Athens Travel Information & Planning Guide

Athens is 38.96 km² and has a population of around 3.1 million people, making it the largest city in the whole of Greece – no wonder it’s the country’s capital city!

The only official language in Athens is Greek, although you will find many people also speaking English

Officially, Greece is a secular state and the government is a Parliamentary Republic. In Athens, as with the rest of Greece, the main religion is Greek Orthodoxy.

In Athens, the official currency is the Euro. Throughout your Athens yacht charter, you will be expected to pay in Euros as US Dollars will not be accepted anywhere.

On the subject of money, tipping waiters, taxi drivers and other services is generally not expected but if you round up your bill it will always be appreciated.

When you start packing for your vacation, you’ll be wondering whether you need adapters for your chargers and electronic cables. In Athens, the electricity is 230V AC, 50 HZ and two-pin plugs are standard.

Traveling by air is one of the most popular modes of transport to reach Athens. The nearest airport to our Athens Zea base is Athens International Airport Eleftherios Venizelos (ATH), which takes flights from the following airlines:

• Olympic Airways
• Air France
• American Airlines
• British Airways
• Delta Airlines
• Lufthansa Airlines
• SAS Scandinavian Airlines
• Alitalia
• Iberia
• Aegean

Transfers:
The distance from the “Eleftherios Venizelos” International Airport to the Athens Zea base is 31 miles. The transfer takes approximately 60 minutes, depending on how you plan on reaching the base.

The easiest way to reach Marina Zeas is to take a taxi from the airport. There are always plenty of taxis waiting just outside the airport and you’ll reach the base in about 60 minutes (depending on the traffic).

Our friendly base staff are more than happy to organize this for you. Please contact Athanasia at Athanasia.siachami@thlmarine.com.

Transfer by taxi (1-4 persons)

• Airport – Marina Zea: 65.00 €/ midnight route 80€ 
• Marina Zea – airport: 65,00 €

Transfer by minibus (5-8 persons)

• Airport – Marina Zea: 100.00 €/ midnight route (22:00-6:00) 120€ 
• Marina Zea – airport: 100,00 €

You can either take the line X-96 from the airport to the port of Piraeus and then taxi to the marine that costs no more than 5 euros, or the bus 904 from the port of Piraeus to Freatida station where our base is.

The X-96 bus takes about 70 minutes from the airport to the port and then by taxi from the port to the marina is about 5 minutes, or by bus about 20 minutes.

Take the blue line from the airport until you reach the last station: Dimotiko Teatro Piraeus. The journey takes about an hour. After arrival at the port of Piraeus, the easiest choice is to take a taxi to the marina that costs about 5 euros or take the bus 904 to station Freatida.

UTC/GMT +2 hours; Daylight Savings Time is +1 hour

Tourist Information Center, Athens – 210-8707 000
Tourist Information Center, International Airport – 210-353 04 45

Area: 81,994 sq. mi
Population: 10,737,428
Capital city: Athens
Population: Greek, other (foreign citizens)
Language: Greek (official), other (includes English and French)
Religion: Greek Orthodox, Muslim, other
Government: Parliamentary Republic
Major industries: Tourism, food and tobacco processing, textiles, chemicals, metal products, mining, petroleum
Tipping: Tipping waiters, taxi drivers, etc. is generally not expected in Greece, but if you round up the bill it will be appreciated.
Currency: EURO
Electricity: 230V AC, 50 HZ, two-pin plugs are standard

Charters start at 3:00pm on the day of arrival.
Briefing Times: A chart briefing will be provided on arrival day and then again the following day after arrival. This will cover the sailing area and provide some handy tips of local knowledge.

All skippers must watch the Chart Briefing video which covers all you need to know about the cruising area, use of the VHF radio, how to call for assistance, and more. This is available online, so please view it before arrival. Additional consultations for further questions and reservation assistance are scheduled at the base on Saturdays. 

A chart briefing will also be provided on the first day of your charter. This will cover the sailing area and provide some handy tips of local knowledge.

If you’re not familiar with the yacht you’ve chosen for your charter, there’s no need to worry. The yacht briefings will be carried out on a one to one basis on each individual yacht; this will entail all the technical aspects of the vessel, and the team will answer any operational questions the customer may have.

