Catamaran Charter in the Ionian Islands

Discover Greece by renting a catamaran in the Ionian Islands, a legendary archipelago located in the west of the country. With its sandy beaches, coves and turquoise waters, colourful villages and favourable winds for sailing, this region is perfect for a catamaran cruise in Greece. From the Marina Gouvia in Corfu, a prime starting point, embark on a unique adventure between Corfu, Paxos, Antipaxos, Lafkada, kefalonia and Zakynthos. Whether you are an experienced sailor or an amateur, GlobeSailor offers a wide range of boars available in the Ionian Islands, with or without a skipper.

377 Catamarans to Rent in the Ionian Islands

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Suggested itineraries

Our experts and local guides have selected the best anchorages and stopovers for you in the most beautiful sailing areas

Catamaran charter in the Ionian Islands

Rent a catamaran with or without a skipper in the Ionian Islands

A Catamaran rental in Greece offers unparalleled comfort to explore the Ionian Islands. With its two hulls, the Catamaran offers good stability, and ensures smooth sailing, ideal for families; while its shallow hull allows you to anchor close to the coast. The vast living space : spacious cockpit, trampoline (netting) at the bow, well-separated cabins - allows everyone to enjoy moments of relaxation in complete privacy.

The sailing conditions in the Ionian Islands are mild, the distances between the islands are short and the ports are well equipped. This makes it a perfect area for holidays with family or friends, even without extensive sailing experience.

  • With a professional skipper: if you don't have a licence or simply want to enjoy the trip without worrying about sailing, choose a catamaran rental with a skipper. Our professional skippers have complete knowledge of the anchorages, local restaurants and secret corners of the Ionian Islands. They will guide you to the most beautiful paradise beaches and the best spots for snorkelling.
  • Without a skipper: Sailors with sailing experience will appreciate the total freedom of a self-charter. The catamarans offers by GlobeSailor are new, comfortable and are fully equipped for peaceful sailing. Booking a catamaran in Greece is very simple with GlobeSailor: our team will assist you before, during and after your departure to ensure a smooth and safe experience.


When is the best time to sail in the Ionian Islands?

One of the major attractions to the Ionian Islands is the ideal weather conditions. The climate is Mediterranean, mild and sunny for the majority of the year, with moderate winds that make sailing on a catamaran easy.

  • From May to October, the conditions are perfect for a cruise in the Ionian Islands. The temperatures fluctuate between 25 and 32 degrees C, the sea is calm and the wind remains steady at 10 to 20 knots.
  • July and August are the hottest and liveliest months: perfect for those who enjoy festive stopovers and swimming.
  • May, June and September offer ideal sailing conditions for avoiding crowds while enjoying war seas and generous sunshine.
  • Unlike the Cyclades which are often subject to the Meltimi winds, the Ionians benefit from gentle and stable wind, making sailing enjoyable even for beginners. The sheltered areas provide safe anchorages, ideal for spending the night in complete tranquility.


What are the possible itineraries for a cruise in the Ionian Islands?

Departure ports in the Ionian Sea

The most popular departure ports for a catamaran cruise in the Ionian Islands are:

  • Corfu (Marina Gouvia) : main departure point, easily accessible by plane. The island of Corfu is renowned for its sublime beaches and Venetian charm. Rent a catamaran in Corfu.
  • Lefkada : connected to the mainland by a bridge, it is ideal for quickly reaching the southern islands of the archipelago. Rent a catamaran in Lefkada.
  • Zankynthos or Kefalonia : perfect for exploring the southern part of the Ionian Islands.


    Example itinerary for sailing in the Ionian Islands (7-10 days):

    Day 1: Corfu - Paxos

    Depart from Marina Gouvia and sail towards Paxos. Anchor in Lakka bay, swim and dine on board.

    Day 2: Paxos - Antipaxos

    Set sail for Antipaxos, famous for its turquoise lagoons and spectacular snorkelling spots.

    Day 3: Antipaxos - Lefkada

    Sail towards Lefkada, a mountainous island with golden sandy beaches. Stop off in the charming town of Nidiri.

    Day 4: Lefkada - Kefalonia

    Visit the little port of Fiskardo and the famous Myrtos beach, considered one of the most beautiful in Greece.

    Day 5: Kefalonia - Zakynthos

    Sail south to discover the legendary shipwreck bay (Navagio Beach), a jewel with emerald waters.

    Day 6: Zakynthos to Lefkada or Corfu

    Last stop for a swim and an evening ashore before returning.

    Each cruise itinerary in the Ionian Islands can be customized according to your desires, the weather, and the length of your stay. Our GlobeSailor advisors will help you plan the ideal cruise, tailored to your pace, for your sailboat rental in Greece.

    Water sports and shore excursions in the Ionian Islands

    A catamaran cruise in the Ionian Islands is a complete experience, combining sailing, relaxation and cultural discoveries.

    • Water sports: diving, paddle boarding, kayaking, windsurfing, snorkelling in crystal-clear waters, dolphin watching.
    • Land excursions: discover charming Greek villages with flower-filled streets, local taverns where you can enjoy grilled fish or traditional mezze, and monasteries perched on hillsides.
    • Paradise beaches: Porto Katsiki (Lefkada), Naviago (Zante), Myrtos (Kefalonia), and Paleokastritsa (Corfu) are among the most beautiful in Greece.


    How to get to the Ionian Islands

    The Ionian Islands are easily accessible from France and the rest of Europe:

    • By Plane: direct or connecting flights serve Corfu, Lefkada (via Aktion Airport), Kefalonia, and Zante.
    • By Ferry: ferry connections link the islands to each other and to the Greek mainland (Patras, Igoumenitsa).
    • Easy access to marinas: departure ports like Marina Gouvia in Corfu offer all the necessary services (provisions, restaurants, shops, parking).


    Globesailor: Your expert for a successful cruise in the Ionian Islands

    With more than 15 years of experience, GlobeSailor is a specialist in yacht charters in Greece. We work with carefully selected local professional renters to guarantee safety, comfort, and quality service.

    Whether you want to charter a yacht in Greece with or without a skipper, or for a private cruise in the Ionian Islands, our team will assist you every step of the way.

    What other sailing areas are there to discover in Greece?

    Beyond the Ionian Islands, Greece offers many other exceptional sailing areas. The Cyclades, with Mykonos, Paros or Santorini, charm visitors with their white villages and dynamic winds. The dodecanese, around Rhodes abd Kos, offers a more exotic and cultural sailing experience. Finally, the Saronic Gulf, starting from Athens, is ideal for a calm and accessible cruise, perfect for beginners and families alike.