Sailing Greece - Athens to Santorini - 15 Days

Frequently asked questions

• What kind of accommodation is provided on the yacht?

  The yacht features 5 twin/double bed cabins with either en suite or shared facilities. Cabin space is optimized, and sleeping quarters are minimal. Beds are approximately 1.8 meters (6 feet) long. Cabins are assigned upon arrival, and specific cabins cannot be guaranteed. You will share a bunk or double bed with a travel partner or a fellow passenger of the same sex. It is possible to smell engine or diesel fumes in cabins due to proximity to the engine room, though travel is mostly during the day. Opportunities to sleep on the main deck are often available.

• What is the meal arrangement on this tour?

  No meals are formally included in the trip price. However, your Skipper/CEO will help create a food kitty (around EUR 70 per person, per trip) for small food items on board to cover self-prepared breakfasts, lunches, and occasional dinners. Most dinners are typically taken ashore at local restaurants.

• What is the typical group size for this tour?

  The maximum group size is 10 travellers, with an average of 6.

• What is the minimum age to participate in this trip?

  The minimum age for this trip is 16 years.

• What are the physical requirements for this tour?

  This trip has a physical rating of 3. Travellers should have an average level of fitness and mobility, being able to walk unaided, climb steep ladders or plank gangways, step on and off small boats (tenders) in varying conditions, carry their own luggage, and move comfortably on a yacht under sail, which may involve the boat moving in waves or tilting. A medical questionnaire is required for travellers with pre-existing conditions.

• What is included in the tour price?

  The tour includes 14 nights aboard a 17m (57 ft) sailing yacht, a fully licensed skipper, and snorkeling equipment.

• What is the role of the Skipper/CEO on this trip?

  The Skipper/CEO is fully licensed and highly experienced, responsible for all aspects of sailing, your safety, and the vessel's safety. They will manage the itinerary, offer suggestions for activities and local restaurants, provide information about the islands, and may request your help with sailing activities.

• Is the tour itinerary flexible?

  Yes, the itinerary is flexible. Experienced skippers tailor the sailing experience to the group's desires, showcasing hidden gems, and the order of stops can be weather-dependent.

• Are there any luggage restrictions on the yacht?

  Yes, space is limited. Only soft-sided luggage, such as a mid-sized backpack or soft duffel bag (less than 15kgs), is permitted. Hard suitcases are not suitable for sailing adventures due to space constraints.

• What are the limitations regarding water and electricity on board the yacht?

  Fresh water is limited, so showers are restricted to one quick shower per person per day. Electrical outlets (European 2-pin, 240V) are only operational while in port. It is highly recommended to bring an external battery pack for personal electronics. The constant power source is not guaranteed, meaning CPAP machines cannot be facilitated, and a cooler pack is advised for refrigerated medication.

• Is this a self-catering trip?

  Yes, this is a self-catering trip. All participants are expected to help with meal preparation, cleaning up, washing dishes, and maintaining the yacht's tidiness.

• What currency is used in Greece and where can I exchange money?

  The only currency accepted in Greece is the EURO. You can exchange foreign currency and traveler's checks at banks (open 8:00 am - 2:00 pm) and money exchange kiosks in cities, but be mindful of national holidays.

• How much spending and emergency money should I budget for this trip?

  Spending money will vary based on personal habits for drinks, shopping, and tipping. An additional USD $200 (or equivalent) is recommended as an emergency fund for unforeseen circumstances. You should also allow up to €175 (approx. $200 USD) for optional activities.

• What are the guidelines for tipping on this trip?

  Tipping service providers like waiters (€1-2) is customary. For local guides, €3-5 per day is recommended. For your Skipper/CEO, a guideline of €5-8 EUR per person, per day is suggested, though the amount is a personal preference.

• Are there any optional activities available?

  Yes, an optional Mykonos Island Excursion is available.

• Are international flights included in the tour price?

  No, international flights are generally not included in the price of this tour.

• Is travel insurance compulsory for this trip?

  Yes, travel insurance is compulsory. You must have medical coverage with a minimum of USD 200,000 for repatriation and emergency rescue. Coverage for personal liability, cancellation, curtailment, and lost luggage is also strongly recommended. Proof of insurance will be required by your CEO.

• What is the policy for solo travellers?

  Solo travellers will be paired in twin or multi-share accommodation with someone of the same sex, and there is no single supplement fee for this group trip.

• Are there any specific health considerations for this trip?

  Travellers sensitive to seasickness should come prepared. Bottled water is recommended on some remote islands. Heat waves are possible from June to October. Note that the yacht does not have a constant power source for medical devices like CPAP machines, so a suitable battery pack is required. If medication needs refrigeration, a cooler pack is advised as onboard fridges may not always have power. Consult your travel doctor for inoculation requirements.

