Must-see ancient monuments with a Greece boat rental.

With more shoreline than anywhere else in Europe, around 6,000 Greek islands to explore, and one of the oldest civilisations on Earth, Greece offers a myriad of awe-inspiring monuments from the ancient world. Whether you are a historical enthusiast or keen traveller, island-hop from ancient cities to ruined temples and retrace the steps of those long before you. Here are just a few ideas of historical sites to add to your Greek yacht charter itinerary.

Akrotiri, Santorini

Located in the southwestern corner of Santorini, the extraordinarily well-preserved ancient site of Akrotiri dates back more than six thousand years to the age of the Minoan civilisation. The town was destroyed during a large volcanic eruption around 1500 BC and was left buried in thick ash. The site was excavated in the 1960s, uncovering a surprisingly sophisticated layout of two-storey houses adorned with colourful frescoes, paved streets and fine art. Today, the prehistoric town of Akrotiri is a must-see on your Greece boat rental, offering
a fascinating insight into ancient Greece's daily life and culture.
 
After a day of going back in time, anchor your boat rental down on the island's western side for dramatic vistas. The landscape on this side is extremely imposing, with crisp white villas with cerulean roofs perch on top of large, steep rocks that plunge dramatically into the sea. It is a stark contrast to the island's eastern side, where you will find stretches of white sand peppered with rainbow-hued rocks.

 

Delos, Mykonos

Perhaps the most cosmopolitan of all the Greek islands, Mykonos has an international reputation of impeccable beaches, celebrity visitors, fresh cuisine, and of course, a rich history.
 
During your Greece boat rental, drop anchor off the tiny island of Delos, just off the western coast of Mykonos. Delos was an important religious centre in antiquity, held sacred as the birthplace of the god Apollo and his twin sister Artemis. It is a UNESCO-World Heritage Site and one of Greece's most important archaeological sites. The mesmerising remains of ancient temples, public buildings and statues pepper the landscape, but among the most famous sights are The Terrace of the Lions, an avenue of seven marble lion statues that line the Sacred Way.
 
Visitors should also visit the House of Dionysos during their Greece boat rental, a private dwelling known for its exceptional floor mosaics or stop by the Temple of the Delians and walk the floors of Synagogue, which is thought to be one of the oldest in existence, dating back to the 2nd century BC.

The blue water’s surrounding Mykonos are crystal clear, making this a great destination to enjoy your yacht charter’s tenders and toys.

 

Portara, Naxos

Standing on the cliff overlooking the port, the imposing symbol of the island of Naxos, the Portara, is the first thing you will see as you approach from your yacht rental. The Portara is located on the islet of Palatia and is joined to Naxos by a short causeway. This islet is steeped in history, as it is the mythological site where Theseus abandoned Ariadne, daughter of King Minos after he killed the Minotaur. The ancient monument is now all that remains of the temple to Apollo, which was started in 530 BC but was never completed. Reminiscent of a picture frame, the Portara now provides visitors with a breathtaking setting for viewing sunsets and sunrises.
 
Once a cultural centre of classical Greece and Byzantium, Naxos now boasts beautiful beaches and is a lovely place to explore on foot, as many old paths between villages, churches and other sights remain.

  

Ancient Theatre, Milos

Long known for its cultural significance and heritage, this rocky Greek outpost, Milos, is known for its sea-facing Roman-style theatre. Constructed originally in the 3rd century BC in a prominent location overlooking the port and later rebuilt in Parian marble by the Romans, the theatre could accommodate up to 7000 spectators who gathered here to celebrate summer festivals and watch musical performances.
 
Today, the theatre has been carefully restored and plays host to some spectacular concerts and plays during the summer - a memorable experience if you are on a Greece boat rental at the time.

 

Parthenon, Athens

To complete your Greece boat rental, cruise to Athens to visit the Parthenon, the enduring symbol of Greek civilisation, keeping watch over the modern cityscape. Renovated throughout history, the Parthenon acted as a temple to Greek gods and was once a religious building for the Virgin Mary. Towering statues and monuments remain frozen in place for you to walk beside as though you have travelled through time, and eerily you will see the remnants of a civilisation long before you and experience the greatness that once was the Greek Empire.
 
As a thriving centre for art, food, nightlife and, of course, ancient monuments, this energetic city is the perfect way to start or end a luxury yacht charter.
 
If you would like to include any of these culturally rich monuments and heritage sites into your itinerary, please speak to an experienced yacht broker and get planning your next Greece boat rental. 

 

 

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