Complete Guide to Sailing Lefkas and the Southern Ionian Islands

Lefkas (also known as Lefkada) stands as one of the Mediterranean's premier yacht charter destinations, serving as the gateway to Greece's Southern Ionian Islands. Whether you're a first-time bareboat charterer or an experienced sailor seeking calm waters and stunning scenery, this guide will help you plan an unforgettable sailing adventure.

Why Choose Lefkas for Your Charter

The Ionian Sea creates what sailors call an "inland sea" - sheltered by Lefkada, Kefalonia, and Ithaca on the west and the Greek mainland on the east. This geography produces predictable Force 2-5 winds, flat water, and short passages between islands - perfect conditions for families and beginners.

Unlike the Aegean Sea with its fierce Meltemi winds, the Ionian offers gentler conditions. The famous Maistro wind (northwest thermal) arrives predictably each afternoon in summer, builds through the day, and dies at sunset - giving you morning calm for swimming and afternoon breeze for sailing.

Starting Point: D-Marin Lefkas

Most charters begin at D-Marin Lefkas, a full-service marina with 620 berths accommodating vessels up to 45 meters. The marina offers 24/7 utilities, fuel, chandlery, supermarket, and excellent shore facilities. It's a 30-minute taxi ride from Aktion Airport (PVK), with direct flights from major European cities.

The Lefkas Canal Bridge

Before you set sail, you'll need to pass through the Lefkas Canal and its floating bridge. The bridge opens at set times - arriving 10-15 minutes early is wise, but don't be first in line. Greek time applies, and the bridge sometimes opens late.

Must-Visit Destinations

Meganisi: Your First Stop

Just 5-7nm from Lefkas Marina, Meganisi makes the perfect first-night destination. The island offers three main harbors:

• Vathi (Little Vathi) - Main ferry port with a small marina (€50-80/night). Don't miss the sunken airplane for snorkeling.
• Port Spilia/Spartochori - Stunning hilltop village with pontoon mooring and spectacular sunset views.
• Port Atheni - Quiet cove with tavernas, excellent shelter from northwest winds.

Skorpios: The Onassis Island

No Lefkas sailing trip is complete without circumnavigating Skorpios, the former private island of shipping magnate Aristotle Onassis. He purchased it in 1963 and married Jackie Kennedy here in 1968. While you cannot go ashore (it's now leased privately), you can anchor in the southwest cove where Jackie had her beach hut and swim to the beach below the high-water mark.

Ithaca: Homer's Legendary Home

The mythical home of Odysseus lies just 15nm from Lefkas. Vathy offers one of Greece's safest natural harbors with deep water. Kioni is a picturesque fishing village, though challenging in east/south winds with poor holding. In 2025, archaeologists identified a sanctuary of Odysseus at Agios Athanasios, adding new significance for history buffs.

Fiskardo: The Jewel of the Ionian

On Kefalonia's northern tip, Fiskardo is universally cited as the must-see destination of the Ionian. Its Venetian architecture survived the devastating 1953 earthquake that destroyed most Ionian towns, leaving a picture-perfect harbor lined with high-end restaurants. Arrive by early afternoon in high season - berths fill quickly, and there's no electricity on the quay. Avoid in southerly winds.

Sample One-Week Itinerary

This classic Southern Ionian route balances sailing with exploration, keeping daily distances comfortable.

When to Go

June and September offer the sweet spot: warm weather, reasonable prices, and fewer crowds. July-August brings peak season with the highest prices and busiest anchorages. May and October are shoulder season with variable weather but the lowest prices.

Practical Tips

License Requirements

For bareboat charter, you'll need an ICC (International Certificate of Competence) or equivalent qualification like RYA Day Skipper Practical or ASA 104. Greek Port Police will verify your credentials. If you're new to sailing or prefer guidance, skippered charters and flotilla holidays don't require a license.