Why Sail in the Ionian Sea?
The Ionian Sea is the ultimate sailing destination, perfect for families and friends. With steady winds and short sailing distances between islands, it’s ideal for both experienced sailors and beginners. The turquoise waters, lush green islands, and picturesque villages make every journey unforgettable. Sheltered anchorages and gentle breezes ensure a safe and relaxing trip, while the warm Greek hospitality in local harbors adds to the charm. The Ionian Sea truly is a must-sail spot for anyone looking for the perfect mix of adventure and tranquility.
Best Time to Sail in the Ionian Islands
The best time to sail in the Ionian Islands is from April to October, with June being the prime month for sailing. During this period, the weather is warm and sunny, with temperatures ranging from 22-28°C and sea temperatures of 22-24°C. The winds are generally gentle, making it an ideal time for sailing. However, it’s worth noting that the summer months can be busy, and the winds can be stronger in the afternoons.
Planning your sailing holiday during these months ensures you experience the Ionian Islands at their best. The spring and early summer months offer pleasant temperatures and fewer crowds, while the high season in July and August brings vibrant energy and bustling harbors. Regardless of when you choose to sail, the Ionian Islands promise an unforgettable adventure with their stunning landscapes and perfect sailing conditions.
The Ionian Sea - Lefkada, South
The Ionian Sea is situated between western Greece (and western Albania) and the southeastern part of Italy. To its north lies the Adriatic Sea, and to its south is the Mediterranean Sea, essentially its extension. Lefkada is a notable island in the eastern Ionian Sea, connected to western Greece by a road. In Greek, the word “Lefkas” translates to “white.” The name perfectly captures its stunning white beaches.
Lefkada is serving as the primary hub for sailing adventures in the region. This expansive marina, housing hundreds of yachts available for charter, serves as the starting point for voyages across the entire area. Additional marinas for setting sail in the area include PREVEZA and NIKIANA.
Lefkas Marina is a key starting point in the South Ionian sailing itinerary, offering modern facilities and proximity to Lefkas Town.
The region is characterized mainly by very calm weather during the summer. Sometimes, there are entire days without wind. However, this doesn’t mean occasional storms don’t pass through, as is the case throughout Greece, even in the summer. The area is highly geographically sheltered (unless you venture to the western side), resulting in mostly calm seas most of the time. Skippered charter options are available for those seeking personalized sailing experiences guided by knowledgeable skippers.
This is a greener region than the Aegean Sea islands and the center of Greece, abundant with lush trees and green vegetation, brimming with breathtaking nature. White limestone cliffs descend dramatically into the water, creating numerous areas of caves and rock formations where water meets stone. These conditions also create the renowned clear turquoise shores found throughout the region. Natural and scenic wise, this might just be the most stunning area for sailing in Greece, and it’s not just by chance that it’s considered one of the most esteemed sailing destinations worldwide.
In terms of villages, urban excursions, and culture, this area holds a more modest appeal compared to other sailing regions in Greece. On most islands, you’ll delight in picturesque villages that have sprung up around marinas and tourism, along with a touch of agriculture if you venture up the hills. Beyond all this, the majority of what the region has to offer revolves around the sea, nature, and the landscape.
In this page, we have chosen to focus on sailing south from Lefkada.
Check our Sailing Itinerary to Ionian North
The Ionian Sea islands are abundant in picturesque coves and points of interest. In each region, we’ve selected the most central and successful spots according to our taste, but this doesn’t mean that there aren’t additional beautiful spots to discover. We recommend utilizing the NAVILY website if you wish to explore additional points of interest and gain a deeper understanding of the area.
For your convenience, for the purpose of planning and building your route, all the highlighted place namesin yellow are links directly to their respective points on the NAVILY website map.
Designing a sailing route depends on personal preferences and weather conditions. Some prefer long voyages, others short trips; some enjoy quiet bays, while others seek lively docks. Weather plays a key role, making it best to adapt daily based on forecasts rather than sticking to a fixed itinerary. Flexibility ensures a safe and enjoyable sailing experience tailored to your needs.
