are on a sailboat, why do we need to budget for fuel?"
The honest, skipper's answer depends entirely on the wind and your itinerary. For example, a passage from Paros to Mykonos is roughly 28 nautical miles.
In these moments, the engine is a vital tool. It allows us to maintain a consistent speed of 6-7 knots, ensuring you arrive at your destination with plenty of daylight left for onshore activities.
Our flat-rate fuel policy means you never have to choose between a long, slow day in the heat and the comfort of arriving on time.
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FREEDOM sailboat
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Many guests find their perfect rhythm in a one-week sailing vacation in the Cyclades but your journey does not have to follow a fixed template. We operate with the flexibility that only an owner-operator can provide, ensuring skippered sailing holiday in Greece fits your specific timeline.
Customized Holiday Durations: While often agencies force you into a Saturday-to-Saturday box, we try to be more flexible. We can arrange 9, 10, or 12-day private sailing cruises in the Greek islands (mostly on Albatross sailboat) or sometimes even 5-6 day trip (mostly on Freedom sailboat).
If you are considering a duration not listed in our standard rates, simply contact us and we will prepare a custom quote tailored to your schedule.
Why Starting & Ending in Paros Matters: Paros is the tactical heart of the Aegean. Its central location provides your skipper with the genuine freedom to adapt the route daily based on the winds and sea conditions.
For a private yacht cruise in the Cyclades, this flexibility is the difference between a relaxed journey and an exhausting one. By starting in the center, we can always choose to sail with the wind rather than against it. This results in:
About One-Way Trips (Important to Know)
read more
One-way sailing itineraries between islands can sometimes be arranged upon request BEFORE booking they are not ideal for most guests.
Real Stories from the AegeanThere is a reason why so many of our guests return to the Cyclades. A skippered sailing holiday in Greece offers a rare blend of total freedom and complete relaxation that you simply cannot find in a hotel or on a large cruise ship. It's about more than just the destinations; it's about the feeling of the wind, the quiet of a morning swim, and the local secrets you only discover. Watch this short film to see the rhythm of life on board Freedom and Albatross'where the only schedule is the one you create with the sea. |
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Why a Private Skippered Sailing Holiday is the Ultimate Bucket List ExperienceFor many, a private cruise of the Greek islands is a once-in-a-lifetime dream. We take that responsibility seriously. When you book a private sailing vacation in Greece with us, you are moving away from the "tourist track" and into a world of personalized discovery. |
Whether it is your first time on a yacht or you are a seasoned sailor, the experience of a private yacht cruise in the Cyclades stands out as a "bucket list" moment because of the privacy it affords. There are no crowds, no fixed dinner times, and no shared spaces with strangers'just you, your guests, and the Aegean. Click on the photos below to read the full experiences of those who have sailed with us 
Our best family vacation ever!
Our experience on the Freedom with Adriana and Radu was magical. We had an amazing family vacation. We spent quality time with each other while Adriana and Radu sailed the boat expertly. We cooked, laughed, stared in awe almost every moment with the beauty of the water and islands. We snorkeled, swam, sun bathed, hiked up to castles and old villages and began to experience a few Greek Islands. The schedule and timing was ours and what worked for us. We were never rushed or hurried along. We fell in love with life on the sea! Thank you, Freedom and Adriana and Radu for the best vacation ever!
TripAdvisor member GlacierClimber
Awesome way to experience the Cyclades!
We had a great experience with Radu and Adriana on the Freedom. Even during our research and planning months before the prompt and details of communication were spot on. They were willing to work with our plans and flexible where they could and plenty options if not. By the time we got to the boat, everything was clear and set so it was short briefing and we were off to enjoy the beautiful waters and the quiet little islands around. Radu and Adriana had great knowledge of the area and had good recommendations at start of every day and it was just down to us to enjoy everything the area had to offer. We didn't need much but the boat was clean and well equipped with toilet and showers for each cabin. For 6 of us it was plenty of room to eat and drink and hang out during travel between the islands. Very much recommended.
