Corfu Travel Information & Planning Guide

Renowned for its blissful beaches, lush green landscapes, incredible food, ancient ruins and historic old town, there’s no better destination in the Mediterranean to embark on a yacht charter! We’re here to support you with making your trip stress-free and relaxing which is why we’ve created a travel guide which includes getting to Corfu, boarding times and health & safety.

We suggest you read the following information carefully several weeks prior to departure and also print a copy to take with you. You might also find our online cruising guide helpful in planning your Corfu vacation itinerary in more detail.

General Travel Information for Corfu

One of the most exciting parts about venturing on a yacht charter vacation is visiting new places and learning about their ways of life. To make your vacation as relaxing and smooth sailing as possible, we’ve put together a few of our most frequently asked questions about Corfu:

How big is Corfu?

Corfu is 585.3 km² and has a population of around 99,800 people, meaning it is the second largest island of the Ionian Islands. The only island bigger than Corfu is Kefalonia, making it a must-visit destination on your itinerary!

What language do people speak in Corfu?

In Corfu, the official language is Greek and is spoken by the majority of locals. Many people on the island also speak English, but if you’re able to learn some basic Greek phrases, it will make communicating easier.

Officially, Greece is a secular state and the government is a Parliamentary Republic. In Corfu as with the rest of Greece, the main religion is Greek Orthodoxy. 

What festivals and holidays are celebrated in Corfu?

In Corfu, the following festivals and holidays are celebrated annually:

• New Year’s Day
• The Epiphany
• Independence Day
• May Day
• Assumption of the Blessed Virgin 
• Ochi Day
• Christmas Day
• 2nd Christmas Day
• Moveable Public Holidays
• Good Friday
• Easter 
• Easter Monday
• Whit Monday

What is the currency in Corfu?

Corfu’s, and the rest of Greece, official currency is the Euro. You will not be able to pay with US Dollars during your yacht charter so it’s a good idea to exchange your money before you kick off your sailing adventure.

As we’re talking about money, you may be wondering about service charges and tips. You are not expected to tip waiters, taxi drivers and other people who provide services, however it’s greatly appreciated if you do.

What types of plugs are used in Corfu?

In Corfu, as well as everywhere else in Greece, you will find that two-pin plugs are standard. The electricity is 230V AC, 50 HZ so you’ll need to keep this in mind when packing as you may need to buy power adapters.

What is the internet availability in Corfu?

Connecting to the internet in Corfu is not always possible. When you do find Wi-Fi in Greece, it can be very expensive. There are a few internet cafes available in the larger cities. However, to keep you connected to reality, The Moorings includes Free Wi-Fi on all Exclusive and Exclusive Plus models, and all-inclusive Crewed Yachts in select destinations worldwide so get in touch and see how we can make your Corfu yacht charter even better!

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Before You Travel

Address

The Moorings
Marina Gouvia
PO Box 60
49083 Tzavros
Corfu, Greece
Tel: (+ 30) 26610 99132

Emergency contact numbers

Tel: (+30)-6943120362
Tel: (+30)-6947724584

Base Hours

Monday to Friday: 9.00 am-5.00 pm 
Saturday: 9.00 am – 7.00 pm
Sunday: 9.00 am – 2.00 pm 
Season: This charter destination is closed from early November to early April.

We suggest you notify family and friends of how you may be reached in case they need to contact you.

Time Zone

UTC/GMT +2 hours; Daylight Savings Time is +1 hour

Tourist Information Center

Tourist Information Center
Tourist Information center, Corfu (GNTO) 
Platia Eleftheria, 49100 Corfu 
Tel: 30 26610 37638

The nearest telephone booth is 30m from the base. 

General Information

Area: 81,994 sq. mi 
Population: 10,737,428 
Capital city: Athens 
People: population: Greek, other (foreign citizens) 
Language: Greek (official), other (includes English and French) 
Religion: Greek Orthodox , Muslim, other 
Government: Parliamentary Republic 
Major industries: tourism, food and tobacco processing, textiles, chemicals, metal products,  mining, petroleum 
Tipping:  Tipping waiters, taxi drivers, etc. is generally not expected in Greece, but if you round up the bill it will be appreciated. 
Currency: EURO 
Electricity: 230V AC, 50 HZ, two-pin plugs are standard 

Internet Connectivity 

Connecting to the internet in Greece is possible in most Cafes & Restaurants. At the moment, Athens International Airport is offering Wi-Fi access.

