The Ionian Islands: Lefkas
Yacht Charter & Sailing Vacations

Lefkas • Where to go • When to go • What you should know • How to Book

Eptanisa (Seven Islands)

The Southern Ionian Islands from Lefkas heading south are part of the Ionian archipelago made up of 7 main islands (although there are plenty of smaller islands and islets in the region).  This area is has ideal sailing conditions and stunning natural beauty.  With crystal-clear waters, secluded coves, and picturesque fishing villages, these islands, including Kefalonia, Meganisi, and Ithaca, provide a diverse and captivating cruising playground.

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THE IONIAN ISLANDS: LEFKAS YACHT CHARTER SUMMARY

We’ve been there!

NauticEd has led several flotillas to this amazing sailing area. It is a mix of a Caribbean feeling because of all the islands and line-of-sight navigation but nestled with really authentic Greek villages. The area is certainly large enough for a 2-week or more exploration without visiting the same ports. Or, if you’re venturing for 1-week, you’ll still have the chance to soak in plenty of Greek culture and food, anchor in some breathtaking bays, and swim in clear clear (did we say clear) waters. Highly recommended!!

Sailing Requirements

Lefkas Bareboat charter requirements:

✔ Sailing Resume

✖ Certification

✔ License

Learn more at Yacht Charter Resources ›

Sailing Skill Level

Knowledge – Skills – Experience:

✔ Intermediate

Lefkas Yacht Charter note: This is a line-of-sight navigation area with minimal shallow reef areas. Wind direction tends to switch directions at 6:30 pm and blow strongly for about 30 minutes. Ensure you tie off with this expectation. The marinas can get very tight and are all Mediterranean Mooring style – some with anchor, some with slime line, and some with a long stern line ashore. You must absolutely be familiar with these styles of marina mooring.
Sailing Skill Levels ›

When to go?

The Southern Ionian area is a beautiful sailing destination from late spring to early fall.

Apart from winter, you can expect gentle breezes, calm waters, and plenty of opportunities to explore Lefkas’ picturesque bays, anchorages, and coastal towns.  We recommend June and September to avoid the crowds but still experiencing the vibrancy of the villages and warm weather.

Climate

The Ionian Islands enjoys a typical Mediterranean climate. June-August is considered peak tourist season with average daytime temperatures of 77°F to 95°F (35°C).  Water temperatures range from 73°F (23°C) to 79° (26°) in the summer.

Culture

The southern Ionian Islands share a rich and unique cultural heritage influenced by their geographical location and historical significance.  They were once part of the Venetian Republic, and you can still see the influence of Venetian architecture and culture in the charming towns and villages. Each island has its culinary specialties, often featuring fresh seafood, olive oil, and local produce. For example, Kefalonia is known for its meat pies (kreatopita), while Ithaca is famous for its delicious rabbit stew (stifado). These islands have mythological and historical significance as well.  Ithaca, in particular, is celebrated as the mythical home of Odysseus in Homer’s “The Odyssey.”

Must See & Do

Exploring the southern Ionian Islands on a yacht charter is an incredible experience, and there are many must-see and must-do spots across these beautiful islands. Here are some highlights:

  • Explore Lefkada town’s charming old streets and enjoy the vibrant nightlife
  • Visit the Papanikolis Cave in Meganisi
  • Explore the legendary Cave of the Nymphs in Ithaca
  • Enjoy a guided history tour in Ithaca with Island Walks
  • Unwind in the peaceful Abelaki Bay, Meganissi (and dine at Mina’s)
  • Anchor close to the beach in One House Bay and enjoy the scenery and waters
  • Dare yourself and jump off rocks in Foki, Kefalonia
  • Discover the Nidri Waterfalls
  • Grab a scooter to enjoy Sami, Kefalonia and make sure to stop by the Cavern of Melissani
  • Visit local wineries such as Robola in Kefalonia
  • Shop in art galleries and boutiques in Fiskardo the fishing village known for its picturesque fishing village and colorful buildings.

How to get there?

You can fly into Athens International Airport and get to Lefkas via car or bus.  Alternatively you can fly to Preveza Airport (Aktion National Airport (PVK)) on Lefkada which is near the charter bases.

The Ionian Islands: Lefkas Bareboat Charter Sample Itineraries

Where to go on a Lefkas sailing vacation?

Scroll below for sample itineraries or use the map to explore.

Greece and the Ionian Islands Related Blog Posts

A LEFKAS YACHT CHARTER SOUNDS AMAZING!
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NauticEd are Expert Greece yacht charter agents. We don’t charge you a fee and can more than likely save you money on all your sailing vacations. We search the world’s databases for over 8,000 yachts in 55 destinations. We give expert advice on where and when to go – likely, we’ve been there. Make an inquiry and book your sailing vacations through NauticEd Sailing Vacations.

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Additional Notes

Sailing Skill Levels

Local Knowledge + Education: as Sailing Vacation Experts, NauticEd’s team has chartered and sailed in almost all these locations – providing you with the “local knowledge” you need when planning a sailing vacation. And, as the leader in sailing education, NauticEd assigns different skill levels based on the knowledge-theory and practical/experience needed for chartering in different sailing locations.

Recommended Knowledge-Theory Courses for chartering: Bareboat Charter Master Bundle (six bareboat and near coastal courses), Catamaran Sailing Confidence (if chartering a Cat), Yacht Charter Crew Course (for your crew).

Skill Levels notably emphasize the overall practical experience and competency that is required to sail in certain areas. Of course, the “devil’s in the details” on specifics, and we recommend you contact us when planning a sailing vacation. We’ll save you money on your vacation – which is great – but being prepared to have safe fun experiences that will last a lifetime is priceless!

• Intermediate = Near Coastal <5nm within sight of land, some navigation hazards (always be aware), and generally mild weather conditions. Good seapersonship (i.e., “seamanship”) skills, knowledge, and experience apply.

• Intermediate +Plus = Near Coastal <15nm, within sight of land in clear atmospheric conditions, moderate navigation hazards, and/or challenging weather. Good seapersonship skills, knowledge, and experience apply.

• Advanced = Near Coastal <20nm, within sight of land in clear atmospheric conditions, many navigation hazards, and/or potentially difficult weather. Expert seapersonship skills, knowledge, and experience apply.

*Atmospheric conditions: from the deck of a sailboat, your “visible horizon” is about 12nm on a clear day (considering typical freeboard + your height). Visibility is decreased by haze, fog, rain, smoke, and similar atmospheric considerations. Navigating by line of sight is obviously greater if your destination has features such as mountains, lighthouses, tall buildings, etc…

*Navigational hazards may include features such as rocks, shoals, rough inlets or anchorages, challenging tides and currents, lee shores, commercial traffic, etc…

*Weather: examples of challenging or difficult weather include thunder/lightning storms, areas prone to high winds, or even seasonal risks such as excessive heat.

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Author

  • Grant Headifen

    My vision for NauticEd is to provide the highest quality sailing and boating education available - and deliver competence wherever sailors live and go.

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Last updated on December 9th, 2024
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