The Ionian Islands
Ionian yacht charters
To the west of the mainland, you’ll find the sparkling Ionian Islands. Offering remnants of the Venetian Empire nestled among tall cyprus trees, expect beautiful bays, peaceful anchorages, and stunning beaches for picturesque cruising grounds.
Begin in Corfu, an island large enough to enjoy natural beauty as well as urban vibrancy. Charming towns with thriving shops, restaurants and an exuberant nightlife complement an abundance of secluded coves and private anchorages.
Head south to Paxos. Wander shady olive groves, explore spectacular sea caves, and feast on fresh swordfish in lively tavernas. Levkas, meaning ‘white’ (after the white cliffs found in the southern part of the island), offers a multitude of glittering coves and first-class snorkelling. Verdant Kefalonia is the scenic setting for some of the most famous beaches in Greece. Odysseus’ Ithaka has a quiet beauty while Zakynthos boasts bars, tavernas, and beaches where you can snorkel alongside sea turtles or scuba dive in underwater caves.
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Best time to visitMay - October
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Getting thereMultiple city links
Explore The Ionian Islands
Etrusco
Voted as the best restaurant in Greece for 11 consecutive years, the bougainvillea-clad terrace of Etrusco promises a meal to remember. Combining inventive combinations and high technique, the tasting menus draw from personal memories and dishes from his father’s homeland, Italy. What results can only be described as molecular wizardry, and it’s no wonder Etrusco has the title of most awarded restaurant in Greece.
Corfu
54 Dreamy Nights
Touted as the biggest and most luxurious club in town, 54 Dreamy Nights can host over 3000 people and has a ceiling that opens up to the night sky when the temperature rises. As they book international and Greek acts, it’s worth checking their events diary to time your visit.
Corfu Town
Achilleion Palace
Built in 1891 in the Pompeian style for the Empress of Austria-Hungary Elizabeth (Sissy) and the Kaiser Wilhelm II, this imposing palace was the setting for the casino scene in James Bond's For Your Eyes Only.
Corfu
Ermones Beach
Backed by hills and vegetation, this picturesque beach is popular with visitors. There are other small coves barely accessible on foot but easy to reach by tender, ideal for privacy.
Corfu
Arcadion Bistrot
On this charming rooftop terrace overlooking Corfu town, the chef artfully reimagines traditional Greek cuisine. Blending personal memories of family dishes with new discoveries and a classy mid-European ambiance, it’s a spot not to be missed.
Corfu
The White House Restaurant
Sitting on the water’s edge, The White House Restaurant overlooks Kalami Bay and serves the freshest seafood delicacy and local ingredients paired with white local wine. It’s also the lower ground level of the famous White House – the Corfu residence of author Lawrence Durrell.
Corfu
Agathi Restaurant
A fusion of European, Asian, and Middle Eastern cuisine, this unique dining experience pairs its dishes with enchanting views across Vathy bay. With a warm and welcoming atmosphere and exceptional service, it’s one of the best restaurants on the island.
Ithaca
Lungomare Restaurant & Bar
One of the island’s finest seafront destinations, Lungomare offers an exceptional experience overlooking golden sands and the shimmering sea. It’s the perfect spot for a romantic dinner or refined yet relaxed lunch. Within the White Rocks Hotel, expect thoughtfully prepared Mediterranean dishes, refreshing cocktails, and fine wines.
Kefalonia
Olive Lounge Restaurant
A hilltop location in the breathtaking Saint George Castle that offers awe-inspiring panoramic views, expect a fusion of Greek and Mediterranean cuisine. Graze across the Ionian Sea as you sample traditional favourites and fresh surprises, all created with the best seasonal ingredients.
Kefalonia
Sea Salt Restaurant
A beachside dining experience in Svoronata that provides the perfect backdrop for an unforgettable meal. Using only the freshest and locally sourced fish and seafood, Sea Salt offers a variety of tasty options elaborated with high-quality ingredients.
Kefalonia
Rachi Restaurant
Savour homemade delicacies from the traditional wood-fired oven and freshly gathered vegetables from the private garden. Rachi offers an exquisite view of the Ionian Sea from the pleasantly cool balcony.
Lefkada
Erimitis Restaurant
Erimitis has developed to become one of the islands most renowned eateries. A blend of simple but high-quality ingredients in keeping with the traditions of Paxiot cuisine, Erimitis offers a relaxed atmosphere and magical panoramic view.
Paxos
Keri Lighthouse Restaurant
Keri Lighthouse offers a luxurious experience in one of the most enchanting locations, with breathtaking views. Dine on fork-tender seafood and traditional Zakynthian dishes while feasting your eyes on the island’s most graphic view.
Zakynthos
Kavo Seaside Restaurant
Kavo features the finest local produce and maintains a great commitment to quality. The amazing location and the unique view over the Ionian Sea create the perfect setting for an unforgettable experience.
Zakynthos
Paleokastritsa Monastery
The monastery of the Holy Theotokos, also known as Paleokastritsa Monastery, is one of the oldest in Corfu and dates back to 1225. This Monastery has had several different functions: in the 19th Century it was utilised as a military hospital in the 19th century, then as army barracks by the Germans during World War II.
