Embark on a 7-day bareboat charter adventure through some of the most beautiful and diverse islands in the Ionian Sea. This itinerary will guide you through serene anchorages, historical sites, and culinary delights across Lefkada, Corfu, Othonoi, Erikousa, Kefalonia, and Ithaki. You’ll navigate the prevailing winds, uncover hidden gems, and immerse yourself in the rich culture and history of the Ionian Islands.
Day 1: Lefkada – Setting Sail from Lefkas Marina
- Arrival & Check-in: Begin your journey at Lefkas Marina in Lefkada. After checking in with your charter company and provisioning your boat, spend some time exploring the town of Lefkada.
- Historical Background: Lefkada is known for its stunning beaches and rich history, including its connection to the ancient poet Sappho.
- Anchorages:
- Vasiliki Bay: Located on the southern coast, this bay is well-known for its excellent windsurfing conditions. The bay is large and well-protected, making it an ideal first night anchorage.
- Coordinates: 38.6263° N, 20.6098° E
- Syvota Bay: A picturesque bay on the southeastern coast of Lefkada, surrounded by lush hills and offering excellent protection from the winds.
- Coordinates: 38.6213° N, 20.6785° E
- Vasiliki Bay: Located on the southern coast, this bay is well-known for its excellent windsurfing conditions. The bay is large and well-protected, making it an ideal first night anchorage.
- Food Recommendations: Enjoy dinner at Thymari, a local favorite offering traditional Greek cuisine with a modern twist. Fresh seafood and local wine are highlights.
- Prevailing Winds: The Maistro, a northwesterly wind, typically picks up in the afternoon, offering excellent sailing conditions as you head north or south.
Day 2: Lefkada to Corfu – Exploring Corfu Town
- Sailing Route: Set sail early from Lefkada, heading north towards Corfu, approximately 35 nautical miles away. As you sail, enjoy the beautiful coastline of the Ionian Islands.
- Anchorages:
- Paleokastritsa Bay: One of Corfu’s most famous bays, known for its stunning cliffs and clear waters. Anchor here for a swim and explore the nearby caves.
- Coordinates: 39.6769° N, 19.7096° E
- Kouloura Bay: A small, peaceful bay on the northeastern coast of Corfu, surrounded by olive trees and offering excellent protection from the winds.
- Coordinates: 39.7471° N, 19.9502° E
- Paleokastritsa Bay: One of Corfu’s most famous bays, known for its stunning cliffs and clear waters. Anchor here for a swim and explore the nearby caves.
- Historical Background: Corfu, or Kerkyra, is steeped in history, with its Old Town recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage site.
- Things to Do: Visit the Old Fortress, stroll through the Liston Promenade, and explore the winding streets of the Old Town. Don’t miss the Church of Saint Spyridon, the island’s patron saint.
- Food Recommendations: Dine at The Venetian Well, a historic restaurant in the Old Town, offering Mediterranean dishes with local ingredients.
- Prevailing Winds: The Maistro wind will help you sail smoothly from Lefkada to Corfu, with the afternoon breeze likely providing a pleasant and steady sail.
Day 3: Corfu to Othonoi – The Westernmost Point of Greece
- Sailing Route: Depart Corfu and head northwest towards Othonoi, the westernmost island of Greece, about 25 nautical miles away.
- Anchorages:
- Aspri Ammos Bay: Located on the western side of Othonoi, this bay is known for its white sandy beach and crystal-clear waters. It’s a secluded spot perfect for a peaceful night at anchor.
- Coordinates: 39.8419° N, 19.3726° E
- Fiki Bay: A small, serene anchorage on the eastern coast, offering calm waters and a tranquil environment, ideal for swimming and relaxing.
- Coordinates: 39.8473° N, 19.4018° E
- Aspri Ammos Bay: Located on the western side of Othonoi, this bay is known for its white sandy beach and crystal-clear waters. It’s a secluded spot perfect for a peaceful night at anchor.
- Historical Background: Othonoi is believed to be the island where Odysseus was held captive by the nymph Calypso in Homer’s Odyssey.
- Things to Do: Explore the island’s unspoiled beaches, hike up to the lighthouse for panoramic views, or simply relax on your boat and take in the serene surroundings.
- Food Recommendations: Enjoy a meal at Ostria, a local taverna offering fresh seafood and traditional Greek dishes.
- Prevailing Winds: The northwesterly Maistro wind will guide you smoothly to Othonoi. Be aware that winds can pick up in the afternoon, so plan to arrive by midday.
Day 4: Othonoi to Erikousa – A Tranquil Escape
- Sailing Route: After a peaceful night in Othonoi, set sail for Erikousa, located about 12 nautical miles southeast.
- Anchorages:
- Porto Bay: The island’s main harbor offers good protection and easy access to the village. Anchor here if you want a balance of accessibility and tranquility.
- Coordinates: 39.8764° N, 19.5783° E
- Braghini Bay: A more secluded anchorage on the southern coast, perfect for those looking to enjoy the island’s natural beauty in solitude.
- Coordinates: 39.8736° N, 19.5730° E
- Porto Bay: The island’s main harbor offers good protection and easy access to the village. Anchor here if you want a balance of accessibility and tranquility.
- Historical Background: Erikousa is one of the Diapontia Islands, known for its lush vegetation and serene beaches.