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How to Get to Corfu and Greece

Travel by Air

Whether you’re flying commercially or privately, taking to the skies is one of the most popular ways to reach Corfu. Corfu Airport (CFU) is located on the east side of the island 4 miles from the base. From the airport, the trip takes 15 minutes.

You’ll find daily domestic flights on Olympic Airways, along with international charter flights. You can also travel with Aeagan airlines to reach the stunning island of Corfu.

Transfers

Transfers from Corfu Airport to the base can be arranged if requested. Transfer time is approximately 10-15 minutes.

Transfer costs:

• 1 to 4 pax: 30 euros
• 5 to 8 pax: 60 euros
• 9 to 12 pax: 90 euros

Car Rentals

The following reliable car rental companies have bases at the airport:

• Hertz 
• Avis 
• Europcar

Your rental car can be collected upon arrival at the airport or at the base, whichever suits you best.

Taxi 

Taxis are an easy way to get around Corfu, particularly from the airport to the Marina Gouvia base. Use the following to book your taxi and find out information about costs and durations:

Central Booking Office-radio taxi – Tel: 30 2661 33811 
Recommended taxi in Gouvia – Tel: 0030 694 5858120

Bus Services

You can also get from Corfu Airport to our base at Marina Gouvia by bus. It takes around 40 minutes and is a simple route. Hop on the 2A at KAPATZA E towards KANONI – ANΩ ΠΛAETIA (ΛΙΣΤΟΝ) and jump off at ΠΛΑΤΕΙΑ ΣΑΡΟΚΟΥ ΓΡΑΜΜΗ where you can get the 07 towards ΣΑΡΟΚΟ (ΠΟΛΗ) – ΥΨΟΣ which takes you to ΓΕΝΙΚΟ ΝΟΣΟΚΟΜΕΙΟ-ΚΟΝΤΟΚΑΛΙ, just a 7 minute walk from the base.

Ferry Services 

From the port in Corfu to the base at Marina Gouvia, the distance is 2.5 miles. Use the following helpful resources to plan your journey, view the timetables and book your tickets:

• Strintzis Lines 30 2661 025232
• Minoan Lines 30 2661 025000
• Hellas Flying Dolphins

Taxes / Departure Tax 

There is no departure tax for Corfu.

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Boarding Time/Check Out

Boarding Time Procedures

Charters Boarding Time: 3:00 pm.

Boat & Chart briefings are available on request only.

Late Arrivals

The base personnel will wait for you until 7:00 pm. After 7:00 pm, you will find an information sign at our reception office with a message for you indicating your yacht’s berth. Your boat will be open and indicated by a sign with your name.  The boat’s equipment will be ready for the night. The base personnel will be available the next day at 9:00 am.

Check Out Procedures

All charterers must return to base by 5:00 pm the night before disembarkation for debriefing and checks. Disembarkation is at 9:00 am the following morning. 

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What’s on Board

Provisioning 
Moorings Care packages are included on every yacht. These packages contain some of the basics to get you started for your vacation.

For all your other provisioning needs there is a supermarket at the base.

Mobile phones  
The mobile network is well developed all over Greece. You can use your own mobile after checking with your supplier to find out if Greece is included in your contract. Mobile phones are NOT available to rent locally – we strongly suggest reviewing service options with your provider before travelling.

Music/iPods  
N/A

Electricity
Certain yachts are equipped with power cords, a battery charger and 220V plugs, but unfortunately the marina piers don’t often have electrical outlets. The piers in the marina are not equipped with 220 V.

For more information on what’s included on your yacht, please view the full list here for Bareboat Charters or here for Crewed Charters.

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What to Bring

Customs & Immigration
A valid passport (for each passenger) and crew list is compulsory for clearance. Expiration date must be no earlier than 6 months after your planned return. A customs declaration form must be completed at the port of entry.