If arriving after hours, you will find a letter on the reception door with a message indicating your yacht’s name and berth.

All charterers must return to base by 5:00pm the night before disembarkation for debriefing and checks. Disembarkation is at 9:00am the following morning. 

A debriefing and final walkthrough will be done upon return so please allow enough time to complete this before the charter end time.

Moorings Care packages are included on every yacht. These packages contain some of the basics to get you started for your vacation.

We do not offer online provisioning in Athens. However, there are numerous supermarket in the nearby vicinity if you want to purchase provisions on arrival. Supermarkets are open Monday to Saturday, 8.00am to 9:00pm.

Balaskas is the closest to Marina Zea – only a 5-10 minute walk away – and it is also the only one nearby that is open on Sundays. For online orders, & delivery on the yacht (our yachts are on pier BA), please visit: Balaskas. Please note, they can deliver food until 6pm.

Coolers are available at the base on a first come first served basis at no additional charge.

The mobile network is well developed throughout Greece. You can generally use your own mobile after checking with your supplier to see if Greece is included in your contract.

While most of our newer boats have Bluetooth capability, we cannot guarantee all boats are outfitted with this equipment. For your convenience, we highly recommend you bring an AUX cord so you can listen to music from your mobile devices.

All The Moorings’ yachts (Exclusive+ and Exclusive) have 50 GB/week.

Eleftherios Venizelos International Airport has Wi-Fi access, and Wi-Fi in Greece is also available in many coffee shops.

Electricity in Greece is 220 or 380V electricity, and is provided at each berth. If you travel to Greece with a device that does not accept 220 Volts, you will need a voltage converter. There is a 12V cigarette lighter outlet by the chart table on all of our yachts.

Entry, exit, and visa requirements depend on the locations you are departing from and traveling to. You are responsible for having the correct documents so make sure to check with the consulate of the countries you plan to visit before you travel.

A valid passport (for each passenger) and crew list is compulsory for clearance. Expiration date must be no earlier than 6 months after your planned return. A customs declaration form must be completed at the port of entry.
Visit travel.state.gov for the latest information.

EU’s Entry/Exit System (EES)
The EU’s Entry/Exit System (EES) is a new digital border registration system for non-EU travellers visiting Schengen countries for short stays of up to 90 days in any 180-day period. Instead of relying on passport stamps, the system will electronically record each entry and exit, including biometric data (such as fingerprints and facial images) for first-time registration.

For our customers, travelling to our Mediterranean destinations, this means slightly longer processing on first arrival as details are captured, but faster and more streamlined border crossings thereafter. Please allow for plenty layover time to account for any delays.

The EES is designed to improve border efficiency, enhance security, and more accurately track permitted stays across participating European countries.

Learn more here: What is the EES? – EES

A formal sailing license is mandatory to charter here. Review the sailing and power requirements for Greece while planning your charter vacation.

The Greek Maritime Authorities have recently changed their sailing license requirements for 2022 and 2023 and have confirmed that they will no longer accept the RYA Day Skipper qualification for Yacht Chartering in Greek waters.

All RYA Day Skipper Qualification holders are able to convert their current qualification to the ICC (International Certificate of Competence) qualification. This can be done online through the RYA website or via a paper form which can be downloaded from the website and printed. If you are a RYA member, an ICC can be issued free of charge, please visit the website and complete the application form.

The conversion period may take several weeks, therefore please plan ahead to ensure you receive the ICC certificate in time. The skipper must bring a physical copy of their sailing qualification – a photocopy or picture on a phone will not be accepted by the marine authorities.

Soft-sided luggage or duffel bags are best, as luggage storage space on your yacht may be limited. We have no facilities for holding luggage at the base. Pack lightly and review our suggested packing list for required and necessary items to bring.

