Learn to sail at our RYA training centre in Greece. Calm Ionian waters, expert RYA instruction and a holiday atmosphere then take you from beginner to qualified skipper.
Ionian Sea · Kefalonia · Agia Eufimia
Learn to Sail in Greece
RYA Training CentreAccredited courses taught by RYA-qualified instructors
Learn to sail in Greece, where calm Ionian waters and relaxed island life make training feel like a holiday. At our RYA training centre in Greece, accredited courses also combine expert instruction with warm hospitality.
As a result, beginners gain the confidence to skipper their own yacht in some of the most welcoming sailing destinations in the world.
Why Greece
Sheltered Ionian bays are beautiful and safe, so they are ideal for first-time sailors.
Our experienced instructors and friendly base team also help every student feel comfortable and confident.
Short routes provide constant practice in relaxed conditions, so skills build naturally day by day.
Seafarer’s RYA-accredited instructors teach in small groups, so you build skill and confidence at your own pace.
Sunshine and easy daily routines also make progress feel natural. In fact, most students don’t want to leave.
RYA Courses
Six RYA courses, from your first day on a yacht to Coastal Skipper. Find your level below and choose your next qualification.
Beginner
No sailing experience needed
Step 1 · PracticalA taster of yachting for beginners, or for budding sailors too young for Competent Crew.
2–6 days · Age 8+View course
Step 2 · PracticalLearn the basics and become an active member of the crew rather than a passenger.
5–6 days · Age 12+View course
Intermediate
For sailors ready to learn to skipper
Step 3 · TheoryA comprehensive introduction to sailing theory, studied online.
40–45 hours onlineView course
Step 4 · PracticalThe most popular RYA course, and the standard required to skipper a yacht in many destinations worldwide.
5–6 days · Age 16+View course
Advanced
For experienced skippers
Step 5 · TheoryAdvanced theory for the Coastal Skipper practical course and the Yachtmaster Offshore exam.
Approx 60 hours onlineView course
Step 6 · PracticalTakes your practical skills to the next level, on longer coastal and offshore passages.
5–6 days · Age 17+View course
Sailing Area
From our RYA training centre in Greece, you discover the sheltered waters around Kefalonia and Ithaca, in the heart of the Ionian Sea. Gentle afternoon breezes, short island hops and well-protected harbours also make this one of the most enjoyable sailing areas in Greece.
Overall, the Ionian offers reliable, learner-friendly weather from spring to autumn. Calm mornings are ideal for manoeuvres, whereas stronger afternoon breezes build confidence under sail.
Ionian Highlights
Connected by a bridge to the Greek mainland, Lefkada (or Lefkas) is a green and verdant island known for its spectacular beaches, stunning mountains, and turquoise waters. An easy sail north from our Kefalonia base, Lefkada makes a great destination for a longer passage on the beautiful Ionian.
Home to our Seafarer Training base at Agia Eufimia on its sheltered east coast, Kefalonia is a breathtaking island in the Ionian Sea, boasting dramatic cliffs, pristine beaches, and lush landscapes. Explore its charming towns and villages, indulge in delicious local cuisine, and uncover the island’s rich history and natural wonders.
Sitting just off Kefalonia is steeped in myth and history, known as the legendary home of Odysseus from Homer’s Odyssey. Explore its rugged beauty, hike through olive groves, and visit the enchanting village of Vathi plus others for the captivating ambiance of this Ionian gem
Meganisi, a small island in the Ionian Sea, captivates with its unspoiled charm and crystal-clear turquoise waters. Explore its secluded coves and picturesque villages for an authentic Greek island experience.
The small islands of the Ionian Sea offer serene beauty and tranquil escapes. Discover hidden gems of Atokos, Kalamos, Kastos, among other and enjoy pristine beaches in this idyllic archipelago.
Training Fleet
Above all, our fully coded RYA training yachts in the Ionian are the perfect vessels to train and gain confidence. Meet Bartholome, Anna and Orestis, which are also your home for the week.