We have carefully selected and curated recommended points of interest in each area, allowing you the freedom to craft your own sailing itinerary based on your preferred style of sailing. As you progress through your voyage, you can also modify and make decisions during your week of sailing.
Navigating the Region and Getting to Know the Key Islands:
Apart from its Marina, Lefkada is a spacious gem, adorned with numerous highly recommended stopovers, whether you’re heading out or returning from the marina by boat. Some of these are marinas themselves, and like every region in the Ionian Sea, they offer countless bays and coves. We have selected the recommended destinations here from our favorite spots in the area. For those seeking memorable holidays in the Ionian, starting a yacht charter from Vliho, Lefkada is an ideal choice.
Additionally, Gouvia Marina is highlighted as a large, privately owned marina that offers comprehensive services and amenities for yacht charters, demonstrating its significance as a hub for sailing activities in the region.
Nidri
A large, sheltered, and charming bay, located relatively close to Lefkada, with several docks and a few stunning beaches perfect for dropping anchor. We explored one dock and one bay, but you’re welcome to explore the entire surroundings – there’s no shortage of anchoring spots here. The local restaurants in Sivota are known for their great service, enhancing the overall dining experience in this bustling area. Additionally, consider choosing a family owned yacht charter for a more personalized and dedicated service, ensuring high standards of maintenance and a personal touch that sets them apart from yacht agents.
Docks:
A charming little bay filled with docks, restaurants, and bars. This is a place with an incredible atmosphere, especially during the evening hours around the docks, when all the restaurants and bars are bustling with sailors. Our recommendation is not to miss out on this experience…
Docks:
The first docks at the anchoring. Ideal for those who wish not to be directly tied to the bustling hubbub of restaurants and bars during the evening hours.
Expansive and breathtaking white coastline, featuring rocky outcrops and quaint caves to explore with dinghies\ SAP\ kayaks. This incredibly scenic location is suitable only during calm seas, as it is fully open to the western direction. In the late morning hours, tourist vessels begin to sail through this area.
A stunning array of idyllic coves, anchorages, and well-organized marinas awaits you. Choose whatever you like. While we can provide a few recommendations, the possibilities are endless. Please note that during the peak season, particularly on Sundays and Thursdays due to their proximity to Lefkada, the most popular spots tend to fill up quickly. It is advisable to secure your spot in advance. For a more tranquil experience, consider the smaller, lesser-known bays and inlets, which are generally less crowded. There is a high likelihood of finding availability in one of these.
Marina:
A spacious and well-organized marina. Exquisitely beautiful and meticulously arranged. Prices are very high, and it is essential to book in advance!
Anchorage:
A tranquil green island, adorned with a charming little village and abundant lush nature alongside beautiful shorelines. Very calm and peaceful.
Marina:
A tranquil and serene village marina. Can get quite bustling during peak season. Surrounded by picturesque beauty and charm.
Anchorage:
- Gerolimionas – A stunning bay with a charming church and ancient ruins along the shoreline.
- Episkopi –
A tranquil and peaceful little anchorage with ample spots to drop anchor around. Please note that the area is open to the north.
Stunning Coastal Line! Nestled amidst small pebble beaches and a sprawling forest above. Exceptionally beautiful and highly recommended for a refreshing swim and relaxation. Of course, when weather conditions are favorable. The area is relatively open and not sheltered.
Tranquil, picturesque, and serene island. A delightful escape if you seek something more serene than the bustling central islands. Ideal for leisurely walks around the island. However, be mindful of the weather conditions, as the coves are all open either to the east or west. The island lacks well-protected anchorages in all directions.
Marina:
Beautiful and tranquil anchorage. Please note that there are no water, electricity, and Mediterranean Sea connection facilities with ropes to the shore.
Anchorage:
Beautiful and serene bay. Scenic routes for exploration. Can get quite busy during the season.
- Wasp bay –a picturesque and charming small bay.
A small island without any marinas or anchorages but boasting several turquoise coves adorned with stunning white cliffs characterizes the area. It is definitely worth considering a brief stop and taking a refreshing plunge in the waters during suitable weather conditions.
