Are you planning an Ionian sailing trip from Lefkada town? Can you island hop from Lefkada? Lefkada is one of the most popular islands in the Ionian Sea, offering something special for every sailor with its diverse beaches and crystal clear waters. We recommend this article to those who are planning their sailing adventure in Lefkada to explore the surrounding islands by boat.
Here’s what the article will cover:
- What is the best month to sail Lefkada? – the weather
- Why sailing from Lefkada town is a good choice?
- How can you get to Lefkada?
- Ports of Lefkada town
- Sailing from Lefkada town
Why sailing from Lefkada town is a good choice?
The city of Lefkada is located in an easily accessible location on the south side of the island. The city’s modern ports have all the necessary equipment. Lefkada has a fascinating history and there are many cultural attractions on the island and nearby. Stunning landscapes including rugged mountains, crystal clear waters and charming villages. Rent a boat in Lefkada and let the island’s hidden coves and crystal clear waters enchant you – without stress, at your own pace.
Meganisi (Lefkada)
Meganisi is an excellent stopover for anyone sailing the Ionian Sea, offering sheltered bays and well-equipped marinas such as Vathy and Spartochori for safe overnight mooring. It’s best to arrive early, as popular spots fill up quickly during high season. Many waterfront tavernas provide their own docks, so calling ahead to reserve a place is recommended. The crystal-clear waters around the island are ideal for snorkeling, especially toward the south. From Meganisi you can easily continue to Kalamos or Lefkada with a comfortable half-day sail.
Kalamos (Lefkada)
Kalamos captivates sailors with its traditional Greek atmosphere and natural harbors. The main port is best secured early, as stronger afternoon winds can make maneuvering more challenging. The surrounding bays offer excellent anchorage with deep, clear water. Local tavernas often provide free mooring if you dine there, making it a convenient evening stop. Due to the island’s hills, mobile signal may drop in certain spots, so download your charts in advance.
Kastos (Lefkada)
Kastos is a quiet, untouched island perfect for sailors seeking a peaceful overnight stay. The island’s small harbor fills quickly, but several well-protected anchorages are available along the eastern coast. The wind conditions are generally favorable, making it an ideal short crossing from Kalamos. Because of the island’s small size, everything is within easy reach, and the local bars offer stunning sea views. To avoid crowds, plan your arrival for the morning hours.
Ithaka (Lefkada)
Ithaka, the legendary island of Odysseus, is one of the most exciting stops on any Ionian itinerary. The ports of Vathy and Kioni are especially popular, so charter crews are advised to arrive early to secure a berth. The surrounding bays provide crystal-clear anchoring spots, though be mindful of depth and the pebbly seabed. The island offers great hiking routes for those wishing to explore beyond the coastline. Ithaka is also a smart place to restock supplies before sailing on to Kefalonia.
Kefalonia-sziget
Kefalonia is one of the largest and most developed islands in the Ionian Sea, with ports like Lixouri and Sami being particularly favored by sailors. The coastal towns offer well-equipped shops and services for charter crews, making it a perfect resupply stop. Around Myrtos Bay the water is deeper, so ensure you use sufficient chain when anchoring. Its diverse coastline provides excellent daytime stops for swimming and snorkeling. Kefalonia also serves as a great departure point toward Zakynthos or Ithaka.
Paxos szigete
Paxos is one of the Ionian Sea’s most popular sailing destinations, especially thanks to Gaios and its natural channel harbor. The island gets busy by the afternoon, so morning arrival is recommended. Numerous high-quality anchorages surround Paxos, offering clear water and solid sandy holding. The coastal villages are ideal for restocking water and provisions. Paxos is also a perfect starting point for the short crossing to Antipaxos.
Antipaxos szigete
Antipaxos is a small but stunning island, famous for its white sandy bays and turquoise waters. Plan your visit for the early morning, as many boats gather here later in the day. Most anchorages have sandy bottoms, offering good holding, though strong winds require attention to drifting. Antipaxos is excellent for snorkeling and swimming, so bring your gear. Paxos is only a short sail away, making it easy to combine both islands in a single-day itinerary.
