Yacht charter in Ionian Islands

All about Boat Rentals in the Ionian Islands

The Ionian Islands lie off the west coast of Greece and range in size, features and attractions. There are seven main islands in this group - Corfu, Ithaca, Kefalonia, Kythira, Lefkas, Paxos, and Zakynthos - and also several smaller islands, including Antipaxos and Antikythera. Though all enticing in their own exotic manner, the beauty of a yacht rental in the Ionian Islands means you can explore whichever island you desire and even access secluded bays, coves and beaches unavailable to those on land. Sample the finest Greek menus in small coastal towns and explore the underwater world in the pleasantly warm and glistening Ionian Sea.

Flexible cancellation or date changes up to 15 days before check in is allowed on selected boats, so be sure to check which ones this applies to if you’re worried about something ruining your vacation plans.

How much does it cost to rent a boat in the Ionian Islands?

The cost of an Ionian Island boat rental can vary a lot depending on a number of different factors. Some of these include the number of people, the size of the boat, where in the islands you wish to rent, the season, the amenities on board and the type of boat.

Yacht

For yacht charter in the Ionian Islands, you will typically pay around €5,500 for a half day, €8,000 for a full day or €35,000 for 12 people.

Sailboat

To go sailing in the Ionian Islands, sailboat prices usually average at around €4,800 a week in high season or €3,900 a week in low season for 6 people.

RIBs

Ionian RIB charter costs around €350 per day in the high season and €280 per day in the low season for 10 people.

Motorboat

For a motorboat rental in the Ionian Islands, you should expect to pay around €140 for half a day and €230 for a full day in the high season, or €120 for half a day and €160 for a full day for 7 people.

Is a bareboat charter in the Ionian Islands possible?

Yes, it is possible to rent a yacht in the Ionian Islands, with or without a skipper. You won’t need a licence unless the engine power of your boat is 30 horsepower or more. Opting to rent a boat without a skipper is ideal for those who are confident in their sailing abilities and prefer the independence to explore the islands at their own pace. However, if you lack experience in sailing or prefer a more leisurely vacation, it is advisable to rent a boat with a skipper.

What are the weather and sailing conditions like in the Ionian Islands?

The weather in the Ionian Islands varies a lot throughout the year. The summer months can get very hot as there is no Meltemi wind to cool them down, with average temperatures of around 35-36°C (95-96.8°F), which sometimes even exceed 40°C (104°F). The winter temperatures on the other hand can drop quite low and although there will rarely be snow or frost on lower ground, snow does fall in the mountains.

The coldest month in the Ionian Islands is January, with average low temperatures of 5°C (41°F), whereas the hottest months are July and August, when the average high temperatures reach around 31°C (87.8°F). The sea temperature typically reaches its peak in August, when it is around 26°C (78.8°F), but drops down to around 15°C (59°F) in February and March.

Usually, the wettest month in the Ionian islands is December, with 110 mm (4.3 inches) of rainfall and the driest month is July, with just 5 mm (0.2 inches). July also has the most hours of sunlight, with around 13 hours a day, while December usually has just 4 hours of sunlight a day. In July and August, a slightly stronger wind known as the maestro can pick up, prevailing from a north to north-westerly direction.

When is the best time for a boat charter in the Ionian Islands?

The best time to charter a boat in the Ionian Islands depends on what you want to do while there. If you’re after a beach trip, the summer months are a fantastic time to go as the sea and air temperatures are perfect for swimming. However, the high season also means more tourists and potentially overcrowded beaches. Although, many secluded beaches and coves are only accessible by boat, giving you the opportunity to avoid the crowds. The only downside is that boat prices may be higher during this time.

If you plan on exploring the islands during your Ionian boat charter, it might be better to go during the shoulder seasons, from March to May or October and November. The temperatures are a little lower and may be more pleasant for walking. There will also be fewer tourists and lower boat prices during this time.

What are the main ports and sailing areas in the Ionian Islands?

Our Ionian boat rentals are based mainly on the islands of Lefkas (Lefkada), Corfu and Kefalonia. We also rent boats on the west coast of Greece, meaning you can start your boat rental on the mainland and later set sail for the islands. Here is a list of the main locations for Ionian Island yacht charters.

• West coast of Greece - Port of Kyllini, Preveza Marina, Palairos Marina
• Lefkas - Port of Lefkas (also known as Port of Lefkada), Vasiliki Marina
• Corfu - Gouvia Marina, Kerkira Marina
• Kefalonia - Sami Port

We have sailboat rentals available in all of these locations (assuming they are available and not already booked). Our catamaran rentals are most popular on the islands Lekfas and Corfu, although we also have some available in other locations.

What to do in the Ionian Islands

There are a variety of different itinerary options for your boat hire in the Ionian Islands. Here are a few things we think make the Ionian Islands stand out and are worth visiting.

Myrtos Beach in Kefalonia is a stunning example of a paradise beach, loved by both locals and visitors. As it is not easily accessible by road, a yacht hire in the Ionian Islands provides a convenient and comfortable way to reach it. For a unique cultural experience, head to the Museum of Asian Art in Corfu city. It is the only museum of its kind in Greece, showcasing an impressive collection of Japanese, Chinese, and Indian art.

If you appreciate ancient architecture and history, we suggest visiting two impressive fortresses in the Ionian Islands. The Kastro fortress on Kythira Island is a beautiful 14th-century structure that has aged gracefully, now adorned with wild flowers and shrubs. The Palaio Frourio fortress in Corfu city is another 14th-century gem with a seawater moat and a bridge leading to a lighthouse, offering breathtaking views.

How to get to the Ionian Islands

Getting to the Ionian Islands is a breeze, with both Corfu and Kefalonia having their own island airports. Direct flights to Kefalonia are available from various locations, including Athens, Zakynthos, the Netherlands, Italy, Germany, Austria, the Czech Republic, and multiple cities across the UK, including London. Corfu airport is larger, offering direct flights from most of the same locations as Kefalonia airport, plus France, Belgium, Barcelona in Spain, Switzerland, Finland, Russia, Norway, Sweden, and other Greek cities like Thessaloniki.

If you're keen to start your holiday sooner, you could consider taking a boat from a nearby country or island, such as Italy or Albania.