7 Day South Ionian Islands POWER Itinerary 

Lakka Bay

Your adventure begins as you cruise to Lakka Bay on Paxos Island, a stunning natural harbor surrounded by lush hills. Known for its vibrant blue waters, it’s an ideal spot for swimming, snorkeling, or just relaxing on your yacht. The picturesque village of Lakka offers quaint cafes and tavernas, where you can enjoy traditional Greek cuisine while soaking in the tranquil atmosphere.

The day’s sailing

• 2 Hr 15 mins Sailing time
• 31 Nautical miles

Mooring

No moorings are available. The best anchorages in Paxos are at the ports of Lakka and Gaios. There is also a serene anchorage in the bay of Spuzzo, just south of Gaios, the main harbor of Paxos. You can also anchor in the creeks of Anti Paxos in settled weather.

Things to do

Both islands have numerous beautiful beaches and walking paths leading to the interior. The snorkeling in the area is excellent. On the south coast of Paxos, you will find the sea caves of Ypapanti. Caves along the rocky coast and inland are common in the Ionian Islands. There is ferry service to Gaios, on Paxos Island, which means little shops and several tavernas are in the port to cater to tourists. The harbor has a walled lighthouse on a tiny island, very picturesque and nautical in appearance. An old fort is on an adjacent islet. Gaios is a pleasant place to go ashore to explore. Of particular interest are the Monastery of Panagia (it’s on a small island of the same name) and the Museum of Paxos, which has a distinctly local collection of assorted artifacts. The hot springs on Paxos have long been known for their therapeutic properties.

Facilities

Fuel and water are available on Paxos.

Preveza

Today, set course for the mainland, cruising to the charming town of Preveza. This vibrant town, rich in history, is the gateway to the Ambracian Gulf and features a beautiful waterfront lined with cafes and tavernas. Explore the historic sites, including the ancient ruins of Nicopolis, or simply stroll through the town’s bustling streets. Preveza offers the perfect blend of history, culture, and modern amenities.

The day’s sailing

• 2 Hr 40min Sailing time
• 37 Nautical miles

Mooring

Mooring Options: Preveza is located on the mainland of Greece, near the mouth of the Ambracian Gulf. It is a popular destination for yacht charters and provides a variety of mooring options.

Preveza Marina: This is the main marina in the town, offering modern facilities and a safe harbor for yachts of all sizes.

Anchorages: There are a few good anchorages around Preveza. The harbor is calm, and the waters around the town are sheltered. You can anchor off the coast near the town’s waterfront or explore the nearby beaches for a more private experience.

Things to do

Explore the old town, visit archaeological sites, swim at the beaches, dining and nightlife.

Facilities

The marina is well-equipped with berths, power and water supply, and offers services such as Wi-Fi, shower facilities, and laundry.

Kalamos

As you cruise up to Kalamos, it becomes easily identifiable from a distance – thanks to Oros Vouni on the northeastern end, which rises to 2,438 ft (750 m) and then slopes steeply with a sheer cliff into the sea. Kalamos is a remote and beautiful island with Port Kalamos being the isle’s primary settlement. The tiny village and harbour of Episkopi, located on the north side, is the site of a ruined monastery. The walk from the harbour up to the monastery offers picturesque views over the water towards mainland Greece. Also at Kalamos’ north end are several protected anchorages with deep water coves. Dolphins love this area, so be sure to look for them playfully swimming about! The coves are overhung with rocks and cliffs eroded into majestic and fantastical shapes and surrounded by thick pine forests providing welcome shade from the sun.

Mooring

No moorings are available. The best anchorage is off the port of Kalamos. Further down the east coast is Port Leone situated in a beautiful bay. The anchorage at Episkopi is exposed to northerly winds. At Episkopi, berth stern or bows-to on the north quay. The bottom shelves gradually to the beach and offers reasonable holding on the mud, sand and grasses.