Cruising Licenses
A formal sailing license is mandatory to charter here. Review the sailing and power requirements for Greece while planning your charter vacation.

The Greek Maritime Authorities have recently changed their sailing license requirements for 2022 and 2023 and have confirmed that they will no longer accept the RYA Day Skipper qualification for Yacht Chartering in Greek waters.

All RYA Day Skipper Qualification holders are able to convert their current qualification to the ICC (International Certificate of Competence) qualification. This can be done online through the RYA website or via a paper form which can be downloaded from the website and printed. If you are a RYA member, an ICC can be issued free of charge, please visit the website and complete the application form.

The conversion period may take several weeks, therefore please plan ahead to ensure you receive the ICC certificate in time. The skipper must bring a physical copy of their sailing qualification – a photocopy or picture on a phone will not be accepted by the marine authorities.

Luggage & Packing List
Soft-sided luggage or duffel bags are best, as luggage storage space on your yacht may be limited. We have no facilities for holding luggage at the base. Pack lightly and review our suggested packing list for required and necessary items to bring.

• Pack essential prescription medicine and change of clothing in a carry-on bag*
• Passport and other travel documentation
• Tickets and paper confirmations for pre-planned activities
• Light-colored, light-weight clothing
• Formal wear for upscale dining establishments
• Swimwear and cover up
• Hats and sunglasses
• Sandals and flip-flops
• Athletic shoes and hiking boots
• Travel-sized toiletries and hygiene products
• Insect repellent and OTC pain relievers/ointments
• AUX cable for playing music through your device
• 12V DC to 110V AC power inverter (for boats without generators**)
• 12V to USB power adapter for charging mobile devices

*We would highly recommend packing prescription medicine and essential clothing (swimsuit, t-shirt and shorts) in your hand luggage as occasionally your luggage may arrive at the base after you do.

**All boats include a 12V DC outlet (a “car” outlet). Boats with generators have 110V outlets in the Caribbean and 220V in the Mediterranean and Exotic locations.

Drone
The use of flying drones may be restricted in some areas. For current drone regulations in this destination, please visit https://uavcoach.com/drone-laws-in-greece/

Gratuity
A 10 to 15% tip is standard at restaurants, taxis, etc. $1 per bag is standard for bellhops.

Taxes & Fees
You might incur some costs while on charter such as mooring and docking fees or cruising taxes. We highly recommend bringing enough of the local currency to cover these costs as they are not always payable by USD, debit, and/or credit cards.

Security Deposit
A security deposit must be paid at the base by Visa or Master Card and is refundable at the end of your charter subject to there being no loss or damage. To significantly decrease your security deposit, purchase our Yacht Damage Waiver insurance ahead of time.

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Health & Safety

Vaccination and Immunization Information
Greece is generally risk-free of contagious disease. You are advised to be up-to-date with your Tetanus and Hepatitis B vaccines. An International Vaccination Certificate is not mandatory. Visit cdc.gov for the latest information.

Travel Advice      
Your health and safety are important to us. For advice on how to stay safe while on charter, please review our   Travel Advice Information.  Current travel and safety information can be obtained by visiting travel.state.gov   

Swim Safe 
Swimming is often a fun and important part of a vacation. However local rules, flag systems, currents and where swimming may be permitted, can be different and vary from country to country. Snorkel vests, Life Jackets and Diver Down flags are all available on board.

Children

• Talk to children about water safety at the start of a vacation, making them aware of the potential dangers.
• Accidents can happen at any time on vacation, but often they happen on the first and last day, so keep watch and do not get distracted when your children are playing by, or in the water.
• Children in or near water should always be supervised by an adult and never left unattended. 
• Get in the water with them, it is easier to keep an eye on them as well as good fun. Floatation devices are highly recommended for children but are not a substitute for supervision.

Be aware of your surroundings

• Check warning flags and signage on the beach and only swim where it is permitted. 
• Beware of dangerous currents, these can be very powerful. Not all beaches have lifeguards and/or warning flags.
• Beware of underwater hazards, such as reefs, rocks, sudden changes in depth and marine life.
• Never swim where a sign says not to e.g. in zoned areas for jet boats or jet skis.
• Never swim at night or after drinking alcohol.