Anchorage:
Stunning turquoise bay, possibly crowded during the season. And, of course, be mindful of the weather conditions as it is entirely open to the east.
Another breathtaking Turquoise Bay, might experience high demand during peak season. And naturally, pay attention to the weather since it is fully exposed to the south.
The realm of Odysseus, a relatively small island, sprawling about 2 nautical miles off the northeastern shores of Kefalonia. Boasts exquisite coastlines, crystal-blue waters, and lush greenery that beckon for exploration and adventure. A visit to this island is certainly worth your while. Please take note not to get confused; in many places, there are bays or anchorages named Vathi. The word’s meaning in Greek is “depths,” and it is meant to represent an area suitable for anchoring. As there is no precise definition for the depth, it’s important not to rely solely on the name. 
Marina:
- Kioni –
A quaint anchorage in a charming village nestled by beautiful shores and short excursion routes. Please note that there are limited anchoring spots, and during the season, many yachts are tied to the Mediterranean Sea’s rocks near the anchorage. Spending a night here is still absolutely worth your while.
A well-organized urban marina with a relaxed atmosphere, surrounded by restaurants, bars, and beaches.
- Frikes – a small, tranquil, and stunning anchorage; please note that there are limited anchoring spots available.
Anchorage:
A stunning bay with a beautiful shoreline. Please note that it is open to the northeast. Perfect for a midday stop or an overnight stay if the weather conditions are suitable.
An entire area of turquoise shores nestled beneath the white cliffs. Stunning beaches, perfect for a morning \ afternoon stop if the weather permits.
- Antri– A small and charming bay.
Vast Island is considered by many to be the most beautiful in the region, boasting numerous marinas, picturesque villages, beaches, and coves. If your schedule allows, it is highly recommended to spend even a couple of days here, spending each night in a different spot. If you’re planning a land excursion with car rentals and tours, Vast Island is certainly the place to do it. From anywhere on the island, it is highly recommended to take a car and drive through the mountains to visit Assos, a charming and picturesque village on the northwest side of the island. Assos is a must-see destination with its enchanting beach, several restaurants, and a two-hour hiking trail to a breathtaking fortress viewpoint. Moreover, it is advisable to inquire with the locals about the prettiest beach in each area across the island because it is abundant with stunning shores. The renowned destination is Myrtos Beach, an enchanting shoreline, although during peak seasons, it tends to be bustling with visitors.
Marina:
A spacious, well-organized, and comfortable marina awaits you, complete with numerous restaurants, bars, and shops. It serves as a convenient hub for renting cars for island exploration, which may be harder to come by in other locations.
A cozy, modest anchor spot, with simple charm that offers comfort, organization, and several restaurants.
One of the charming corners on the island, but – It gets extremely busy during the season, so it’s important to plan ahead as you’ll likely need to secure a spot in a Mediterranean anchorage on one side \ anchor in the center of the bay. Taking this into consideration, the location is truly stunning – a delightful village with numerous restaurants and bars. Spending a night here is definitely worth it!
A well-organized and securely protected urban anchorage. However, it lacks the charm and allure found in other spots on the island. There’s also limited shoreline activity. A place worth exploring in case you need shelter from the weather or if you’re flexible with accommodation options. But there are more picturesque spots on the island…
This is the island’s largest city. An urban marina nestled within the city. Less pleasing and picturesque compared to the regional norm. Ideal for those seeking a bustling city experience with fewer natural landscapes and vistas.
Anchorage:
- Spartia– An amazing coastal line! Stunning white cliffs and absolutely mesmerizing turquoise beaches make it a must-stop destination, even for an overnight stay – only when weather conditions permit. Completely open towards the south-southeast.
- Koumaria Beach –
Another stunning coastline, an exceptionally sheltered area that typically remains serene and free from heavy yacht traffic even during the peak season.
- Foki –
A small and incredibly beautiful bay. An area of rocks and forest. A breathtaking view. Please note, it’s open to the east, so anchor accordingly during the season. If the weather permits, this could serve as an alternative to a night in Fiskardo if it’s too crowded there. Located within walking distance from the village.
- Atheras –
A charming and tranquil bay, usually free from overcrowding. Highly sheltered, except for the north.
