The Ionian islands are one of the top sailing destinations for beginners, often beating other Greek and Mediterranean destinations due to the calmer waters and predictable weather, short distances between the islands, and sailing stops.

With the Greek unique cultural heritage engraved in their millennial coasts, stones, and people, the Ionian islands offer the best of what you would expect of sailing the Greek islands, but also with the modern (but picturesque) marinas and amenities, and protected bays for a safe anchorage.

Here are our top 5 reasons to choose the Ionian Islands for your first-time sailing holiday:

1. Calmer seas and weather
2. Distinctive green landscapes and Venetian-style architecture
3. Most stunning beaches in Greece
4. Unique Greek culture and cuisine at each step
5. Short distances between islands

Read below why the Ionian islands are the perfect starting point for your first sailing experience.

What makes the Ionian islands stand out from other Greek sailing destinations?

The Ionian islands are located west of mainland Greece and include 7 islands:

1. Corfu (Kerkyra)
2. Paxos
3. Lefkada
4. Ithaca (Ithaki)
5. Kefalonia
6. Zakynthos (Zante)
7. Kythira (sometimes included, though it’s further south)

Since the Ionian islands are situated along the western coast of Greece and to the east of Southern Italy, they were heavily influenced throughout history by the Venetians (but also the French and the British), which can be seen even today through the Venetian-influenced neoclassical buildings and architecture.

Due to the calmer weather, the Ionian landscape is famous for its distinct, lush, and green landscapes, offering a more secluded and elegant side of Greece, making it an interesting alternative to other famous Greek destinations, like the rocky Cyclades.

Why are the Ionian islands perfect for sailing beginners?

If we compare the Ionian islands to the Cyclades, sailing beginners can expect calmer seas and easier navigation, while in the Cyclades, the winds can be stronger and navigation is ideal for thrill-seaking sailors.

Both the Ionian islands and the Saronic Gulf offer mild weather with good facilities, making first-time sailing a relaxing experience.

On the other hand, the Dodecanese are suited for experienced sailors due to their strong Meltemi winds affecting the northern islands. Also, the passages are longer and harbours have longer distances, unlike the Ionian islands.

5 top must-visit spots of the Ionian islands

In our comprehensive guide to sailing the Ionian Sea, we’ve covered the best spots to visit while sailing the Ionian islands. Here’s a short breakdown of the 5 top must-visit spots to visit while first-time sailing the Ionian islands

1. Zakynthos – probably the most famous of the Ionian islands, its big harbor has a marina on the side of the jetty, where you can find any supplies you might need for yourselves or your yacht. Enjoy exploring the Laganas Bay, the nesting ground for loggerhead sea turtles.
2. Ithaca – famously known from the myths and legends of the wise Odysseus Ithaca offers breathtaking scenery full of lush, green landscapes. Don’t miss Kioni and Frikes, peaceful fishing villages with traditional tavernas where you can indulge in the famous Greek cuisine, which is ranked as the best cuisine in the world by Taste Atlas.
3. Kefalonia – the largest of the Ionian islands, full of Venetian-style architecture and villages like Fiskardo and Assos.
4. Egremni and Porto Katsiki on Lefkada – famously known as the most stunning beaches in Greece, Egremi and Porto Katsiki embody the very best of the natural beauty of the Ionian islands.
5. Antipaxos – you don’t need to fly 10.000km to swim in the Caribbean-like water. Since they are easy to anchor overnight, Paxos and Antipaxos offer unique emerald bays ideal for swimming and soaking in the natural beauty.

How to experience the cultural heritage of the Ionian Islands

Whether you are looking to experience the cultural heritage of the Ionian Islands in nature or in the cities, there is plenty of choice for both.

From UNESCO World Heritage Sites like Corfu’s old town to quiet mountain villages of Ithaca, the Ionian Islands are the perfect starting point for everyone’s first-time sailing holiday experience in Greece.

3 tips for planning the Ionian sailing trip

Are you still considering the Ionian Islands as your next sailing destination, and you are in doubt if they are the right choice for your level of sailing experience? With the next 3 tips, your Ionian holiday can be a life-changing experience:

1. Sail at the start of the season (April, May) while the locals are more welcoming
2. Choose the right boat – our Lagoon 42 catamaran is a great choice for beginners, as it offers more stability and comfort
3. Try the local Ionian dishes like pastitsada and sofrito, or indulge in local food products. If you are also visiting the rest of Greece, check our guide on what to eat in Greece.

Best sailing boats and catamarans for beginners to sail the Ionians

Ionian Catamarans offers great deals for boats best suited for beginners! From the 14th to the 21st of July, you can book one of these boats for up to 40% of discounts.

Here are our top 3 choices for the best sailing boats for beginners to sail the Ionians:

1. Lagoon 42 (2019) – “Dream of Life” – Great balance between space and maneuverability
2. Lagoon 40 (2020) – “Chios” – perfect for shore-handed sailing
3. Hanse 418 (2022) – “Dafne” – a blend of performance and comfort for monohull sailing