Look out for others

• Never swim alone, ‘buddy up’ with others in your party and use the snorkel vests provided.
• Know how and where to get help. If you see someone in difficulty; raise the alarm, preferably the emergency services. Ensure you know the correct number for the country you are in.

Do not overestimate your ability

• Consider swimming lessons before you go if you think it would be useful to learn proper swimming technique.
• Even if you regularly swim in a pool, remember that open water swimming can be very different.

Safety
All yachts are equipped with adult life jackets, harnesses, snorkel vests & diver down flags. You can see all this equipment demonstrated in our online safety briefing, and we strongly recommend that you make use this equipment during your vacation. This safety equipment will be displayed in the saloon of your boat on boarding – If you have any questions feel free to ask our base staff during your briefing.

We have a very limited supply of children’s life jackets on base so highly recommend that if you are travelling with children, you bring their own. This ensures that children have correctly fitting jackets that are comfortable for them.  

Children should not be allowed in the dinghy without a life jacket or buoyancy aid and should wear a buoyancy aid or harness whilst on deck. 

Children under the age of 16 should not operate an outboard engine and should be supervised at all times when in the dinghy. 

Travel Insurance 
The Moorings offers comprehensive travel insurance for your peace of mind. If you have your own travel insurance, verify that it covers the destinations and activities of your Moorings vacation.

Protecting our Oceans 
Sustainable practices help us protect our environment, sailing areas and surrounding communities. The Moorings actively implements eco-friendly initiatives to reduce our footprint across all our bases.

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Sailing Grounds/ Licenses

A formal sailing or power license is mandatory to charter a yacht in Corfu which means you need to ensure you have the appropriate experience, qualifications and licenses to be able to take the helm and sail around the stunning open waters.

Experience Level
Level 1

• At least 5 days or 100 miles as skipper on an equivalent size yacht.
• Level 1 destinations offer the easiest, most forgiving sailing, ideal for novices and less experienced sailors. Lazy line mooring, line-of-sight navigation and calm conditions mean you won’t sail outside your comfort zone.

Experience levels are based on sailing conditions and the length of passages within your chosen sailing area. View here for more information

Sailing or Power Requirements Qualifications Required
To charter in Greece, there must be at least one certified skipper over 18 years old. The skipper should be competent at handling a yacht in close quarters, anchoring and mooring in varying conditions and be able to use navigation and pilotage skills to plan the day’s sailing and know your position at any time.
The Skipper should be accompanied by at least one crew member (First Mate) of “Competent Crew” level (ASA 103 or RYA Competent Crew Course) or a similar/equivalent certification from any recognized sailing association.
*If the First Mate does NOT have a sailing license, they must fill out our online sailing / power resume [hyperlink to sailing resume page] to confirm that they have the necessary skills to sail in Greece aboard a The Moorings vessel. They must also fill out a Declaration of Honor to provide a legal declaration to the Greek Port Authorities that said crew member is competent to crew aboard a chartered yacht.

As a yacht skipper, you are required to have an official sailing / power licence
If the sailing licence is in a language other than English or Greek, it must be accompanied by a certified translation.
Original license/certificate must be presented upon check in at the base.
Click here to view the sailing requirements in Greece.

The Greek Maritime Authorities have recently changed their sailing license requirements for 2023 and have confirmed that they will no longer accept the RYA Day Skipper qualification for yacht chartering in Greek waters.

All RYA Day Skipper Qualification holders are able to convert their current qualification to the ICC (International Certificate of Competence) qualification. This can be done online through the RYA website or via a paper form which can be downloaded from the website and printed. If you are a RYA member, an ICC can be issued free of charge, please visit the website and complete the application form.

The conversion period may take several weeks, therefore please plan ahead to ensure you receive the ICC certificate in time. If you’re challenging yourself and skippering your yacht around the Ionian Islands, you must bring a physical copy of your sailing qualification.

