Why Choose the Ionian Sea for a Sailing Holiday?
The Ionian Sea offers ideal conditions for safe, stress-free cruising. The islands are close together, the winds are reliable but rarely strong, and navigation is straightforward. Add in authentic culture, picturesque villages, protected bays and well-equipped ports, and you’ve got a sailor’s paradise.
A boat rental in the Ionian Sea offers relaxing sailing in one of the Mediterranean’s most captivating regions. This archipelago lies west of mainland Greece and is known for its lush landscapes, safe harbors and moderate winds. Top destinations include Lefkada, Corfu, Ithaca and Kefalonia – each with its own character, history and cuisine. With a yacht charter in the Ionian Sea from Sailogy, you can choose from modern sailboats, comfortable catamarans and fast motor yachts – available with or without skipper.Families, beginners and those seeking a relaxing holiday will feel especially at home here. With Sailogy, you’ll find the ideal boat for your needs – from sporty monohulls to luxury catamarans.
What Are the Top Destinations in the Ionian Sea?
Boat rental Corfu: Venetian architecture, lush landscapes and vibrant culture
Paxos & Antipaxos: turquoise waters, olive groves and crystal-clear snorkeling
Boat rental Lefkada: strategic location, modern marina, many anchorages
Meganisi: small harbors, peaceful coves, welcoming tavernas
Ithaca: island of Odysseus, authentic and full of character
Kefalonia: dramatic coastline, Melissani cave, Whether you set sail from Lefkada, Corfu or Preveza, the Ionian Sea offers plenty of variety for one- or two-week itineraries:ely port towns
A boat rental in the Ionian Sea means discovering new sights, flavors and stories every day.
What Are the Sailing Conditions Like in the Ionian Sea?
The Maestral wind usually blows from the northwest, builds during the day and calms at night. The sea is typically calm and there are no significant tides or currents – one reason the Ionian is so popular. Enjoy your breakfast in calm surrounding, as the wind tends to start in the middle of the day. Perfect for less experienced crews or mixed-level groups. Even with a skippered yacht charter in the Ionian Sea, you can simply relax and enjoy the journey.
How Do I Get There?
Depending on your departure port, there are several nearby airports:
-
Preveza (PVK): only 20 min from Lefkada Marina
-
Corfu (CFU): ideal for Gouvia Marina
-
Kefalonia (EFL): convenient for southern itineraries
Many European cities offer direct flights in high season. Transfers can easily be arranged through Sailogy.
What Types of Boats Can I Rent?
At Sailogy, you’ll find every type of yacht for your boat rental Ionian Sea:
Sailboat rental Ionian Sea: classic, sporty, versatile
Catamaran rental Ionian Sea: spacious, stable, ideal for families and groups
Motor yacht rental Ionian Sea: elegant, fast, luxurious
Available as bareboat or with skipper, with options for hostess and full crew service.
What Documents Do I Need?
For bareboat charter, you need a valid coastal sailing license (e.g., ICC, RYA Day Skipper). A VHF certificate is not required in Greece. Prefer to relax? Simply hire a professional skipper.
Sailogy helps verify your documents and guides you through the booking process.
What Should I Pack for a Yacht Charter?
Bring swimwear, sunscreen, light clothing, a sweater for evenings, a hat, non-slip shoes and a soft travel bag. Add your personal meds, towels, a water bottle, and maybe a book or portable speaker.This way your yacht charter Ionian Sea will be as comfortable as it is memorable.
What Cultural Highlights Does the Ionian Sea Offer?
Beyond its natural beauty, the Ionian Sea offers a rich cultural heritage. In Corfu, explore Venetian fortresses, Byzantine churches and the Achilleion Palace. In Ithaca, you can trace the myths of Odysseus. Kefalonia delights with monasteries, cave chapels and historic towns. Villages like Vathi and Kioni preserve traditional architecture and timeless charm. A yacht charter in the Ionian Sea is also a voyage through history.
Why Is the Ionian Sea Ideal for Families?
Short sailing legs, calm waters and safe anchorages make this a top family-friendly region. Kids can swim safely, explore ashore and join in life on board. Many tavernas have jetties perfect for a lunch stop or ice cream break. Towns like Nidri, Sivota and Fiskardo have everything you need for a smooth family cruise. A boat rental Ionian Sea is a shared adventure for all ages.
When Is the Best Time to Sail?
The sailing season runs from April to October:
- April–May: spring bloom, mild weather, few crowds
- June–August: warm, lively, perfect for beach life and families
- September–October: warm seas, peaceful atmosphere, fewer tourists
The shoulder months are ideal for quiet exploration and good deals.
Flavors & Cuisine of the Ionian Sea
Ionian cuisine reflects Italian influence, fresh local produce and rich Mediterranean flavors. Don’t miss Bourdeto (fish in pepper-tomato sauce), Sofrito (veal with garlic and wine), or sweet Mandolato (honey-nut nougat).
Whether dining ashore or cooking on board – your boat rental Ionian Sea becomes a true culinary voyage.
How Much Does It Cost?
Prices vary by boat type, season and extras:
- Sailboats: from €1,800/week
- Catamarans: €3,400–€7,000/week
- Motor yachts: from €3,500/week
- Crewed yachts: on request
Extras:
- Skipper: €150–200/day
- Hostess: €120–150/day
- Cleaning, fuel, mooring fees: €150–400/week
Book early with Sailogy for the best selection and rates.
7-Day Itinerary Suggestions from Corfu and Lefkada
A one-week cruise is perfect to explore the Ionian at a relaxed pace. Here are two suggested routes – Saturday to Friday:
From Corfu (Gouvia Marina)
Day 1 (Saturday): Arrival, check-in, overnight onboard
Day 2: Corfu – Lakka (Paxos), approx. 30 NM
Day 3: Lakka – Gaios (Paxos), short leg, approx. 7 NM
Day 4: Gaios – Antipaxos – Parga, approx. 18 NM
Day 5: Parga – Sivota, approx. 14 NM
Day 6: Sivota – Plataria or return toward Corfu, approx. 20 NM
Day 7 (Friday): Return to Gouvia Marina, check-out
From Lefkada
Day 1 (Saturday): Arrival, overnight in Lefkada Marina
Day 2: Lefkada – Meganisi, approx. 10 NM
Day 3: Meganisi – Ithaca, approx. 15–20 NM
Day 4: Ithaca – Kefalonia (Fiskardo), approx. 12 NM
Day 5: Kefalonia – Kalamos or Kastos, approx. 18 NM
Day 6: Kalamos – Nidri (Lefkada), approx. 15 NM
Day 7 (Friday): Return to Lefkada Marina
Both routes offer easy sailing, stunning bays, charming harbors and unforgettable cuisine – perfect for beginners and seasoned sailors alike.
Your Yacht Charter in the Ionian Sea
With Sailogy, your boat rental in the Ionian Sea is easy, flexible and tailored to you. Whether you want to relax, explore or sail actively – this region offers ideal conditions, cultural variety and spectacular anchorages.
Start your sailing adventure now – from Lefkada, Corfu or Kefalonia – and experience Greece from its most beautiful perspective!