TripAdvisor member jyoon59.
Fabulous, relaxed, exhilarating, and a truly memorable
experience
What a fantastic week we had, making up a group of 6 on board of the Albatross, brilliantly skippered by Edouard. Edouard is a hugely accomplished skipper, and we all felt immensely safe and secure on the seas under his calm and controlled lead. We found ourselves doing exhilarating sailing and mooring up in the most beautiful & tranquil bays. Edouard made the experience truly enjoyable - calm, polite, accommodating and great company, making the trip most relaxing, full of good laughs and above all unforgettable. We can highly recommend sailing with Edouard & Blue Water. Dorothee & Justin TripAdvisor member D G
Outperformed our expectations, would recommend and would return
!!
We spent 4 nights on board with Adriana and Radu on the Freedom. They provided meticulous detail and information about getting ready for the trip and what to expect in the lead up. Their suggestions for our sailing route exceeded all of our expectations and more !! We had an excellent holiday where we felt extremely relaxed with nothing to worry about. We were taken to locations we otherwise would not have known or picked, and there was always something unique and enjoyable at each spot. We just had to explore on land when we docked and get our bellies filled with the local specialties, they took care of everything else. The boat was fabulous, and we felt very at home. Their attention to detail was great ! Double thumbs up ! TripAdvisor member C N
Great trip, excellent captain
Eduardo was an outstanding captain who made everything effortless. He focused on the bays and islands we wanted to see, and in high winds he smartly adjusted our route to the Small Cyclades for relaxed swimming and paddle boarding. Always social, fun to have around, and full of great restaurant tips, he made the whole trip truly enjoyable. Couldn't ask for a better skipper - we'll be requesting him again on our next voyage.
TripAdvisor member Tom Dwyer
Sailing trip with Adriana and Radu
We spontaneously booked the trip with Adriana and Radu on the Freedom. From the first contact with Adriana, we felt very well informed, looked after and safe. Adriana was particularly helpful in planning the trip with her experience and professional manner and made it easy for us to get an idea of ??the cruise, as it was our first time on a sailing boat. The tour itself was incredible and we experienced magical moments. Adriana and Radu, as experienced sailors, sailed us safely around the Cycladic islands and were also able to give us helpful recommendations for the time on land. We particularly liked Adriana and Radu's spontaneous, uncomplicated manner. The sailing boat was very well maintained, which underlined their passion for what they do. The two of them responded to our individual wishes and needs and gave us a unique experience. We would like to thank Adriana and Radu again and recommend them to everyone!
TripAdvisor member Anja A
A trip of a Lifetime
We were so fortunate to have sailed with Adrianna and Radu in our most recent adventure. They were truly amazing and the vessel was spectacular in every way. Thier teamwork and professionalism were foremost in all aspects of the trip. From managing the sails, shuttling us back and forth on the dingy, and suggesting the best places to eat and visit, they were absolutely the best. It was a trip of a lifetime; and at 71 years of age, that is a remarkable feat.
TripAdvisor member Tom W
Read more of our reviews on our TripAdvisor page. |
The culinary experience is a central part of any sailing holiday in the Greek islands. We believe the best way to enjoy the Aegean is through a balanced blend of simple, relaxed moments on the water and authentic, high-quality flavors on shore.
Dining Ashore: The Heart of the Journey.
We highly recommend dining at the traditional waterfront tavernas found at every overnight destination. For many, this is the true highlight of a private charter cruise in the Greek islands.
Dining Onboard: Meals and Snacks.
Both Freedom and Albatross are fully equipped with a cooker, oven, fridge, and a functional galley for your use. We focus on a skippered sailing holiday in Greece rather than a full-service catering model, thus you have total freedom over your onboard meals.
The Hostess Question: Why We Choose a Different Path
While many agencies offer all-inclusive skippered sailing holidays in Greece, we purposefully do not include a hostess or chef as a standard part of our service. As owner-operators, we prioritize honesty about the experience.