• Pack essential prescription medicine and change of clothing in a carry-on bag*
• Passport and other travel documentation
• Tickets and paper confirmations for pre-planned activities
• Light-colored, light-weight clothing
• Formal wear for upscale dining establishments
• Swimwear and cover up
• Hats and sunglasses
• Sandals and flip-flops
• Athletic shoes and hiking boots
• Travel-sized toiletries and hygiene products
• Insect repellent and OTC pain relievers/ointments
• AUX cable for playing music through your device
• 12V DC to 110V AC power inverter (for boats without generators**)
• 12V to USB power adapter for charging mobile devices

*We would highly recommend packing prescription medicine and essential clothing (swimsuit, t-shirt and shorts) in your hand luggage as occasionally your luggage may arrive at the base after you do.

**All boats include a 12V DC outlet (a “car” outlet). Boats with generators have 110V outlets in the Caribbean and 220V in the Mediterranean and Exotic locations.

The use of flying drones may be restricted in some areas. For current drone regulations in this destination, please visit https://uavcoach.com/drone-laws-in-greece/

Euro. Currency exchange can be done at the local banks.

Tipping waiters, taxi drivers, etc,, is generally not expected in Greece, but if you round up the bill it will be appreciated.

You might incur some costs while on charter such as mooring and docking fees or cruising taxes. We highly recommend bringing enough of the local currency to cover these costs as they are not always payable by USD, debit, and/or credit cards. Please see our Base Guide for additional information.

A security deposit must be paid at the base by Visa or Master Card and is refundable at the end of your charter subject to there being no loss or damage. To significantly decrease your security deposit, purchase our Yacht Damage Waiver insurance ahead of time.

Greece is generally risk-free of contagious disease. 
You are advised to be up-to-date with your Tetanus and Hepatitis B vaccines. An International Vaccination Certificate is not mandatory. Visit cdc.gov for the latest information.

Your health and safety are important to us. For advice on how to stay safe while on charter, please review our Travel Advice Information. Current travel and safety information can be obtained by visiting travel.state.gov

All yachts are equipped with adult life jackets, harnesses, snorkel vests & diver down flags. You can see all this equipment demonstrated in our online safety briefing, and we strongly recommend that you make use of this equipment during your vacation. This safety equipment will be displayed in the saloon of your boat on boarding – If you have any questions feel free to ask our base staff during your briefing.

We have a very limited supply of children’s life jackets on base so highly recommend that if you are travelling with children, you bring their own. This ensures that children have correctly fitting jackets that are comfortable for them.  

Children should not be allowed in the dinghy without a life jacket or buoyancy aid and should wear a buoyancy aid or harness whilst on deck. 

Children under the age of 16 should not operate an outboard engine and should be supervised at all times when in the dinghy.

Swimming is often a fun and important part of a vacation. However local rules, flag systems, currents and where swimming may be permitted, can be different and vary from country to country. Snorkel vests, Life Jackets and Diver Down flags are all available on board.

1. Children

• Talk to children about water safety at the start of a vacation, making them aware of the potential dangers.
• Accidents can happen at any time on vacation, but often they happen on the first and last day, so keep watch and do not get distracted when your children are playing by, or in the water.
• Children in or near water should always be supervised by an adult and never left unattended. 
• Get in the water with them, it is easier to keep an eye on them as well as good fun. Floatation devices are highly recommended for children but are not a substitute for supervision.

2. Be aware of your surroundings

• Check warning flags and signage on the beach and only swim where it is permitted. 
• Beware of dangerous currents, these can be very powerful. Not all beaches have lifeguards and/or warning flags.
• Beware of underwater hazards, such as reefs, rocks, sudden changes in depth and marine life.
• Never swim where a sign says not to e.g. in zoned areas for jet boats or jet skis.
• Never swim at night or after drinking alcohol.

3. Look out for others

• Never swim alone, ‘buddy up’ with others in your party and use the snorkel vests provided.
• Know how and where to get help. If you see someone in difficulty; raise the alarm, preferably the emergency services. Ensure you know the correct number for the country you are in.

4. Do not overestimate your ability

• Even if you regularly swim in a pool, remember that open water swimming can be very different.
• Consider swimming lessons before you go if you think it would be useful to learn proper swimming technique.

