Is Vasiliki a good starting point for a Lefkada sailing holiday? Located on the southern coast of Lefkada, Vasiliki is one of the most famous sailing destinations in the Ionian Sea. This small town offers access to nearby islands such as Kefalonia and Ithaca. In this article, we will examine why Vasiliki is an ideal destination for a sailing trip and what makes its waters attractive to visiting sailors. Find out all about the marinas, itineraries and boat rental options. 
Here’s what the article will cover:
- What is the best month to sail Vasiliki?
- Where to sail from Vasiliki? – ports and islands
- How can you get to Vasiliki?
- Sailing from Vasiliki town – itineraries
What is the best month to sail Vasiliki?
The best time to sail from Vasiliki is from June to September. During this period, the weather in Vasiliki is warm and the wind conditions are consistent. Spring and autumn are excellent for those who prefer a calmer sailing experience with moderate winds. Spring (March-May) The weather is mild, with temperatures ranging from 15°C to 25°C and occasional rain. Wind conditions are moderate (Beaufort 2-4), gradually increasing towards late spring. Summer (June-August) The weather is hot and dry, with temperatures ranging from 25°C to 35°C. The sea temperature is ideal for swimming (24°C to 27°C). The strong afternoon wind, the Eric thermal, can reach Beaufort 4-6. Mornings are generally calm. Autumn (September – November) The weather is warm, with temperatures (20 °C – 30 °C) in early autumn. Occasional showers begin in late October. Winds begin to calm down (Beaufort 2-4), making it more beginner-friendly. Winter (December – February) The weather is cool, with temperatures (10 °C – 18 °C), with frequent rain and occasional storms. Wind conditions are more unpredictable, sometimes reaching Beaufort 5-7.
Where to sail from Vasiliki? – ports and islands
Vasiliki Port
Vasiliki has a small but well-equipped port that serves both private yachts and ferries. It offers basic services such as water and electricity. Vasiliki Port is a great starting point for your sailing trip, whether you are heading north to Lefkada Town or south to the Ionian Islands. Due to the popularity of the port, it is recommended to arrive early in the afternoon to get a good spot, especially if you are planning to sail during the high season. boat rental Vasiliki
Sailing North: Lefkada Town
Heading north from Vasiliki, sailors can reach Lefkada town, the island’s capital. The town’s port is one of the largest in the Ionian Sea, offering excellent facilities, fueling stations and repair services. Lefkada Town is known for its old streets, waterfront and many restaurants and cafes.
Sailing North: Nidri
Nidri, located on the east coast of Lefkada, is another great sailing destination north of Vasiliki. The bay is a safe anchorage for yachts. Nidri is a lively town with plenty of restaurants, bars and yacht services. Nearby, you can explore the luxurious Prigiponisia Islands, including Skorpios, the private island once owned by Aristotle Onassis. Nidri boat rental, sailing in Nidri
Sailing south: Kefalonia
South of Vasiliki, one of the most popular sailing destinations is the island of Kefalonia. Fiskardo, a stunning port town on the north coast of Kefalonia, is a favorite stop for sailors. The well-equipped marina offers traditional Greek tavernas and many attractions. Kefalonia’s clear waters and vibrant green landscapes make it the perfect destination for a relaxing sailing trip.
Sailing South: Ithaca
Ithaca, the legendary home of Odysseus, is another must-see destination south of Vasiliki. The island is known for its tranquil bays, charming fishing villages and rich history. Vathy, the main port, offers good moorings and basic facilities for sailors. Ithaca’s peaceful atmosphere makes it an ideal stopover for those seeking a quieter and more traditional Greek experience.
How can you get to Vasiliki?
The nearest airport to Vasiliki is Aktion National Airport (PVK), located approximately 60 km away, near Preveza. This airport receives seasonal international flights from major European cities, especially during the summer months. From the airport, Vasiliki can be reached by car, taxi or bus in approximately 1.5 hours.
Sailing from Vasiliki town – itineraries
North Vasiliki Sailing itinerary
Day 2: Nidri – Lefkada
16 km (9 nm), sailing time: 2 hours
After the morning departure, we will sail between small islands to Lefkada town, the cultural and historical center of the island. Walking along the harbor promenade, we can discover the buildings left over from Venetian times, while the Agios Mavra fortress near the town recalls the battles of ancient times with its centuries-old history. If we have time, it is worth making a short detour to the famous beaches of Lefkada.
Day 3: Lefkada – Preveza
13 km (7 nm), sailing time: 1 hour
An exciting crossing awaits us across the Lefkada Strait, where a movable bridge provides the connection to the mainland. Our journey leads to Preveza, which captivates visitors with its cozy old town and seaside promenades. The ruins of nearby Nikopolis – founded by Emperor Augustus after the decisive Battle of Actium – offer a fascinating insight into ancient history.
Day 4: Preveza – Parga
50 km (27 nm), sailing time: 5 hours
Today we sail along one of the most spectacular stretches of the Ionian Sea, passing lush green hills and secluded bays towards Parga. The picturesque town’s colorful houses cling to the hillsides overlooking the sea, while the Venetian castle offers breathtaking views of the coastline. During your evening stroll, don’t miss out on local specialties such as fried cheeses marinated in honey or dishes made with olives.
5. Day 6: Parga – Paxos
21 km (11 nm), sailing time: 2 hours
Leaving the mainland, we sail to the tiny island of Paxos, which beckons with its caves and coves. The island’s capital, Gaios, is a picture-perfect port town where you can stroll through the cobblestone streets and get a feel for the local life. An evening meal in a family taverna, accompanied by a glass of local wine, is the perfect end to this day.
Day 6: Paxos – Antipaxos
9 km (5 nm), sailing time: 1 hour
A short but beautiful boat trip takes you to Antipaxos, one of the most unique small islands in the Ionian Sea. The white sand and blue waters of Voutoumi and Vrika beaches make it feel like you’ve arrived in a tropical paradise. The island is also famous for its small wineries, so you can enjoy the sunset with a glass of local red wine on board or in a coastal restaurant.
Day 7: Antipaxos – Vasiliki
80 km (43 nm), sailing time: 7 hours
On our last day, we sail back to Vasiliki, but we can once again take advantage of the opportunities offered by the Ionian Sea: a swim in a bay or a short dive off the rocky shore can be an unforgettable experience.
Sailing itinerary south of Vasiliki
Day 1. Vasiliki – Kalamos 37 km (20 nm), Day 2. Kalamos – Vathy 35 km (19 nm), Day 3. Vathy – Poros 36 km (19 nm), Day 4. Poros – Sami 22 km (12 nm), Day 5. Sami – Agia Effimia 7 km (4 nm), Day 6. Agia Effimia – Fiskardo 22 km (12 nm), Day 7. Fiskardo – Vasiliki – Vasiliki 19 km (10 nm)
