The crystal clear, turquoise seas of the Ionian sea that surround the islands' shores distinguish this family of islands, making it one of the most picturesque places in the Mediterranean.
You've probably heard of the remarkable beauty of Zakinthos' "wreck beach," of the movie "Captain Corelli's Mandolin," which was filmed in Kefalonia, of Odysseus' homeland, Ithaca, of Aristotle Onassis' private island, Skoprios, or of the empress Sissi's "Achillio" house in Corfu.
A tour of these sights may easily fill a holiday; all that's left to do is select between an organized beach with restaurants, beach bars, and sun umbrellas and a private beach where you can relax with your favorite book.
If you enjoy water activities, you've come to the correct place:
Windsurfing, kitesurfing, paragliding, and even bungee jumping may all provide a rush of excitement!
Corfu, Kefalonia, and Zakinthos all have airports, while the island of Lefkada is served by the adjacent Aktio airport.
Lefkada Island yachts base is a great place to start exploring the ionian sea. Even though check-in is at 17:00, there is no need to stay the night at the marina. During a seven-day trek, every day matters. Our Mykonos island boat base is located in Mykonos' Tourlos Marina.
Information on Sailing
In Ionian, there are two large contemporary marinas on the islands of Corfu and Lefkada. They often charge 50 euros per day. Sailors can avoid these marinas since there are free moorings nearby. Smaller, smaller ports may only charge €2 per day for mooring, if at all.
During the high season, free places may be obtained readily on Ithaca or Paxi island (Gaios), but in Kefalonia (Fiskardo), this might be problematic.
Do you have to anchor in every port near the action? You may be paying to sit next to boisterous drunks! Anchoring a bit further out and coming into port by dinghy may pay dividends in terms of sleep and, of course, your wallet. This may pay off because the Ionian is so lovely everywhere you go.
Unlike in Western Europe, we moor stern-to in marinas - a technique we discuss in our Sailing Guide.
There are also peaceful anchorages where you can get away from the hustle and bustle of the larger cities.
Day 1: Lefkada-Paxis-Gaios Port (33 N.M).
Beginning at Lefkada and proceeding to the port of Gaios is the best route for those who enjoy pure sailing, where the winds are in their favor! 33 nautical miles ( 5 hours of sailing) Port of Gaios After a full day of sailing in the Ionian, the major port of Paxos is the appropriate stop. Enjoy the local cuisine and shopping. Relax on board while floating across its clear seas!
Day 2: Paxos to Gaios, then to Parga (10 N.M).
You may begin your investigation of the mainland just opposite Gaios, from the little port of Parga. 1 hour and 15 minutes of sailing Port of Parga Arriving early allows you to obtain a position at the Parga port. Make the most of your day by visiting the nearby castle and meandering through its narrow alleyways.
Day 3: Parga to Sivota (Mainland) (12 N.M).
Cruise down the coast to Sivota, a natural port defended by smaller isles that may also be used for anchoring. (Sailing time: 2 hours) Sivota Harbour You may enjoy the peace and quiet of the town by swimming in one of the many protected bays in the region.
Day 4: Sivota to Corfu Town through the Mainland (20 N.M).
From Parga to Corfu, you can see the constantly changing panorama between the mainland and the island. (three hours of sailing) Corfu Town is the Ionian Islands' capital. Wandering about Corfu will allow you to visit its ancient center and become acquainted with the native food and mindset.
5th Day: Corfu Town to Antipaxos - Voutoumi (33 N.M).
Sailing from Corfu to Lefkada on your yacht or catamaran, a halt at Voutoumi is a perfect overnight break. Sailing (5 hours) Voutoumi is a true Paradise on Earth! Your boat is floating between sky and sea, and the purity of the seas will not fail to captivate you! More Information
Day 6: Antipaxos to Kefalonia via Voutoumi (46 N.M).
With a number of kilometers to travel on this day of your sailing trip, an early start will allow you to appreciate the route while being surrounded by the morning wind. Fiskardo PortThe world-famous Ionian attraction! A must-see destination with a wonderful ancient town and several taverns and tavernas! More Information
Kefalonia Day 7: Fiskardo to Agia Efthimia (11 N.M).
Sailing to Agia Effimia, which is protected between the islands of Kefalonia and Ithaca, gives you access to the various bays and coves that can accommodate some of your quick breaks for swimming and fishing. (Sailing time of 1.5 hours) Effimia, Agia This community is great for all sorts of breezes, whether you like to dine on board while looking at the local harbor or in one of the local tavernas.
Day 8: Kefalonia to Ithaca via Agia Efthimia (21 N.M).
To reach Vathi, circumnavigate the southern section of Homer's Ithaca. Select from one of the many beaches and coves to spend the day before docking at the island's capital. Sailing (3 hours) Vathi Port - Ithaca Vathi is Europe's largest natural harbor and Ithaca's primary port. Packed with life and options, it is a must-see if sailing with your bareboat or skippered sailboat in the Ionian.
Ithaca, Day 9: Vathi to Kioni (6 N.M).
Going to Kioni, which is protected from the open sea, allows you to relax. With just 6 NM to cover for the day, you may make swimming stops. (Sailing in less than an hour) Kioni Arriving early at Kioni's port will provide you a mooring in the center of the harbor and the opportunity to spend some quality time in the local pubs and restaurants.
thaca - Kioni to Kastos - Day 10 (14 N.M).
Go to the island of Kastos and spend the day sailing about the isles and the island itself, visiting the caves and surrounding beaches. Sailing (2 hours) Port of Kastos Another unspoiled island with numerous trees and cheerful inhabitants, this little island has only a few pubs and a grocery. The ideal location for bareboat or skippered charter sailing vessels.
11th Day: Kastos to Kalamos (5 N.M).
Both islands are pristine, with gorgeous scenery and clear blue oceans. You must swim in one of the little bays that surround these islands! Distance: 5 nautical miles (less than one hour sailing) Port Kalamos This little harbor was formerly a fisherman's refuge and is quite charming and peaceful, with only a few tavernas for a quiet bite to eat and drink.
Day 12: Kalamos to Meganissi - Vathi (13 N.M).
Kalamos and Meganisi have several little virgin bays for swimming and are extremely near to one another. Distance: 15.5 nautical miles (2 hours of sailing). Meganisi You may anchor in Spartochori, Vathi, or Abelaki bay on the first day of your sailing holiday. Every location is breathtaking! Meganisi - Vathi to Lefkas - Day 13 (11 N.M) The route of return. You must be in Lefkas marina from 16:00 to 17:00, so start your day early if you want to swim at the famed Onassis Island (Scorpios) or any of the islands and bays on your way back to Lefkada. Stop at the marina's entrance at the gasoline station to refuel...