Ionian Islands, Greece

What is special about sailing around Lefkada? Lefkada offers a distinctly different side of Greece. Rather than the stark, sun-bleached landscapes of the Cyclades, the Ionian Islands are lush and green, with pine-covered hills, olive groves, dramatic cliffs and remarkably clear turquoise water. The sailing grounds around Lefkada are made up of a constellation of smaller islands and islets, creating a wonderfully intimate cruising environment filled with secluded beaches, quiet anchorages and tiny waterfront villages.

How is the Lefkada region different from other Greek sailing routes? The biggest difference is the landscape and the pace. The Cyclades are famous for their whitewashed villages, dramatic architecture and strong Aegean winds. Around Lefkada, the scenery is greener, the waters are generally more sheltered, and the islands feel more closely connected to the sea. The nearby islands of Meganisi, Kastos and Kalamos offer small coves, caves and beaches that are best discovered from the water.

What can I expect to see while sailing? Expect a week dominated by turquoise water, limestone cliffs, olive groves, pine forests and empty coves. Many of the region's most beautiful places are inaccessible by road, making a yacht the ideal way to explore them. Days might include swimming from the boat, snorkeling in clear water, exploring sea caves, hiking ashore or wandering into a tiny village for lunch. Meganisi in particular is known for its deeply indented coastline, hidden coves and nearby uninhabited islets.

Is Lefkada good for swimming and snorkeling? Very much so. Swimming is one of the defining experiences of a Lefkada voyage. The region is known for exceptionally clear water, sheltered bays and numerous beaches accessible primarily by boat. There are also underwater caves, reefs and dramatic seabed formations throughout the area.

Will we spend much time sailing, or mostly motoring between islands? The Ionian offers a particularly pleasant combination of sailing and relaxed coastal cruising. During the summer sailing season, the prevailing Maistro generally arrives from the northwest in the afternoon, creating a dependable afternoon sailing breeze before easing in the evening. Conditions can vary, but the distances between the islands are relatively short, allowing plenty of time for swimming, exploring and lingering in beautiful anchorages.

Is Lefkada suitable for people who aren't experienced sailors? Yes. The waters around Lefkada are generally considered among the more approachable sailing grounds in Greece. The combination of relatively short passages, numerous protected anchorages and generally manageable summer conditions makes the region particularly well suited to a relaxed sailing holiday.

What are the natural highlights of the region? Beyond the beaches, Lefkada has an unusually rich landscape to explore. On the island itself, the Dimosari Gorge leads through dense vegetation to a 12-meter waterfall and natural swimming pool near Nydri. Offshore, the smaller islands reveal sea caves, hidden beaches and forested hills that are best experienced from the water.

What is the food and village life like? The smaller Ionian islands offer a slower, more understated version of Greek island life. Expect simple waterfront tavernas, fresh seafood, local produce and long lunches overlooking the harbor. Places such as Kastos and Kalamos are particularly appealing for their tiny villages and intimate waterfront restaurants.

When is the best time to sail Lefkada? For the best combination of warm water, reliable sailing conditions and fewer crowds, we particularly like June and September. July and August bring the height of summer and are excellent for swimming, but the most popular anchorages and villages can become considerably busier. Late September can be especially beautiful, with warm sea temperatures and a quieter atmosphere.

How do I get to Lefkada? The easiest gateway is Aktion International Airport (PVK) near Preveza, approximately 25–30 minutes from Lefkada. There is no ferry required because Lefkada is connected to mainland Greece by a floating bridge. Alternatively, travelers can fly into Athens and rent a car for the approximately four-hour drive, or arrive via Corfu and continue south by ferry and road.

What should I expect from a Sailing Collective voyage in Lefkada? Expect a week that is less about checking off famous Greek islands and more about being on the water. There is time to sail, swim, explore, eat well and simply find a beautiful place to drop anchor for the afternoon. Lefkada is an ideal destination for travelers looking for the natural beauty of Greece without sacrificing comfort, good food or the pleasures of a proper sailing itinerary.

Provisioning Sailing Collective will provision your journey with local foods and produce.  Cooking Aboard: Your Sailing Collective chef will thoroughly review your guest form with your culinary preferences and will customize a menu specifically for your departure.

Included in provisioning package*: 

• 6 breakfasts, 6 lunches, 3 dinners*, snacks, water, coffee & tea

* Subjected to change, 3 meals will take place shore.

Dietary Restrictions We can accommodate as long as we know in advance! It is important to notify us of any dietary restrictions ahead of time and include full details in the Guest Form that you will fill out prior to the start of the trip.

Beverages You can choose to bring your own beverages aboard or request for your crew to provision beverages on your behalf to be billed at the end of the charter. Select locations will have online ordering options. If you would like your crew to purchase beverages, we ask you be specific with quantities and quality (for example: we prefer light red wine in the $20 - $30 per bottle and scotch no pricier than $50)

ADDITIONAL COSTS We recommend planning on having at least $300 – $1000 in spending money depending on spending habits. You will be responsible for paying for:

• All expenses on shore including meals and drinks

• Flights and transportation to and from the marina location

• Onboard beverages

• Gratuity (a 15% to 20% recommended)

GRATUITY Tipping your captain and crew is welcomed. If you are satisfied with your service, the industry standard for yacht charters ranges from 15-20% of the cost of the charter. Gratuity is split evenly between the crew and can be paid via cash, check, Venmo, or PayPal. Please contact your Sailing Collective Journey Coordinator if you have any questions.

• 15% - Exceptional service on your holiday with exceptional service!

• 20%+ - Extraordinary experience and your crew sent the voyage to the moon and back!!

PACKING LIST Collapsible bags in place of large rigid suitcases are advised for ease of transport on and off the boat. Loading and unloading from the dingy can be a wet activity, a pair of shoes such as flip-flops that you can get wet if we are landing on a beach is recommended.

As the vast majority of your time will be spent outside, prepare for elements - bring a light raincoat just in case, a hat to shield yourself from the sun, and a warm layer.  Throughout the week we may dine out at a nice restaurant, so bring an outfit looks nice and suits your style.

We also encourage that people bring ecologically appropriate products into ocean environments. You can read more about those recommendations on the Sailing Collective Journal here: Packing for a Healthy Ocean

The Journey Schedule Meeting time is at 9:00 am on Day 1 of the charter (unless previously discussed boarding time change). We return back to port on the final evening by 5-6:00pm and disembark between 8-9:00am on the final day.

Terms & Conditions By booking this journey, you agree to comply with the stated Terms & Conditions available on our website. Please contact info@thesailingcollective.com with any questions. 

Travel Insurance We recommend purchasing a travel insurance policy that protects you in case of general and covid-related trip interruptions. If you choose not to purchase travel insurance, you forfeit the right to a refund or credit in the event you have to cancel your trip with Sailing Collective.

PASSPORTS AND VISAS Please ensure your passport is valid for the period of travel and for six months after you return. The Sailing Collective cannot be held responsible for refusal of entry or travel due to lack of visas. If you are in any doubt please contact your Embassy for full details.

REALISTIC DISCLAIMER ABOUT BOATS Boats can break. Charter boats are like a rental car, they are checked before and after each charter. The engineer team is required to check the vessel for maintenance issues and make repairs during the half-day turnaround. Vessels require constant attention like any other complex mechanical system. If you are particular about your exact vacation requirements, we recommend booking a yacht charter with a higher price point allowing for three-crew and we are happy to assist brokering a luxury yacht charter for you and your group.