If you’ve got one week in the Ionian and want to see the best of it by yacht, this is the route that gets it right.
It’s a one-way itinerary from Corfu to Zakynthos — around 160 nautical miles — designed specifically for crewed charters. It runs the full length of the island chain without doubling back, hitting major names like Paxos, Lefkada, and Kefalonia, but also quieter, off-track stops like Antipaxos, Ithaca, and Assos. Every leg is there for a reason: good cruising distances, solid anchorages, and a meaningful experience ashore.
The Ionian is made for this kind of trip — calmer seas, shorter hops, less wind stress than the Cyclades. It’s greener, slower, and in many ways more rewarding.
Day 1 – Board in Corfu
Corfu is the main charter hub of the Ionian — easy to fly into, well-connected, and a great place to start. The airport is just minutes from the marina, and most crews can arrange a seamless pickup.
If guests arrive early, it’s worth exploring Corfu Town. It’s a UNESCO World Heritage site with Venetian architecture, narrow alleys, and laid-back cafés that make for a relaxed first stroll. No need to overdo it, just a light wander and a good dinner before boarding.
Day 2 – Corfu to Paxos
Depart Corfu and cruise to Paxos. The first swim stop is Lakka Bay — calm, wide, and protected, ideal for jumping straight off the yacht. Even with breeze outside, the water here stays flat.
If conditions allow, the crew can take you by tender to the Blue Caves and Ortholithos sea stack on the west coast — dramatic limestone formations and brilliant light, only accessible by sea.
Stay overnight in Lakka for a quiet evening, or continue to Gaios for more dining and atmosphere. For dinner in Gaios, we recommend Carnayo, a standout choice for elevated Greek food.
Day 3 – Paxos to Antipaxos to Lefkada
Antipaxos is uninhabited, undeveloped, and unforgettable. It’s just 4 nautical miles from Paxos, but once you round the corner into Voutoumi Bay, the water turns a different shade — bright, pale blue over white sand. It’s shallow enough to anchor close in with good holding, and most day boats leave by 5 pm.
The best swim is along the rocky edge past the beach, where you’ll find caves, snorkelling channels, and total quiet. There are two simple tavernas ashore — Spiros and Bella Vista, and if the sea is calm, it’s worth tendering around the headland for sunset drinks with no one else in sight. If the forecast is stable, overnighting here is a highlight of the week.
Day 4 – Lefkada to Meganisi, then to Sivota
This is a short cruise with lots to do. Meganisi offers green hills and hidden coves perfect for a relaxed swim. We recommend visiting Papanikolis Cave by tender: a massive sea cave with a WWII story behind it, ideal for photos and a short excursion.
For lunch, the crew can arrange a stop at Spilia / Porto Spilia, a yacht-friendly taverna with easy docking and good service.
End the day in Sivota, a charming port lined with tavernas. We recommend 12 Gods for a well-run waterfront dinner (reserve in high season).
Day 5 – Sivota to Ithaca (Vathy)
Start the day with a swim stop at Gidaki Beach, a top spot that feels exclusive thanks to boat-only access. For a second swim, Filiatro Beach near Vathy offers clear, calm water close to port.
Dock in Vathy, Ithaca’s main harbour. It’s laid-back and authentic, with cafés, small shops, and a casual, local vibe. For a cultural option, the Archaeological Museum is small but informative.
For dinner ashore, we recommend keeping it simple and seafood-focused. A classic harbour fish taverna is the way to go.
Day 6 – Ithaca to Kefalonia (Assos or Fiskardo)
Today is about dramatic scenery. Choose between:
- Assos: quiet, photogenic, and framed by cliffs. We recommend walking up to the Venetian Castle for views.
- Fiskardo: polished, busy, and full of charm. Lively waterfront, shops, and upscale tavernas.
For dinner in Fiskardo, we recommend Tassia — it’s the go-to reservation spot. Assos is more low-key, ideal if guests want a slower evening.
Day 7 – Kefalonia to Zakynthos via Poros
Cruise along Kefalonia’s coast to Myrtos Beach, one of Greece’s most photographed spots. The water is shockingly blue, and the cliffs make it feel remote. We recommend a quick swim-and-photo stop here.
Continue to Poros, a quieter port with a relaxed local vibe. The waterfront is simple but pleasant, with enough tavernas for an easy night ashore. Let the crew handle the evening comforts.
Want to end the week back where you started? See our 7-day Ionian round-trip itinerary from Corfu — same islands, returning to Corfu with no one-way repositioning fee.
Talk to a Yacht Charter Expert
Finding the right yacht is one of the most important parts of the whole charter process, and one of the easiest places to go wrong without the right guidance.
That is where our experience matters. We know how to look beyond the listing, spot the differences that matter, and shortlist yachts that are a strong fit for the group, the budget, and the kind of trip you actually want to have.
If you are planning a charter in Greece, we would be happy to help you find the right yacht.