Corfu
Castle of Agia Mavra
The castlе of Agiа Mavra, аlsо known as Santа Мaura, is the most signifiсаnt histоrical sight on Lefkada. The castle is ideally located close to Lefkada Town and is an excellent example of fortress architecture. It has undergone extensive renovation and has been very well preserved to this day.
Lefkada
Eglouvi
One of the most beautiful villages in the Lefkada Mountains area, it rises just over 700 meters high and is famous for the cultivation of lentils. Inhabited by less than 200 people, its upper part houses a beautiful church and the shady central square, where two huge centuries-old plane trees roof the tables of a bar and a delightful tavern.
Lefkada
Saint Gerasimos Monastery
The Monastery of Agios Gerasimos in Kefalonia is considered one of the most sacred pilgrimage places of the island, receiving a great number of visitors yearly. The Saint had also planted three plane trees, which are still preserved at the monastery, as are three wells that he is said to have dug with his hands.
Kefalonia
Blue caves
Zakynthos is one of the seven pearls of the Ionian Sea. The Blue Caves consist of a series of natural caves and arches ending in the large cave (Megali Spilia) and in the small cave (Mikri Spilia). Their name originates from the particular reflections that the water takes on inside them, a phenomenon very similar to that of the Blue Grotto of Capri.
Zakynthos
Gaios
Gaios is the capital and main settlement of the Ionian island of Paxos. Gaios is an incredibly picturesque harbour that’s long been popular with the yachting crowd. It’s a small low-rise town with several uninhabited forested islands in its bay creating a perfect sheltered harbour.
Paxos
Shipwreck Beach
Shipwreck Beach, or Navagio, is a jaw-dropping anchorage framed by towering limestone cliffs and electric-blue waters, best enjoyed from the privacy of your yacht. Drop anchor just offshore for a morning swim before the crowds arrive and soak up one of the Ionian’s most iconic views in near-silence.
Zakynthos
Asprogiali
Drop anchor where crystal clear water and white sands await. We’d recommend exploring in the early morning to avoid the lunchtime rush, but it’s well worth a visit.
Kamalos
Skorpios
This private island was made famous by Aristotle Onassis – the first husband of former first lady Jacqueline Kennedy. This anchorage is the only place on the island where you have permission to anchor, but it’s a charming bay among nearly untouched nature surrounded by green trees.
Greece
Foki Beach
Anchoring here will see you unlock crystal-clear water surrounded by pine trees and home to sea turtles, plus a huge cave with several chambers to explore. Just 10 minute on foot, or five by dingy, will see you at Fiskardo town with its excellent restaurants and boutiques.
Kefalonia
Egremni beach
Step into paradise at Egremni beach – considered one of the best beaches in the Mediterranean. Only accessibly by boat, head here on a settled morning before prevailing winds arrive in the afternoon.
Lefkada
Blue cave
The western coast of Paxos abounds in sea caves, reached only by sea. The name derives from the blue of the water, with some of them dappled with sunlight inside from holes in the roofs.
Paxos
Vathy
The harbour of Vathy is a lovely inlet from a protected bay, with a nearby monastery overlooking the bay. According to Homer, this is where Odysseus wandered while Penelope pined from afar on Ithaca.
Nisos Ithaki
Mprosta Aetos
Mprosta Aetos is a sheltered and serene anchorage, ideal for yachts seeking calm waters and privacy. Surrounded by dramatic cliffs and crystal-clear sea, it offers a picturesque setting perfect for swimming and relaxation.
Ithaca
Keri
The pretty village of Keri sits atop a verdant hill, with strong agriculture and farming roots. Quiet and charming, it maintains its strong traditional character – picture stone-built houses and narrow streets.
Zakynthos
Papageorge’s Cove
Sheltered from the winds, Papageorges Cove on the top of Meganisi is a small cove with incredible rock formations that tower majestically overhead.
Meganisi
Bristol Café
Located in the old town of Corfu on Kapodistriou Street, enjoy the best cocktails and welcoming atmosphere that makes Bristol Café the perfect stopping off point before leaving Corfu during your Greek summer charter.
Corfu
Banana beach
Banana beach is one of the longest and biggest beaches in Zakynthos, and it's a truly spectacular destination.
Zakynthos
Canal D'Amour
Meaning 'Channel of Love', this series of unique rock formations on Corfu’s northwestern coast create narrow channels and small bays that are ideal for swimming. Climb the cliffs for stunning views of the beautiful landscape and the Ionian Sea.
Corfu
Voutoumi beach
Voutoumi is a lovely pebbled beach on the northeastern side of Antipaxos. It is situated inside a large cove with high rocks covering both sides of the beach.
Antipaxos
Afales beach
Afales is a beautiful bay with breathtaking landscape and turquoise waters at the north of Ithaca. It consists of numerous unique beaches, many only accessible by boat.
