A complete yacht charter guide that has everything you need to know about sailing holidays in Lefkas, Kefalonia & other islands nearby. If you love the idea of having your next sailing holidays in Greece, and especially sail around the islands of Lefkada and Kefalonia, this is what you need to get prepared before your boat trip.
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The Ionian Islands, including Lefkas (Lefkada) and Kefalonia, are famous for their gentle sailing conditions and long season. The best time to sail this region is typically from late spring through early fall, with a particularly golden period in June, July, and September. Unlike the Aegean, the Ionian doesn’t have a Meltemi; winds here (often the NW Maestral in summer) are lighter and more predictable, frequently Force 2-5, which makes it ideal for comfortable sailing and family yacht charters.
In May and June, you’ll find warm weather (mid 20s°C) with blooming landscapes and relatively empty harbors – spring offers a beautiful, tranquil sailing experience among Lefkas’s emerald coves and Kefalonia’s pine-fringed bays. The water is warming up (though may still be refreshing in May for long swims), and winds are moderate, picking up slightly in the afternoon due to local sea breezes. July and August are peak season, both in terms of tourism and weather heat (highs 30–35°C). The upside in the Ionian is that even at the height of summer, winds rarely become too strong; they often average Force 3-4 on summer afternoons, providing great sailing without the intense gusts seen on the Aegean side. But with the popularity of Lefkas and Kefalonia in summer, ports like Lefkada Marina, Fiskardo (in Kefalonia), and Vasiliki (Lefkas) get busier – a lively atmosphere prevails, and you might need to arrive earlier for berths.
September is a favorite month for many seasoned sailors in this area: the weather remains summery (highs around 28°C), the sea is at its warmest after the long summer, and there’s a mellowing of crowds as families depart after August. Winds in September continue to be reliable but gradually calming; the first autumn rains typically hold off until mid or late October. Many charter operations in Lefkas run until mid/late October precisely because conditions often remain good. Winter months (November–March) bring more rain in the Ionian (this region is greener for a reason) and many facilities close, so it’s not recommended for casual sailing holidays. Thus, the Ionian sailing season is long, but for the very best mix of weather and experience, aim for May through early October, with June and September often offering a superb balance of weather bliss and navigational ease. Whenever you go in that range, Lefkas’s turquoise waters and Kefalonia’s dramatic cliffs (like those near Myrtos Beach) will be ready to greet you.
Yes, to charter a yacht bareboat in Lefkas, Kefalonia or any Ionian island, you will need to have an appropriate sailing license. The requirements are the same as elsewhere in Greece: one certified skipper and one competent crew member. Typically, the skipper’s qualifications should be an ICC or a national equivalent (RYA Day Skipper Practical, ASA 104, etc.), which is recognized by Greek Port Authorities. The Ionian might have a reputation for being beginner-friendly, but official rules do not change – they will ask for that evidence of competence. Additionally, a co-skipper (first mate) should be on board; if the co-skipper doesn’t have a formal license, they will sign the “Declaration of Honor” (a form stating they are experienced and able to assist in skippering). The charter base in Lefkada (a major hub for Ionian charters) or Kefalonia will check your paperwork on arrival. In fact, at Lefkas Marina or Nidri, it’s standard procedure – you won’t be allowed to take the boat out until the base manager sees that you have the legal requirements sorted.
If you lack a valid license, your options are to hire a skipper or join a flotilla. The Ionian is famous for flotilla sailing – this can be a solution if you have some experience but no formal license, as you sail under the guidance of a flotilla lead crew. Otherwise, a skippered charter out of Lefkas or Kefalonia is easily arranged – lots of freelance skippers in the area can be contracted, and they’ll not only handle the boat but also introduce you to the best local spots. In summary, despite the laid-back vibe of the Ionian, you do need a license to rent a bareboat there, just like anywhere in Greece. Double-check your credentials against what the charter company and Greek authorities expect. As long as you come prepared, you’ll soon be sailing around Lefkas’s lagoons and Kefalonia’s caves on your own chartered yacht, enjoying that famed Ionian ease with full peace of mind.
The Ionian Islands of Lefkas (Lefkada) and Kefalonia boast a fascinating blend of Venetian history, traditional island culture, and delicious cuisine, making a yacht charter here as enriching on shore as it is enjoyable at sea.
