North Ionian Islands
”Greece Yacht Charter Ionian”

Embark on a sailing adventure through the captivating North Ionian Islands of Greece, where natural beauty and rich culture come together. The diverse archipelago, each island with its unique character, offers endless opportunities for exploration.

Start your journey in Corfu, an island steeped in history and culture, where you can wander through the old town, a UNESCO World Heritage site, and admire the elegant Venetian and French architecture. Then make your way to Gaios, the charming capital of Paxos, with its traditional white-washed houses and narrow streets, it's a perfect spot to relax and enjoy the local cuisine.

Antipaxos, a secluded island known for its unspoiled beaches, crystal-clear waters and lush greenery, is a must-visit destination. Its perfect for swimming and snorkeling, and to sample the delicious local wine.

Sivota Mourtos, a picturesque fishing village, offers a glimpse into traditional Greek island life and Parga, a charming seaside town, is famous for its Venetian fortresses and charming beaches.

As you sail through these islands, take in the breathtaking views of the azure waters and verdant landscapes. Enjoy the stunning sunsets and marvel at the star-filled skies at night. Whether you are a seasoned sailor or a first-timer, the North Ionian Islands are a true paradise for those who love the sea. This sailing experience will be an unforgettable journey of natural beauty and rich culture.

Places To Visit: North Ionian Islands, greece

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Suggested Route: Map

Sailing Conditions & Weather


For the most part, the wind and weather conditions in the popular sailing months are favourable; however, the Ionian Sea is impacted by the north and northwestern prevailing winds. These are most prominent from mid-afternoon to sunset and can mean strong crosswinds and gusts funnelling over the mountainous landscapes. Planning and a thorough understanding of the weather forecasts are recommended, and don’t be afraid to ask your charter operator, fellow sailors or locals for top tips. As in most of Greece, you’ll often be required to moor against the quay or the shore with the anchor and long lines.
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You must plan your technique according to the wind, and all crew members understand their role. Prepare long lines, have them coiled ready and if you can holla down assistance ashore, don’t be afraid to ask. If not, send a crew out by dinghy to prepare the lines to shore first, and have the dinghy crew meet the yacht after she drops anchor and goes astern. A large chain is usually required due to the land's topography being quite steep (shifting from shallow to too deep very quickly).

An NW wind is the dominant weather pattern throughout the Ionian sea, the maestro. Typically, however, this wind is less intense, with a Beaufort scale force of 2 to 5. Compared to the infamous Meltemi over in the Aegean and Cyclades, much less caution is required. Having said this, you must remain wary of the gusts when cruising on the lee side of hilly islands and be conscious there might be katabatic winds from the NE in the evenings, Force 5-6 from the mainland mountains.  

From October to mid-May, the wind, usually from the S to SE, can produce gales, and it’s possible to encounter waterspouts. Typically detected on the radar to help you steer clear, it’s a good idea to keep a visual for these – they can be easily seen in good light. You may also encounter regular thunderstorms and squalls, with Corfu recording the highest rainfalls throughout Greece.

Sources for weather information:

  • Athens Observatory gives detailed graphical forecasts for the Greek seas for three days (every 6 hrs).

  • Poseidon System gives three-day forecasts for Greek seas from the National Center for Marine Research (Not very reliable).

  • Weather on Line provides detailed seven-day forecast charts for the Mediterranean, Northern Europe and the Atlantic.

  • Greek Meteorological Service (EMY); Navtex weather bulletins.

  • Wind Guru is a surfer’s site with worldwide wind forecasts.

Sailing Itinerary: North Ionian Islands

Essential Travel Information: Greece

Currency: Euro (EUR)

  • Language: Greek

  • International Dialling Code: +30

  • Visa requirements: Citizens of the EU, US, Canada, Australia, and New Zealand do not need a visa to visit Greece for stays of up to 90 days.

  • Best time to visit: The best time to visit Greece depends on what you want to see and do. The peak tourist season is June to August, when the weather is hottest, and the beaches are busiest. May and September shoulder seasons have more moderate temperatures and fewer tourists.

  • Weather: Greece has a Mediterranean climate, with hot summers and mild winters. In summer, temperatures can reach up to 40 °C (104 °F) on the mainland and 30 °C (86 °F) on the islands.

  • Health and Safety: Greece is generally considered safe, but visitors should be aware of the risk of pickpocketing and theft in tourist areas. Be sure to keep your personal belongings safe and secure at all times.

  • Transportation: Greece has an excellent public transportation system, including buses, trains, and ferries. Taxis are also readily available.

  • Food and drink: Greek cuisine is known for its healthy and delicious food, including dishes such as moussaka, dolmades, and souvlaki. Greek wine and ouzo are popular drinks.

  • Tips and Customs: Tipping is not mandatory, but it is customary to leave a small tip (5-10%) in restaurants and cafes. In Greece, it is considered impolite to leave food on your plate, and it is also customary to dress modestly when visiting religious sites.

  • Tourist Attractions: Some of the most popular tourist attractions in Greece include the Acropolis and the Parthenon in Athens, the island of Santorini, the ancient city of Delphi, and the Palace of Knossos in Crete.

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