- April – June: Mild, quieter sailing
- July – August: Festivals & lively ports
- September – October: Warm seas, relaxed ambience

Destination
EAST MEDITERRANEAN
Yachting in the East Mediterranean: Your Complete Guide
Cruise through history, from Greek temples to Ottoman palaces, all beneath the East Mediterranean skies.
Why Choose the East Mediterranean for Your Yacht Charter?
The East Mediterranean is a world where history meets horizon. Here, you can anchor beside ancient ruins, explore medieval harbours, and sail through turquoise waters dotted with sun-drenched islands. From the mythic charm of Greece and the Dalmatian Coast to the exotic allure of Turkey, the region offers an unmatched blend of culture, discovery, and natural wonder.
Unforgettable landscapes & coastlines
The East Mediterranean’s beauty lies in its diversity. The Greek Islands are a dreamscape of whitewashed villages, dramatic cliffs, and crystalline waters. In Croatia, the Dalmatian Coast is fringed with pine forests, secret coves, and over a thousand islands to explore. Turkey’s Turquoise Coast captivates with golden beaches, hidden bays, and dramatic Lycian tombs carved into the cliffs. This is a sailing region defined by variety , from lively archipelagos to secluded anchorages where the sea feels like your own.
Cultural & culinary highlights
| Destination | Cultural Treasures | Culinary Experiences |
| Greece – Greek Islands & Athens | Ancient wonders like the Acropolis, whitewashed villages of Santorini, and vibrant nightlife in Mykonos | Traditional Greek tavernas, olives and feta, freshly grilled seafood, and island wines |
| Croatia – Dalmatian Coast | UNESCO-listed Dubrovnik Old Town, Split’s Diocletian’s Palace, and medieval fortresses across the islands | Dalmatian seafood stews, olive oil tastings, and locally produced wines |
| Turkey – Turquoise Coast | Lycian tombs carved into cliffs, Ottoman heritage in Bodrum, and bazaars alive with colour | Mezze platters, kebabs, baklava, and fine dining along the Riviera |
| Cyprus – Limassol & Paphos | A cultural crossroad with Byzantine churches, Greco-Roman ruins, and coastal fortresses | Halloumi cheese, Cypriot meze, and wines from ancient mountain vineyards |
| Greek Dodecanese & Crete | Island chains rich with medieval castles, Venetian harbours, and mythological heritage | Cretan olive oil, mountain herbs, raki, and slow-cooked lamb dishes |
Sailing routes & iconic destinations
A yacht charter in the East Mediterranean traces the paths of ancient traders, explorers, and empires. Each destination offers a striking blend of natural splendour, cultural depth, and vibrant coastal life. Must-see stops include:
- Greek Islands: Santorini, Mykonos, Rhodes, Crete, Corfu
Greece is the crown jewel of East Mediterranean yachting. In Santorini, whitewashed villages cling to volcanic cliffs, offering iconic sunsets over the caldera. Mykonos is the island of cosmopolitan energy, with chic beach clubs, lively nightlife, and designer shopping. Rhodes brings medieval grandeur with its fortified Old Town, while Crete unveils Minoan palaces, mountain landscapes, and expansive golden beaches. For a more verdant escape, Corfu enchants with Venetian architecture, olive groves, and lush hillsides plunging into turquoise seas. Together, the Greek Islands offer endless diversity for island-hopping adventures. - Croatia – Dalmatian Coast: Dubrovnik, Split, Hvar, Korčula
Croatia’s Dalmatian Coast is a sailor’s paradise with over a thousand islands. Dubrovnik, the “Pearl of the Adriatic,” is wrapped in medieval walls and UNESCO-listed heritage, a cinematic harbour that feels timeless. Split is home to Diocletian’s Palace, where ancient Roman ruins merge seamlessly with lively cafés and waterfront promenades. Hvar combines historic architecture with a vibrant yachting nightlife, while Korčula is famed for its vineyards, cobbled streets, and alleged birthplace of Marco Polo. The Dalmatian islands balance history with pristine anchorages, making Croatia one of the most enchanting sailing destinations in Europe. - Turkey – Turquoise Coast: Bodrum, Göcek, Fethiye, Marmaris
Turkey’s Riviera is a fusion of exotic culture and untouched beauty. Bodrum is both chic and historic, with its Crusader castle, lively marina, and cosmopolitan atmosphere. Göcek, a yachting haven, offers tranquil bays and pine-framed anchorages ideal for watersports and relaxation. Fethiye is famed for the ancient Lycian tombs carved into cliffs, as well as the famed Blue Lagoon at Ölüdeniz. Marmaris blends a bustling port town with secluded coves along the Datça Peninsula. Here, every stop pairs turquoise waters with echoes of ancient civilisations. - Cyprus: Limassol, Larnaca, Paphos
Cyprus sits at the cultural crossroads of Europe and the Middle East, offering a rich blend of influences. Limassol is a cosmopolitan coastal city with a modern marina and nearby wine villages. Larnaca pairs sandy beaches with Byzantine churches, while Paphos boasts archaeological sites linked to Aphrodite herself. The island offers year-round sunshine, warm hospitality, and a mix of modern luxury with deep cultural heritage.
Each of these sailing routes reveals a different dimension of the East Mediterranean: the mythic beauty of Greece, the medieval grandeur of Croatia, the exotic allure of Turkey, and the cultural fusion of Cyprus. Together, they create an extraordinary yachting experience that blends discovery, elegance, and timeless horizons.
Best time to sail
The East Mediterranean sailing season stretches from April to October, with long summers and abundant sunshine.
- April – June: Ideal for mild weather and quieter harbours.
- July – August: Peak summer brings lively islands, festivals, and a vibrant social scene.
- September – October: Warm seas and golden evenings offer perfect sailing with fewer crowds.
Whether you prefer spring tranquillity or summer energy, the East Mediterranean offers a season for every mood.
Sail seamlessly with Ziyana Yachts
At Ziyana Yachts, we craft bespoke journeys across the East Mediterranean, ensuring your voyage blends history, culture, and luxury in perfect harmony. From island-hopping in Greece to uncovering hidden Turkish coves or exploring Croatia’s timeless coastline, every detail is meticulously curated.
Let Ziyana Yachts design your East Mediterranean adventure with effortless elegance.
Popular Stops in East Mediterranean
Explore must-see destinations and hidden gems in East Mediterranean.
CROATIA
Croatia: Islands, Heritage & Adriatic Elegance Croatia reveals the charm of the East Mediterranean with sun-drenched islands, ancient ports, and crystalline waters, making it a...
GREECE
Greece: Myth, Culture & Sun-Drenched Archipelagos Greece has always been the go-to destination for Eastern Mediterranean yacht charters, renowned for its unrivaled beauty and over...
TURKEY
Turkey: Aegean Charm and Lycian Adventures Turkey bridges Europe and Asia with coastlines that span the Aegean, Mediterranean, Marmara, and Black Seas, making it one...
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