Provisioning For Yacht Charter in Greece
A Greek Charterer’s Provisioning Guide
Provisioning a yacht isn’t about ticking off a shopping list. It’s about creating the rhythm of your days at sea. The joy of eating breakfast in a quiet cove, serving sunset drinks under the boom, or knowing that everyone’s dietary quirks are covered without a last-minute dash to port. In Greece, provisioning isn’t just convenient — it’s cultural.
Use this guide not just to plan what to bring, but to understand how provisioning works aboard Greek charters and how to think like a seasoned skipper.
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Top 10 Essentials for Greek Yacht Charter Provisioning
Wondering what to buy for your yacht charter in Greece? Let’s start with a practical top 10 list — the essential items our experienced skippers never set sail without. These suggestions work as a jumping-off point; later in the guide, we’ll explain offer a more comprehensive list and how and why to adapt them to your route, crew and boat type.
- Fresh Bread, Feta & Olives. No provisioning list for Greece is complete without these local staples.
- Bottled Water. Essential for drinking and brushing teeth. Stock 1.5L per person per day.
- Snacks for Sundowners. Think crisps, dips, dried fruits and nuts for that magical 6PM anchor moment.
- Breakfast Supplies. Coffee, milk, cereals, yoghurt, fruit — easy to serve underway.
- Wine, Beer & Ouzo. Most marinas stock decent local options. Note: refrigeration space may be limited.
- Local Deli Meats & Cheeses. Easy to serve with fresh bread or in salads for light lunches.
- Fresh Fruit & Vegetables. Choose resilient options: tomatoes, cucumbers, apples, oranges.
- Pasta, Rice & Simple Sauces. Great base meals that don’t require refrigeration.
- Condiments & Cooking Oil. Salt, pepper, olive oil, vinegar, mustard, herbs — check what’s already on board.
- 1Toilet Paper & Paper Towels. Not glamorous, but crucial. Marinas don’t always restock.
We’ll explain these choices more fully later in the blog, including provisioning hacks, storage tips, and how to match supplies to your itinerary and crew style.
📦 What Greek Charters Typically Offer
Provisioning: Curate Your On‑Board Lifestyle
Provisioning a yacht in Greece is more than a checklist — it’s the quiet luxury that frames each day. Picture espresso and warm bougatsa in a dawn‑lit cove, a mezze board laid out under sail, and a chilled Assyrtiko opened just as the sun slips past the spreaders. To keep that rhythm effortless, seasoned skippers plan for at least two self‑sufficient days. It isn’t pessimism; it’s prudence. A sudden meltemi, a marina at capacity, or a lazy morning departure can all delay access to shops. Still, the payoff is sublime: markets brimming with sun‑ripened figs, artisanal cheeses, and olive oil pressed a valley away. You may not receive every branded request — but you’ll return with flavours that money can’t bottle.
Hydration: Elevate Every Sip
Water governs comfort at sea more than wind or sail trim. Allow a baseline of two litres per guest per day and build from there — sparkling, still, or delicately infused with citrus and mint. Add electrolyte tablets for long swims, glacial ice for late‑afternoon spritzes, and coconut water for the health‑minded. A thoughtfully stocked drinks locker turns routine hydration into a ritual: a flute of chilled mineral water after paddle‑boarding, a crystal tumbler of island spring water poured over evening cubes. Luxury is rarely louder than this — knowing abundance is on hand, even miles from shore.
Inclusivity: Indulge Every Palate
True hospitality anticipates diversity. Whether your crew keeps kosher, sips oat‑milk lattes, or prefers plant‑forward cuisine, Greece can oblige — if you plan ahead. Supermarkets now shelve gluten‑free pastas and almond‑based cheeses; village grocers happily source organic produce when asked. Bring along speciality items that anchor personal routines — a favourite protein powder, nut‑free snack, or biodynamic wine — and let local delicacies fill the gaps. A considerate spread signals more than menu awareness; it tells every guest they belong, and that the yacht’s galley is as bespoke as their stateroom.