For bareboat charters (where no staff from The Moorings are onboard the yacht) charterers are permitted to dive from the yacht. The Moorings does not provide such activities so you should ensure that any third parties that you engage with in order to dive should be through reputable third-party operators. Any diving activities are fully undertaken at your own risk and The Moorings shall have no responsibility or liability in connection with your participation in any diving activities, irrespective of whether this takes place from the yacht or an alternative location during your charter. Diving is not permitted under any circumstances whereby there is any skipper or other crew onboard the yacht which is provided by The Moorings.

We have a range of fins available in various different sizes. You will find them in cockpit lockers in each yacht. We do have limited children’s sizes therefore we recommend bringing your own to avoid disappointment. Please note that we do not provide snorkeling masks or snorkels onboard.

When snorkeling, the diving flag and buoy should be deployed and visible to all passing nearby.

Swim vests should be worn at all times whilst snorkelling.
One person should remain out of the water, keeping watch of the others in the water..

At The Moorings, we’re passionate about preserving the beauty of the oceans we explore. Through Our OCEAN Promise, we’re working to reduce our environmental footprint and support the communities that make each destination so special. From more responsible operations to cleaner cruising practices, sustainability is at the heart of what we do.

You can make a difference too. Before you depart, pack a reusable water bottle, choose to support local businesses, and anchor mindfully to help protect the waters we all enjoy. Small choices make a big impact.

Learn more about Our OCEAN Promise.

The Moorings offers comprehensive travel insurance for your peace of mind. If you have your own travel insurance, verify that it covers the destinations and activities of your Moorings vacation.

Tzaneio General Hospital in Piraeus: 0030 213 2081000 
Athens Metropolitan Hospital: 0030 210 4809000

Address:
The Moorings
Freatida 185 36 – Piraeus
Tel: +30 210 4530911

Our Athens Zea base is 45 km from Athens International Airport and 15 km from Athens City Center. We are also walking Distance from Piraeus City Centre.

The What3Words code for the reception at our Athens Zea base is ///announce.good.sifts.

UTC/GMT +2 hours; Daylight Savings Time is +1 hour

• Monday to Thursday: 9am-5pm 
• Friday: 11am-8pm
• Saturday: 9am-8pm 
• Sunday: 9am-2:30pm

Please note: Our Athens Zea base is closed from mid November to the end of March.

Tourist Information Center, Athens – 210-8707 000
Tourist Information Center, International Airport – 210-353 04 45

• Marina Berth Capacity: 520 yachts up to 150m
• 24 Hour Dock Assistance, CCTV, 24 Hour Security Guard
• Electricity and Water
• Shower and W.C facilities
• ATM
• Chandlery Shops
• Swimming pool: There is a separate swimming pool at the entrance to the marina. A ticket is required and costs 22 Euros pp. Children under 16y must be under adult supervision.
• Restaurants, bars and coffee shops
• Greek Naval Museum within the Marina
• Parking: 14€ per day to park at the parking at the entrance to Zea Marina

There is no fuel station at the marina. A fuel truck comes every Friday at 17:00 to refuel all yachts.

There are three hotels in Piraeus, local to our Athens base:
Theoxenia hotel: email: piraeus@theoxeniapalace.com(link sends e-mail) Tel: +30 2104112550
Savoy hotel: email savoy@hotel.gr(link sends e-mail) Tel: +30 2104284520
Phidias Hotel: email phidiasgr@hotel.gr(link sends e-mail) Tel: +30 2104296480

It is best to exchange your money when you arrive at the airport.

Opening hours: Monday to Thursday, 08:00 am to 2:30 pm; Friday, 08.00 am to 2:00pm.

The currency in Greece is the Euro (EUR). Money changing facilities are present in most of the islands. Money changing should be done either with cash or by travelers’ checks, euro checks. Visa and MasterCard are accepted.

American Express may only be accepted at limited locations and most local tavernas only accept cash.

Please Note: The base cannot accept cash or personal checks.

