Best starting locations for sailing in the Ionian sea

Best Starting Locations for Sailing in the Ionian Sea

Experience the unmatched splendour of the Ionian Sea, a perfect location for sailors wishing to see the magnificent Greek islands. The Ionian Sea provides an ideal environment for both experienced sailors and novices taking off on their first sailing expedition with its pristine waters, mild winds, and extensive historical background. This book will lead you to the ideal starting points for your cruise across this tranquil sea, guaranteeing an adventure full of amazing vistas, fascinating cultural discoveries, and life-changing experiences.

Ionian Sea Sail: Why Go There?

Many people consider sailing on the Ionian Sea to be a dream come true because of its varied landscapes, ideal weather, and the kind people of Greece. This location ought to be at the top of your sailing bucket list for the following reasons:

Superior Natural Beauty

The Ionian islands are a tribute to the creativity of nature, from the lush coastlines of Corfu to the immaculate beaches of Zakynthos. Every island has a distinct charm of its own, presenting seafarers with a world of discovery.

Perfect Conditions for Sailing

The sea is a good option for both novice and expert sailors due to its calm waters and consistent breezes, which create ideal sailing conditions.

Abundant Cultural Legacy

As you travel from island to island, the rich history of the Ionian islands—which includes Venetian strongholds and Greek ruins—offers a window into the past.

Best Places to Launch Your Sail Adventure

Selecting the ideal launching point is essential when sailing the Ionian Sea. Whether you’re wanting to lease a catamaran, find a sailboat, or rent a yacht in the Greek islands, each island has its own benefits.

Corfu: The Centre of History

With its dynamic culture and extensive history, Corfu makes a great place to start. The marinas on the island provide convenient access to the northern Ionian Sea and are well-equipped to meet your sailing demands.

Lefkada: The Interlink

Lefkada is distinct in that it is easily accessible for travellers wishing to begin their adventure in the centre of the Ionian Sea because it is connected to the mainland by a bridge. Because of its centre location, it’s well-suited for exploring the sea’s northern and southern regions.

Zakynthos: A Paradise on the Beach

Beautiful beaches may be found in Zakynthos, including the well-known Shipwreck Beach. You can quickly lose yourself in the Ionian’s natural beauty by beginning your adventure here.

Best Places to Launch Your Sail Adventure

Selecting the ideal launching point is essential when sailing the Ionian Sea. Whether you’re wanting to lease a catamaran, find a sailboat, or rent a yacht in the Greek islands, each island has its own benefits.

• Corfu: The Centre of History
• With its dynamic culture and extensive history, Corfu makes a great place to start. The marinas on the island provide convenient access to the northern Ionian Sea and are well-equipped to meet your sailing demands.
• Lefkada: The Interlink

As you plot your course across the Ionian Sea, keep in mind that the freedom to explore and the excitement of venturing into the unknown are what really make sailing so great. With so many islands, the Ionian Sea provides countless opportunities for exploration, leisure, and getting back in touch with nature. Whether you want to take a magnificent catamaran charter or rent a sailboat in Greece, your trip across the Ionian Seas will undoubtedly be an adventure of a lifetime.

The Central Jewel, Lefkada

Reachable Beauty

Sailors choose Lefkada as a strategic point because of its beautiful landscapes and reputation for accessibility. Causeway connecting it to the mainland makes it a great starting place for exploring the southern and northern Ionian.

Routes for Sailing from Lefkada

Sailors have the luxury of choice starting from Lefkada. Sailing south reveals the undiscovered beauties of Meganisi, Kastos, and Kalamos, all of which have peaceful bays and gracious Greek hospitality. Heading north, you come across the lovely Ithaca and the immaculate beaches of Kefalonia.

Uncovering the Ionian’s Magnificence: Zakynthos

From the well-known Navagio Beach to the Caretta-Caretta turtle habitats, Zakynthos, also known as Zante, is a veritable gold mine of natural treasures. Because of its southern location in the Ionian, it’s an ideal place for sailors to begin their exploration of the islands’ breathtaking coastlines and abundant biodiversity.

Findings in the Area of Zakynthos

The calm waters of the Ionian Sea welcome you as you set sail from Zakynthos, guiding you to secluded coves and breathtaking marine life, providing every stop with chances for incredible snorkelling and diving adventures.

Corfu: A Fusion of Sailing and Culture

Located at the northern entrance of the Ionian Sea, Corfu is a cultural melting pot as well as a haven for sailors. Corfu provides a distinctive combination of sailing and historical discovery with its Venetian strongholds, ancient ruins, and lush scenery.

Getting around after Corfu

Sailing enthusiasts can choose to cruise to the Diapontian Islands or down the picturesque Ionian Sea shoreline thanks to Corfu’s advantageous location. Spots with a thriving local community and a rich history can be found along every route.

Ideas for Sailing Itineraries

The Path of Culture

A voyage through time is provided for individuals who are captivated by the rich histories of the Ionian islands. It begins in Corfu and proceeds to historical locations such as the Achilleion Palace and the Old Fort, before sailing towards Paxi to discover the quaint towns.