Xenia: Provision the Spirit of Greek Hospitality
It’s worth thinking about the history of hospitality is woven from Greek myth. When Zeus and Hermes wandered in disguise, only the modest cottage of Baucis and Philemon offered wine, bread, and a warm heart from those with little too give. The gods rewarded that generosity by turning the couple into entwined trees, a living monument to xenia—the sacred duty of welcoming strangers. Provisioning today lets you echo that tradition: select island olives, thyme‑scented honey, and a crisp Assyrtiko not merely for yourself, but to share with crew and guests alike. When your larder reflects local bounty and open‑handedness, every mezze platter becomes a quiet homage to the oldest luxury Greece knows: making others feel cherished.
Quick 60 Guide - Provisioning FAQs
What Sailors Provisioning in Greece Really Want to Know
Provisioning a yacht in Greece includes stocking your boat with food, drinks, and essentials. You can do this yourself at local markets or use a concierge provisioning service to deliver items directly to the yacht before you arrive.
Delivery services save time and are ideal for larger groups, especially if departing from marinas like Athens Kalamaki or Lefkas. Many charterers also top up fresh produce on the islands. Learn more about the Advance Provisioning Allowance (APA) and how it works on crewed charters.
Feta, olives, bougatsa, grilled vegetables, artisanal breads, and Assyrtiko wine are local favourites. They’re delicious, easy to store, and evoke the flavours of the Aegean.
Greek supermarkets now offer gluten-free, vegan, and dairy-free alternatives. Let your skipper or provisioning agent know in advance and consider bringing specialist items from home.
Yes, especially on larger or more popular islands. Market availability varies, so it’s best to plan for 2–3 days of self-sufficiency in case of weather or port delays.
APA is a pre-paid allowance that covers variable costs like food, drinks, fuel, and berthing on a crewed charter. Read our full guide to APA on a crewed yacht charter.
Yes — many islands have fantastic open-air markets with fresh local seafood and seasonal produce. Just check local schedules, as they often open early or only on certain days.
A typical spend is €150–€300 per person per week. Group size, dietary needs, and preference for premium products will affect the final cost.
If flying from outside the EU, you may not bring in meat or dairy. Within the EU, personal-use quantities are permitted, but it’s wise to check Greek customs guidelines before packing.
- 1. Provisioning Philosophy
- 2. Hydration Is King
- 3. Charter Provisioning Overview
- 4. Bakery & Bread
- 5. Breakfast Staples
- 6. Dairy & Deli
- 7. Fruit & Vegetables
- 8. Dry Goods & Pantry
- 9. Cleaning & Kitchen Paper
- 10. Meat & Frozen
- 11. Dietary & Local Specialties
- 12. Drinks & Alcohol
- 13. Snacks & Sundries
1. Provisioning Philosophy
How to think in meals, moods, and moments afloat
Provisioning sets the cadence of life aboard. Think in meals, moods, and moments: dawn espresso with still‑warm bougatsa, a mezze board assembled under sail, and a chilled Assyrtiko uncorked as the light fades. Savvy skippers provision for at least two days of complete independence—prudence when a sudden meltemi, a full quay, or a leisurely start delays the next market. Space is precious, so curate rather than cram: compact staples, seasonal island produce, and a few indulgences that lift the ordinary. Begin with what Greece does best—vine‑ripened tomatoes, artisanal cheeses, fragrant olive oil—and let every plate remind the crew they’re tasting the Aegean, not merely passing through it.
🧺 Top Tip: If your charter begins in a big marina such as Athens‑Kalamaki or Lefkas, arrange a concierge grocery delivery to the quay and let the base team stow everything before you arrive; then top‑up with island‑fresh produce once you’re clear of the industrial shoreline.