Dinghy dockage: No dinghy dockage is available

 

Things to do

 The port of Kalamos is a great place to go ashore to explore. As you walk the narrow lanes, browse in the few shops, or linger over a cool drink at one of the tavernas, you get a sense of what the Ionian Islands were like decades ago, long before the advent of busy resorts. Taking some time to visit a few of the many beaches is a delight, as is taking a leisurely stroll along the paths leading inland through the forest. The disused Port Leone south-west of Kalamos is intriguing. There’s an ancient bridge and a 200-year-old abandoned Orthodox church. Perhaps the most interesting is the nearby sea cave with a natural skylight that illuminates the interior, presenting a beautiful and rather haunting scene. Swim and snorkel. Explore the monestary and quaint tavernas.

 

Facilities

No additional facilities for yachts are available.

Meganisi

Next, head to Meganisi, a beautiful island just off the coast of Lefkada. Meganisi is known for its lush greenery, picturesque bays, and traditional Greek villages. Cruise into Vathy Bay or Spilia Bay and enjoy the peaceful surroundings. Spend the day swimming, kayaking, or exploring the island’s charming villages and olive groves. Meganisi is the perfect spot for relaxation and discovery.

The day’s sailing

• 1 Hr Sailing time
• 13 Nautical miles

Mooring

Anchor on a town quay or you can pay to use the marina, this option gives you a lazy line and shorepower and marina facilities

Things to do

Hiking, Exploring, swimming bays close by

Facilities

Water, Showers/ Toilets, Rubbish, Restaurants, Bars, Fuel

Discover Vathi

Vathi’s sunken plane
Discover the mysterious sunken plane wreck located at the bottom of the shallow harbour, best viewed from shore in the early morning.

Suggested lunch spots
Head east from Lefkas harbour for the bays fanari, abelike and athani.

Lefkada Marina

On Day 5, cruise to Lefkas Marina, one of the most well-equipped marinas in the Ionian. Lefkas is a vibrant island with a mix of modern amenities and traditional Greek charm. After mooring at the marina, explore the lively town, enjoy the local shops, or dine in one of the many seaside tavernas. Lefkas is also an excellent base for exploring more of the island’s beautiful coastline and beaches.

The day’s sailing

• 50 mins Sailing time
• 12 Nautical miles

Mooring

Lazy line in Marina

Things to do

Water sports, Sunbathing, Snorkeling, Exploring

Facilities

Water, Showers/Toilets, Rubbish, Restaurants, Provisioning, Bars, Electricity, Fuel, Laundry, Ice, Gift shop, ATM

Gaios

Set your course for Gaios on Paxos Island, a picturesque town known for its lively harbor and charming streets lined with cafes and shops. Cruise into the harbor and enjoy the vibrant atmosphere of this island town, where you can explore the narrow streets, visit historical sites, or enjoy a relaxing meal at a waterside taverna. Gaios offers a perfect blend of Greek island culture and modern amenities.

The day’s sailing

• 2 Hr 20min Sailing time
• 34 Nautical miles

Mooring

Mooring Options: Gaios has a well-developed harbor where yachts can anchor or moor. The town’s harbor is typically busy with yachts, and you can find both stern-to mooring along the quay or anchor in the deeper parts of the harbor.

Anchorages: If the harbor is full, yachts can also anchor in the surrounding bay, where there are several quieter spots around the island, although these may be exposed to some winds depending on the direction.

Things to do

Stop for Lunch at Antipaxos (12nm / <1hr + 3nm to Gaios)

Facilities

Water & electricity, Trash, fuel, provisioning, restaurants & bars

Return to Base

On your final day, cruise back to Marina Gouvia, taking in the stunning coastline one last time. Reflect on your unforgettable journey through Corfu and its surrounding islands, filled with beautiful anchorages, charming towns, and wonderful moments. Gouvia Marina is the largest in Greece and a perfect location to end your yacht charter adventure. Disembark the following morning, cherishing the memories of an incredible week spent cruising the Ionian Sea.

The day’s sailing

• 2 Hr 45 mins Sailing time
• 38 Nautical miles

Things to do

Swimming, Snorkeling, Dining, Shopping, Horseback Riding

Facilities

Supermarket, Restaurants, Moorings Buoys, Water, Electricity, Toilets & Showers, ATM and fuel