It is imperative that you bring these sailing certificates or sailing qualifications with you. You will not be able to sail without these papers, and failure to supply information in advance could delay your departure from the base. The sailing experience you provide on your booking confirmation is required as proof of sailing experience for the Greek Port Authorities. Please bring any sailing certificates or sailing qualifications with you. If you do not have a recognized certificate, you should obtain one before your departure.

Review the sailing requirements or power requirements for Corfu while planning your sailing vacation and please contact our Vacation Planners at 888.952.8420 if you have any questions about the license changes.

Cruising Area 

Starting from Corfu, navigation is only permitted in Greek territorial waters. Under no circumstances should you go to Albania. For more information regarding cruising areas, download The Moorings Corfu Cruising eGuide where you will find everything you need to know to ensure you’re confident with the DOs and DON’Ts of chartering a yacht in Corfu!

Charts & Pilot Books

All the charts and pilot books you will need for sailing around Corfu are issued at your chart briefing.

Night Time Sailing

When you climb aboard one of our world class yachts and set sail on the Ionian Sea, you must follow certain rules surrounding night time sailing:

You must be moored at least one hour before sunset
Night Sailing is not allowed without permission from the base manager
The decision to allow night sailing is based on your skill level and can be requested in advance

These rules are in place to ensure your safety when cruising on the open waters. If you have any questions, contact us today and a member of our friendly team will be more than happy to help!

Cruising Permits & Taxes

If you’re planning on mooring up and exploring the shores of Corfu, it’s important to understand that you cannot make a reservation at any ports in Corfu, or Greece more widely.

A passing through berth is usually available for the night but please note that your passage might not be recorded if you are passing through a small port. Occasionally, Port Authorities may request the boat’s papers and your charter contract but this is standard procedure and nothing to worry about, as long as you don’t forget to retrieve your documents before leaving!

Moorings fees and taxes vary depending on which port you’re mooring up at but they tend to be between 30-70 Euros.

Around the Base

Our base at Marina Gouvia has a wide range of brilliant facilities to kick your vacation off in style. Your comfort is assured by extensive amenities, including

• Laundry room
• Hotels
• Parking
• Post office
• Restaurants
• Banks
• Supermarket
• The dock also has water and electricity
• The nearest telephone booth is 30m from the base

Accommodations

Are you planning on staying in a hotel when near our Marina Gouvia base? Here are some of our top choices for local hotels: 

• Hotel Debono – distance from the base: 500 m
• Corfu Palace Hotel – 2 Leoforos Dimokratias Avenue
• Kontokali Bay Hotel – distance from the base: 1 km

Banks

Money changing facilities are present in the majority of towns, although they are not that readily available and off the beaten track which is why it is best to exchange your money when you first arrive at the airport, providing you’ve arrived during opening hours:

• Monday – Thursday: from 8.00 am – 2.00 pm
• Friday: from 8.00 am – 1.30 pm.

Money changing should be done either with cash or by travelers’ checks and Euro checks. Visa and MasterCard are accepted but American Express may only be accepted at limited locations and most local tavernas accept only cash.

During your cruise, you will find banks in the town centers of Corfu, Gaios, Parga Preveza, Levkas and Nidri so there’ll be plenty of opportunities to exchange more money if you need. There is one ATM outside Gouvia marina, and one inside the marina in front of the Marina Office. Most banks have a 24 hour cash machine.

Please note: Our Marina Gouvia base cannot accept cash or personal checks.

Post Office

If you want to send postcards of your fabulous adventures, a post office can be found in the center of Corfu: Open Monday to Friday: 7:30am to 8:00pm. There is also a mailbox in the marina next to the Marina Office.

Dining

Some of our favorite dining spots close to the Marina Gouvia base include:

• Pipilas – Greek specialties, 600m south of the base
• Gereko – Kontokali village – Fish specialties, 600m south of the base
• Melina’s Restaurant and Bar- Gouvia village – 500m north of the base
• Zorbas Restaurant – 500m north of the base in Kontokali village

If you want to pick up food and supplies for your yacht charter ahead of time, there is a supermarket at the base for all your provisioning needs.