2. 💧 Hydration Is King
Water Matters at Sea — 2 Litres a Day is Just the Start
Between sun, wind, and salt, sailing dehydrates faster than you think. Fresh water isn’t just for drinking — it’s for cooking, brushing teeth, and the occasional splash rinse. Always overestimate.
Water 2l Rule of Thumb:
✅ Drinking Water. Plan on a minimum of 2 litres per person per day (more in hot climates). (That covers drinking alone — more if you’re active, sunburned, or hungover.)
🧂Top Tip: Electrolyte powders, coconut water, and lightly flavoured rehydration tablets are great extras for longer days on the water.
3. Charter Provisioning Overview
📦 What Greek Supermarkets Typically Offer
Greek charter bases and marina supermarkets are surprisingly well-stocked. From rustic village bread to creamy Greek yogurt and chilled local wine, you’ll find most basics — and many luxuries — nearby. Large bases often offer pre-boarding provisioning services, while smaller islands reward a walk to the local grocer.
Expect:
• 🥖 Breads & Bakery – Pita, rusks, croissants, village loaves
• 🥣 Breakfast Staples – Muesli, tahini, honey, jams
• 🧀 Dairy & Deli – Feta, yogurt, salami, eggs
• 🥗 Fruit & Vegetables – Tomatoes, peaches, herbs, lemons
• 🧂 Pantry – Olive oil, capers, pasta, oregano
• 🧼 Cleaning & Sundries – Bin bags, dish soap, mosquito spirals
• 🍖 Meats & Frozen – Chicken, seafood, meatballs
• 🧃 Drinks & Alcohol – Water, juices, beer, ouzo
• 🍫 Snacks – Nuts, koulouri, dried figs, halva
Pack light, provision smart, and embrace what’s local. Even if your favourite cereal is missing, you’ll return with flavours you never expected — and wouldn’t trade back.
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4. 🍞 Breads & Bakery
Fresh, sweet, long-lasting — Greek breads for dipping, toasting, or devouring at sea
No galley is complete without bread — and in Greece, it’s often the star of the spread. From the sesame-sprinkled koulouri sold on every corner to oven-warm horiatiko psomi (village bread) perfect for dunking in olive oil, the variety is remarkable. Most bakeries open early, and many island ones bake with wood-fired tradition.
Look for:
• Pita – folded around gyros or scooped with dips
• Koulouri – sesame rings for breakfast or snacks
• Tsoureki – sweet, soft, subtly spiced loaf, great toasted
• Rusks (paximadia) – long-lasting and perfect with tomatoes or feta
• Village bread – crusty rounds that last two or more days unrefrigerated
Top Tip: Pick up a day’s supply fresh, then keep rusks or crispbread as your fallback. A drizzle of olive oil, a pinch of oregano, and you’ve got mezze in minutes.
5. 🥣 Breakfast & Cereals
From honey rings to tahini spread: what Greeks really eat to start the day
Greek mornings aren’t just about speed — they’re about pleasure and balance. Whether you’re docked at a marina or anchored in a sleepy bay, having the right breakfast staples makes all the difference.
Stock up on:
• Honey rings – a local take on cereal, sweet and crunchy
• Greek yogurt – thick, tangy, perfect with fruit or nuts
• Tahini spread – a sesame-based boost for toast or biscuits
• Fruit preserves – often homemade, like sour cherry or fig
• Herbal teas – mountain blends like sideritis or chamomile
While packaged cereal is easy to find in large supermarkets, consider pairing it with local yoghurt or fruit to elevate it. A few spoons of thyme honey or chopped walnuts turn even a plain breakfast into a Greek island moment.
Top Tip: Bring your crew’s favourites for familiarity — but let local flavours shape the morning ritual.
Provisioning for Yacht Charter in Greece
6. 🧀 Dairy & Deli
Feta, yogurt, charcuterie — the creamy, salty, savoury backbone of midday mezze
Greece’s dairy aisle is a wonderland of flavour and function. These staples aren’t just ingredients — they’re the soul of salads, mezze boards, and light lunches at anchor.
