Step 1: Define Your Dream Experience
Before diving into the logistics, take a moment to envision your ideal yachting holiday. Ask yourself:
- Who will be joining you? (Couples, families, friends, corporate groups)
- What’s your preferred travel style? (Relaxation, adventure, nightlife, cultural exploration)
- When do you want to travel? (High season: July–August; Shoulder season: May–June, September–October)
- Where do you want to go? (Cyclades, Ionian, Dodecanese, Saronic Gulf, Crete)
Melitas Marine offers tailored itineraries and expert advice to help you shape your perfect journey.
Step 2: Choose the Right Yacht
Mega yachts come in all shapes and sizes, from sleek motor yachts to majestic superyachts. At Melitas Marine, our fleet includes a wide range of vessels, such as:
- M/Y O’Ptasia – An 85-meter floating palace with 10 luxurious cabins, a helipad, beach club, and spa facilities
- M/Y 4 Life – A 25.9-meter Princess yacht ideal for smaller groups, offering a modern flybridge, spacious salon, and accommodation for up to 8 guests
When selecting your yacht, consider:
- Size and layout – How many guests will be onboard?
- Amenities – Do you want a jacuzzi, gym, water toys, or cinema?
- Crew – All Melitas Marine yachts come with professional, multilingual crews to ensure a seamless experience.
Step 3: Set Your Budget
Chartering a mega yacht is a premium experience, but it can be tailored to different budgets. Costs typically include:
- Charter Fee – The base price for the yacht (e.g., M/Y 4 Life ranges from €35,000 to €45,500 per week depending on the season).
- APA (Advance Provisioning Allowance) – Usually 25–35% of the charter fee, covering fuel, food, drinks, port fees, and other expenses.
- VAT – Greek VAT is typically 12% for charters, but this may vary.
- Gratuity – Optional but customary, usually 10–15% of the charter fee.
Melitas Marine provides transparent pricing and detailed breakdowns to help you plan confidently.
Step 4: Work with a Charter Broker
A professional charter broker is your best ally in navigating the process. At Melitas Marine, our multilingual team offers:
- Personalized yacht recommendations
- Custom itinerary planning
- Contract negotiation and legal support
- 24/7 concierge service during your trip
We handle all the details so you can focus on enjoying your holiday.
Step 5: Plan Your Itinerary
Greece offers countless routes, each with its own charm. Here are a few popular options:
1. Cyclades Islands
- Highlights: Mykonos, Santorini, Paros, Naxos
- Best for: Glamour, nightlife, iconic views
- Tip: Start in Athens and sail south for a one-way charter.
2. Ionian Islands
- Highlights: Corfu, Paxos, Lefkada, Kefalonia
- Best for: Lush landscapes, calm waters, family-friendly cruising
3. Saronic Gulf
- Highlights: Hydra, Poros, Aegina, Spetses
- Best for: Shorter trips, cultural sites, proximity to Athens
Melitas Marine will help you craft a route based on your interests, travel dates, and weather conditions.
Step 6: Finalize the Paperwork
Once you’ve selected your yacht and itinerary, your broker will prepare a MYBA Charter Agreement (Mediterranean Yacht Brokers Association), which outlines:
- Charter dates and location
- Payment terms
- Cancellation policies
- Insurance and liability clauses
You’ll typically pay 50% of the charter fee upon signing, with the balance and APA due 4–6 weeks before departure.
Step 7: Prepare for Departure
As your charter date approaches, Melitas Marine will coordinate with you to finalize:
- Guest preferences – Dietary needs, favorite drinks, activity requests
- Travel logistics – Airport transfers, hotel stays, VIP services
- Onboard experience – Celebrations, excursions, spa treatments
Your crew will be fully briefed and ready to welcome you aboard with personalized service and attention to detail.
Step 8: Embark and Enjoy
On the day of your charter, you’ll be greeted by your captain and crew, who will give you a tour of the yacht and review the itinerary. From there, it’s smooth sailing.
Whether you're lounging on the sundeck, diving into turquoise waters, or dining under the stars, every moment is curated for your comfort and delight.
Step 9: Post-Charter Follow-Up
After your voyage, Melitas Marine will follow up to ensure everything met your expectations. Many of our clients become repeat guests, returning year after year to explore new destinations or revisit favorite spots.
We also offer assistance with:
- Rebooking for next season
- Yacht purchase or investment
- Custom itineraries for special occasions
Why Choose Melitas Marine?
With decades of experience, a curated fleet of luxury yachts, and a passion for excellence, Melitas Marine is your trusted partner for chartering in Greece. Our commitment to safety, service, and satisfaction ensures that your yachting holiday is nothing short of extraordinary.
Ready to set sail? Contact Melitas Marine today and let us help you plan the Greek yachting adventure of a lifetime.