Book Your Course
| Course Date | Sharing a cabin for 2 | Special Offer | Saloon Berth | Special Offer | Single occupancy of a cabin | Special Offer | Courses |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 11-October | £1,095 | £985 | £895 | £795 | £1,555 | No Supplement! - £1,095 | SY, CC, DS, CS* |
| 18-October | £1,095 | £985 | £895 | £795 | £1,555 | No Supplement! - £1,095 | SY, CC, DS, CS* |
| 25-October | £1,095 | £985 | £895 | £795 | £1,555 | No Supplement! - £1,095 | SY, CC, DS, CS* |
| 1-November - Nikiana to Kiato Milebuillder | £1,095 | £985 | £895 | £795 | £1,555 | No Supplement! - £1,095 | SY, CC, DS, CS* |
2027 Dates at 2026 Prices | |||||||
| 18-April-27 | £995 | £795 | £1,445 | SY, CC, DS, CS* | |||
| 25-April-27 | £995 | £795 | £1,445 | SY, CC, DS, CS* | |||
| 2-May-27 | £995 | £795 | £1,445 | SY, CC, DS, CS* | |||
| 9-May-27 | £995 | £795 | £1,445 | SY, CC, DS, CS* | |||
| 16-May-27 | £1,095 | £895 | £1,555 | SY, CC, DS, CS* | |||
| 23-May-27 | £1,095 | £895 | £1,555 | SY, CC, DS, CS* | |||
| 30-May-27 | £1,095 | £895 | £1,555 | SY, CC, DS, CS* | |||
| 6-June-27 | £1,095 | £895 | £1,555 | SY, CC, DS, CS* | |||
| 13-June-27 | £1,095 | £895 | £1,555 | SY, CC, DS, CS* | |||
| 20-June-27 | £1,095 | £895 | £1,555 | SY, CC, DS, CS* | |||
| 27-June-27 | £1,195 | £995 | £1,755 | SY, CC, DS, CS* | |||
| 4-July-27 | £1,195 | £995 | £1,755 | SY, CC, DS, CS* | |||
| 11-July-27 | £1,195 | £995 | £1,755 | SY, CC, DS, CS* | |||
| 18-July-27 | £1,195 | £995 | £1,755 | SY, CC, DS, CS* | |||
| 25-July-27 | £1,195 | £995 | £1,755 | SY, CC, DS, CS* | |||
| 1-August-27 | £1,195 | £995 | £1,755 | SY, CC, DS, CS* | |||
| 8-August-27 | £1,195 | £995 | £1,755 | SY, CC, DS, CS* | |||
| 15-August-27 | £1,195 | £995 | £1,755 | SY, CC, DS, CS* | |||
| 22-August-27 | £1,195 | £995 | £1,755 | SY, CC, DS, CS* | |||
| 29-August-27 | £1,195 | £995 | £1,755 | SY, CC, DS, CS* | |||
| 5-September-27 | £1,195 | £995 | £1,755 | SY, CC, DS, CS* | |||
| 12-September-27 | £1,095 | £895 | £1,555 | SY, CC, DS, CS* | |||
| 19-September-27 | £1,095 | £895 | £1,555 | SY, CC, DS, CS* | |||
| 26-September-27 | £1,095 | £895 | £1,555 | SY, CC, DS, CS* | |||
| 3-October-27 | £1,095 | £895 | £1,555 | SY, CC, DS, CS* | |||
| 10-October-27 | £1,095 | £895 | £1,555 | SY, CC, DS, CS* | |||
| 17-October-27 | £1,095 | £895 | £1,555 | SY, CC, DS, CS* | |||
| 24-October-27 | £1,095 | £895 | £1,555 | SY, CC, DS, CS* | |||
| Practical Course | Description | Ideal for | |
|---|---|---|---|
| SY | Start Yachting | Younger children, those looking just to relax | |
| CC | Competent Crew | Children 12 or over, adults wanting to learn | |
| DS | Day Skipper | Those wishing to skipper as part of a flotilla | |
| CS | Coastal Skipper* Enquire for availability | More experienced sailors, ideal for bareboat charter |
| Price per person, per week | Sharing a cabin for 2 | Special Offer | Single occupancy of a cabin | Special Offer |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 7th Nov 2026 | £995 | £895 | £1,415 | £1,215 |
| 14th Nov 2026 | £995 | £895 | £1,415 | £1,215 |
| 21st Nov 2026 | £995 | £895 | £1,415 | £1,215 |
| 28th Nov 2026 | £995 | £895 | £1,415 | £1,215 |
| 6th Mar 2027 | £995 | £1,415 | ||
| 13th Mar 2027 | £995 | £1,415 | ||
| 20th Mar 2027 | £995 | £1,415 | ||
| 27th Mar 2027 | £995 | £1,415 |
| Price per person, per week | Sharing a cabin for 2 | Special Offer | Single occupancy of a cabin | Special Offer |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 24 October 2026 | £1,495 | £1,295 | £1,995 | £1,795 |
2027 dates at 2026 Prices | ||||
| 15th May 2027 | £1,195 | £1,695 | ||
| 19th June 2027 | £1,750 | £2,195 | ||
| 24th July 2027 | £1,750 | £2,195 | ||
| 25th September 2027 | £1,595 | £1,995 | ||
| 23rd October 2027 | £1,495 | £1,995 | ||
| Period | Private Use | Special Offer |
|---|---|---|
| April, May & June | £4,950 | |
| July, August & September | £5,375 | |
| October | £4,950 |
10% multiple course discount applies when 2 or more courses are booked for an individual at the same time.