• What should I know about safety and security during the trip?

  Greece is generally safe, but standard precautions apply. Use a neck wallet or money belt for valuables, secure luggage, and leave expensive jewelry at home. Your CEO can amend the itinerary for safety. During free time, use good judgment for optional activities. In cities, especially at night, travel in small groups and use taxis. Avoid protests and be aware that water-based activities carry inherent risks; swimming and snorkeling are at your own risk. Always keep an eye on your belongings.

• Are laundry facilities available during the trip?

  Laundry facilities can be found in some harbors; your skipper can advise on the best locations.

• What should solo travelers know about accommodation?

  This trip is designed for shared accommodation, and single travelers joining group trips are paired in twin or multi-share accommodation with someone of the same sex for the duration of the trip without a single supplement.

• What should LGBTQ+ travellers know about safety and travel considerations on this trip?

  The safety and well-being of all travelers, including those identifying as part of the LGBTQ+ community, is a priority. Specific concerns and questions can be addressed by visiting the LGBTQ+ page for useful resources to ensure a safe and comfortable trip, including the Equaldex tool for destination information.

• Are international flights included in this trip?

  No, international flights are generally not included in the price of your tour. For some combo tours between two countries, international flights may be included. Contact your booking agent for details. Check-in times and baggage allowances vary by airline.

• What are the visa and entry requirements for my trip?

  All countries require a valid passport (minimum 6 months validity). Contact your local embassy or consulate for up-to-date visa requirements. A Schengen visa is applied for at the Embassy or Consulate of the Schengen country where you will spend the most nights. As of 2025, ETIAS travel authorization is being introduced for visa-exempt nationals; check how this affects your nationality and destination.

• Who should I contact in case of an emergency?

  In a dire need situation, first call the Local Representative or Local Office. If no immediate answer, leave a detailed message. In a serious emergency, contact the Head Skipper at +385 91 172 2944, Operations at +94 777 353 606, or the Director of Global Sailing at +353 87 660 0644. If unable to contact the local office, call the Sales team toll-free numbers for your region (e.g., North America: 1 888 800 4100, UK: 0344 272 2060, etc.).

• What is Planeterra?

  Planeterra International Foundation is a non-profit organization dedicated to creating positive impact through travel. It connects underserved local communities to tourism benefits by developing and supporting small community-owned businesses that empower Indigenous people, women, and youth, and protect the environment. Planeterra projects are integrated into tour itineraries, and 100% of donations directly support these projects as operating costs are covered by the tour operator.

• What rules should I know before joining this trip?

  Illegal drugs are not tolerated. Possessing or using drugs contravenes laws and risks the group. Smoking marijuana and opium is not acceptable. The exploitation of prostitutes is contrary to the philosophy of travel. CEOs have the right to expel group members for drug possession or using prostitutes.

• What specific safety considerations apply to this trip?

  Greece is relatively safe; use common sense and ask your skipper about areas to avoid. Carry only necessary money and documents for the day. Keep an eye on your belongings. Water-based activities have inherent dangers; participate only when accompanied by a guide(s). Swimming, including snorkeling, is always at your own risk.

• What should I know about safety and security on my trip?

  Many national governments provide travel advice; check theirs before departure. Use a neck wallet or money belt for valuables. Leave valuable jewelry at home. A lock is recommended for luggage. Your CEO can amend the itinerary for safety. Exercise good judgment during free time activities, as they are not part of the itinerary. In cities, consider staying in small groups and using taxis at night. Avoid protests and demonstrations.

• When can I do my laundry on this trip?

  Laundry facilities can be found in some harbors; ask your skipper for the best places.

• What's included in the trip price?

  Included in the trip price is a G for Good Moment: Naxos Wildlife and Conservation Awareness Experience in Naxos, 14 nights aboard a 17m (57 ft) sailing yacht, a fully licensed skipper, and snorkeling equipment.

• What activities are optional on this trip?

  An optional activity is the Mykonos Island Excursion. It is recommended to allow up to €175 (approx. $200 USD) for optional activities.

• How much spending money do I need for my trip?

  Spending money requirements vary by individual habits regarding drinks, shopping, and tipping. Consider your own spending habits when planning your budget.

• How much emergency money should I bring on this trip?

  You should have access to at least an additional USD $200 (or equivalent) as an emergency fund, for use in unforeseen circumstances like natural disasters requiring route changes. This is a rare occurrence.

• Should I be tipping on my trip?

