HYDRA – Top yacht charter destination
Built in the shape of an amphitheatre on a slope overlooking the Argosaronic gulf, Hydra offers a sublime welcome as you sail towards her in your luxury yacht.
This beautiful temptress has long lured international celebrities and wealthy Greeks with her charms.
Singer-songwriter Leonard Cohen holidayed here for most of his life from the 1960s; famed designer Vivienne Westwood chose Hydra to shoot her 2016 collection, while Kate Moss has vacationed here with her daughter, Lila. Not least, Hydra became globally famous in the late 1950s, after the making of the film Boy on a Dolphin , starring Sophia Loren.
Hydra is especially known as a popular yachting destination. In the summers, groups of sailing boats moor at the harbour, as well as spectacular motorboats and yachts. You’ll be in good company.
Hydra – Things to Do
Not called the ‘laid-back island’ by Conde Nast Traveller for nothing, Hydra can best be appreciated by taking meandering walks through the narrow cobblestone streets, admiring the exquisite stone mansions, churches, monasteries — and breathtaking views.
The waterfront — the heart of the town — boasts uncountable monuments, churches, canons, museums, old mansions, statues of famous heroes, shops and cafes, while picturesque winding streets lead you to neighborhoods located at the upper part of the town. The old neighbourhood of Kiafas is worth a visit.
Hydra is also ideal for a lazy beach vacation, and there are plenty of lovely beaches to choose from. Relax in the shade on a sun lounger at the gorgeous Saint Nicholas or Ayios Nikolaos or take a dip in warm, translucent waters. Perhaps sail your yacht to Vlychos Beach, a sandy beach on the west of the island, which can only be accessed by yacht or water taxi.
Hydra is also a draw for adventure enthusiasts and there are plenty of activities on offer: swimming, cliff-jumping, horseback riding, trekking and climbing. You will be spoilt for choice.
And if by the rare chance you tire of relaxing on the deck of your luxury yacht, consider a walk up to the historic Profitis Ilias Monastery, perched above Hydra town. The views are stunning, and not least, you can sample some of the olive-oil soap handmade by the local monks.
Hydra – The Gourmet Experience
If you appreciate the gentle pace of life on Hydra, you should pick a restaurant to match your mood — and your choice is wide. From bustling waterfront tavernas, to tiny hole-in-the-wall eateries, to impressive fine dining on elevated terraces with awe-inspiring views, Hydra is guaranteed to match all tastes and appetites.
Try some finger-licking homemade ice-creams and sorbets of The Cool Mule Café, fresh seafood at Sunset Restaurant Hydra or memorable Italian cuisine with a Greek twist at Il Casta.
Insider tip In high season, when Hydra’s harbour tends to be overrun with yachts, consider dropping anchor at Mandraki, a pretty anchorage less than a mile east of Hydra port. It once served as Hydra’s primary naval port, so is perfect as an alternative spot to moor your yacht.
Charter a yacht in Hydra
You can call us or leave your charter enquiry here and we’ll make sure you get the most from your yachting holiday to this magical Greek island. We are here to help you plan every last detail of your memorable island-hopping adventure.
