The Highlights of the Southern Ionian route starts and finishes in Sivota on Lefkas Island and explores many picturesque spots on Meganisi, Kefalonia and Ithaka. This flotilla is perfect for first time flotilla sailors as well as experienced sailors looking to introduce family and friends.
What's the wind like?
Being in the South Ionian Islands, this route offers a fun breeze most afternoons whilst keeping the seas conditions relatively calm thanks to how sheltered it is. Keener sailors will enjoy an amazing couple of days sailing through the Meganisi and Ithaka channels.
This cruise allows the possibility of drifting around the islands in short hops with a loose agenda. To name just a few of the islands likely to be on your itinerary: Kefalonia, Ithaka, Kalamos, Kastos and Meganisi are all highlights! Ithaka is the place to go for small harbours and traditional waterside tavernas. A stop in one of the East coast bays can be idyllic for a swim. Kefalonia Island is famed for the port of Fiskardo, however there are several other ports and lots of bays to drop the hook for a swim. The smaller islands of Kastos, Kalamos and Meganisi, all offer a real chance to get away from it all.
The route starts and finishes in Sivota on the southern coast of Lefkas Island. Once you have arrived and met your lead crew it is time to relax and soak up the sun and the atmosphere of the quayside tavernas, before the first days briefing the following morning.
Lefkas Island
One of the highlights in this area is picturesque Spartahori village, perched on the cliffs of Meganisi Island. Steve and Gerry’s taverna at the end of the bay, with a beach on either side, has ‘lazy lines’ for convenience. It is the perfect spot for leisurely swimming. Make the effort to walk up the hill to unspoilt Spartahori village for the view and a cold beer at Lakis traditional taverna - it is worth the walk!
You may also spend a night moored at Port Atheni, where you can join in with the traditional Greek dancing.They are always looking for volunteers! From here you can enjoy a walk up to the old village of Katomeri. ‘Little Vathi’ on Meganisi Island is also a favourite spot with several excellent tavernas and a traditional village atmosphere.
Meganisi Island
Two of our favourite stops are the island villages of Kastos and Kalamos. Both of these traditional Greek islands have idyllic harbours, where the locals warmly welcome visitors. They are fascinating places to visit, having remained relatively isolated until quite recently.
The view out towards Kalamos and Atoko Islands is spectacular. Prising the flotilla back out of village harbours once they have settled in can be a difficult task for our lead crews, but there is always another beautiful place not too far away!
Kastos Island
Kalamos Island
Ithaka is the legendary home of Odysseus. Kioni and Frikes, on the east coast of Ithaka Island are quaint villages in which you can relax. Port Vathi is the largest town on the island and has also become a popular spot to visit. Pere Pigadhi on the southeast corner of the Island is an unbeatable swim stop with crystal clear water - the perfect lunch stop.
Ithaka Island
You will visit all our favourite spots, such as beautiful Fiskardo, where you can enjoy cold beer, wine and a range of foods in the quayside tavernas. Somehow the anchor seems to dig itself in a bit deeper when moored here. Then, get ready for some unbeatable sailing across the Ithaka Channel!
Kefalonia
The final night stop will be back at the Lefkas base in Sivota for your final group meal with all your fellow flotilla sailors to reminisce on your wonderful trip!The final Sunday will be spent heading home - fingers crossed you'll be lucky enough to be back next year!
Lefkas Island
Below is an indication of the yachts that will sail on this flotilla. Please call us on 020 8459 8787 to check live availability.
Our Shore to Sail holidays are a combination of a one or two week flotilla sailing holiday with another relaxing week or two ashore.
These holidays will appeal to those who enjoy sailing but have family or friends who are not quite so enthusiastic about sailing - a compromise can now be made!
Most people opt for a week of sailing followed by a week of winding down on shore. However it is entirely up to you to do what you want to do (and when!)
The Iris Hotel has been a popular choice for flotilla sailors for many years. This accommodation option will fit in with any of our flotillas starting and finishing on Lefkas Island. The hotel itself is a small family run hotel located close to Nidri Town. It has a combination of studio rooms for two or three people and apartments that can sleep up to 4.
The Salvator Spa Hotel is perched in the hills above Parga town and is a slightly more luxurious offering. The rooms on offer range from the Deluxe Room for two people, up to the Superior 2 Room Villa for up to 6 people. The hotel itself has an excellent restaurant, pool and spa facilities and all villas come with their own private pool.
Our brand new villa in Sivota on Lefkas is exclusive to Sailing Holidays Ltd. Built with families and groups in mind, the 3 double bedrooms all feature en-suite bathrooms. Built into the hill the ground floor level comprises of the master bedroom, a large kitchen and living space. On the same level you will find a huge outdoor seating area and a private pool.
