The Ionian, off the west coast of Greece, is widely regarded as one of the easiest and most enjoyable places in the Mediterranean to sail. Distances between islands are short, the bays are sheltered, and a dependable afternoon breeze fills in most summer days while mornings stay calm. We have sailed these waters from Kefalonia for years, with our own fleet of 32 to 43ft Bavaria yachts based at Sami and Lixouri Marina.
What sailing holidays can you do in Greece?
There are three main ways to sail the Ionian, and the right one depends on your experience. A flotilla sails as a small group of yachts with a lead crew. A bareboat charter is your own yacht to sail independently. A learn-to-sail week puts a skipper aboard your yacht to teach you. All run as 7-night weeks with Thursday arrivals, from May to October.
- Flotilla holidays. Sail your own yacht in a supported group. Great for qualified sailors, families and friends.
- Learn to sail. Beginners welcome, a skipper teaches you on your own yacht.
- Solo sailing. A private cabin on a shared yacht, skipper aboard.
- Bareboat yacht charter. Total freedom for qualified skippers.
Where do the holidays sail from?
Our sailing holidays are based in Kefalonia, the largest of the Ionian islands. Flotillas and bareboat charters set off from Sami on the east coast; learn-to-sail and solo weeks are based at Lixouri Marina. From there the classic Ionian cruising ground opens up: Ithaka, Lefkas, Kalamos and Meganissi are all within a short, sheltered sail.
Do you need a qualification to sail in Greece?
It depends on the holiday. Bareboat charter requires a qualified skipper with previous yacht experience. Flotillas suit qualified sailors who want support on hand. For beginners, our learn-to-sail and solo weeks need no experience at all, and both offer an optional ICC (International Certificate of Competence) route. We are an RYA-recognised operator.
When is the best time to sail the Ionian?
The season runs May to October. Early and late season (May, June, September, October) bring quieter anchorages and comfortable temperatures; July and August are hotter and busier with the steadiest breeze. See our best time to sail the Ionian guide for a month-by-month view.
Sail it with BeyondBeach
Every sailing week below is our own yacht and our own crew, not a brokered booking. Whether it is our Kefalonia Flotilla, a beginner learn-to-sail week or a bareboat charter, pick the style that suits you, or talk to our team, who sail these routes themselves.