The Explorer on the Beach

For those who love the beach, Lefkada is an ideal place to start. Visit the remote beaches of Meganisi after sailing towards Porto Katsiki and Egremni, two of Europe’s most beautiful beaches.

The Journey of the Nature Lover

Zakynthos is a nature lover’s paradise with its variety of ecosystems. Take a boat ride around the island to see where the Caretta-caretta turtles nest, and make sure you visit the Marathonisi islet and the Blue Caves.

Advice for a Flowing Experience at Sea

• Regularly check the weather forecast: Although the weather in the Ionian Sea is often mild, it’s advisable to be ready for anything that could change.
• Respect Marine Life: A wide variety of marine creatures can be found in the Ionian Sea. Consider your influence on their habitats at all times.
• Discover Local Food: There is a wide variety of food to be had on the Ionian islands. Try some of the regional wines and cuisines.

Ionian Sea sailing is more than just getting across the water; it’s also about the experiences you have at each destination, the tranquil beauty you see, and the bonds you form with the sea and its islands. Whether your preference is to lease a catamaran, rent a yacht in the Greek islands, or go sailing, the Ionian Sea provides an abundance of experiences, many of which are more rewarding than the last.

Organising Your Ionian Boat Trip

Ideal Time to Set Sail

The late spring (May) to early fall (October) season is the best time to sail on the Ionian Sea. The mild weather and favourable breezes that accompany these months make for enjoyable sailing conditions. For a more private experience, think of sailing during the shoulder seasons (May–June or September–October), as July and August are the busiest travel months.

Important Things to Bring

• Navigation Tools: Physical maps are a good backup, even though digital navigation tools are quite helpful.
• Sun Protection: The sun in Greece can be very strong. Pack plenty of hats, sunscreen, and protective gear.
• Safety Gear: Make sure your boat has a first aid kit, flares, and life jackets.
• Local SIM Card: Having a connection might be useful for emergencies and navigation.

Honour the environment and customs of the area

The Ionian islands support thriving communities and fragile ecosystems in addition to being popular tourist attractions. It is essential to respect regional traditions, customs, and environmental regulations. By eating at local restaurants and buying local goods, you can support small businesses in your community.

Getting the Most Out of Your Cruise

Take Time to Get Into the Local Culture

Every island in the Ionian chain has its own distinct customs and culture. Spend some time seeing the nearby villages, taking part in festivals, if you’re fortunate enough to see one, and visiting historical monuments and museums.

Uncover the Gastronomic Pleasures

The Ionian islands provide some of the best Greek food, which is a sensory feast. Enjoy the regional flavours, which include fresh seafood, wines, and olive oil. Ask around for the best local restaurants; every island has its own specialty.

Investigate Outside the Beaches

Even though the Ionian Sea is well known for its gorgeous beaches, there is still a lot to see. To truly appreciate the uniqueness of these islands, visit old ruins, go on hikes to waterfalls, and explore inland settlements.

Establish a connection with nature

Nature enthusiasts will find paradise in the Ionian Sea and its islands. Take advantage of the chance to get in touch with the Ionian’s natural beauty by doing activities like snorkelling in pristine waters and enjoying the sunset from hidden coves.

Never Leave a Trace

It is everyone’s obligation to keep the Ionian islands in their original state. Always leave areas as you find them, properly dispose of rubbish, and try to have as little of an environmental influence as possible.

Taking a sailing trip in the Ionian Sea offers the chance to discover one of the most breathtaking seaside locations on earth. Your trip will be full with life-changing events if you prepare properly and show respect for the Ionian islands’ natural and cultural treasures. Your journey over these azure seas promises to be a trip of a lifetime, filled with everything from the serene beauty of isolated bays to the rich tapestry of Ionian culture and history.

Greek weeks call for shore stops with their own ritual — grilled octopus and a chilled carafe of Assyrtiko on a Naxos taverna terrace, tzatziki and freshly baked tiropita in the morning, while the Meltemi grumbles offshore and the harbour stays calm.

Frequently asked questions

How do I book a yacht charter on Catamaran Charter Greece?

Choose your dates and destination, browse our fleet, and use request a quote to lock in pricing. Our team confirms availability with the agency and emails the booking summary within 24 hours.

Do I need a sailing license?

For most bareboat charters in Greece you need a recognised skipper certificate (RYA Day Skipper, ICC, or equivalent) plus a VHF licence. If you don’t hold one, we book a professional skipper alongside the boat for the week.

What’s included in the price?

The base charter fee covers the boat, standard equipment, insurance, and final cleaning fee in most cases. Extras such as fuel, port fees, transit log, tourist tax and skipper service are billed separately and explained in the booking summary.

How far in advance should I book?

For peak weeks (mid-July to late August) we recommend booking 6–9 months ahead to lock in the boat and the early-bird discount. Shoulder seasons (May, June, September) usually have availability up to a month before departure.

About this guide

This guide was prepared by the Catamaran Charter Greece editorial team — a group of charter brokers and sailors who have been organizing yacht charters in Greece since 2007. Every itinerary, marina, and pricing range described here reflects current first-hand fleet experience and direct partnership with licensed charter agencies. Last reviewed: May 2026.

If a detail looks out of date, write us at www.catamaran-charter-greece.com/contact — we update guides quarterly.