Helen Eltringham – Taking you Sailing in Greece
By Helen Eltringham on 17th February, 2023
I’m Helen, Fleewinter’s sailing expert…Let me take you sailing in Greece!
I am based in the North East of England, but my heart is always in Greece…preferably on a yacht!
From a young age (see picture!) I have grown up on yachts of all various shapes and sizes. As an adult I have been lucky enough to work as yacht crew in Turkey, the Caribbean, but mostly and most recently in the beautiful Ionian Islands, sailing in Greece.
I now am shore based making sure the yachts run smoothly behind the scenes as well as booking your gorgeous holidays onboard. Having worked on all three yachts, I can match you to your dream vessel and route.
Step onboard…
Good Morning World!
There’s nothing quite like waking up in a beautiful bay on the privacy of your own yacht. Sipping that morning iced coffee and taking a pre breakfast swim in the silk like Ionian.
There’s no better feeling than the water keeping you afloat as you try to find the nearest cloud to follow on its journey.
One of my favourite times is June or the beginning of July when, you’re lounging in your swimming attire but looking up at the snow on the mountains of Greek mainland…it doesn’t make sense but it feels like living in a postcard!
Why do you need a crew?
Why wouldn’t you need a crew!
Your captain is there to make sure you are safely taken to all the best destinations. They not only sail the yacht, but they can wizz you around the bay on a ringo, take you to your dinner reservations and make you a mean G&T!
Your chef…well what don’t they do (can you tell that’s what I did…I’m not biased honest!). Providing those relaxing breakfasts, on the go lunches, keeping your yacht looking fresh and making sure you are booked in to the best restaurants.
With all the day to day taken care of by your crew, you are free to spend more time enjoying everything the islands have to offer.
Sail your own Greek Odyssey…
A sailing holiday does not have to be rushed. In fact, it’s better when it’s not. Sailing in Greece is an exercise in slowing down (or if the wind is strong, speeding up unexpectedly!)
With our one-way trips you can begin your adventure in either Corfu or Kefalonia and take in many more islands. Quaint fishing villages of Meganisi or the ‘Chelsea’ of the Ionian Fiskardo are all a must.
My favourite place to visit on a one-way route is Kioni on Ithaca. You can spot Kioni from the three windmills perched on the headland (which makes for a fantastic walk and photo opportunity!). It also hosts the most amazing jewellery shop and if you’re a fan of an Espresso Martini, your crew know just the place. Finish the evening off with dinner at Lizzie’s overlooking your yacht.
My favourite thing to do onboard a sailing yacht
As the yachts have pretty big bottoms (nothing wrong with that!) we sometimes can’t tie to the dock so we tie to rocks using two big lines. This creates a private swimming area off the back of the boat to snorkel, paddle board and generally mess around in the water to your hearts content. A paddleboard also makes a great floating picnic table…though be aware of bow waves!
My favourite thing to do ashore.
Mandraki Fort in Corfu Town makes for such a magical end to the holiday. Approaching from the water the many layers of history that this small island has to offer leaps out at you. When you climb up through the fort the view of everywhere you have sailed that week is spectacular. It also brings you out in the centre of Corfu Town to end your Odyssey with delicious local food and a spot of Greek evening hospitality.
WFB? Work from boat!
My favourite yacht…
Well, that’s like choosing your favourite child! What I can tell you are my favourite spots on them all.
On Argentous it must be that master cabin which takes up the whole of the aft (not the pointy bit!) or could it be the drop-down tables that turn into sun beds?
Aurous has so many gorgeous zones including the sofas on the flybridge or under the sunshade in the forward cockpit; but my favourite has to be at the edge of both bows…the perfect morning cuppa or captain’s cocktail spot.
And if you can’t find me in any of the above spots you will find me horizontal on the bow cushions of Lunous!
Feeling Inspired to come sailing in Greece?
I hope so! A holiday on the water is like no other, a different destination every day without the hassle of changing hotels.
Greece is beautiful all year, but sailing is best from May to October. So, whether you are looking for a half term adventure (May & October), a relaxing mid-season break (June & September) or that big summer holiday extravaganza (July & August), I’m excited to get planning with you!
If private luxury yachts are now your preferred mode of transport and sailing in Greece your destination of choice, email helen@fleewinter.com and I can get you on the water soon!
Written by Helen Eltringham
Top Travel Tip
If holidays are precious and treasured, then sailing holidays are the jewel in your crown.
Don’t spend one more holiday on a quayside looking at the yacht in the background. Instead, be the people having the time of their lives on that yacht!
– Helen