Shopping

In Corfu you can find fashion, jewelry and many other stores with a wide range of tourist items, such as wonderful gifts and souvenirs to take back home to loved ones or cherish yourself. Gold and silver are worked with a skill which has its origins in the Byzantine days with influences from the West. Ceramics also have a long history as a Corfiot craft so keep an eye out for incredible pieces as you’re wandering around the towns.

Build your Corfu charter quote today and prepare to create memories that will last a lifetime!

Marina Facilities
Your comfort is assured by extensive facilities including:

• Laundry room
• Hotels
• Parking
• Post office
• Restaurants
• Banks
• Supermarket

Dock Facilities

• Water
• Electricity

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Cruising Grounds

Experience Level
A formal sailing license is mandatory to charter here. Review the sailing and  power  requirements for Corfu while planning your charter vacation. A formal sailing license is mandatory to charter here.

The Greek Maritime Authorities have recently changed their sailing license requirements for 2022 and 2023 and have confirmed that they will no longer accept the RYA Day Skipper qualification for Yacht Chartering in Greek waters.

All RYA Day Skipper Qualification holders are able to convert their current qualification to the ICC (International Certificate of Competence) qualification. This can be done online through the RYA website or via a paper form which can be downloaded from the website and printed. If you are a RYA member, an ICC can be issued free of charge, please visit the website and complete the application form.

The conversion period may take several weeks, therefore please plan ahead to ensure you receive the ICC certificate in time. The skipper must bring a physical copy of their sailing qualification – a photocopy or picture on a phone will not be accepted by the marine authorities. Please contact our Vacation Planners at 888.952.8420 if you have any questions.

Cruising Area  
Albania: Starting from Corfu, navigation is only permitted in Greek territorial waters. Under no circumstances should you go to Albania.

Download The Moorings Corfu Cruising eGuide here.

Charts & Pilot Books
All the charts and pilot books you will need for the sailing area are issued at your chart briefing.

Nighttime Sailing  
You must be moored at least one hour before sunset. Night Sailing is not allowed without permission from the base manager. The decision to allow night sailing is based on your skill level and can be requested in advance. You will need to fill out the Sailing or Power resume for the base to review but we cannot guarantee approval.

Cruising Permits & Taxes
It is not possible to make reservation in Greek ports. A passing through berth is generally available for the night. Your passage is not always recorded when passing through small ports. Port Authorities will sometimes request the boat’s papers and your charter contract. Do not forget to retrieve your documents before leaving. The average price for a night for a 40 footer: 7€, in small harbors / in private marina’s 40-50€.

Moorings Fees & Taxes
Vary from port to port 30-70Euros.

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Things to Do

Tours
Please visit the Itinerary Page for more of the best places to visit on your trip. While you are in Corfu take the opportunity to visit these other cultural attractions. Take advantage of your visit to Corfu to see all the island’s curiosities. 

The old town
In the center of town near the old port there is a magnificent Venetian district with colorful streets lined with numerous shops and taverns.

Byzantine Art Museum
Arseniou Street in the Antivouniotissa Church.

Fortifications
Napoleon Bonaparte later modified the new fort from the 16th and 17th century. The old fort was occupied by the Venetians for a long time. A “Son and Lumiere” spectacle is frequently given in different languages.

The Liston
Across from the old fort there are arcades constructed by the French. There you will find a variety of terraced cafes overlooking an esplanade where traditional cricket matches are played.

Archaeological museum – Vraila Street at the end of the road of Garitsa Bay near Corfu Palace.  There are numerous examples of prehistoric tools and pottery exhibited.  Open from 8:30 am to 3 pm. Daily except Monday.

Horse Riding
Try the experience of riding in Trailriders. 
Reservations are essential – contact Ano Korakiana tel: 30 26630 23090 / 22503 
Some other fun sports in Corfu are: water ski, tennis, golf.

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Water Toys & Sports

For your convenience, you can add water toys to your charter prior to arrival at the base. They will be waiting on your boat upon arrival. You are able to rent these at the base; please keep in mind that we have limited availability. For more information, please view our Water Sports Options.

