Why Choose The Ionian Explorer Flotilla?
Intermediate Sailing – Level 2
Ideal For More Experienced Sailors
Club And Flotilla Option
Combine Flotilla With RYA Tuition
The Ionian explorer flotilla is ideal for those looking to enjoy the Ionian islands at a great time of the year – sailing can be more challenging, with more varied conditions than are generally found during the high season. The harbours and anchorages are a little quieter, giving you the chance to sail late into the afternoon.
We try to design our route to give some longer passages, heading further south than our regular flotilla routes, which gives the opportunity to visit harbours and ports that are not generally accessible on regular flotillas.
Each island offers something different, and we also try to visit a variety of overnight stops – larger towns like Vathi on Ithaca and Zakynthos town, as well as the smaller islands of Kastos and Kalamos.
As the weather is changeable, this particular route may be subject to some changes, so a sense of adventure and a flexible approach is definitely part of the essential packing list!
The Explorer Route - departing 8th October 2023
Fly UK to Preveza and transfer to our flotilla base for embarkation. Our home port is in the harbour of Nikiana on the sheltered east of the island of Lefkas, perfect for exploring the South Ionian.
A 15 mile sail for the first day – time to shake down your yacht, and then enjoy a warm welcome in the protected harbour of Kalamos.
Head to Ithaca, and one of the best restaurants in the Ionian. Drinks in the renowned local bar afterwards complete your evening.
Our destination today is Sami, a working town with plenty of tavernas to choose from.
South we go, exploring the coast of Kefalonia as far as Poros. walk across to the beach from the harbour, and dive into the cool waters from the rocks near the beach (or watch from the shade of the bar!)
Protected from the prevailing winds by the small island of the same name, whilst a pretty little town in its own right, the big attraction is ‘Shipwreck Cove’ which we visit on a local excursion boat
An attractive harbour town and starting point for a train or bus trip to Ancient Olympia, birth place of the Olympic Games and a real highlight for history enthusiasts. We have allocated 2 nights here as there’s so much to see and do, but if the allure of the sea is too strong, is a designated free sailing day.
Use the time to explore ashore or just relax. If setting sail, there’s plenty of choice to explore the Peloponnese coast or Zakynthos island opposite
Today’s sail takes us west across to the capital of Zakynthos, or Zante as its also known.
Heading back north, we call in to Aghia Eufimia, a lovely harbour and the home port for our Kefalonia flotilla. Centrally located, it is a great touring base with lots to see, such as Melissani Caves with stalagtites and stalagmites, a historic winery and lots more.
Take another day off from sailing to explore Kefalonia or set sail for Ithaka, Meganissi or Fiskardo
The capital of Ithaca has a wide variety of great tavernas for an evening meal ashore in this deep, well protected bay.
Today we head south to the sleepy island of Kastos. An evening stroll up the hill to Chef John’s restaurant on the hill rewards you with one of the finest views in the Ionian.
Transfer to Preveza airport or if you are lucky, transfer to our beach club to extend your holiday!
The Weather
Reliable sunshine on the Ionian flotilla is virtually guaranteed during the season between early May and late October, with temperatures ranging from the low 20s in early and late season up to the high 30s in late June through August. Sailing conditions are generally moderate with winds typically force 2-4. More challenging sailing is available further south.
Prices
Yacht Security Deposit
Returnable Deposit:
- Yachts 35 ft or under – £1000
- Yachts 36 ft to 40ft – £1500
- Yachts 41 ft to 45ft – £2000
- Yachts 46ft and over – £2500
Non-Returnable Yacht Damage Waiver:
- Yachts 35 ft or under – 1 week £120 2 weeks £180
- Yachts 36 ft to 40ft – 1 week £180 2 weeks £270
- Yachts 41 ft to 45ft – 1 week £250 2 weeks £375
- Yachts 46ft and over – 1 week £300 2 weeks £450
Extras
- Sea kayak £100 per week
- Inflatable SUP (stand up paddle board) £100 per week
- Child safety netting £100 per charter
- Skipper £995 per week
- Hostess £700 per week
- Seafarer Beach Towel £15 (yours to keep)
Sunday morning charter flights from Gatwick or Heathrow to Preveza with afternoon return. Flight Time 3 hrs.
Regional charter flights from Manchester and Birmingham available on request.
Lefkas Town Quay, Lefkas Marina, £32 per person return. Sivota Flotilla Base, £45 per person return.