- Things to Do: Spend the day exploring the island’s walking paths, relax on the beach, or swim in the crystal-clear waters.
- Food Recommendations: Dine at Karavas Taverna, near the harbor, offering local dishes and fresh fish with a view of the sea.
- Prevailing Winds: The Maistro wind will be in your favor as you sail southeast towards Erikousa. This short sail is usually calm, but keep an eye on the weather for any changes.
Day 5: Erikousa to Kefalonia – Discovering Fiskardo
- Sailing Route: Leave Erikousa and head south towards Kefalonia, approximately 40 nautical miles away. This will be one of the longer legs of your journey.
- Anchorages:
- Foki Bay: A beautiful, secluded bay near the village of Fiskardo, surrounded by olive trees and offering clear, shallow waters for swimming and snorkeling.
- Coordinates: 38.4615° N, 20.5651° E
- Assos Bay: Tucked away on the western coast, this bay is surrounded by lush hills and the ruins of a Venetian castle, providing a picturesque and peaceful anchorage.
- Coordinates: 38.3723° N, 20.5361° E
- Foki Bay: A beautiful, secluded bay near the village of Fiskardo, surrounded by olive trees and offering clear, shallow waters for swimming and snorkeling.
- Historical Background: Kefalonia is the largest of the Ionian Islands, with a rich history that includes Venetian rule and significant events during World War II.
- Things to Do: Explore the charming village of Fiskardo, known for its colorful houses and lively harbor. Visit the Venetian lighthouse or hike through the surrounding olive groves.
- Food Recommendations: Have dinner at Elli’s, a waterside taverna in Fiskardo known for its traditional Greek dishes and fresh seafood.
- Prevailing Winds: The Maistro wind will assist you during the sail to Kefalonia. Be prepared for potentially stronger winds as you approach the island in the afternoon.
Day 6: Kefalonia to Ithaki – The Mythical Land of Odysseus
- Sailing Route: Set sail from Kefalonia towards Ithaki, a short 12 nautical mile journey to the east.
- Anchorages:
- Kioni Bay: A peaceful and picturesque spot on the eastern coast, surrounded by traditional houses and lush greenery. The bay offers calm waters, ideal for a quiet night at anchor.
- Coordinates: 38.4501° N, 20.6987° E
- Pera Pigadi Bay: A remote anchorage on the southeastern coast, surrounded by steep cliffs and clear waters, perfect for a secluded and serene stay.
- Coordinates: 38.4291° N, 20.6820° E
- Kioni Bay: A peaceful and picturesque spot on the eastern coast, surrounded by traditional houses and lush greenery. The bay offers calm waters, ideal for a quiet night at anchor.
- Historical Background: Ithaki, or Ithaca, is famously known as the home of Odysseus. The island is steeped in myth and legend, offering a mix of history and natural beauty.
- Things to Do: Visit the village of Kioni, explore the island’s many hiking trails, or visit the ancient ruins thought to be the Palace of Odysseus.
- Food Recommendations: Dine at Calypso, a taverna in Kioni known for its delicious Greek cuisine and beautiful views of the harbor.
- Prevailing Winds: The short sail to Ithaki will likely be calm in the morning, but you may encounter stronger winds in the afternoon as the Maistro picks up.
Day 7: Return to Lefkada – The Final Leg
- Sailing Route: On your final day, sail back to Lefkas Marina in Lefkada, approximately 25 nautical miles from Ithaki.
- Anchorages:
- Sivota Bay: A sheltered bay on the southern coast of Lefkada, offering a peaceful final stop for a swim or lunch before returning to the marina.
- Coordinates: 38.6213° N, 20.6785° E
- Vasiliki Bay: Another option for a final swim or relaxing break before completing your journey.
- Coordinates: 38.6263° N, 20.6098° E
- Sivota Bay: A sheltered bay on the southern coast of Lefkada, offering a peaceful final stop for a swim or lunch before returning to the marina.
- Things to Do: If time permits, stop at a beach or cove along the way for a final swim in the Ionian Sea. Arrive back at Lefkas Marina by late afternoon to check out with your charter company.
- Food Recommendations: Celebrate your successful voyage with a farewell dinner at Nirikos, a popular restaurant in Lefkada known for its local specialties and friendly atmosphere.
- Prevailing Winds: The Maistro wind will assist you on your return journey, providing a steady breeze for a smooth sail back to Lefkada.
Final Thoughts
This 7-day bareboat charter itinerary through the Ionian Islands offers a perfect blend of sailing, relaxation, and exploration. By visiting Lefkada, Corfu, Othonoi, Erikousa, Kefalonia, and Ithaki, you’ll experience the unique charm of each island, from their secluded anchorages to their rich history and local cuisine. Remember to check the weather forecast regularly and plan your sails according to the prevailing winds for a safe and enjoyable journey.
Whether you’re an experienced sailor or new to bareboat charters, this itinerary provides a well-rounded adventure that captures the essence of the Ionian Islands. Happy sailing!
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Charter Advice is a blog dedicated to providing comprehensive guides and tips for planning sailing adventures, primarily focusing on Greek islands and other popular Mediterranean destinations. The content ranges from in-depth itineraries, hidden gems in various locations, and practical advice for both first-time and experienced sailors. The blog aims to be a resource for independent reviews and detailed planning, helping readers make the most of their charter experiences with unbiased information and expert insights.
