Sailing from Corfu to the Ionian Islands

Charter a Yacht from Corfu and Explore the Ionian Islands

A relaxed, sun-splashed sailing holiday—your way.

There’s something special about starting a yacht charter in Corfu. The island greets you with emerald hills, Venetian architecture, and marinas that feel both well-organized and warmly Greek. From here, the Ionian Islands unfold at an easy pace—short sailing distances, calm seas, and anchorages so beautiful they feel unreal.

Whether this is your first time chartering or you’re a seasoned sailor, Corfu is one of the most welcoming gateways to a yacht holiday in Greece.

Why Sail the Ionian Islands from Corfu?

The Ionian Sea is famous for being friendly. Winds are generally mild, the waters are clear and protected, and distances between islands are short—perfect for relaxed cruising. From Corfu, you can sail south toward tranquil gems like Paxos and Antipaxos, or venture further to Lefkada, Ithaca, and Kefalonia.

Each stop offers its own rhythm: sleepy fishing villages, dramatic cliffs, turquoise bays, and tavernas where lunch easily turns into sunset drinks.

Types of Yachts Available for Charter

No two crews are the same, and that’s why Corfu offers a wide choice of yachts to match your travel style.

Sailing Yachts

Ideal for travelers who love the romance of sailing. Sailing yachts are efficient, affordable, and perfect for couples or families who enjoy being hands-on with the boat and the sea.

Catamarans

Catamarans are all about space and stability. With wide decks, large cabins, and shallow draft for anchoring close to shore, they’re a favorite for families and groups seeking comfort and easy living on the water.

Motor Yachts

If speed, luxury, and reaching more destinations in less time matter most, motor yachts deliver. Expect generous outdoor areas, smooth cruising, and the freedom to explore further afield without rushing.

Charter Types: Choose Your Level of Freedom

Your yacht charter from Corfu can be as independent—or as carefree—as you like.

Bareboat Charter

For experienced sailors with the right licenses, bareboat charters offer complete freedom. You’re the captain, setting your own route and pace, discovering hidden coves and quiet harbors along the way.

Skippered Charter

Want local insight without the pressure of handling the boat? A professional skipper takes care of navigation while you relax. Skippers know the best anchorages, weather patterns, and tavernas you’d never find on your own.

Fully Crewed Charter

This is yachting at its most indulgent. With crew handling everything—from sailing to meals and daily logistics—you simply enjoy the journey. Ideal for special occasions or travelers who want pure relaxation.

What a Typical Day Feels Like

Mornings start with coffee on deck as the sun rises over calm water. You sail for a few hours, drop anchor in a quiet bay for a swim, then cruise into a harbor village by late afternoon. Evenings are for waterfront dinners, barefoot strolls, and planning tomorrow’s adventure—if you even want to plan at all.

There’s no strict schedule. The Ionian Islands reward slowing down.

Ready to Set Sail?

Chartering a yacht from Corfu isn’t just a holiday—it’s a shift in pace. Days revolve around wind, water, and where you feel like dropping anchor next. With a choice of sailing yachts, catamarans, or motor yachts, and charter options ranging from bareboat to fully crewed, your Ionian adventure can be tailored exactly to you.

7 Days Itinerary - North Ionian

Saturday (Day 1): D-Marin Gouvia to Kalami Bay, Corfu

Activity: Check-in at D-Marin Gouvia (from 5:00 PM) and provision your yacht. After a short safety briefing, take a short sail north along Corfu’s scenic eastern coast to Kalami Bay.
Evening: Anchor in the sheltered bay and enjoy your first relaxing dinner at a local taverna by the water.

Sunday (Day 2): Kalami Bay to Syvota, Mainland

Activity: Sail across the channel to the Greek mainland and the stunning area of Syvota (Mourtos). The journey is about 4 hours, leaving plenty of time to explore the many small, green islets and bays with crystal-clear waters.
Evening: Anchor among the islets or berth in the lively Mourtos village for the evening.

Monday (Day 3): Syvota to Parga, Mainland

Activity: A short sail south takes you to Parga, a vibrant and charming town built in an amphitheater style. Anchor at the nearby Valtos Beach and take a short ferry or walk into town.
Evening: Explore the historic Venetian castle and enjoy dinner in one of the many restaurants overlooking the bay.

Tuesday (Day 4): Parga to Lakka Bay, Paxos Island

Activity: Head west to the beautiful island of Paxos. Lakka Bay, at the northern end of the island, is a large, naturally sheltered harbor with pine and olive groves sloping down to the sea.
Evening: Enjoy the picturesque village atmosphere and its excellent local tavernas.

Wednesday (Day 5): Lakka to Gaios, via Antipaxos

Activity: Sail south along the stunning western coast of Paxos, exploring the numerous sea caves and cliffs. Stop at the nearby island of Antipaxos to swim in the world-famous turquoise waters of Vrika or Emerald Bay. In the afternoon, continue to Gaios, the main port of Paxos, for the night.
Evening: Experience the cosmopolitan atmosphere of the port, docking alongside the quay.

Thursday (Day 6): Gaios to Petriti, Corfu

Activity: Sail north back towards Corfu, making your way to the traditional fishing village of Petriti on the island’s southeast coast.
Evening: This is the largest fishing port on the island, guaranteeing a meal of the freshest fish at one of the seafront tavernas.

