Destination comparison
Greece vs US Virgin Islands
Two distinct sailing grounds — here's how they compare on conditions, cost, season, and who they suit.
Quick Comparison
| Dimension | Greece | US Virgin Islands |
|---|---|---|
| Region | Mediterranean | Caribbean |
| Peak season | Jun, Jul, Aug | Dec, Jan, Feb, Mar, Apr |
| Shoulder | May, Sep, Oct | Nov, May |
| Sailing difficulty | moderate | easy |
| Recommended level | intermediate | beginner friendly |
| Avg wind (winter / summer) | 14 / 12 kn | 17 / 13 kn |
| Hurricane risk | None | Aug, Sep, Oct |
| Currency | EUR | USD |
| Mid-tier price (7 days) | $8,000 | $9,500 |
| Luxury tier price | $32,000 | $36,000 |
| Detail page | View → | View → |
At a Glance
Meltemi (strong NW wind) peaks in July-August; affected areas: Cyclades. Best sailing: late May-June and September. Sail one-way Athens to Mykonos/Santorini possible.
- • 4 base marinas
- • 6 must-visit anchorages
- • 27 boats in our fleet database for this region
Hurricane season June-November. Less crowded than BVI; easy day-sail to BVI. US citizens do not need passport.
- • 2 base marinas
- • 5 must-visit anchorages
- • 31 boats in our fleet database for this region
Sailing Conditions
Greece averages 14 knots in winter and 12 knots in summer. There's no hurricane season, which makes year-round planning easier.
US Virgin Islands averages 17 knots in winter and 13 knots in summer. Hurricane risk: Aug, Sep, Oct.
In terms of sailing difficulty, Greece is generally rated moderate and US Virgin Islands is easy. The difference matters: Greece asks more of the skipper — confidence at the helm and some experience with coastal navigation helps.
Cost Comparison
For a 7-day charter of a typical 45-ft catamaran (4 cabins, sleeps 8):
- Low season: $3,000
- Mid season: $8,000
- High season: $16,000
- Luxury / crewed peak: $32,000+
- Low season: $3,500
- Mid season: $9,500
- High season: $19,000
- Luxury / crewed peak: $36,000+
Bareboat base rates. Crewed typically adds ~$1,500/day (captain + hostess). Prices exclude fuel, provisioning, mooring fees, gratuity.
Anchorages & Must-Do
- Santorini caldera — Iconic cliff villages; sunset at Oia
- Mykonos — Cosmopolitan nightlife; Little Venice
- Naxos — Long beaches; Mount Zas hiking; quieter
- Ios — Party vibe; quiet anchorages
- Milos — Sarakiniko lunar landscape; sea caves
- Buck Island (St Thomas) — Underwater snorkel trail; reef fish
- Magens Bay (St Thomas) — Often named one of the world's most beautiful beaches
- Caneel Bay / Honeymoon Beach (St John) — Crystal clear water; snorkeling
- The Baths (drive-up alternative) — BVI side easily accessible by ferry
- Christiansted, St Croix — Danish colonial architecture
Which Should You Choose?
Choose US Virgin Islands. Charter fleets are abundant, marina staff speak English, checkout sails are standard.
Choose US Virgin Islands. Warmer water year-round (often 75–85°F), palm-fringed anchorages.
Choose Greece. Mediterranean culture, history, cuisine, wines.
Captain's Take
"The Meltemi wind peaks in July-August with gusts of 30-40 knots, mostly in the central Cyclades (Mykonos-Paros-Naxos corridor). If you're a less experienced crew, base yourself in the Saronic Gulf (Aegina, Hydra, Spetses) or the Ionian (Corfu, Lefkada) — far calmer. For adventurous crews, the Meltemi gives excellent downwind runs from Mykonos to Santorini in just one day. Always have a Plan B harbor within 10nm — Koufonisia and Donoussa are great Meltemi shelters."
"If you only have 7 days and want both sides, base yourself in St Thomas (USVI) and day-sail to BVI. The USVI has easier entry (US citizens no passport needed) and reliable provisioning in Red Hook or Yacht Haven. The BVI has better-protected anchorages, smaller distances between islands, and the iconic spots (Baths, Norman Island). Most of our guests do 3-4 days USVI + 3-4 days BVI; this works well from Christmas to April when seas are calm."
Timing and Budget: Greece vs US Virgin Islands
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Greece or US Virgin Islands better for a first-time charter? ▾
Which is cheaper to charter — Greece or US Virgin Islands? ▾
When is the best time to visit Greece vs US Virgin Islands? ▾
How do sailing conditions compare — Greece vs US Virgin Islands? ▾
Which has better flight access — Greece or US Virgin Islands? ▾
Which is more beginner-friendly, Greece or US Virgin Islands? ▾
Choose Between Greece & US Virgin Islands
Tell us your dates and group. We'll recommend the right one — honestly.