Parga (szárazföld)
Parga is a picturesque coastal town on the Greek mainland and a great stop for sailors exploring the Ionian. Anchoring is possible in the bay in front of the town, though it’s best to arrive early as the area is popular. A short dinghy ride brings you ashore, where you’ll find grocery stores, water refill points, and restaurants. Visiting the Venetian castle makes for a perfect afternoon excursion. Parga is a convenient starting point for continuing toward Sivota or Paxos.
Sivota (szárazföld)
Sivota is one of the best mainland harbors in the Ionian Sea, thanks to its natural coves offering excellent shelter. The town’s marina can be busy in summer, so early arrival or advance booking is recommended. Several nearby bays are perfect for swimming and anchoring. In Sivota you can easily restock water, provisions, and even access technical services if needed. From here, it’s an easy onward route to Parga, Paxos, or Lefkada.
What is the best month to sail Lefkada? – the weather
Lefkada in the Ionian Sea offers ideal wind strength and relatively calm weather conditions for sailing between the end of April and the beginning of October, especially for beginners. During this period, the weather is warm, the wind is usually reliable and predictable, so it is also recommended for beginner sailors. July and August are the busiest months, with the warmest temperatures and the most consistent winds. The Maestro, a northwesterly wind, dominates the Ionian Sea in summer, often gaining strength in the afternoon. This wind usually blows at a speed of 10-20 knots, which in many cases creates ideal conditions for sailing. Mornings are often calm, with the wind gradually increasing in the afternoon and peaking in the late afternoon. Although strong winds are more common in the Aegean Sea, the Ionian Islands, including Lefkada, can occasionally be affected by the Meltemi winds, especially during the summer months. These winds are stronger and blow from the north and usually occur in July and August. Summer temperatures are between 25°C and 35°C and the sea temperature is between 24°C and 28°C. The warm weather provides pleasant sailing and swimming conditions.
How can you get to Lafkada?
There are direct flights to the island’s international airport, Preveza Airport (PVK), from most major European cities. You can also get to Lefkada by ferry from Italy (from the ports of Ancona, Bari or Venice) and from other Greek islands (e.g. Kefalonia, Corfu). The Athens International Airport (ATH) provides easy access for those arriving from overseas, from where you can continue to the islands with frequent domestic flights also to the Aktion Airport. Which license required when chartering in Greece? can be found here.
Ports of Lefkada Town
Lefkas Marina
On the eastern side of Lefkada Town, at the entrance to the town, is one of the well-equipped marinas in the Ionian Sea, which with its modern facilities is an excellent choice for yachtsmen. Lefkas Marina has 620 berths, accommodating yachts up to 45 meters in length – one of the most popular choices during the summer peak season. It is worth booking in advance, as the capacity of the marina can be limited during popular periods. The marina has been designed with comfort and luxury in mind. It offers a wide range of amenities, including water and electricity, fuel stations, waste disposal and maintenance services. Restaurants, cafes, bars and shops cater to both visitors and yacht crews. The Marina is a nautical centre. rent a boat Lefkada, boat hire Lefkada, rent a sailboat Lefkas, luxury yacht charter Lefkada, Lefkas motor boat rental, catamaran charter Lefkas, bareboat charter Lefkas
Lefkas port (Vlycho Bay)
The Port of Lefkas, also known as Vlycho Bay, is the traditional port of Lefkada town. Located closer to the city center, it serves as the main port for ferries, fishing boats and smaller private boats. While Lefkas Port’s facilities are more modest compared to a marina, it provides basic services such as mooring, fuel and basic maintenance. The area around the port is bustling, fishermen bring in their daily catch, and ferries take passengers to other parts of the Ionian Sea. The port is also a gateway to the city’s historical and cultural attractions.
Sailing from Lefkada town
Travel times are indicative and may vary depending on wind conditions.
A One-Week Sailing Itinerary South of Lafkada town
1. day – Lefkas – Meganisi
(11.74 nm) 2h
It’s a perfect, relaxed way to start sailing, as you only need 1.2 hours of sailing to reach Meganisi’s many small beaches: Spartochori, Vathi or Abelaki Bay. Tie up with one of them on the first day of your sailing vacation. Every place is amazing!
2. day – Meganisi to Kalamos
(14.06 nm) 2,2h
The island’s main village and port offer a glimpse into traditional Greek island life. Stroll the narrow streets, visit local taverns and enjoy fresh seafood.