Inside the marina, there is a wide range of delicious food options for you to enjoy before setting sail on the adventure of a lifetime. Some of the dining options include:

• Fish tavern
• Greek souvlaki
• Mexican food
• Asian food
• Coffee shops
• Beer house

• Car rental is available at “Eleftherios Venizelos” International Airport.
• Close to our base, you will find:
• Hertz: +30 21 0452 6600
• Thrifty car rental: +30 21 0452 6600
• Rac-sa.gr: +30 21 0408 0300Six Rent: +30 21 0922 0171

You need to be at sailing experience Level 3 in order to sail in Athens. Experience levels are based on sailing conditions and the length of passages within your chosen sailing area.

Level 3 destinations are our most challenging. Suitable only for confident, experienced sailors, Level 3 destinations offer long spells of open water sailing, broad tidal ranges, strong winds, and remote anchorages.

To sail in this destination you’ll need a sailing licence, one of the following certifications: 

• ASA 104 
• US Sailing “Bareboat Cruising Course”
• SLC
• IPC
• ICC

Original license/certificate must be presented upon check in at the base.

The requirement is at minimum an ICC qualification or local equivalent. 

Please note: The RYA Day Skipper qualification is not accepted in Greece at this time. Original license/certificate must be presented upon check-in at the base.

It is not possible to make reservations at Greek ports, however passing through there are generally berths available for the night. Your passage is not always recorded when passing through small ports.

Port authorities will sometimes request the boat’s papers and your charter contract, but do not forget to retrieve your documents before leaving. The average price for a night for a 40 footer: 7 Euros in small harbors and in private marinas, 40-50 Euros. Greece does levy mooring fees in some harbors, and these are not included in the price of the charter.

Most overnight stops in this area will be ‘stern to’ Mediterranean mooring on town quays. This will cost approximately 10 Euros per night to be paid at each town locally. Marina prices are considerably higher, depending on the size of your yacht. If you stop free of charge at a private jetty it is expected that you will eat at that tavern. Shower facilities are available at most restaurants for a small charge.As you begin to plan your Athens yacht charter vacation, take a look at the sailing requirements or power requirements.

As you prepare to set sail and explore the wonders of Athens and beyond, it’s important to understand the cruising area to ensure a smooth sailing vacation! When you embark on your idyllic yacht charter in Greece, navigation is only permitted in Greek territorial waters. 

You are also not allowed to sail/stay in the Island Dilos in Cyclades area (it is about 6 miles from Mykonos island) after sunset.

It is strictly forbidden to sail alone, we require two persons minimum on board. Whether you enjoy a romantic couples yacht charter or the family vacation of a lifetime, we know you’ll love every second!

Under no circumstances should you approach the Albanian and Turkish coasts.
For more information, download The Moorings Athens eGuide.

All the charts and pilot books you will need for the sailing area are issued at your chart briefing.

When it comes to sailing at night, we have a few rules that you need to follow: 

• You must be moored at least one hour before sunset
• Night Sailing is not allowed without permission from the base manager
• The decision to allow night sailing is based on your skill level and can be requested in advance

Get in touch with us today with any questions about night time sailing.

In Greece it is essential that we have all of the following details in advance for every member of your crew so that your boat papers can be prepared. You will not be able to sail without these papers, and failure to supply information in advance could delay your departure from the base:

• Full name
• Date of birth
• Place of birth
• Nationality
• Passport number

There is no departure tax for Athens

As the marina is located in Athens, a city 3,000 years old and with a population of more than 4,500,000 people, the list of things to see and do is quite large.

Walking distance from the marina:

• Hellenic maritime museum (inside the marina 3 minutes from the office).
• Archaeological museum of Piraeus (10 minutes)
• Municipal Gallery of Piraeus (20 minutes)
• Take a walk in the Pasalimani area and visit one of the many restaurants, coffee shops and bars right next to the base.
• Acropolis and Acropolis museum
• Temple of Hephaestus
• Theatre of Herodes Atticus
• The Parthenon
• The Panathenean Stadium (The ancient stadium of Athens where the first modern Olympics took place in 1896)
• The Ancient Agora of Athens
• Kerameikos
• Athens National Archaeological Museum

For information contact the Tourist Police: Tel: 171

These hop on hop off tourist buses operate daily and trace the history and culture of Athens-Piraeus. It is one of the best ways to discover Piraeus before taking to the seas. See prices and book here: https://citysightseeing.gr/en

Once you’re on the water, the ocean is your swimming pool! But before you board your yacht, you can enjoy a separate swimming pool at the entrance to the marina. A ticket is required and costs 22 Euros pp. Children under 16y must be under adult supervision.

