Introducing our new for 2024 sample sailing itinerary around the beautiful South Ionian islands.
Take a leaf out of ‘Homers’ book and create your own Odyssey amongst cosmopolitan Kefalonia, picturesque Meganisi and of course breathtaking Ithaca.
There are two airports to choose from depending on your starting point. Fly to ‘Anna Pollatou’ on Kefalonia or ‘Aktion’ for a quick transfer to Lefkas. Both beautiful starting points for the holiday of a lifetime.
Below is our sample itinerary of our favourite places to visit in the South Ionian…the joy of a yacht though…there are no set routes. Be guided by your preferences, your crew’s recommendations and of course the weather.
Helen has recently sailed in the South Ionian, read the blog here.
Land on the breathtaking island of Kefalonia and be met in arrivals by your private transfer driver.
Take in the beautiful landscape and dramatic views, as you head towards the traditional village of Áy Eufimia to meet your luxury yacht and her crew.
After a welcome drink, and safety briefing, set sail for a quiet anchorage where you can enjoy an afternoon swim, a three course meal designed to suit your preferences and a night under the stars.
After a morning swim and mouth-watering breakfast the crew will raise the anchor and journey to the first stop of the day.
Keep your eyes peeled for dolphins on the way!
Tick off another island with a lunch stop in ‘One House’ or ‘Cliff’ bay on the uninhabited island of Atokos. When the afternoon breeze has filled in set the compass for Kastos.
Kastos is stunningly unspoilt and has the magical atmospher of a true hidden gem. Dine ashore at The Windmill taking in postcard views of your luxury yacht.
If you can tear yourself away from Kastos, it is delightful to snake your way around the coastline, dipping in and out of gorgeous bays.
Listen for the sound of the bells of the mountain goats as they navigate the rocky shoreline.
Pick a spot for lunch – Sarakiniko is our favourite to enjoy, whilst sampling your chefs latest culinary creation.
Spend the night on the neighbouring island of Kalamos in the peaceful and poignant Port Leone.
Exploring Meganisi is on the agenda for today.
The North of the island if forked like a splayed hand creating many creeks and inlets to anchor and enjoy.
Choose any of these for lunch and you will not be disappointed. The beaches are natural, rugged and full of charm. Swim, relax, be merry!
Discover the sleepy village of Little Vathi and visit its tempting boutiques and seductive wine bars.
Fresh fish at one of the many wonderful tavernas is a must for dinner.
Start the day with a walk to a sunken plane wreck before enjoying a delicious breakfast with fresh bakery goodness.
Hoist the sails and feel the wind whipping you along, as you zigzag towards Levkas and the Mainland.
Be sure to ask your crew about Skorpios, which was once owned by the Onassis family.
Drop the hook in Varko Bay and embrace the serenity of today’s wonderful location. Dive off the bow, paddleboard or waterski around the bay.
Don’t forget ‘golden hour’ where the surrounding mountains turn the most delicate shade of pink.
Generally, the mornings are flat and calm, so a gentle motor to a lunch spot for sunbathing or water-sports is the perfect way to start the day.
For lunch, a Greek meze and a wakeboard in the bay of Dessimou.
Sail to the impressive Ithaca, where Odysseus’ homeland towers dramatically over neighbouring islands.
Beneath a trio of windmills lies the picturesque village of Kioni.
Dine ashore at Lizzie’s and enjoy a moonlight stroll to the crossroads where you can watch locals playing backgammon whilst sipping on espresso martinis.
Arrive in Fiskardho early to secure the top spot where you can snorkel and rockpool directly off the back of your luxury yacht.
A trip to the caves at Foki Bay are a must.
Take sensible shoes and a torch and explore the web of tunnels or caverns.
Wash down your exciting adventure with an ice cold glass of Champagne onboard or a zesty Mojito from Theodora’s Cocktail Bar.
The afternoon will soon disappear with a good book, a spot of yacht spotting, boutique perusing, gift buying and a few scoops of gelato.
All that’s left to do this morning is enjoy the final hop back down to Ay. Eufimia whilst indulging in a final fruit platter and Greek coffee.
Our drivers will ensure a smooth journey back to the airport or if your flight is later why not take advantage of Greek hospitality at a local hotel for the day.
Embarkation is 1700 and disembarkation is 0900.
The Mediterranean season runs from April to October, and this itinerary is a great choice pretty much every month.
If you’re after serious sunshine though, July and August are your best bet.
Make a bookingPlease remember this is a sample itinerary of the South Ionian and the joy of a Luxury Yacht charter is that the plan can change day by day.
Love a bay so much you want to stay for a couple of days…no problem! Want to tick off as many islands as possible…no problem!
The route will be tailored to your preferences, the weather and crew recommendations.
Contact sailing@fleewinter.com to discuss your requirements and get a quote.
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