Ionian Sailing Cruises Holidays

Ionian Sailing Cruises Holidays - Destination Profile

The Ionian Sea is one of the most idyllic cruising areas in the Mediterranean with islands only a few miles away from each other making it an island hopper's paradise. The contrast of cosmopolitan resorts and quiet fishing villages is undoubtedly among the many reasons that make this area so attractive. The turquoise clear waters and the unpolluted sea make you want to snorkel for hours. The Ionians have a great history which goes all the way back to the Stone Age. This is where Odysseus started his trip for the Trojan War, and where he finally managed to return after many sailing adventures.

Greece enjoys on average 300 cloudless days per year! The sun and blue sky take pride and place over this beautiful Mediterranean country. The wind in the Ionian Sea follows a more or less regular pattern during the day. Unlike the 'meltemi' winds that blow in the Aegean and usually reach gale forces in July and August, you get a nice Northwesterly breeze that rarely exceeds Force 5 throughout the season. In the early morning you get light winds increase in the afternoon slightly making it ideal for fast and exciting and comfortable sailing. Later in the evening the wind drops and stays calm through the night. That is the beauty of The Ionian Sea which makes it a much more popular destination than the eastern side of Greece.

Ionian Sailing Cruises Holidays - Things to see

Lefkas: The town of Lefkas which is the capital of Lefkada Island is situated at the north-east end, just opposite of mainland Greece. It has a nice atmosphere to it and there you can visit the small archaeological museum. The Folklore and the Phonograph museum, the public library and the Gallery of post-Byzantine art are also great places to visit. Alternatively you can try the numerous cafes, bars and clubs or go for a wonder at the shops. Along the whole length of the coast there are plenty of tiny villages and bays.

Ithaca: A relatively small island but very famous all around the world! Ithaca is the home of Odysseus, Homer's hero in Odyssey. The island's villages maintain the traditional architecture and remain unaffected by tourism, the people still live at a very slow and relaxed pace. At the head of one of them which is so enclosed that looks like a lake, is the village 'Vathi', the capital of the island. The island's main produce are olive oil and wine while the fishermen make sure that there is always fresh fish available.

Kefalonia: This is a truly beautiful island and is actually the biggest one of the Ionians. Kefalonia appeared in cinema screens around the world, as it was here that the blockbuster "Captain Correlli's Mandolin" with Nicolas Cage was filmed. Once on the island you'll be presented with a plethora of activities including shopping, sightseeing, hiking or you can simply enjoy the delicious dishes of the local tavernas. If want a few drinks and enjoy a wild night out than you have a choice of bars and clubs in the tourist resorts. The choice is yours!

Meganisi: Meganisi is a picturesque island of the Ionian Sea, 4 nautical miles southeast of Lefkas. This is an island that gives visitors a taste of traditional Greece, this is reflected by the architecture and the picture perfect bays lined with fish taverns. Meganisi has some absolutely magnificent scenery with stunning views of the green landscapes and crystal clear waters. The island's residents give tourists with a warm welcome that makes Meganisi a wonderful destination.

Kalamos: Even at the first sight from a distance Kalamos captivates with its unusual and wild landscape. The centre of the island is the port of Kalamos located on the eastern side of the island. This is where many people sailing the Ionian moor their boats in order to visit the island. Upon arrival enjoy the seafood at a seaside taverna or marvel at the remarkable natural landscape that make you feel you have been transported back to eras long gone.

Kastos: Kastos is a low lying, long and narrow little island covered in olive trees where dozens of boats sailing over the Ionian Sea moor each day and a place well known for fishing. The distances are very short and the people move around on foot and, of course, by boat. The view from the pathway along the ridge which goes towards the north is exceptional. In addition, the small road which was recently built provides for a delightful stroll through the verdant landscape, which exudes a sense of peace and calm.

Onassis Island (Skorpios): Skorpios is a private island in the Ionian Sea off the western coast of Greece and just to the east of the island of Lefkada. It is mainly known as the private island of the late Greek shipping billionaire Aristotle Onassis. It was the site of his wedding to former First Lady Jacqueline Kennedy.

Things to do on a Holiday in Ionian Sailing Cruises

Enjoy yourself everyday with fun activities at your disposal. Snorkeling, sailing regatta, navigation games, fishing games, dinghy racing, winners ceremony and farewell party are just some activities that we arrange to keep our guest amused. Moreover, you will strengthen the bonds of friendship with your fellow passengers in the boat but also with the passengers of other boats, cruising at the same period.

Once you book your holiday, you will receive an email which will guide you how to proceed with your registration and how to become an official member in the social networking application of Friends on Board. You will have the possibility to meet your fellow travellers and exchange opinion and interests with them before you set sail. You will also get to see all the boats and travellers who will cruise with you on the same period!

Eating/Drinking During Ionian Sailing Cruises Holidays

Breakfast: Cereals, fresh bread, fruits, honey, yogurt, jams, juices, coffee and tea.

Lunch: Usually around one 1pm a light lunch is served this includes cold cuts, various salads, Greek meze (appetizers and variety of dips), still mineral water, wine, beer, ouzo and fresh fruits for dessert. (limitations on consumption apply to alcoholic beverages)

Dinner: Every night you will dine in restaurants we have chosen for you in order to taste the traditional Greek cuisine next to the sea.

Nightlife During Ionian Sailing Cruises

On our cruises we visit islands which are out of the beaten track, so you will mostly experience nightlife with a nice atmosphere, friendly locals, traditional live Greek music and dancing, rather than busy and loud clubs.

However, for those who would like to try clubbing in Greece, there is a variety in the town of Lefkas where you will spend your last night of the cruise. In most of the places we visit, there is a good variety of choices so you will find something for all tastes.

A Typical Day on an Ionian Sailing Cruise

A typical day onboard starts in the marina of a little village where you spent the previous night. Normally after breakfast on board, sometime around 9:30am we set sail. After we drop anchor, you can stay onboard or go for a bit of swimming and snorkeling, or head for the shore. Around 1pm in the afternoon a light lunch is served at the cockpit accompanied with local wine or beer and fresh fruit for dessert.

In late afternoon it's a good time to weigh anchor, hoist the sails again and head for another picturesque little village on another island. We'll be there around 5pm which will give you plenty of time to explore the place and experience the local culture. Later we will head for dinner to one of the tavernas, where you will have the opportunity to taste the Greek cuisine, famous for its delicious plates.

We only select the best of local tavernas for you. After dinner you take a stroll or relax over a glass or two of the local wine, then end up back at the yacht for a few drinks with your friends or just head for a bar, socialise, make new friends and even have fun till the sun rises again the next morning!

Ionian Sailing Cruises Holiday Weather

The weather in Ionian is typically Mediterranean, characterised by a hot and sunny climate during summer time and mild winters with high rainfalls. The level of humidity is high in Ionian, even during peak summer.