Ionian Yacht Charter Itinerary: One-Way from Corfu to Zakynthos
The Ionian Islands are known for their lush, mountainous landscapes, Venetian-influenced towns, and beaches that consistently rank among the best in Europe. Unlike the Cyclades, the Ionian is protected from the Meltemi winds, offering more stable weather and calm seas — ideal for relaxed and reliable cruising.
This Corfu yacht charter itinerary is a round-trip route from Corfu to the southern coast of Zakynthos and back, covering approximately 280 nautical miles. The distance and pace make it best suited for motor yachts, though a one-way option can also be arranged for catamarans or guests preferring shorter cruising days.
Along the way, you’ll experience a mix of peaceful anchorages, traditional harbor towns, and standout highlights like the sea caves of Antipaxos, the dramatic coastline of Kefalonia, and Zakynthos’ iconic Shipwreck Beach.
Duration: 8 days / 7 nights
Distance: 280 nautical miles
Route Type: Round Trip (Corfu – Corfu)
Suitable for: Motor Yachts
Weather Dependency: Low – Average
Best For: Nature lovers and beach seekers exploring the full extent of the Ionian Islands
| Destinations | Travel Time | |
|---|---|---|
| Catamarans | Motor Yachts | |
| Day 1. Corfu to Paxos | 1.5–2 hrs | 0.8–1.25 hrs |
| Day 2. Paxos to Antipaxos to Lefkada | 5.5–8 hrs | 3–4.5 hrs |
| Day 3. Lefkada to Skorpios to Meganisi to Kefalonia | 2.5–3.5 hrs | 1.5–2.5 hrs |
| Day 4. Kefalonia | 2.5–3.5 hrs | 1.5–2 hrs |
| Day 5. Kefalonia to Zakynthos | 2–2.5 hrs | 1–1.5 hrs |
| Day 6. Zakynthos to Kefalonia to Ithaka | 1.5–2 hrs | 1–1.5 hrs |
| Day 7. Ithaka to Lefkada to Parga | 1.5–2.5 hrs | 1–1.5 hrs |
| Day 8. Parga to Corfu | 2.5–4 hrs | 1.5–2.5 hrs |
Arriving in Corfu
- Corfu Town
- Esplanade
- Old Fortress
Upon arrival in Corfu Town, explore its paved streets lined with Venetian-style mansions and occasional Orthodox-Christian churches crowned with tall towers. Spend some time in Esplanade, one of the largest squares in Europe, and take photos of the Old Fortress that overshadows the enormous square and defines the city skyline.
Day 1. Corfu to Paxos
- Canal of Love, Corfu
- Cape Drastis, Corfu
- Paleokastritsa, Corfu
- Agios Gordios beach, Corfu
- Ortholithos sea cave, Paxos
Your charter kicks off heading south along Corfu’s rugged west coast. First stop: the Canal d’Amour near Sidari — narrow sea passages carved by time and tide, wrapped in local legend. Just beyond, you round Cape Drastis, where white cliffs rise from emerald waters.
Further down the coast, drop anchor at Paleokastritsa, a dramatic double bay backed by mountains. Swim in calm turquoise water, or hike up to the clifftop monastery for sweeping views. Continue south to Agios Gordios, a wide sandy beach with green hills, lively beach bars, and plenty of watersports if you’re feeling active.
Crossing to Paxos, the coastline shifts — steeper, wilder, and full of hidden sea caves on the west side. The blue here is next-level. Cruise past Ortholithos, a lone sea stack guarding one of the island’s most photogenic caves, then wrap the day in Gaios, a charming harbor town with chilled tavernas and waterfront cocktails.
Day 2. Paxos to Antipaxos to Lefkada
- Voutoumi Beach, Antipaxos
- Agios Nikitas, Lefkada
- Kathisma Beach, Lefkada
- Egremni Beach, Lefkada
- Porto Katsiki Beach, Lefkada
- Cape Lefkadas, Lefkada
Depart early and cruise to Voutoumi Beach on Antipaxos. Clear, shallow water and fine white pebbles make this one of the Ionian’s top swimming spots. It’s ideal for snorkeling and especially peaceful in the morning before tour boats arrive.
From there, continue south to Lefkada, an island technically connected to the mainland by a causeway. Its west coast is known for some of Greece’s most dramatic beaches.
Start with a swim stop at Agios Nikitas, a quaint village backed by green hills. Nearby Mylos Beach, accessible only by boat or footpath, offers tranquility and turquoise water. Further south, Kathisma Beach is wide and breezy — ideal for windsurfing and more active guests.
Next, stop at Egremni Beach, a long stretch of fine white pebbles under towering white cliffs. The color of the water here is unforgettable. Porto Katsiki, further south, is another highlight — postcard-perfect, with a dramatic cliffside backdrop and excellent swimming.
Round Cape Lefkadas and continue to Vassiliki, the island’s southern port and a popular windsurfing hub. This is a good overnight stop with marina access and tavernas in walking distance.