Diving and Snorkelling
Scuba diving in Corfu offers crystal-clear waters, rocky reefs, and intriguing underwater caves. Known for its dramatic coastal scenery and marine biodiversity, it’s a great spot for both beginners and experienced divers. The island’s warm waters and relaxed vibe make diving here both scenic and serene.

Diving is not permitted directly from our yachts under any circumstances. Diving must only take place through reputable, certified dive operators using their own boats and equipment.

We have a range of fins available in various different sizes. You will find them in cockpit lockers in each yacht. We do have limited children’s sizes therefore we recommend bringing your own to avoid disappointment. Please note that we do not provide snorkelling masks or snorkels onboard.

When snorkelling, the diving flag and buoy should be deployed and visible to all passing nearby
Swim vests should be worn at all times whilst snorkelling
One person should remain out of the water, keeping watch of the others in the water

Fishing
Yes. No permit required.

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For more information on what’s included on your yacht, please view the full list here for Bareboat Charters or here for Crewed Charters.

General Conditions  

What is the weather like in Corfu?

The weather in Corfu is truly delightful for sailors. With warm temperatures, calm waters and little rain, you’re in paradise! Between April-November, temperatures reach between 76°F and 82°F, met with Northwest winds from 10-15 knots. 

The Mediterranean enjoys an average of 315 cloudless days each year and Corfu is no different so pack your bags and get ready to set sail on the adventure of a lifetime!

When is the best time to sail in Corfu?

Much like the rest of the Ionian Islands, the best time to sail in Corfu is between April-November, with many people choosing to charter a yacht and explore the stunning islands between May-October. During this time, you’ll experience beautiful weather, very low tidal currents, and relatively straightforward navigation.

What are the dominant winds in Corfu?

During the Winter, outside of the sailing season, you’ll find North-Easterly and Southerly winds, whereas in the Summer and the height of the cruising season, Corfu welcomes North-Westerly winds. There are two dominant winds in Greece:

The Meltemi: Varying from 15 to 40 knots. It begins in May and reaches its peak in July, then slows down in September.

The Sirocco: Southeast More frequent in winter, it corresponds to the passage of a depression. It can occasionally blow in April or the end of October.

The Historical weather averages chart can stay.

What are the tides like in Corfu?

As with the rest of Greece, including Athens, the tidal range is very low in Corfu. In most places, you’ll find that the tidal currents are almost nonexistent, with a range of just one to two feet and therefore tidal currents are practically nonexistent. There are a couple of exceptions, such as in the sea level Lefkas Canal (no locks), where currents are noticeable. 

Where can I find the weather forecast for Corfu?

When you arrive at Marina Gouvia, we will provide you with a weather forecast for the next 24 hours. The weather forecast during your cruise can be seen on all television channels; Tavernas and Restaurants show weather programs just after the news at 8.50 pm.

Harbour Offices receive a weather forecast regularly and a Corfu weather forecast is also available online.

On your radio receiver, on the Greek national station, forecasts are broadcast in Greek and English.

Time Station Frequency Radio wave:

1.10 pm Corfu 1008 kHz 298 m
6.30 am Athens 729 kHz 412 m
1.30 pm Rhodes 1494 kHz 200 m
12.00 pm Patras 1485 kHz 202 m

The Italian station, Radio One announces forecasts for the Ionian Sea at approximately 7.40 am and 11.45 pm on 567, 657, 666, 675, 1032, and 1332 kHz frequencies.

East of the Greek archipelago, the forecast is in German at approximately 9.45 am and 2.00 pm on short wave on 6150 MHz/49 m frequency. 

On your VHF, it is possible to call HELLAS RADIO on channel 16 in English. You will be given the weather forecast for your zone, after you give them your VHF code signal and the name of your boat.

Charter Responsibly with The Moorings

At The Moorings, we’re passionate about preserving the beauty of the oceans we explore. Through Our OCEAN Promise, we’re working to reduce our environmental footprint and support the communities that make each destination so special. From more responsible operations to cleaner cruising practices, sustainability is at the heart of what we do.

You can make a difference too. Before you depart, pack a reusable water bottle, choose to support local businesses, and anchor mindfully to help protect the waters we all enjoy. Small choices make a big impact.

Learn more about Our OCEAN Promise