Lefkas is connected to the mainland by a causeway and swing bridge, but it firmly maintains its island character. The main town, Lefkada City, has colorful narrow streets and campanile bell towers reflecting a strong Venetian influence. A unique cultural spot is the Faneromeni Monastery atop a hill overlooking Lefkada Town – a peaceful detour with great views and a small museum. Music is big in Lefkada; if you visit in August, you might catch the International Folklore Festival where dance and music troupes from around the world perform, turning the town into a vibrant stage. Sail down to Nidri, and you have archaeological intrigue – the island of Skorpios nearby was once Aristotle Onassis’s private isle, and archaeologists debate if Lefkas could be Homer’s Ithaca. Over in Kefalonia, the cultural vibe is mellow and welcoming. The island was depicted in Louis de Bernières’ novel Captain Corelli’s Mandolin, and you can still visit villages like Sami and Agia Effimia that retain traditional Ionian charm. The capital, Argostoli, has a wonderful bustling waterfront where fishermen feed sea turtles by hand in the mornings, a sight emblematic of Kefalonia’s blend of human and natural heritage. Argostoli also houses the Kefalonia Archaeological Museum with Mycenaean artifacts, speaking to the island’s ancient past.
Natural wonders double as cultural highlights. On Kefalonia, the Drogarati Cave and Melissani Lake Cave (where you can boat inside a sunlit cavern lake) are steeped in local lore and absolutely stunning – easy to arrange a visit when your yacht is moored in Sami. Each island has its religious festivals; if you’re there on August 15 (Panagia holiday), you’ll witness heartfelt celebrations, particularly at Virgin Mary churches – on Kefalonia, there’s even the famous snake festival at Markopoulo, where benign snakes appear at the church.
Culinary delights abound. Lefkas is known for its lentils from Englouvi, a tiny mountain village that produces some of Greece’s best lentils – often cooked simply with garlic and served with local sausage. The island also produces a sweet wine called Lefkaditiki Gi. Meanwhile, Kefalonia has signature dishes like meat pie (Kreatopita) – a hearty pie of beef, pork and rice with a thick phyllo crust, and sofigado, a savory venison or goat stew with quince and petimezi (grape syrup) showing Venetian influence. Also try bourbourelia, a Kefalonian mixed bean soup, if you come in the cooler shoulder seasons. Seafood, naturally, is superb – grilled sardines, red mullet (barbounia), and octopus drying on lines by tavernas are common sights. Local cheese like Kefalonia’s feta and mizithra are delicious, often enjoyed in simple salads with the island’s superlative tomatoes and olive oil. Don’t leave Kefalonia without sampling Robola wine, a distinguished white with citrus notes grown on the island’s slopes. One charming culinary tradition: in Lefkas, you might encounter pasteli sesame-honey candy being sold in rounds, and on Kefalonia, look for mandola, a red sugar-coated almond treat harking back to Venetian times.
Overall, the culture and cuisine of Lefkas and Kefalonia will likely be as memorable as the sailing itself: picture yourself wandering a Venetian castle in the morning, sailing to a beach for a swim by noon, and feasting on Kefalonian pie and local wine under the stars at night. The islands’ rich history and warm hospitality will accompany you at every anchorage.
Lefkas and Kefalonia fall under Greek jurisdiction, so the standard boating regulations apply here as well. There aren’t unique sailing permits needed specifically for the Ionian islands beyond the normal paperwork. Your charter boat will have a Transit Log and all necessary safety equipment as required by Greek law. One thing to note: Lefkas (Lefkada) is connected to the mainland by a narrow canal and floating bridge. When approaching or leaving Lefkas Canal, observe the buoyage carefully and time your transit if possible with the opening of the swing bridge, which typically opens on the hour to let boats through. Keep your VHF tuned to coordinate or listen for announcements regarding the canal transit.
Right-of-way in the Lefkas Canal: this canal has some width restrictions. Generally, northbound traffic may have priority when the bridge opens, but always follow the canal authority’s signals. Go slow as the canal is used by fishing boats and yachts alike, and be mindful of depth if you stray outside the dredged channel.
Marinas and moorings: Lefkas Marina in Lefkada Town is a large, organized marina. Reservations are recommended in peak summer. They’ll expect you to follow their docking instructions. Kefalonia has fewer marina facilities; most yachts moor Mediterranean-style in town quays (like Fiskardo, Sami, Argostoli). If anchoring off a town, leave space for ferries. No special permits are needed for sailing these islands, and unlike some Croatian parks, Greece doesn’t charge entry for natural areas. However, if you decide to venture into the Inland Sea (Amvrakikos Gulf) north of Lefkas, be aware of restricted military areas near Aktio. Generally, the Ionian is user-friendly, so ask your charter base for local updates.
