Greece Ushers in a New Era for Yacht Chartering Allowing non-EU Flagged Luxury Yachts to Charter in Greek Waters

By Anna Ingles 9 January 2024

In a groundbreaking development for the yachting industry, the Greek Government has officially launched the "e-Charter Permission" system, revolutionizing the luxury yacht charter sector in Greece. As of December 29, 2023, this digital platform signifies a monumental shift towards modernizing and expanding the market, opening Greek waters to non-Greek-flagged charter yachts.

Greek flag flying on top of hill overlooking Aegean Sea

The "e-Charter Permission" and its advanced counterpart, "Charter Permission Plus," facilitate seamless charter operations within Greek territory. This pioneering system is tailored to cater to professional pleasure vessels, primarily those over 35 meters in length with non-wooden hulls (GRP, Plastic, Steel or Aluminium), and registered under a foreign flag. This initiative simplifies the legal framework, enabling these luxury charter yachts to operate commercially in Greece under certain terms and conditions.

Statue of seaman overlooking Aegean Sea in Greece

Foreign yacht with Cayman flag anchored in Greek waters

This initiative simplifies the legal framework, enabling these yachts to operate commercially in Greece under certain terms and conditions.

A notable aspect of this system is the introduction of two distinct permissions: the standard Charter Permission for contracts entirely executed within Greece, and the Charter Permission Plus for contracts beginning or concluding within Greek waters. This flexibility allows for a more diverse range of yacht chartering options, accommodating various itineraries and preferences.

Santorini village at night in the Cyclades

The implementation of the e-charter permit, initially set at twenty-eight days but subject to modifications, underscores Greece's commitment to enhancing marine tourism. The Ministry of Shipping highlights the system's potential in stimulating the local economy, creating jobs, and encouraging professional recreational boats to establish their home port in Greece.

Woman drinking coffee at cafe in Mykonos

Stimulating the local economy, creating jobs, and encouraging professional recreational boats to establish their home port in Greece.

Greek fisherman holding crate with his catch of fish

This streamlined process not only welcomes non-EU yachts but also ensures compliance with conventional VAT regulations related to Greek VAT. This balance of innovation and adherence to established fiscal policies demonstrates Greece's forward-thinking approach in adapting to the digital era while maintaining a robust regulatory framework.

The introduction of the "e-Charter Permission" system marks a pivotal moment for Greece's yachting sector. It heralds a new chapter of growth and opportunity, aligning with the evolving demands of international maritime tourism and positioning Greece as a premier destination for Mediterranean yacht charters.

To find out more about chartering a non-EU yacht in Greece and sample Greek itineraries, contact your preferred yacht charter broker today.