  Tipping is customary in Europe for service providers (e.g., waiters, €1-2 for good service). Tipping local guides is also expected, ranging from €3-5 per day. At the end of the trip, tipping your CEO or skipper is appreciated, with a guideline of €5-8 EUR per person, per day. The amount is a personal preference.

• What should I know about currency, credit cards, and exchanging money while on this tour?

  The only currency accepted in Greece is the EURO. You can exchange foreign currency and/or traveler's cheques in banks and money exchange kiosks in cities. Banks are open from 8:00 am until 2 pm and remain closed afterward, so be aware of national holidays. Currency exchange rates fluctuate, so refer to www.xe.com for daily rates.

• What is the physical rating for this tour?

  The physical rating for this tour is 3. You should be able to climb small steep ladders, walk over a wooden plank when boarding/disembarking the vessel, and physically carry your luggage. You will often be climbing in and out of inflatable tenders at beach landing spots, and boarding/disembarking from the yacht in potentially challenging conditions. You should be comfortable moving around the yacht while under sail, as it moves in waves or heels.

• What are the electrical outlets like on board?

  Electrical outlets on board are European style with 2 pins (240V) and are only operational while in port. Bringing an external battery pack for charging personal electronics is recommended.

• What are the rules regarding luggage on board?

  Space is limited on the boat and in cabins, so only soft-sided luggage like a mid-sized backpack or soft duffel bag (less than 15kg) is permitted. Hard suitcases are not appropriate.

• Is travel insurance required for my trip?

  Yes, travel insurance is compulsory. You will not be permitted to join without evidence of travel insurance, which must include medical coverage with a minimum of USD 200,000 for repatriation and emergency rescue. Personal liability, cancellation, curtailment, and loss of luggage/personal effects are strongly recommended.

• What is the minimum age to join this trip?

  The minimum age for this trip is 16 years.

• Are there any health considerations I should know before travelling?

  Inoculations may be required; consult your travel doctor. There are no particular health issues in Greece, but bottled water is recommended on some remote islands. Heat waves are possible from June to October. Those sensitive to seasickness should come prepared. We do not have a constant power source onboard suitable for Sleep Apnea/CPAP machines; a battery pack is required. If medication needs refrigeration, bring a cooler pack, as onboard fridge power is not always guaranteed.

• What about meals and a food kitty on board?

  Generally, meals are not included in the trip price to offer flexibility. However, on Greek sailing trips, the Skipper/CEO will help create a food kitty, where approximately EUR 70 per person, per trip, will be added for small food items on board to cover breakfasts, lunches, and the occasional dinner. Breakfasts and lunches are self-prepared, and most dinners are taken ashore at local restaurants. This is a self-catering trip, and everybody is expected to participate in cleaning up and keeping the boat tidy.

• Who will be leading the group on this trip?

  A fully licensed Skipper/CEO (Chief Experience Officer) will be with the group throughout your journey. They manage the sailing, ensure safety, provide information on places, suggest activities and restaurants, and have broad knowledge of the Greek Islands.

• What is the maximum group size for this tour?

  The maximum group size is 10 travellers, with an average of 6.

• What kind of accommodation can I expect on this trip?

  Accommodation is aboard a state-of-the-art 56 ft yacht with 5 twin/double bed cabins that have en suite or shared facilities. Rooming is assigned upon arrival, and specific cabins cannot be guaranteed unless pre-booked. Space onboard is tight, and sleeping quarters are minimum size. The Skipper/CEO will also share the ship's quarters and amenities. Opportunities to sleep in open air on the main deck are often available.

• What are the main highlights of this trip?

  You can relax on white-sand beaches, swim in brilliant turquoise water, try your hand at sailing or simply relax on deck, wander through whitewashed villages, taste traditional Greek food and wine, and hike to spectacular viewpoints.

• Are there any strict rules regarding behavior on this trip?

  Yes, illegal drugs and the exploitation of prostitutes are strictly prohibited and will not be tolerated. The CEO has the right to expel any group member found violating these rules.

• What resources are available for LGBTQ+ travellers regarding safety?

  The tour operator prioritizes the safety and well-being of all travellers, including the LGBTQ+ community. They recommend visiting their LGBTQ+ page for useful resources, including the Equaldex tool, to ensure comfort and safety during the trip.

• What are the passport and visa requirements for this trip to Greece?

  A valid passport with at least 6 months validity is required. Visa requirements vary by nationality, so it is your responsibility to check with your local embassy or consulate. For travel within the Schengen area, a Schengen visa may be needed, applied for in the country where you spend the most nights. Starting in 2025, ETIAS travel authorization will also be an entry requirement for visa-exempt nationals.