Santorini caldera is one of the most dramatic yacht anchorages in the Mediterranean: a flooded volcanic crater nearly twelve kilometres across, with the cliffs of Thira and Oia rising 300 metres above the water and the half-submerged volcanic island of Nea Kameni sitting quietly at the centre. Charter a motor yacht in Santorini and the first evening at anchor in the caldera, with the whitewashed villages above lit at sunset, is the kind of image that defines a Greek islands charter for most guests. The 45-strong motor yacht fleet available in Greece ranges from 30 to 80 metres, with enough choice to match any group size or budget for a Santorini-based itinerary. From the caldera anchorage, a motor yacht itinerary can turn south to Crete, west to Folegandros and Milos, or north through Paros, Naxos and Mykonos along the classic Cyclades circuit. Weekly charter rates for motor yachts available in Greece begin around 30,000 euros for a 30 metre vessel and reach toward 500,000 for the largest superyachts. The advance provisioning allowance, typically 30 percent of the base rate, covers fuel, food, marina dues, berthing fees and provisions on board. The Cyclades summer season runs from May through October, with the Meltemi wind blowing hardest from the northwest in July and August. Motor yachts handle the Meltemi swell better than sailing vessels of equivalent size, making them a sensible choice for charter parties that prioritise stability over the sailing experience.
