he Ionian sea encompasses a wonderful chain of small and bigger islands. It’s a real pleasure to navigate through this region which is considered by experts to be one of the best and safest seas for sailing in the world. Weather conditions here are rarely extreme while one has a multitude of protected anchorages to choose from, delightful coves and stunning beaches, on a number of islands scattered around Lefkada. The lush green islands of the Ionian Sea, so fragrant in the spring, afford effortless sailing.
Lefkada is a beautiful place to set sail, offering a perfect blend of dramatic landscapes, vibrant culture, lovely villages, friendly people and picture-perfect beaches.Swim in the turquoise water and visit little fishing villages. One day you can anchor off a snow-white beach with crystal clear water like Kathisma and Pefkoulia, the next moor up in one of world-famous beaches of Porto Katsiki and Egkremnoi. Lefkada island provides the ideal canvas for a sailing odyssey as it is in the middle of the awe-inspiring Ionian islands.
Meganissi This jaw-dropping green-and-blue pristine island is located between Lefkada and the mainland. The Northern side is peppered with amazing beaches, wonderful bays and many anchorages while there are quite a few anchorages on the east coast as well. The west coast is usually exposed to northwest winds but you can anchor at the beaches close to Thilia island and also at the north-western end opposite Kithros islet, Beretta.
Kalamos - Blessed with amazing beaches with electric blue waters and lush vegetation, Kalamos is the perfect spot if you’re looking for a quiet break. Here you will slow down and enjoy the simple things. The main harbor is Port Kalamos and has space for 30 yachts. Other options for anchorage include Porto Leone and Episkopi.
Kastos The smallest inhabited island of the Ionian Sea, is well-known for its stunning natural beauty. It is only 6 sq. km in size, so you can walk everywhere here. Fishing, hiking and snorkeling are three of the most popular activities on the island. Kastos has two anchorages, Sarakiniko on the west and a bigger one on the east coast. There are some tavernas dotted around the harbor, where you can enjoy a delicious meal.
Atokos - This tiny, uninhabited islet is an untouched natural paradise not to be missed. It is located South of Lefkada island and Northwest of Ithaca. There are two bays that are suitable for anchorage: One House Bay on the east coast (prefer this one) and Cliff Bay on the south coast.
Paxos & Antipaxos This little gem is a godsend for anyone searching for near-deserted beaches with turquoise water, isolated tiny coves and scenic villages. You can moor to Gaios which is the main harbour of Paxos or you can berth in the anchorages of Lakka, Mongonisi and Longos. The island of Antipaxos is the smallest of the Ionian Islands and is located 3 kilometers to the south of Paxos. Its waters are particularly impressive: calm, translucent and ideal for snorkelling. There are two bays to anchorage on the east side.
IthacaThis iconic place of nostalgia is without doubt Greece's most mythical island. Ithaki is located between Lefkada and Kefalonia and has managed to maintain a rhythm of life in harmony with nature. With boundless crystal blue waters, picturesque villages and amazing hiking trails, Ithaca will satisfy every type of traveler. If you are a sailor, keep in mind that the bays of Kioni, Frikes, Aetos and Vathy, provide good and safe shelter.
Kefalonia Visit the largest of the Ionian islands for its sprawling chalk-colored beaches, for the fairytale cave-lake of Melissani, for the pastel coloured village of Assos and of course for Mountain Ainos, the only national park situated on a Greek island. The island has a large number of ports and anchorages: Argostoli, Lixouri, Assos, Atheras, Fiskardo, Poros, Agia Pelagia etc.
Corfu Is one of the most cosmopolitan islands in Greece. Travellers can explore the Venetian forts, visit the Achilleion and swim in the sapphire waters of Palaiokastritsa beach- all before dinner at one of the island's wonderful restaurants.