The Aegean Islands spread across more than 6,000 islands, islets and rocks between mainland Greece and the Turkish coast, making them the most varied yacht charter destination in the Mediterranean. Motor yachts unlock the full range of this archipelago: guests can cover the Cyclades, Dodecanese and Saronic Gulf within a single week, something that sailing schedules rarely permit. The meltemi wind of July and August can freshen to force five or six, and a motor yacht rides above it rather than through it, keeping arrival times and evening plans intact.nnAround 45 motor yachts serve this region, ranging from sleek 30-metre vessels with four or five guest cabins up to 80-metre flagships that accommodate twelve guests with a professional crew of eighteen or more. Builders represented include Benetti, Feadship, CRN, Heesen and Sanlorenzo, covering contemporary Italian styling, Dutch craftsmanship and custom bluewater builds alike. All carry tenders, water toys and a chef trained in Mediterranean cuisine.nnWeekly charter rates for Aegean motor yachts begin near 50,000 euros for a well-appointed 30-metre boat and rise to 900,000 euros or beyond for the largest and newest flagships. Add an advance provisioning allowance of roughly 30 percent to cover fuel, port fees, provisions and crew gratuity. High season runs from mid-June to early September; June and September offer the same anchorages with noticeably lower vessel costs.nnAn Aegean motor charter is best planned as a loop from Athens-area marinas: Lavrion and Flisvos are the main departure points, with Mykonos, Santorini, Rhodes and the Sporades all within practical range.