3. day – from Kalamos to Kastos
(4.45 nm) 1h
Another virgin island with lots of pine trees and smiling people, there are only a few tavernas and a supermarket in this tiny place. There is an old windmill on the island, which offers a stunning view of the sea and the surrounding islands. A great place to take photos and have a peaceful moment.
4. day – from Kastos to Ithaka (Vathi)
(18.43 nm) 3h
Every sailor should visit the mythical island of Odysseus at least once in his life. Ithaca has many bays with opal water and amazing white cliffs! Walk through the narrow streets of the old town, where you will see traditional architecture, cozy houses and small shops. Vathi is the largest natural harbor in Europe and also the main harbor of Ithaca.
5. day – Ithaca (Vathi) to Kefalonia (Fiskardo)
(15.60 nm) 3h
From Ithaca to Fiskardo on the northern tip of Kefalonia, you can spend a great day sailing, as you will encounter more than seven small bays along the way, ideal for swimming. A world-famous destination on the Ionian Sea! An unmissable place, with a wonderful old town and many bars and taverns, with well-preserved Venetian architecture.
6. day – Kefalonia (Fiskardo) – Lefkas (Sivota)
(12,06nm ) 2h
Leaving Fiskardo, heading towards the picturesque village of Sivota, we pass through the island of Arkoudi, where there are small bays and steep cliffs. Home for sailors who love high quality food and restaurants overlooking the picturesque bay.
7. day – Sivota to Lefkas town
(16.57 nm)
Towards the port of Lefkas, stop at the famous Onassis Island (Scorpios) or any of the islands and bays you find on the way back.
How long does it take to sail from Lefkada to Corfu? – Itinerary
1. day – Lefkas – Preveza
(18 nm) 3h
After taking over the ship, sail to the town of Preveza and enjoy the beauty of the scenery as you sail. Stop at Vathiavali Beach for a quick swim. Wander the narrow streets of Preveza, lined with neoclassical buildings, cafés and shops. Shop the streets of the Saitan Pazar Traditional Market, perfect for sampling local delicacies and buying souvenirs.
2. day – Preveza to Gaios
(35 nm) 6h
Gaios is the main port and capital of Paxos, a picturesque town with narrow streets, colorful buildings and traditional tavernas. Perfect for a leisurely stroll. The main square is a lively place with cafes and shops, ideal for sightseeing and relaxation. The island of Panagia opposite Gaios is home to a beautiful monastery.
3. day – from Gaios to Sivota
(12 nm) 2h
Syvota, a charming village, is a fantastic sailing destination. Discover the Blue Lagoon near Mourtemeno Island. The crystal clear turquoise water is the perfect place for swimming, snorkeling or just relaxing on the boat.
4. day – from Sivota to Corfu town
(20 nm) 3,3h
Corfu Town (Kerkyra) is a beautiful destination with a rich history, stunning architecture and vibrant culture. Stroll the narrow winding streets of the old town, a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its Venetian architecture, charming squares and historic buildings. Visit the largest square in Greece, surrounded by cafes, shops and the beautiful Liston Arcade, or the fortresses: the Old Fortress (Palaio Frourio), the New Fortress (Neo Frourio).
5. day – from Corfu – to Kavos
(21 nm) 3,5h
From Ithaca to Fiskardo on the northern tip of Kefalonia, you can spend a great day sailing, as you will encounter more than seven small bays along the way, ideal for swimming. A world-famous destination on the Ionian Sea! An unmissable place, with a wonderful old town and many bars and taverns, with well-preserved Venetian architecture.
6. day – from Kavos to Parga
(17 nm ) 3h
Stroll the narrow, winding streets of Parga, lined with colorful houses, shops and taverns. The Venetian castle on a hill overlooking the city offers a stunning view of Parga and the Ionian Sea. Parga’s main beach is perfect for swimming and sunbathing, with clear water and nearby cafes.
7. day – Parga to Lefkas town
(40 nm) 6,5h
On your way to Lafkada town, don’t forget to stop at Jacqueline Kennedy Bay on the famous island of Scorpios. Continue sailing to your starting base, where you will end the day with a beautiful dinner at a lovely local taverna.
Imagine this: Lefkada, endless blue waters, and all you have to do is enjoy it. The finding of the ideal yacht? Local rules? Consider them taken care of. Just fill out the form below, request your quote, step aboard your yacht, and let your unforgettable journey begin. Simple as that.