Environmental considerations: The Ionian is home to marine life like sea turtles. Around Kefalonia and Zakynthos, turtles are common, so be mindful of no-wake zones near nesting beaches. Also avoid anchoring on posidonia meadows if possible. Mooring fees in Ionian town quays are modest, often just a few euros. If no one collects, it might be free that night.
In summary, respect the usual Greek maritime laws, watch your charts near the Lefkas canal, be courteous at busy quays, and the Ionian’s gentle seas will grant you a carefree cruise among Lefkas & Kefalonia’s storied shores.
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Lefkas - also known as Lefkada - is one of the largest Ionian islands, - which is actually connected to mainland with a causeway - and attracts millions of charterers each year, as it is the main starting point for a South Ionian Yacht Charter. The West coast boasts some of Ionian's most breathtaking, pristine beaches such as Porto Katsiki and Egremni, while the East coast is home to traditional fishing villages and resorts. Book your Yacht Charter in Lefkas with Yacht4Less and sail Kefalonia, Meganisi, Zante & Ithaca.
If this is your first time sailing in the Ionian, then you should definitely visit the South Ionian, starting from Lefkas. Some of the itinerary highlights include the famous islands of Kefalonia, Ithaca, and Meganisi, as well as the privately-owned island of Skorpios. Sailing distances are short, the wind and weather are very predictable and there are many secure anchorages to choose from, be it ports, marinas, town quays or bays.
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Did we also mention the astonishing iridescent waters and magnificent cliffs as you sail around the islands?
The South Ionian is ideal for:
The weather in this area is usually very sunny and warm. During spring, summer, and autumn, an NW wind of up to 3 Beaufort starts blowing almost every afternoon (2-3pm) and dies down after sunset.
You will need to fly in and out of the International Airport of Aktion in Preveza (PVK), which is approximately 30 minutes away from Lefkas. Easyjet has recently announced Saturday flights to PVK from London.
Yacht4Less can assist with organising and booking your transfer from the airport to Lefkas marina and prices start from 35 EUR per way - depending on the size of your group and your luggage. You can also reach Lefkas by car/bus from Athens and Corfu (travelers from Corfu will also need to board one of the frequent ferries to Igoumenitsa).
Lefkas marina is a new, very well organised marina with all necessary facilities such as bathrooms, showers, bars, restaurants, chandlery, and laundry. The marina is guarded by security at the main entrance 24/7, so it is safe to park cars inside (at no extra cost). Bathrooms and showers are only used by marina guests and are in excellent condition. You can buy shower cards from the marina offices.
There is a small supermarket inside the marina (stays open on Sundays), however, just 5 mins away, you will find 3 big-name supermarkets which offer a wide range of product options and free delivery directly to your yacht.
Water and shore power cards are also provided at the marina offices.
Day 1: Lefkas Marina – Meganisi Island (10 NM)
Begin your Ionian sailing holiday with a short cruise to Meganisi, a peaceful island with quiet anchorages and traditional charm. Anchor near Vathi or Spartochori and enjoy your first evening with local meze and waterfront views.
Day 2: Meganisi Caves – Sivota, Lefkas Island (7 NM)
Explore the stunning sea caves on Meganisi’s southern coast before sailing to the picturesque harbour of Sivota on Lefkas. Nestled in a deep natural bay, Sivota offers excellent tavernas and a calm overnight stay.
Day 3: Sivota – Fiskardo, Kefalonia Island (11 NM)
Cross the channel to Kefalonia and dock in Fiskardo, one of the Ionian’s most elegant ports. With pastel Venetian houses and chic cafés, it’s perfect for exploring both history and luxury.
Day 4: Fiskardo – Kioni, Ithaca Island (9 NM)
Sail to the charming village of Kioni on Ithaca, where green hills tumble down to a calm, yacht-filled bay. Stroll the narrow streets, dine at a harbourside taverna, and soak in the timeless atmosphere.
Day 5: Kioni – One House Bay, Atokos Island – Kalamos Island (14 NM)
Stop at One House Bay on uninhabited Atokos Island for a swim in turquoise waters beneath dramatic cliffs. Then continue to Kalamos Island, a quiet retreat with pine-covered hills and peaceful anchorages.
Day 6: Asprogiali Bay, Kalamos – Ampelaki Bay, Meganisi (10 NM)
Sail back toward Meganisi and anchor in Ampelaki Bay, known for its crystalline waters and relaxed setting. Spend the afternoon paddleboarding or enjoying a final swim before heading back to Lefkas.
Day 7: Meganisi – Lefkas Marina (10 NM)
Complete your loop with a scenic sail back to Lefkas Marina. Disembark after a week of calm seas, secluded coves, and the soft rhythm of the Ionian Islands.
