Ionian Yacht Charter

Why Charter a Yacht in the Ionian?

Ionian yacht charters are up-and-coming—and for good reason. Located on the west coast of Greece, the Ionian offers lush landscapes, calm waters, and short sailing distances that make it ideal for relaxed, comfortable cruising. Unlike the Cyclades, there’s little wind stress here. If you’re looking for an easy, scenic route with Italian flair, this is it.

• Calmer weather: No Meltemi, easier itineraries
• Green scenery: Olive trees, cypress, and lush coastal hills
• Italian-influenced architecture
• Protected anchorages and shorter hops
• Ideal for first-timers, families, and anyone who values comfort

Best Islands to Visit on an Ionian Yacht Charter

Corfu

Corfu is one of our top starting points in the Ionian. The UNESCO-listed Old Town is worth a stop—walkable, historic, and filled with Venetian character. From the water, we recommend heading along the northeast coast: Agni Bay and Kalami are ideal for swimming, and the waterfront tavernas are solid for lunch. Corfu is also easy to access, with an international airport just 15 minutes from the marina.

• Highlight: Venetian Old Town + luxury anchorages like Agios Stefanos

Paxos & Antipaxos

Tiny, unhurried, and only reachable by sea, Paxos and Antipaxos are two of our most recommended stops. Lakka and Gaios on Paxos offer scenic harbors with great dining. On Antipaxos, you can anchor right off Vrika Beach and swim in some of the clearest water in Greece. Captains often time a lunch stop here between Corfu and Lefkada.

• Highlight: Blue caves, beach anchoring, and relaxed luxury

Lefkada and Meganisi Island

Lefkada is more than just a starting point—it’s a solid destination. The island has dramatic cliffs and top beaches like Porto Katsiki and Egremni. The inland town of Lefkada is excellent for provisioning and has a strong charter infrastructure. Our favorite hidden gem? Drop anchor at Meganisi island just across—it’s one of the Ionian’s best-kept secrets.

• Highlight: Great base for sailing south + nearby anchorages around Meganisi

Kefalonia

Kefalonia feels like a complete mini-Greece. From the upscale harbor of Fiskardo to the dramatic views at Myrtos Beach, there’s something for everyone. Melissani Cave and Assos village are two inland highlights worth the tender ride. The island is big, so we usually recommend choosing the north or south for deeper exploration, depending on your route.

• Highlight: Mix of natural beauty and elegant marinas

Ithaca

Sailing into Ithaca feels like stepping back in time. With fewer tourists and no big resorts, it’s pure Ionian authenticity. Kioni and Vathi are picturesque anchorages where you can step off for dinner right on the dock. The island is also great for hiking if you want a break from the sea.

• Highlight: True off-grid charm with yacht-accessible villages

Zakynthos

Dramatic and popular for a reason, Zakynthos is often a southern highlight. We usually recommend stopping early in the day at Navagio Beach (Shipwreck Beach) to beat the crowds. The Blue Caves are accessible by tender, and you might spot loggerhead turtles in Laganas Bay. It’s more exposed than other Ionian islands, so plan anchorage with weather in mind.

• Highlight: Marine park encounters + classic postcard sights. The southern anchor of the chain. Known for Navagio (Shipwreck) Beach, caves, and turtles. Popular and dramatic—but better visited early or off-peak to avoid tour boats.
• Highlight: Iconic cliffs and marine life

Understand Weather Conditions and Distances

Compared to the Cyclades, the Ionian offers calmer seas, predictable weather, and short distances between most islands. This means it’s one of the few places in Greece where sticking to your itinerary is usually realistic. You won’t be battling strong winds like the Meltemi, and that’s a big reason many of our clients—especially families or first-timers—prefer the Ionian.

That said, if you want to see the full chain from Corfu to Zakynthos in just one week, you’ll need a motor yacht. It’s too far for a relaxed catamaran route unless you’re prepared for long days underway.

Best Yacht Type for an Ionian Yacht Charter

The Ionian Islands offer calmer waters, shorter distances, and more sheltered anchorages than the Cyclades, making them a great cruising ground for all yacht types. However, your choice depends on how you want to explore.

Motor Yacht Charters

Motor yachts are ideal for seeing more in less time, allowing you to cover the entire Ionian chain in a one-week charter. If you want to visit both Corfu and Zakynthos, a motor yacht will make it possible, with luxurious comfort, fast cruising speeds, and top-tier amenities.

Catamaran Charters

Catamarans are a fantastic option for a relaxed, slow-paced vacation, offering stability, fuel efficiency, and spacious decks. The shorter sailing distances and calmer waters make this one of the best areas in Greece for a catamaran charter, especially for families or first-time yacht charterers.

Sailing Yacht Charters

Sailing yachts thrive in the Ionian, with gentle breezes and scenic coastal routes providing a classic Mediterranean sailing experience. If you love being under sail and don’t mind moving at a slower pace, this is one of the most rewarding places to charter a monohull in Greece.

Where to Start Your Ionian Yacht Charter?

The two main starting points are Corfu in the north and Lefkada in the central Ionian, each offering distinct advantages.

Corfu Yacht Charters

Corfu is the best choice if you want to explore the northern Ionian, including Paxos, Antipaxos, and the mainland coast, with its charming Venetian towns and secluded bays. Corfu has an international airport with direct flights from major European cities, making it an easy access point for charter guests.

Lefkada Yacht Charters

Lefkada is a great starting point for exploring the central and southern Ionian, including Kefalonia, Ithaca, Zakynthos, and the smaller islands in between. The marina here has a large charter fleet, and while Lefkada itself doesn’t have an airport, Preveza Airport (PVK) is just 20 minutes away with seasonal international flights.

Chartering a Yacht from Athens

It’s possible to start your Ionian trip from Athens, and the route itself is memorable. You’ll pass through the impressive Corinth Canal—the world’s narrowest canal and a dramatic landmark. It adds several days of cruising, so it’s best suited for longer charters or one-way trips.

The number of yachts based year-round in the Ionian is still relatively small, but growing. We’ll tell you exactly which yachts will be available locally for your dates—or which can be delivered from Athens or other bases to meet you in Corfu or Lefkada.

Best Ionian Yacht Charter Itineraries

Frequently Asked Questions

Other Greek Yacht Charter Areas