Scenic Wonders | Ionian Islands Charter Itineraries
This group consists of seven principal islands on the Ionian Sea, west of mainland Greece—Corfu, Paxos, Lefkada, Ithaki, Kefalonia, Zakynthos, and remote Kythira. The winds are gentler here, making it ideal for families and those with less experience. Indeed, Ionian Islands charter itineraries make for leisurely vacations.
If you watched the British comedy-drama “The Durrells in Corfu,” you would see the green landscapes of the Ionian islands. The islands were part of the Venetian Empire for almost 400 years. The Italian architecture, food, and local dialect were British from 1809 to 1864. This is why the locals played cricket in Corfu.
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Ionian Islands Charter Itineraries | Corfu
The northernmost island of Corfu is famed for its UNESCO-listed old town. Here, you'll find two imposing Venetian fortresses and a lush interior adorned with silvery green olive groves.
Exploring Corfu's interior, you'll also find charming villages, traditional tavernas, and vineyards that produce excellent local wines. The island's landscape features rolling hills, hidden valleys, and beautiful views. It invites you to explore its natural beauty.
Sailing South to Paxos | Ionian Islands Charter Itineraries
Sail south from Corfu, and you'll arrive in Paxos. Because of its relaxed atmosphere, Paxos has become a highly popular yachting destination. As you explore the turquoise bays, you will find the west coast filled with beautiful Blue Caves. You will also discover a small island called Anti-Paxos.
Discovering Anti-Paxos: A Hidden Jewel
Anti-Paxos also await your exploration in your Ionian islands charter itineraries. With its pristine beaches, vineyards, and rugged terrain, Anti-Paxos offers a delightful contrast to its larger neighbor. The island is also famous for its excellent wine. A visit to one of its vineyards is a must for wine lovers.
Adventures in Lefkada
Lefkada is particularly a paradise for water sports enthusiasts. The town also boasts an excellent marina where other charter yachts often moor. You'll discover glorious beaches such as Porto Katsiki along the exposed west coast.
Windsurfing Paradise: Vasiliki
If you love windsurfing, Lefkada's Vasiliki is the perfect place. It is a great stop on your Ionian Islands charter. This charming coastal village is on the island's southern side. It has steady afternoon winds that are perfect for windsurfing. Vasiliki is a great place for windsurfing. It has a cool breeze and a sheltered bay. This makes it one of the best spots in Greece and the Mediterranean.
Exploring Ithaki
Ithaki remains one of Greece's best-kept secrets. Time seems to slow down here, allowing visitors to savor every moment of their stay. Moreover, the island's unspoiled charm is immediately apparent as you approach its shores. In your Ionian Islands charter itineraries, you will see that Ithaki has rugged cliffs, green hills, and hidden coves.
Kefalonia's International Fame
Kefalonia gained international recognition as the setting for "Captain Corelli's Mandolin" (2001), featuring Penelope Cruz and Nicolas Cage. As a result, yachters often visit the beautiful village of Fiskardo. It has pastel-colored houses along a stunning deep bay.
Discovering Zakynthos (Zante)
Nearby, Zakynthos, also known as Zante, beckons with its iconic Shipwreck Beach, accessible only by sea. Make sure to include the Zakynthos Marine Park in your Ionian islands charter plans. It is an important nesting site for protected loggerhead sea turtles.
Ionian Islands Charter Itineraries Highlights
Places to see
- UNESCO-listed Corfu Town
- Palaiokastritsa Bay and its 13th-century monastery on Corfu
- Porto Katsiki beach on Lefkada
- Melissani Cave and Drogarati Cave on Kefalonia
- Shipwreck beach on Zakynthos.
Things to do
- Exploring fortresses and monasteries
- Scuba diving
- Sea kayaking
- Windsurfing
- Kite surfing
- Cycling
- Hiking
- Caving
- Wine tasting (notably Kefalonia's white Robola)
- Olive oil tasting (especially on Corfu).