What’s Included
Optional Extras
Along with shared courses, we can also offer private tuition on a yacht of your choosing at any point during the season. Price for the instructor is £1,495 for the week plus their own cabin on the yacht and food. Get in touch with our team for a bespoke private tuition quote.
Your Instructors
Tryston hails from South Africa and is now into his third season with Seafarer, taking the helm this year as chief instructor. Because he has Southern Ocean sailing in his blood and a wealth of local knowledge in the Ionian, Seafarer Training is in very safe hands. Tryston also has overall responsibility for all course delivery in Agia Eufimia, ensuring that all courses are both safe and fun.
We are delighted to welcome Danny back to the Seafarer team for 2026. He has recently qualified as an RYA Cruising Instructor and brings bags of enthusiasm. With plenty of local experience and seasons as a flotilla skipper under his belt, Danny is also looking forward to sharing his knowledge with our students in the Ionian this season.
Alex is also new to the team for 2026, having recently qualified as a Cruising Instructor. His passion for sailing has grown steadily, while his background in hospitality and engineering provides a solid footing for his sailing career.
Similarly, Chris joins the team for 2026, having recently qualified as a Cruising Instructor. He can’t wait to share his knowledge with our students.
Training Centre Details
Travel
Our RYA training centre in Greece is at Agia Eufimia Harbour, on the east coast of Kefalonia, so it is easy to reach by air or road. Courses generally run Sunday to Sunday. You embark from 17:00 on arrival day, then disembark around 09:00 on departure day. Instruction runs from Monday at 09:00 to Saturday at 17:00.
There are Sunday charter flights from Gatwick, as well as scheduled flights from Heathrow, Stansted, Luton, Bristol, Birmingham, Manchester and Edinburgh.
Following your flight, direct Seafarer transfers from Kefalonia Airport take roughly 1 hour. Local buses also run from Agia Eufimia to Argostoli, the island capital.
Regular ferries run to Sami (10 min from base) from Ithaca and Astakos, as well as to Fiskardo (40 min from base) from Vassiliki on Lefkada.
Common Questions
Do I need any sailing experience?
No. In fact, our RYA Competent Crew and Start Yachting courses are ideal for beginners who want to learn to sail in Greece.
How long is the course?
You’ll be in Greece for 7 nights, and our courses run for 6 training days, Monday to Saturday. As a result, you’ll have plenty of time to train and relax under the Ionian sun.
Will I earn an RYA qualification?
As long as you meet the standards set by the RYA, yes. Courses are RYA-accredited, so you’ll receive the correct certificate once your instructor confirms your competence.
Where will I stay?
You’ll live on board the training yacht during your course. The operating costs of the training yacht are also included, so it is a comfortable and stress-free sailing experience.
When is the best time to learn to sail in Greece?
Our summer training season runs from April to October, so there are plenty of dates to choose from. Early and late months are cooler, with more variable conditions, while summer offers warm water and more predictable breezes.
Which airport should I fly to?
Fly to Kefalonia International Airport (EFL). It’s the closest airport, with direct Sunday flights from Gatwick, Stansted, Bristol, Nottingham, Birmingham and Manchester. Seafarer transfers then take around an hour to reach the Agia Eufimia base. If Seafarer arranges your flights, your entire package is ATOL-protected.
What’s included in the price?
Your course fee covers tuition, yacht accommodation, fuel, bed linen, shower towels, provisioning for breakfast and light lunches, and all essential training materials.
Is the course suitable for solo travellers?
Yes, absolutely. Many students join alone, because small groups and shared accommodation create a friendly, supportive atmosphere on board.
Book Your Course
To book or check availability, get in touch with our experienced team. You might also like our Croatia and UK training centres, or our overview of the RYA Yachtmaster scheme.
Call or email us
Request a quote
Tell us your dates and party size, and we’ll then come back to you with availability and prices.
Peace of mind
Every payment you make to us is financially protected, from deposit to balance. Holidays with flights are covered by our ATOL licence, and holidays without flights by our ABTOT membership. Trading since 1995.
All flight-inclusive holidays are fully ATOL protected
Additional protection for bookings without flights