Ithaca
Limonari beach
Limonari Beach, situated in the picturesque region of Meganisi in Lefkada, is a tranquil retreat known for its enchanting natural beauty. This serene beach epitomises the untouched charm of the Greek coastline with its unique pebble and rock landscape.
Meganisi
Myrtos Beach
A regular on lists of the world’s best beaches, Myrtos Beach is a 700m expanse of gleaming white sand curving between two high promontories on Cephalonia’s north coast. While the stunning colour comes from rounded pebbles and coarse sand, not fine powder, the view from the blue Ionian Sea is spectacular.
Kefalonia
Makris Gialos beach
The famous beach of Makris Gialos, one of the cleanest beaches of the island, is frequented by snorkelling lovers and divers alike, boasting clear waters with quite a deep seabed.
ZakynthosYachts available for charter in The Ionian Islands
This is a small selection of motor and sailing yachts available for a luxury yacht charter in The Ionian Islands. Please contact your Burgess broker for a personalised selection.
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For sale
Comparing yachts for sale
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Comparing yachts for charter
New to charter?
Whether you are looking for a 70m motor private yacht to cruise St Lucia or have your heart set on a fun-filled Grecian sailing charter, we are on hand to guide you every step of the way.Frequently asked questions
I've never chartered before, where do I start?
To get started, one of our brokers will ask you questions, like how many people you want to bring aboard, whether you know where you want to go and what you want to do. From sailing to motor, catamaran to explorer – we’ll shortlist yachts of a style, size and capability that match your preferences and suggest bucket-list cruising grounds.
How many guests can be on board?
The majority of yachts can cruise with 8-12 guests, depending on their length. For bigger parties, some yachts built to the Passenger Yacht Code (PYC) can carry up to 36 guests – these yachts are usually above 80m (260ft) long. For events, yachts can have more people on board provided they stay in port.
Why do I need a charter broker? Why can’t I book direct?
Planning the perfect charter requires specialist knowledge, trusted contacts on board and on the ground, as well as first-hand knowledge of yachts, crews and locations, as well as legal contracts and local regulations to build an experience that suits you perfectly. Another reason to choose a broker is that sometimes there can be unforeseen issues with yachts or destinations and having an experienced broker to protect your interests and build a plan B is hugely reassuring.
Creating the unforgettable is what we do at Burgess. It’s what our knowledge, experience and passion are all about. We take all the hassle out of the planning so you can just turn up and have the best holiday ever.
I have a few allergies, how can I let the yacht know about these and also about my preferences?
A few weeks before your charter starts, we’ll send you a detailed questionnaire that lets us know the preferences and special requirements of everyone in your party. It will cover dietary and medical requirements, allergies and any special requests, birthdays or entertainment, for instance. This helps us and the crew of your yacht make sure your charter will be everything you hope it will be.
Is the cruising distance between the Ionian Islands short?
Yes, the cruising distances between the Ionian Islands are short, making it the perfect summer charter destination for relaxed, family-friendly sailing. Islands like Lefkada, Kefalonia and Ithaca allow for short hops (often only two or three hours) between islands. The waters are also calm with predictable weather, making the Ionian Islands ideal for beginning charterers.
What does a typical Ionian Islands yacht itinerary include?
A typical seven-day Ionian Islands yacht itinerary starts from Lefkas or Corfu. Expect morning spent sailing between islands, afternoons swimming in turquoise bays, and evenings mooring alongside charming traditional fishing villages. Popular routes stop off at islands like Meganisi, Paxos, Ithaca and Kefalonia, each offering a mix of secluded coves, ancient sites, and local tavernas.
What makes the Ionian Islands unique among Greek yacht charter destinations?
The Ionian Islands are unique among Greek yacht charter destinations thanks to their calm, sheltered waters, gentle winds, and lush green landscapes. Perfect for family-friendly sailing or groups looking for a relaxed charter, expect a unique blend of Venetian, French, and British colonial architecture peppered with ancient ruins for a culturally diverse experience compared to other Greek island groups.
Charter a yacht
Discover the Burgess difference
Charter a luxury yacht with Burgess. Trusted for our expertise, our first-hand insights, extraordinary selection of luxury superyachts, and expansive international network of on board and onshore contacts come together to deliver a seamless and unforgettable experience. Explore our stunning collection of luxury yachts for rent or hire and speak to our experts about chartering a private yacht to your dream destination.
Privileged access to the world’s finest charter yachts
Every charter yacht in the Burgess fleet is unique, from interior design and on board facilities to watertoys and wellness. We rigorously inspect every yacht to ensure that when you find your ideal match, it exceeds every expectation.
A wealth of knowledge to enhance your experience
A superyacht charter offers an unparalleled sense of freedom and adventure, with every aspect meticulously tailored by your Burgess broker to suit you. By accommodating both your preferences and requirements, no detail is left to chance.
Personalised service that goes above and beyond
Burgess brokers do far more than just booking – from private jet transfers to bespoke itineraries. We handle every element of your yacht charter holiday, using our long-standing experience to offer a seamless experience from start to finish.