- 37° 15.60’ N, 23° 9.97’ E Mpaltizas marina
The southern island in the chain of islands within the Ionian Sea, and one of the largest. It is relatively distant from Lefkada, and since there is so much to do and see on the nearby islands, it’s quite likely that during the week of sailing from Lefkada, you’ll choose to forgo heading southward. However, if you’re planning an extended sailing expedition, you might consider visiting the island. This relatively developed island features an airport and significant land-based tourism, particularly local party scenes. The island gained its reputation mainly due to its stunning beaches, primarily lining the western coastline, adorned with massive white cliffs and turquoise shores below. The incredibly lush and captivating Green Island also offers a rewarding land excursion up the mountains, paired with visits to several beautiful shores.
However (possibly due to its distance from the yachting tourism from Lefkada) it lacks a substantial number of marinas or anchorages. There are only 2 yacht marinas on the entire island. Saint Nicholas in the North is a charming little anchorage with several taverns and a beautiful view. It’s not completely sheltered though. Apart from it there’s only the commercial harbor, which, of course, lacks the allure and appeal we sailors seek. When it comes to coves, the island boasts amazing ones, as mentioned, but there are hardly any well-protected coves. Therefore, it is advisable to anchor only in calm weather conditions.
Marina:
A charming and beloved small anchoring spot. Northern and pleasant. Please note that it’s not entirely sheltered, so it’s not recommended in challenging weather conditions.
There are several anchoring options within a large commercial harbor. It’s not ideal or recommended unless you have constraints or a reason to visit the major city.
- Port Sostis – A quaint and tranquil anchorage, don’t count on its mooring. However, just outside the harbor, there are mooring options available, as well as a spot for dropping anchor along the northern shoreline. An exquisite area with a delightful excursion to the nearby picturesque islet, seamlessly connected to the anchorage by a bridge.
Anchorage:
A stunning bay adorned with rocky cliffs and a charming little blue cave. Take note that it’s entirely open to the east. You’ll also find DAY TOUR boats of tourists arriving here throughout the day.
- Filippoi Beach – Small yet picturesque cove. Might get crowded.
The famous beach of Zakynthos with the shipwreck. Regarded as one of the most stunning beaches in the world, its image graces numerous internet websites showcasing Greece. Consequently, the area is bustling with tourist sailboats throughout the entire day. It is recommended to arrive early in the morning. During calm weather, the bay is open to the northwest.
- Ormos Zachari – a breathtaking bay nestled between white cliffs. Incredibly beautiful; however, it’s quite small and might get crowded.
- Kampi –
Similar to Zachari Bay. A charming small bay nestled between white cliffs. Exceedingly beautiful.
Another stunning anchorage spot featuring white cliffs and turquoise waters. A beautiful location! Please note that it is completely open to the south.
Sailing the Ionian Islands
The Ionian Islands offer a wide range of sailing experiences, from bustling harbors to secluded bays. The islands of Corfu, Kefalonia, Zakynthos, and Ithaca are popular sailing destinations, each with its own unique charm and character. Corfu is an ideal starting point for sailing in the Ionian Sea, with its excellent infrastructure and strategic location. Kefalonia is known for its diverse coastline, towering cliffs, and secluded bays, while Zakynthos is famous for its clear waters and marine life. Ithaca is a more relaxed and peaceful destination, with its green hills, olive groves, and vineyards.
Whether you’re an experienced sailor or just starting out, the Ionian Islands have something to offer. With its stunning scenery, gentle winds, and rich history, the Ionian Sea is a must-visit destination for any sailing enthusiast. So why not start planning your sailing holiday today and experience the magic of the Ionian Islands for yourself?
From the vibrant nightlife of Corfu to the tranquil bays of Ithaca, each island offers a unique slice of paradise. The Ionian Islands are perfect for those looking to explore diverse landscapes, enjoy local cuisine, and immerse themselves in the rich culture and history of Greece. So, set sail and discover why the Ionian Sea is a beloved destination for sailors worldwide.
For a more Detailed Guide, read our Bareboat Yacht Charter- The Complete Guide.