Day 3. Lefkada to Skorpios to Meganisi to Kefalonia
- Agiofili Beach, Lefkada
- Poros Mikros Gialos Beach, Lefkada
- Skorpios Island
- Papanikolis Cave, Meganisi Island
Start the day cruising south from Lefkada. We recommend visiting Agiofili Beach, accessible by tender. It’s clear, shallow water is ideal for snorkeling, and early mornings offer a quiet, serene atmosphere. For a more family-friendly stop, head to Poros Mikros Gialos, an organized beach with tavernas and calm waters.
From the marina in Nidri, you’ll have views of Skorpios, the private island once owned by Aristotle Onassis. While landing is restricted, a slow cruise along the coast is perfect for photos.
Next, head to Meganisi, just south of Skorpios. On the west coast, Agios Ioannis Beach and Barbarezou Beach offer peaceful anchorages with scenic views and excellent swimming. Before reaching Kefalonia, stop by Papanikolis Cave, a dramatic sea cave once used by a Greek submarine during WWII.
End the day in Fiskardo, Kefalonia’s northernmost harbor. It’s a refined village with Venetian architecture, excellent restaurants, and boutique shopping. Our clients especially enjoy an early evening stroll here before dinner on board or at a local taverna.
Day 4. Kefalonia
- Village of Assos
- Myrtos Beach
- Fteri Beach
- Xi Beach
- Argostoli, the capital of Kefalonia
Cruise along the west coast of Kefalonia toward Assos, a small village with colorful houses, traditional tavernas, and ruins of a Venetian fortress. From there, continue to Myrtos Beach, one of the most iconic beaches in Greece, known for its dramatic white cliffs and electric-blue water.
Further south, we recommend a swim stop at Fteri Beach, a wild, undeveloped stretch framed by towering cliffs. If you’re after lunch with a view, Petani Beach offers a more developed setup, with seaside tavernas and beautiful swimming.
Xi Beach on the Paliki peninsula is another great stop, especially for families. It’s organized, shallow, and offers watersports. End the day in Argostoli, Kefalonia’s capital. Visit the Archaeological Museum or walk Lithostroto Street for shops and cafés.
Day 5. Kefalonia to Zakynthos
- Blue Caves
- Navagio (Shipwreck) Beach
- Keri Caves
Leave Argostoli early and head south to Cape Skinari, the northern tip of Zakynthos. This is where you’ll find the Blue Caves, famous for their vibrant water and photogenic arches. Conditions are often perfect in the morning for a swim or snorkeling.
Cruise south along the rugged west coast to Navagio (Shipwreck) Beach, one of the most photographed beaches in the world. It gets busy by midday, so we recommend arriving early or admiring it from the cliffs above.
Continue south to the Keri Caves, located near the southern tip of Zakynthos. Swim in the caves or relax nearby. For the night, options include Zante Town, Agios Sostis, or Laganas Bay — known for nightlife and views of Marathonisi (Turtle Island).
Day 6. Zakynthos to Kefalonia to Ithaka
- Dafni Beach, Zakynthos
- Gerakas Beach, Zakynthos
- Bochali, Zante Town
- Skala Beach, Kefalonia
- Vathy, Ithaka
Spend the morning exploring Vasilikos Peninsula, known for its beautiful beaches. Gerakas and Dafni Beach are peaceful and scenic, with shallow water ideal for families. If you’re looking for water sports, head to Banana Beach.
In Zante Town, climb to Bochali Viewpoint for a panoramic look over the town and the bay. Then cruise north along Zakynthos’ east coast and back toward Kefalonia, stopping at Skala Beach, which is long, sandy, and well-equipped.
From there, continue to Ithaka, the island of Odysseus. The main port, Vathy, is a relaxed and picturesque town, ideal for an overnight stay. Anchor here or nearby in Kioni, a peaceful alternative lined with waterfront cafés.
Day 7. Ithaka to Lefkada to Parga
- Cape Lefkadas, Lefkada
- Valtos Beach, Parga
Enjoy a slower cruising day. Sail north past Cape Lefkadas, where myth meets scenery — the nearby sea cave is said to be the gateway to Hades in Greek mythology.
Your final destination today is Parga, on the Epirus mainland. A favorite among our guests, Parga is colorful, lively, and full of charm. Explore the Venetian Castle for panoramic views, swim at Valtos Beach, or stroll the cobbled lanes packed with shops, cafés, and tavernas.
Day 8. Parga to Corfu
- Old Fortress, Corfu Town
- Achilleio Palace
- Kaizer’s Throne
On your final cruising day, return to Corfu Town. Before disembarking, we recommend a visit to the Old Fortress, followed by a walk through the historic center.
If time allows, take a car to Achilleion Palace or visit Kaizer’s Throne, a viewpoint on the island’s west coast with some of the best panoramic views in the Ionian.