Friday (Day 7): Petriti to Gouvia Marina

Activity: Enjoy a final morning swim or breakfast before the sail back to D-Marin Gouvia. Mooring here allows time to explore the historic UNESCO World Heritage site of Corfu Town.
Evening: Have your last meal aboard or in Corfu Town and enjoy your final night on the boat before disembarking the next day.

Saturday (Day 8): Disembarkation

Activity: Disembark the yacht by 9:00 AM, concluding your Ionian adventure.

7 Day Itinerary - South Ionian

Itinerary Details

Saturday (Day 1): D-Marin Gouvia to Corfu Town (~5 nm)
After check-in at 5:00 PM and provisioning your yacht, a very short sail south takes you to Corfu Town (Kerkyra). Mooring options include Mandraki Harbour below the old fortress or anchoring in Garitsa Bay. Spend the evening exploring the historic town’s beautiful alleys and enjoying dinner.

Sunday (Day 2): Corfu Town to Gaios, Paxos (~33 nm)
Sail south across the channel to the island of Paxos. The main port of Gaios is a beautiful, narrow channel that you sail into, surrounded by Venetian-style buildings. It’s a popular and bustling spot, offering a perfect introduction to the southern Ionian islands.

Monday (Day 3): Gaios to Mongonisi Bay, via Antipaxos (~5-7 nm)
In the morning, take a short trip to the nearby islet of Antipaxos to swim in the world-renowned turquoise waters of Vrika or Emerald Bay. In the afternoon, head to Mongonisi, a very well-sheltered bay just south of Gaios, ideal for anchoring for the night.

Tuesday (Day 4): Mongonisi to Parga, Mainland (~11 nm)
A short sail east brings you to the mainland town of Parga. This picturesque, vibrant town has a stunning backdrop of hills and a historic castle. Anchor at Valtos Beach and take a taxi boat into the main harbour area for exploration and dining.

Wednesday (Day 5): Parga to Preveza Port, Mainland (~29 nm)
This is a longer leg, sailing further south along the mainland coast to the port town of Preveza. The town sits at the entrance to the Ambracian Gulf. Take a walk by the port and explore the small alleys and enjoy the local fish tavernas.

Thursday (Day 6): Preveza to Syvota (Mourtos), Mainland (~41 nm)
This is the longest leg of the itinerary, heading north again to the popular Syvota area. Plan for an early start to give yourself plenty of time to explore the many small islets and coves with sandy beaches. Anchor in a secluded spot or berth in the lively Mourtos village.

Friday (Day 7): Syvota to Gouvia Marina, Corfu (~22 nm)
Enjoy a final breakfast in Syvota before the sail back to D-Marin Gouvia in the afternoon. Arriving back at the marina gives you time to prepare the yacht for check-out the next morning and to have a final evening out, either in the marina complex or nearby Corfu Town.

Saturday (Day 8): Disembarkation
Disembark the yacht by 9:00 AM.

14 Days Itinerary

Itinerary Details

Week 1: South to Lefkada

Saturday (Day 1): Gouvia to Corfu Town: Check-in at 5:00 PM and make a short sail to Corfu Town for the evening, enjoying the Venetian architecture.
Sunday (Day 2): Corfu Town to Gaios, Paxos: Sail south to the main port of Paxos, Gaios, a bustling and beautiful port nestled in a narrow channel.
Monday (Day 3): Gaios to Mongonisi via Antipaxos: A highlight of the Ionian, visit the sandy beaches and emerald waters of Antipaxos for a swim stop, then head to sheltered Mongonisi Bay for the night.
Tuesday (Day 4): Mongonisi to Parga, Mainland: Cross to the mainland and anchor near the stunning, amphitheatrically built town of Parga, exploring its castle and vibrant streets.
Wednesday (Day 5): Parga to Nidri, Lefkada: A longer sail takes you to the island of Lefkada and the lively town of Nidri, a central point for exploring the south Ionian.
Thursday (Day 6): Nidri to Vathi, Meganisi: A short hop to the charming and peaceful Vathi on Meganisi island.
Friday (Day 7): Vathi to Fiskardo, Kefalonia: Sail south to the renowned Fiskardo in Kefalonia, a beautiful and upscale village full of charm and history.

Week 2: South Ionian Highlights & Return North

Saturday (Day 8): Fiskardo to Agia Efthimia, Kefalonia: A short sail to another lovely village on the east coast of Kefalonia, perfect for a relaxed day and evening.
Sunday (Day 9): Agia Efthimia to Vathi, Ithaca: Sail to Ithaca, the mythical home of Odysseus, and explore the main port of Vathi.
Monday (Day 10): Vathi to Kioni, Ithaca: Head to the smaller, picturesque bay of Kioni for a quiet and charming stopover.
Tuesday (Day 11): Kioni to Kalamos Port, Kalamos: Sail to the unique, mountainous island of Kalamos, a quiet spot away from the crowds.
Wednesday (Day 12): Kalamos to Syvota (Mourtos), Mainland: Begin your journey back north with a longer passage to the scenic islets of Syvota for an evening swim and dinner ashore.
Thursday (Day 13): Syvota to Petriti, Corfu: Head to the traditional fishing village of Petriti on Corfu’s southeast coast for an authentic last night in a Greek harbor.
Friday (Day 14): Petriti to Gouvia Marina: A leisurely sail back to D-Marin Gouvia in the afternoon. Use the evening to pack and explore Corfu Town for one last time.
Saturday (Day 15): Disembarkation: Disembark by 9:00 AM