Key picks:
• Feta – crumbly, salty, and endlessly versatile
• Greek yogurt – for dips, breakfast, or dessert
• Graviera – a hard cheese, great for snacking or grilling
• Anthotyro – fresh, mild cheese ideal with honey
• Loukaniko – spiced pork sausage, perfect for quick cooking
If refrigeration is tight, buy in small quantities. Vacuum-packed feta keeps well, and most local delis will vacuum-seal meats and cheeses to order.
Top Tip: Don’t overfill the fridge. Shop little and often at island shops — they’ll often slice to your exact needs.
7. 🥗 Fruit & Vegetables
What’s fresh, what’s seasonal, and what to expect at markets and roadside stalls
The Aegean sun doesn’t just power your sails — it ripens the most flavourful produce you’ll eat all week. Greek markets and roadside stalls brim with local colour and character.
Look out for:
• Tomatoes – best bought ripe and stored at room temp
• Peppers – red, green, sweet or spicy
• Cucumbers – for salads, tzatziki, or crunching at sea
• Figs – in season, they’re worth building a menu around
• Greens (horta) – wild or cultivated, great sautéed with lemon
Produce is best bought every 1–2 days, especially in summer heat. Plan your meals around what’s ripe — the flavour will reward you more than any branded staple.
Top Tip: Shop early — island markets open at dawn and may sell out before lunch. Bring a reusable tote and try whatever looks irresistible.
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8. 🥫 Pantry Essentials
From pasta and pulses to herbs and sauces: the provisioning heart of a Greek galley
Dry goods are your galley’s backbone. Compact, long-lasting, and versatile, they allow flexibility when wind or weather alters plans.
Stock up on:
• Pasta – short shapes for fast cooking in small pans
• Lentils and chickpeas – perfect for salads or quick stews
• Greek rice (like Carolina) – great for lemony pilaf
• Tinned tomatoes – for sauces and shaksuka-style breakfasts
• Olives and capers – instant flavour lifts
• Dried herbs – oregano, thyme, mint
• Honey, jam, tahini – sweet and savoury support
Top Tip: Space is at a premium — decant into stackable tubs or zip bags. A little organisation goes a long way in small galleys.
9. 🧼 Cleaning & Paper
Don’t forget the bin bags — small comforts that make a big difference onboard
Not glamorous — but absolutely essential. A few basics keep your yacht comfortable, hygienic, and guest-ready throughout the trip.
Include:
• Bin bags – strong, varied sizes
• Kitchen roll – absorbs spills, doubles as napkins
• Eco dish soap – reef-safe if possible
• Cloths and sponges – quick-drying types are best
• Multi-surface cleaner – compact spray bottle
• Toilet roll – marine heads can’t take much, so stock light paper
Top Tip: Keep one cleaning kit ready to go and another zipped up as backup. Unexpected messes are part of yacht life — being prepared isn’t just smart, it’s stress-saving.
10. 🍖 Meats & Frozen Foods
What’s stocked, what’s popular, and how to keep it fresh (even with a dodgy fridge)
Fridges vary wildly aboard charter yachts. Provision meat and frozen goods with caution — but confidence.
What to look for:
• Souvlaki skewers – marinated and grill-ready
• Loukaniko – Greek sausage with orange peel and herbs
• Frozen prawns or calamari – easy to sauté or toss into pasta
• Minced beef or lamb – for fast ragu or keftedes
• Chicken breasts or thighs – versatile and familiar
Ask if your yacht’s freezer compartment is reliable. If not, shop for fresh meat on islands and cook same-day. Vacuum-packing helps extend shelf life.
Top Tip: A small soft cooler with ice blocks can serve as overflow storage — and doubles for beach picnics or sundowner runs.
