7-Day Sailing Itinerary from Corfu: A Journey Through the Ionian Islands
Welcome aboard! If you’re planning a sailing trip around the Ionian Sea, and looking for boat hire in Corfu, look no further. Known for its lush scenery, rich history, and vibrant culture, Corfu offers sailors and travellers an unparalleled opportunity to explore some of Greece’s most picturesque islands. Here’s a detailed 7-day sailing itinerary that will take you through breathtaking landscapes, quaint villages, and serene waters.
Day 1: Corfu to Paxos
- Departure: Start your adventure in Gouvia Marina, a well-equipped port on Corfu with good facilities for yachts.
- Sailing Time: 4 hours
- Destination: Paxos, known for its olive groves and crystal-clear waters.
- Activities: Anchor at Lakka Bay, perfect for swimming and snorkelling in its turquoise waters. Spend your evening exploring the charming village of Lakka, enjoying local cuisine at a seaside taverna.
Day 2: Paxos to Antipaxos
- Sailing Time: 1 hour
- Destination: The tiny island of Antipaxos, renowned for its vineyards and some of the best beaches in Greece, such as Voutoumi Beach.
- Activities: Spend the day beach-hopping and enjoy a picnic with local wine under the shade of olive trees. The clear waters here are ideal for snorkelling.
Day 3: Antipaxos to Lefkada
- Sailing Time: 5 hours
- Destination: Lefkada, connected to the mainland by a small bridge and famous for its stunning beaches like Porto Katsiki and Egremni.
- Activities: Dock at Nydri, a lively town on Lefkada. Explore local shops and dine at traditional Greek tavernas. Consider a short drive to visit the mesmerizing waterfalls of Nydri.
Day 4: Lefkada to Ithaca
- Sailing Time: 3 hours
- Destination: Ithaca, the legendary home of Odysseus. It’s less touristy and radiates a truly tranquil vibe.
- Activities: Moor in the quaint port of Vathy. Spend your day hiking to the ruins of Odysseus’s palace or simply relax at one of the remote beaches.
Day 5: Ithaca to Kefalonia
- Sailing Time: 2 hours
- Destination: Kefalonia, the largest of the Ionian Islands, with breathtaking landscapes and exquisite beaches.
- Activities: Anchor at Myrtos Beach, one of the most photographed places in Greece, then head to the picturesque village of Fiscardo. Enjoy a seaside dinner with freshly caught fish.
Day 6: Kefalonia to Meganisi
- Sailing Time: 4 hours
- Destination: Meganisi, a peaceful island with pristine waters and lush surroundings.
- Activities: Visit the hidden caves accessible only by boat, such as Papanikolis Cave. Enjoy a quiet evening in the small port of Vathi, Meganisi.
Day 7: Meganisi to Corfu
- Sailing Time: 6 hours
- Destination: Return to Corfu.
- Activities: Before concluding your trip, make sure to explore Corfu’s Old Town, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Stroll through its Venetian streets and fortresses to soak up the last bit of Ionian charm.
Tips for Your Sailing Trip
- Weather Check: Always check the weather forecast before and during your journey to ensure safe sailing conditions. We recommend checking out the forecast for Corfu on Windy.com
- Provisions: Stock up on water, snacks, and sunscreen. Local markets offer fresh produce perfect for your sailing trip.
- Marinas: Ensure you have all the necessary information about the marinas or ports, including facilities and booking requirements.
- Local Culture: Try to engage with locals, taste the regional specialities, and immerse yourself in the Ionian way of life.
This 7-day itinerary from Corfu allows you to experience the rich diversity of the Ionian Islands, with each day introducing a new landscape and a new adventure. Whether it’s the lush trails of Paxos or the mythic allure of Ithaca, these islands promise to make your sailing holiday a memorable journey. Happy sailing!
