Ionian Islands - A Yachting Destination Guide by Ocean Independence

IONIAN ISLANDS A YACHTING DESTINATION GUIDE

HUNGARY

ROMANIA

Corfu GREECE SERBIA BULGARIA

Paxos

Antipaxos Meganisi

MACEDONIA

Kalamos

Levkas

Kastos

ALBANIA GREECE

Ithaca Kefalonia

Zakynthos

GREECE

YACHTING IN THE IONIAN Rest and relaxation come easy amidst the chilled atmosphere that radiates from the Ionian Islands. It is no wonder that the concentrations of light and colour drawn from the multi-hued sea and sky have long been a huge inspiration for writers and artists. Mirroring a line of stepping stones, the islands trail the western coast of mainland Greece, with sandy strips lining the soaring hills coated by dense woodland. Twelve islands, the smaller six being uninhabited, present a gorgeous yachting location. Blessed with deep anchorages, sheltered coves and bustling waterfronts while the mild and temperate climate adds to the inherent appeal.

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CORFU A

magical destination with year-round colourful celebrations and culinary feasts, Corfu is a mosaic of cosmopolitan experiences. Visitors can enjoy the relaxed atmosphere, beautiful sunshine, cultural highlights and stunning landscapes.. Where the northern part of the island is more mountainous and ringed by pebble beaches, the south is characterized by lush lowlands, wide, sandy beaches and tranquil bays. As a World Heritage Site, the architecture of the old town is well worth leaving the beaches for and, while on land, make a beeline to the lively locals haunt Tsipouradiko, near the old port, to enjoy delicious local meze washed down with a lively glass of tsipouro.

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PAXOS & ANTIPAXOS L

aid-back and beautiful, Paxos is an island filled with scenic delights. The clear aquamarine sea and pebble beaches have to be seen to be believed and locals are so welcoming that visitors immediately feel at home. Simplicity here is ubiquitous: watch fishermen haul their catch ashore or enjoy fresh bread from the bakers’ wood oven.Tender ashore to the Emritis Cliffs on the northwest coast and explore small coves and beaches at leisure; there are countless secluded anchorages to relax, swim and sunbathe. Small and beautiful, nearby Antipaxos is truly unspoilt and a get away from it all escape. With no shops or actual roads, discover just a handful of tavernas and houses alongside their excellent local vineyard: in Antipaxos peace prevails.

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LEVKAS A

n off-the-radar island, characterized by wooded hills and an awe-inspiring coastline dotted with high cliffs, Levkas is a heaven for hikers as well as water sports fanatics. With 10 satellite isles around Levkas, this is a yachting paradise, ideal for peaceful island-hopping.

Former fishing villages, Nidri and Nikiana, offer sandy shores and a collection of welcoming waterfront tavernas, while the narrow streets of Vasiliki are filled with traditional houses and exceptional views. With it’s charming atmosphere and gorgeous stretches of beach, this olive-grove strewn isle is a haven for uninterrupted relaxation.

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MEGANISI, KALAMOS & KASTOS T

hree f lower-filled villages and gleaming white beaches are the trademark on unpretentious Meganisi. The coastline provides exquisite anchorages with spectacular blue waters, perfect for kayaking. The offshore isles of Skorpios and Sparti are an added attraction.

Mountainous Kalamos is blessed with serenity and natural beauty; the crystal waters attract snorkellers, walkers and beach-lovers alike. Nearby the tiny hideaway of Kastos offers a deliciously simple way of life with only 50 permanent residents. Many of the isolated beaches are only accessible by yacht and almost guaranteed to be deserted.

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ITHACA I

thaca is a stunning island that has remained relatively undiscovered. Amazing sea views and hidden ruins are found in the hiking trails peppering the lush green valleys and rugged hills. Homeland to Odysseus, the archaeological sites are steeped in mythology. Head to the harbour towns of Frikes and Kioni, brimming with tavernas serving extraordinarily fresh seafood or explore the crumbling villages of Exogi and Anogi with views stretching across the archipelago. Secluded coves at Filiatro and Sarakiniko offer great swimming spots in the crystal waters and scuba divers will be enthralled by the seabed dubbed ‘Poseidon’s Meadow’.

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IONIAN ISLANDS

KEFALONIA L

argest in the Ionian chain, Kefalonia is a big draw thanks to crystalline waters at countless exotic beaches, such as those found at Myrtos, Lourdas and Skala. From medieval castles and picturesque villages to fascinating monasteries and lively tavernas, Kefalonia is packed with laid-back appeal. Discover the ancient rock formations in the caves at Drogarati, dive the Melissani Sea Cave, windsurf at Lixouri and visit the fabulous Sclavos family wineries. Take a cruise to cosmopolitan Fiskardo, a beautiful harbour regularly bustling with a yachting crowd and arguably the most stylish fishing port in the Ionian.

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ZAKYNTHOS A

n island blessed with fertile valleys dotted with olive groves and secluded coves fringed by sandy shores, sailing around the undulating coastline of Zakynthos is a real treat. The harbour capital is a major hub, centered around busy Solomos Square. Popular beaches such as Agios Nikolaos, Alykanas and Tsilivi offer wonderful opportunities to enjoy leisurely swimming and fun with water sports. The rocky landscape has a number of sea caves, including the famous Blue Grotto Caves, where the sun creates patterns in every hue imaginable across the cave walls. Only accessible by yacht, Smugglers Cove is renowned for the large wreck nestling in a golden bay, and despite being a popular attraction, really must be seen.

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