11. 🇬🇷 Greek Staples / 🌱 Gluten-Free / 🧀 Vegetarian / 🌿 Vegan
What everyone can eat — and what Greece does best, from dolmades to dairy-free mezze
Modern Greek markets are remarkably inclusive — if you know where to look. And many classic Greek dishes are naturally free of meat, gluten, or dairy.
Great for:
• Dolmades – vine leaves stuffed with rice
• Gigantes – slow-cooked giant beans in tomato
• Olive tapenade – deep flavour, no allergens
• Nut-based spreads – almond or cashew “cheese”
• Gluten-free pasta – stocked in bigger supermarkets
• Oat or almond milk – for morning coffee or cereal
If someone in your crew has dietary needs, plan ahead. Specialty items (e.g., protein powder, vegan cheese) are best brought from home.
Top Tip: Use crew profiles to check dietary needs in advance — and stock one or two showstopper local treats everyone can enjoy together.
12. 🧃 Drinks & Beverages + 🍷 Alcohol & Bar
What to sip, what to stock, and what locals reach for on deck and after dark
Provisioning for hydration and happiness means thinking across times of day and types of thirst.
Stock:
• Still and sparkling water – 2L per person per day
• Greek soda – like orangeade and sour cherry
• Fruit juice – for breakfast and cocktails
• Wine – try Assyrtiko, Agiorgitiko, or island rosé
• Spirits – local ouzo, tsipouro, or mainstream mixers
• Beer – Mythos, Alpha, or Fix
• Tonic and soda – don’t forget the mixers
Use boxes or crates to keep bottles upright and cool. For afternoon flair, bring reusable tumblers and garnish with citrus or herbs.
Top Tip: Most island shops sell ice and fridge-chilled beer — save space and stock up en route.
13. 🍫 Snacks / 👶 Baby & Kids / 🧴 Toiletries & Sun
From sesame bars to sunscreen — overlooked essentials that keep guests comfortable
Think of this section as your mood buffer — the little things that smooth the edges and keep the smiles steady.
Include:
• Greek snacks – pasteli (sesame & honey bars), koukourakia, rice crackers
• Baby food – sealed jars or pouches
• Kids’ cereal – familiar favourites avoid tantrums
• Sunscreen – reef-friendly, high SPF
• Aloe vera gel – sun relief
• Toilet paper – soft and yacht-friendly
• Hand sanitiser and wipes – quick cleanup tools
Top Tip: Keep a “grab bag” with snacks, SPF, wipes, and tissues near the companionway — ideal for day sails, hikes, and beach hops.
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I recommendate them !Everything went smooth, the paper processing, special requests and the specs of tht check-in procedure. Boat was also in good shape, so no complaints and a worry free holiday...
We had a great experience with booking through sailchecker.
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United Kingdom
Great service from Kate.Informative and looked for the best value for our family. Very good customer service on this side and in Greece. Great boat and skipper...
Fantastic holiday from start to finish.
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Very professional outfit!
They were very responsive and very quick to answer questions via email and instant chat. They had extensive knowledge of the area...
We will most definitely use their services for our next bareboat sailing vacation.
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Sail checker were professional from start to finish - we wouldn’t book through anyone else!Sailchecker were professional from start to finish - and were awesome dealing with a problem! Our first Yacht had serious issues and sail checker helped us to resolve it...
They are easy to deal with, straightforward and honest and I would recommend them to anyone planning a charter holiday.
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Coronavirus pandemic support has been brilliant!During the Coronavirus pandemic, Kate and her colleagues at Sailchecker have performed brilliantly. They have been considerate and highly efficient in re-organising our Turkey charter and also provided lots of assistance in getting our Yacht Security Deposit insurance policy transferred to match our revised charter dates.
Truly worthy of a 5 star rating!
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Sailing is the perfect family holiday.Would I go sailing again? OMG yes! Sailing is the perfect family holiday. Boys loved the activities, I enjoy relaxing as well...
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Thank you sooo much!Arranged for 6 friends to sail Spring Break in the British Virgin Islands for under $500 each.
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