Day 1: Lefkas – Meganisi
Begin your journey with a short sail to Meganisi, a tranquil island offering quiet anchorages and traditional villages. Spend your first night in Vathi or Spartochori, surrounded by pine-scented hills and Ionian serenity.
Day 2: Meganisi – Fiskardo, Kefalonia
Sail south to the chic harbour of Fiskardo, where colourful Venetian buildings and upscale tavernas line the waterfront. This charming Kefalonian port is ideal for an elegant evening and a leisurely stroll.
Day 3: Fiskardo – Argostoli, Kefalonia
Cruise along Kefalonia’s rugged western coastline to its capital, Argostoli. Discover the town’s bustling promenade, local markets, and perhaps spot sea turtles near the fishing boats in the marina.
Day 4: Argostoli – Agios Nikolaos, Zakynthos
Head southeast to Zakynthos, docking in the small port of Agios Nikolaos in the island’s northeast. From here, you can take an optional excursion to the famous Blue Caves or Navagio (Shipwreck) Beach.
Day 5: Agios Nikolaos – Kalamaki, Zakynthos
Sail south along the eastern coast of Zakynthos to Kalamaki, located near Laganas Bay and part of the National Marine Park. It's a peaceful anchorage known for its sandy beaches and loggerhead turtle nesting areas.
Day 6: Kalamaki – Zakynthos Town
Make a short hop to the island's capital, Zakynthos Town. Explore the elegant squares, Venetian architecture, and waterfront cafés for a cosmopolitan contrast to the island’s natural beauty.
Day 7: Zakynthos Town – Poros, Kefalonia
Cross back to Kefalonia and dock in Poros, a charming harbour nestled between green hills and clear waters. It’s a peaceful spot ideal for a swim and a relaxed dinner ashore.
Day 8: Poros – Sami, Kefalonia
Sail north to Sami, one of Kefalonia’s main ports with easy access to Melissani Cave and Antisamos Beach. The town offers a wide range of dining options and a lively yet relaxed atmosphere.
Day 9: Sami – Agia Efimia – Agios Andreas (Kefalonia)
Make a scenic coastal sail to Agia Efimia, perfect for a swim stop or brunch, before continuing to Agios Andreas for the night. This secluded spot offers a peaceful, off-the-beaten-path anchorage.
Day 10: Agios Andreas – Vathi, Ithaca
Sail east to Vathi, the charming capital of Ithaca and a natural harbour with authentic Greek island ambience. Wander its quiet streets, visit the local museum, or enjoy a cocktail at sunset overlooking the bay.
Day 11: Vathi – Frikes, Ithaca
A short sail north brings you to Frikes, a sleepy fishing village with a handful of tavernas and relaxed waterfront charm. It's the perfect spot to slow down and enjoy an unhurried Greek afternoon.
Day 12: Frikes – Kastos
Cruise to the tiny island of Kastos, where life moves at an entirely different pace. Anchor in the bay and dine in one of the island’s few but welcoming tavernas overlooking the sea.
Day 13: Kastos – Lefkas
Make your return leg to Lefkas, stopping along the way for a final swim in the calm waters of the Ionian. Dock back at Lefkas Marina and toast the end of a beautifully balanced sailing journey.
Day 14: Lefkas (Check-out)
Disembark at Lefkas Marina after two unforgettable weeks of sailing. Depart with memories of turquoise waters, quiet anchorages, and the cultural richness of the Ionian islands.
Keep on reading: Top 5 Reasons to Go Sailing in the Ionian
Lefkas & Kefalonia, two jewels of the central Ionian Sea, offer an incredible backdrop for a sailing holiday with bareboat, skippered, and crewed charters available. Lefkas (Lefkada) is a major charter hub, and experienced sailors often set off bareboat from its marina to explore the surrounding islands – you can meander through the calm waters to Ithaca (legendary home of Odysseus), drop anchor at Kefalonia’s picturesque Fiskardo harbor, or find a secret cove off Meganisi, all on your own timetable. For those who want to relax more, skippered charters around Lefkas and Kefalonia are ideal; your skipper will handle the navigation through the Lefkada Canal and around Kefalonia’s coastline, bringing you to highlights like secluded beaches (Porto Katsiki’s dramatic cliffs) or the best local tavernas, with none of the stress. If you’re seeking a premium experience, fully crewed yacht charters can elevate your journey – imagine cruising these Ionian islands on a private yacht cruise where the crew serves you fresh seafood on deck and shares local lore as you sail into another gorgeous sunset.
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