The Cyclades are the islands most people picture when they dream of Greece: whitewashed villages, blue-domed churches, and crystal-clear turquoise waters. To truly experience the best of the Greek islands, your starting point is everything.
While many charters depart from Athens, those itineraries often involve long, grueling days at sea just to reach the first Cycladic island. By contrast, our private sailing cruises in the Cyclades begin exactly where the magic is.
Paros sits at the very geographical center of the archipelago, making it the ultimate gateway for Greek island hopping on a private boat. Because of this central location, we can reach a wide variety of destinations within comfortable distances.
Whether you want to see the cosmopolitan sights of Santorini or the untouched beauty of Amorgos, Sifnos, or the Small Cyclades, sailing in Greece with a skipper from Paros means more time spent exploring and less time on exhausting, heavy passages.
Note: Depending on the week and boat availability, a Mykonos start may occasionally be accommodated, though Paros remains our recommended base for the best flexibility.
Reaching Paros is straightforward and fits perfectly into any wider sailing vacation in Greece.
With its perfect balance of accessibility and central location, Paros is the most efficient and enjoyable way to explore the Aegean. We are always happy to help you plan the best logistics to reach the dock and begin your skippered sailing holiday in Greece.
Contact us and we'll be happy to help you plan the best way to reach Paros and begin your journey.
This is the question we are asked most often. While world-famous landmarks need no introduction, the true magic of a private sailing cruise in Greece is discovering the lesser-known corners of the archipelago'the quiet bays and authentic villages that retain their character even in the height of summer.
Rather than sticking to a rigid list of famous names, we focus on the specific private sailing vacation you want to have: whether that means seeking out quiet villages and a traditional pace of life, finding the perfect turquoise swimming spots, or exploring ancient trails and authentic island gastronomy.
Because we start in the heart of the archipelago, Greek island hopping by boat is incredibly diverse. For many travelers, a 7 days private yacht cruise Greece provides the ideal timeframe to experience the authentic character of the Cyclades without the exhausting,
long-distance passages required from other ports. Whether you are looking for a 7-day, 10-day, or 14-day journey, we help you find the best route based on the technical reality of the sea.
One of the greatest advantages of skippered sailing in Greece Greece is the ability to "follow the weather. "We strongly recommend staying flexible rather than having your heart set on one specific island months in advance.
Before we set sail, we will discuss your interests and the current forecast and your skipper will tailor the journey to the conditions of the week.
By letting the Aegean guide the schedule, we ensure a relaxed, safe, and stress-free skippered sailing holiday that feels like your own personal discovery.
The ideal duration for your sailing vacation in the Greek islands depends on your preferred pace and how deeply you want to explore.
Each day brings a new island with a completely different personality'from lively, cobbled villages to quiet, untouched bays. Naturally, more days on board allow for a more varied and relaxed Cyclades sailing itinerary. .
However, your starting point changes the logistical math entirely.
While a two-week holiday is often required to reach the heart of the archipelago when departing from Athens, starting from Paros is a game-changer.
Because we are located in the center of the Cyclades, iconic destinations like Santorini, Amorgos, or the Small Cyclades are within easy reach of a 7-day sailing holiday. This allows even travelers with limited time to enjoy a rich,
diverse experience without the "marathon" sailing days required from other ports. For those seeking the best of the Greek islands, a week from Paros offers the same depth as two weeks from the mainland.
1.What is the difference between a crewed and a skippered sailing holiday in Greece?
If you have been researching crewed sailing holidays greece, you've likely noticed three categories: Bareboat (you sail it), Full-Crewed (luxury service with a chef), and Skippered. Most travelers search for "crewed" because they want professional safety,
but they don't necessarily want the rigid formality or high fees of a full service staff. We specialize in an authentic skippered sailing holiday in Greece that offers professional navigation without the luxury cliches.
