Yacht Charter in Greece Without a License: What Are Your Options?

You want to sail in Greece but you do not have a sailing license. The good news: you have options. The bad news: you cannot take a bareboat charter without one. Here is how to sail in Greece without a license.

Option 1: Hire a Skipper

The simplest option. You rent the boat and hire a licensed skipper to handle the sailing. You still get the full yacht experience — the meals, the anchorages, the island exploring — without needing to navigate or handle lines. Skippers cost €150–250 per day, and most charter companies can arrange one.

Option 2: Flotilla Sailing

A flotilla is a group of boats sailing together with a lead crew. You get a boat in the flotilla and the lead crew handles navigation and provides support. This is the most common path from beginner to bareboat charterer.

Option 3: Get Your License Before You Go

An International Certificate of Competence (ICC) can be obtained through sailing schools in most countries. In the US, ASA certification is widely recognized. A week-long course costs €800–1,500 and gives you the credentials plus practical experience.

Option 4: Day Sailing with a Guide

Many Greek islands offer day sailing trips on small sailboats with a local skipper. You can get the experience of sailing without the multi-day commitment.

The Bottom Line

Greek law requires a license for bareboat charter. There are no legal workarounds. But hiring a skipper, joining a flotilla, or getting your license are all viable paths. Most people who try flotilla sailing return the next year with a license and book a bareboat.