Yacht transport services in Greece are of high demand, as the country has become an important hub for yachting in the Mediterranean. Whether you are a private yacht owner looking to relocate your vessel or a yacht seller sending your vessel to the buyer, reliable yacht transport services in Greece can streamline the entire process.

Below, we explore what you need to know about yacht transport in Greece, how to choose the right service provider, and the crucial steps involved in moving your vessel safely and efficiently.

Strategic location: Situated at the crossroads of Europe, Asia, and Africa, Greece offers convenient access to some of the top cruising areas in the world. Transporting a yacht here can open up extensive yachting opportunities, with the abundance of islands and beaches that Greece (and the Mediterranean) provides.

Seasonal shifts: Many owners prefer to move their yachts to places with a warmer climate in winter. Yacht transport services in Greece allow you to adapt to seasonal changes without putting unnecessary wear and tear on your vessel by poor weather conditions.

Maintenance and repairs: Greece has reputable shipyards and marinas that cater to a wide range of yacht maintenance and refit needs. Transporting your vessel to a specialized facility in Greece can often be more cost-effective and efficient than trying to arrange complex repairs in more expensive countries or in remote locations.

Documentation: Gather all necessary paperwork, including vessel registration, proof of ownership, insurance documents, and any required customs forms. Regulations can vary depending on the yacht’s origin, flag state, and intended destination, so consult with your transport service provider for clarity.

Inspection and maintenance: Before starting the transport process, ensure your yacht is in good condition to withstand loading, unloading, and potential stress during transit. Check the hull for any signs of damage, secure loose equipment on deck, and confirm the yacht’s mechanical and electrical systems are in safe operating order.

Securing personal belongings: Remove valuables, personal items, and all non-essential gear from the yacht. Anything that remains onboard should be well secured or locked away. It’s also a good idea to document the state of the interior with photographs or video before the transport.

Harbor and port authorities: Greek port authorities can have specific rules regarding vessel import and export, especially for foreign-flagged yachts. Your transport service provider should guide you on any fees, documents, or inspections required at each port of call.

Temporary import permits: If your yacht is entering Greece from outside the EU, you may need to secure a Temporary Admission (TA) permit to avoid paying customs duties for a specified period. An experienced transport provider will help you process these tax regulations, ensuring compliance with local laws.

Environmental considerations: Greece is dedicated to preserving its marine environment. Make sure your yacht meets antifouling requirements and that you handle waste disposal responsibly. Most transport companies have protocols in place for managing bilge water, fuel, and sewage.

The local weather conditions in Greece can significantly impact yacht transport schedules and safety. Although the weather in Greece is generally excellent, occasional problems like strong seasonal winds or unpredictable storms should be considered by any reputable yacht transport service provider.

Meltemia winds: One of the most significant weather challenges for yacht transport in Greece is the Meltemia winds. This strong, dry northern wind blows primarily through the Aegean Sea between late May and early October, with its peak intensity occurring in July and August. Meltemia can reach wind speeds of 25-40 knots, sometimes gusting even stronger in areas like the Cyclades. Meltemia can generate high waves, making sea transport difficult, particularly for smaller vessels. It can also make docking, anchoring, and maneuvering more difficult.

Ionian Sea: Compared to the Aegean, the Ionian Sea (on the western coast of Greece) experiences milder weather conditions throughout the year. Winds in this region are generally lighter and more predictable, making it an ideal area for yacht transport. The typical wind of the Ionian Sea is the Maistro, which is a steady northwesterly breeze that usually blows in the afternoons during summer.

Weather in winter: While Greece enjoys much milder winters compared to central and northern Europe, stormy conditions can still impact yacht transport between November and March. Winter storms often originate from the south (Sirocco winds) or the west, bringing strong winds, heavy rain, and rough seas. Keep in mind that in few occasions during the winter, harbormasters may temporarily suspend cruising operations due to extreme weather conditions. As a result, most yacht transport service providers in Greece recommend avoiding sea transport during winter.

Yacht transport to Greece can be a game-changer for owners seeking to position their vessels in prime sailing locations or to carry out essential maintenance in the trusted Greek shipyards. By partnering with an experienced, well-connected local service provider, you will enjoy a seamless process, from handling complex paperwork to successfully implementing local harbor regulations.

Whether you are moving your vessel from one part of Greece to another, or within the Mediterranean, you can save time and protect your investment, when using professional yacht transport services in Greece.