An Honest Note on Service: While we ensure the boat is run to the highest professional standards, our voyages are self-catered. We do not provide hostess services or prepared meals. We prioritize the sailing, the safety, and the unscripted scenery over a fixed service schedule.
2.How does dining and provisioning work on your private cruises?
Many look for all inclusive skippered sailing holidays greece for convenience, but in the Cyclades, a fixed meal plan can actually limit your adventure.
A traditional sailing holiday in greece with crew often forces the boat to leave a beautiful bay early to reach a port for a scheduled lunch. We prefer a flexible, self-catered approach for three honest reasons:
Complete Freedom: No fixed meal times. We sail when the wind is best and stay in a hidden cove as long as you like.
Superior Quality: No boat kitchen competes with a local Greek taverna. You "eat like a king" while supporting local island communities.
Simple Logistics: Both Freedom and Albatross feature fully equipped kitchenettes. Provisioning in Paros is simple, with markets right across from the docks.
By choosing a skippered sailing experience over a full-crewed package, you gain the freedom to eat where the locals eat and discover the Aegean as it was meant to be seen.
3. Is a sailing holiday in Greece for families suitable for children?
We believe that sailing holidays in Greece for families offer one of the most rewarding ways for parents and children to connect with nature. However, a sailing yacht is a compact, technical, and constantly moving environment that is very different from a land-based resort.
Because every family is different and the Aegean weather changes throughout the season, we take a flexible, case-by-case approach:
The Right Environment: We generally find that children who are comfortable swimmers and old enough to engage with the "rhythm" of the boat get the most out of the journey.
Seasonality Matters: A calm month with gentle breezes may be perfectly suitable for younger explorers, while the high-season winds might be better suited for older children and teens.
Tell Us Your Story: When you send your initial inquiry, please mention the ages of your children and your preferred dates.
We will get back to you with an honest assessment and technical details based on our 14 years of experience, ensuring we find the best fit for your family's safety and comfort.
4. What is the primary focus of your family sailing vacations in Greece?
Our family sailing vacations in Greece are the "unplugged" alternative to a typical holiday. There are no kids-clubs or managed entertainment; instead, your family gains a raw connection with the sea.
Whether it's learning the basics of navigation on Albatross or enjoying the more spacious layout of Freedom, we focus on authentic discovery. For families seeking a family sailing holiday in Greece that prioritizes shared adventure over generic luxury, this is an ideal match.
5. Sailing with Teens: The Ultimate "Unplugged" Challenge
Planning a sailing vacation in the Greek islands with teens is often the only way to truly disconnect them from their screens and reconnect them with reality.
The Adventure: From snorkeling in deep blue caves to hiking the old mule tracks of Amorgos, family holidays in Greece with sailing provide the kind of physical exhaustion that leads to the best sleep of their lives.
The Reality Check: there is no Wi-Fi at specific portion of a crossing. This is the "luxury" of a 7 days private yacht cruise in Greece - the luxury of undivided attention.
By the time you finish your Greek islands sailing vacations, your teens will have gained a new respect for the power of nature and a set of memories that actually last.
Notes:
You do not need any yachting qualifications or experience in order to participate on this sailing trip. Skippered yacht charter is perfect for everybody from young, fun-loving groups to families with children wanting to experience a boating holiday in Greece without the pressure of looking after the boat.
Choosing a sailing holiday with a skipper is the best option if you are searching for a relaxing holiday and want to discover the Greek islands. Sailing the Cyclades starting at Paros or Mykonos without having to worry about anything at all. Just relax and enjoy the trip.
Blue Water Sailing Greece is a boutique charter company founded and managed directly by owners Adriana and Radu. With over 14 years of professional sailing experience in the Cyclades and Saronic islands,
we provide expert skippered vacations on our private yachts, Freedom and Albatross. Our deep local knowledge and owner-direct service ensure safe, authentic, and personalized Greek island adventures for families, couples, and groups of friends seeking a private getaway.
Contact UsBy phone / WhatsApp: +30 6933 218 799 |
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