Ionian Islands Yacht Charter

During the prime yacht charter season in the Ionian Islands, you can expect warm weather, calm waters, and consistent sunshine. Daytime temperatures range from 26°C to 34°C in summer, with mild evenings and light breezes ideal for sailing, dining on deck, or exploring coastal villages during your Ionian Islands yacht charter. When you charter a yacht in the Ionian Islands, you can plan longer swim stops in sheltered bays, enjoy easy tender runs to waterfront tavernas, and cruise between islands with short, comfortable passages. An Ionian Islands yacht charter also suits families, thanks to predictable conditions and relaxed anchorages.

Corfu, Kefalonia, Zakynthos, Preveza (Aktio), and Lefkada all offer international flight connections, with private aviation facilities available across the region, making an Ionian Islands yacht charter easy to arrange. Athens also works well as an entry point, with helicopter or private jet transfers that can place you on board quickly. These gateways are ideal when you charter a yacht in the Ionian Islands, allowing smooth embarkation and flexible routing from the very first day of your Ionian Islands yacht charter.

The Advance Provisioning Allowance (APA) is a sum paid in advance to cover charter expenses that are not included in the charter fee. These may include fuel for the yacht, tenders and water sports equipment, food and beverages, berthing dues and harbour charges, local taxes, divers’ fees, customs formalities, waste disposal, water and electricity taken from shore, ships’ agents’ fees (where applicable), personal laundry, communications and internet use, and any special equipment requested by the Charterer. The Captain will provide detailed accounts of expenditure, and any balance will be settled at the end of your Ionian Islands yacht charter.

Gratuities are not included in the charter fee. It is customary, though always at the Charterer’s discretion, to leave a gratuity in recognition of excellent service. As a guideline, a gratuity in the region of 10 to 15 per cent of the contracted gross Charter Fee is considered appropriate.

Highlights include Corfu’s UNESCO-listed Old Town, renowned for its ancient ruins and historical sites that reflect the heritage of ancient Greece, the old fortress of Assos in Kefalonia with its rich history, and the world-famous Navagio Beach in Zakynthos. The scenic beauty of these attractions, from picturesque coastlines to charming villages, greatly enhances the yachting experience. Wine estates, olive groves, and local villages reveal the region’s vibrant culture and authentic traditions, best discovered through private guided excursions.

Private vineyard tastings in Kefalonia, helicopter tours over Zakynthos, and guided scuba diving dives in underwater caves—where you can observe vibrant marine life—are among the most coveted experiences. Charter guests can drop anchor in picturesque bays to enjoy private activities and relaxation. Sunset beach banquets, curated wellness rituals on secluded shores, and lazy days in tranquil settings, along with personalised watersports programmes, further elevate your yacht charter experience in the Ionian Islands.

The region offers the perfect blend of Michelin-level refinement and authentic Greek heritage, showcasing a rich Greek cuisine tradition. On Corfu, Etrusco offers inventive fine dining by celebrated chef Ettore Botrini. In Zakynthos, Nobelos Bio Restaurant provides farm-to-table gastronomy in an intimate setting overlooking the Ionian Sea. Kefalonia’s Votsalo Restaurant at Emelisse Hotel is known for elegant Mediterranean cuisine, while Lefkada’s Rachi delivers unforgettable sunset dining above the sea. For true exclusivity, a private onboard dinner orchestrated by a Greek chef allows you to savour authentic Greek cuisine — meze, lobster pasta, and delicate pastries.