If you love discovering a city by walking (and if you also love walking next to the sea) Peiraiki is a great place to begin your Athens adventure. Among many things, Peiraiki is famous for its “ouzeri” – you can enjoy a glass of ouzo while tasting octopus, squid and a big salad with feta cheese and tomatoes.

Scuba diving in Athens offers a surprising mix of ancient history and crystal-clear Aegean waters. Divers can explore underwater caves, reefs, and even ancient ruins and offers an excellent opportunity for both beginners and experienced divers.

There are a number of diving centres throughout Greece. Please note: Scuba diving is prohibited to persons who do not have a certification recognized by an organisation under article 3, and not under the services of a recognized recreational diving service provider. You can find Scuba Diving clubs in Naxos, Paros, Amorgos and on other islands.

For your convenience, you can also add water toys to your charter prior to arrival at the base.

Sea fishing is possible from the shores, from boats and even underwater, and is allowed almost everywhere without a permit. It is forbidden in the marina. Please ask at the base should you need more information.

Climbing aboard one of our world class yachts and setting sail on an Athens yacht charter will open your eyes to stunning views, incredible food and…hot weather!

In the Summer months, the warm temperatures range from 68°F to 89.6°F with very little chance of rain. Temperatures in fall tend to drop slightly with more wind, but as long as you book during the Athens sailing season, you know you’re in for a good time!

There are two dominant winds in Athens, and these can occasionally produce conditions that require sailing experience. July through August brings stronger winds which is why Marina Zea cruising conditions are best suited for more experienced captains.

• The Meltemi – can occur anytime between May and October but is most frequent in Summer, June through  September. Its maximum strength and duration is during July and August. It may blow for a single day or up to a week, although 3 to 4 days is most common. Don’t worry though, this wind can offer welcome relief on a hot Summer’s day when temperatures in and around Athens can be sizzling!
• The Sirocco – More frequent in the Winter, it corresponds to the passage of a depression. It can occasionally blow in April but is more common at the end of October.

As you glide across the beautiful waters surrounding Athens and explore nearby islands, it’s important to know that the waters of the Saronic Gulf are well-protected and flat, while the Aegean and the seas around the Cyclades generally have more wind.

Athens is in the Eastern Mediterranean, where the tide range is 30 cm to 60 cm (one to two feet), including the variation of levels due to atmospheric range is 30 cm to 60 cm (one to two feet), including the variation of levels due to atmospheric pressure and dominant winds. The Aegean Sea is one of the beautiful bodies of water with very little tidal range, making Athens the perfect place to kick off your fantastic yacht charter.

Whether this is your first time skippering your own yacht, or you want a super relaxing vacation, the small tidal range around Athens will make sailing on the open waters a dream come true!

When you arrive at Marina Zeas, we will provide you with a weather forecast for the next 24 hours. The weather forecast during your cruise can be seen on all television channels; Tavernas and restaurants also show weather programs just after the news at 8.50 pm.

On your radio receiver, the Greek national station forecasts a broadcast in Greek and English.

Time Station Frequency Radio wave:
6.30 am Athens 729 kHz 412 m
1.10 pm Corfu 1008 kHz 298 m
1.30 pm Rhodes 1494 kHz 200 m
12.00 pm Patras 1485 kHz 202 m

If you’re planning on island hopping around Greece, you may want to explore an island located in the Ionian Sea. The Italian station, Radio One, announces forecasts for the Ionian Sea at approximately 7.40 am and 11.45 pm on 567, 657, 666, 675, 1032, and 1332 kHz frequencies.

East of the Greek archipelago, the forecast is in German at approximately 9.45 am and 2.00 pm on short wave on 6150 MHz/49 m frequency. On your VHF: It is possible to call HELLAS RADIO on channel 16 in English. You will be given the weather forecast for your zone, after you give them your VHF code signal and the name of your boat.