Beyond Corfu and Kefalonia lies a quieter Greece. GPS coordinates, depth data, and charter tips for five anchorages our skippers have relied on for years.
Why the Ionian Islands offer the best anchorages in Greece for charter sailing
The Ionian chain — Corfu, Lefkada, Kefalonia, Ithaca, Zakynthos, and Paxos — stretches 180nm along Greece's western coast. Unlike the Aegean, the Ionian is largely sheltered from the Meltemi (the summer NE gale that affects the Cyclades). Prevailing summer winds are from the NW (Maestrale, 10–18 knots by day, calming at night). Inter-island distances average 15–25nm. The combination of reliable wind, calm seas, and high anchorage density makes the Ionian the most accessible charter region in the Mediterranean for crews of all experience levels.
1. Mourtos (Sivota), Epirus Mainland — 39°22'N, 20°14'E
Mourtos is a cluster of small islands and sheltered channels 5nm south of Parga on the Epirus mainland. Anchor in 4–8m over sand and weed behind Megalo Mourtos island, which breaks the northerly swell completely. The village has two supermarkets, a fuel dock, and three fish restaurants. Depth at the jetty: 2–3m. Best approached from the south — the northern channel has a 1.8m bar at chart datum that dries in places. Laid-back atmosphere, few charter boats even in peak season.
2. Fiskardo, North Kefalonia — 38°27'N, 20°34'E
Fiskardo is the only village on Kefalonia undamaged by the 1953 earthquake, preserving intact Venetian-era architecture. Anchor in 6–10m north of the village in a bay with 270° protection. In July and August the bay fills with charter boats by 1400 — arrive early. The town quay offers 4m depth alongside with a buoy charge of €10–20/night. A water taxi from Fiskardo to the Melissani Cave takes 30 minutes; the Blue Cave boat tour runs daily from the quay.
3. Vathi, Ithaca — 38°22'N, 20°43'E
Vathi is one of the deepest natural harbours in the Mediterranean: the bay narrows to 80m at the entrance but opens to a kilometre-wide anchorage. Anchor in 8–15m over mud with excellent holding. The town quay offers 3.5m depth alongside. The Vathi Archaeological Museum holds artifacts confirming settlement since 800 BCE. Homer's Odyssey places Ithaca as Odysseus's home kingdom — the site retains this literary gravity. Distance from Lefkada marina: 25nm; from Kefalonia Argostoli: 18nm.
4. Gaios, Paxos — 39°12'N, 20°11'E
Gaios occupies the east coast of Paxos, accessed via a narrow channel between the island and Agios Nikolaos islet. Maximum draft for entry: 2.5m — proceed at dead-slow through the 40m-wide section. Anchor in 4–6m or take a quayside berth stern-to. The village is considered among the most elegant in the Ionian: traffic-free, Venetian stone buildings, and a morning fish market. Important note: fuel by jerry can only — the nearest fuel pump is Lefkimmi, Corfu, 12nm north. Arrive with a full tank.
5. Ormos Atheras, Northwest Kefalonia — 38°30'N, 20°26'E
An undeveloped bay on Kefalonia's northwest coast accessible only by sea. Anchor in 4–10m over sand with good holding in most conditions. No facilities — provision fully before entering. The bay offers strong protection from the prevailing NW Maestrale but is open to the south; avoid in southerly wind forecasts above 15 knots. Emerald water suitable for snorkelling directly from the boat. Nearest provisions: Fiskardo (8nm east). This bay sees fewer than 10 visiting boats per week even in August.
Ionian charter logistics
Standard charter bases are Lefkada marina (3,000+ berths, easiest access from Athens airport, 4hr drive) and Corfu (Gouvia Marina, direct flights from most European cities). A one-week itinerary covers 150–200nm, visiting 6–8 anchorages at a comfortable pace. Fuel consumption for a 45ft catamaran (twin 55hp diesels, motoring 4–6 hours per day): 40–60L/day. Peak season crowds concentrate at Fiskardo, Sivota, and Corfu town quay — schedule arrivals before 1400 in July and August.
Best months to sail the Ionian
- May: 18–24°C air, 19°C sea, minimal crowds, Maestrale beginning to establish
- June: 24–28°C, reliable winds 10–18 knots, good visibility, marinas not yet at capacity
- September: 26°C, crowds reduce significantly after 15 September, sea still 25°C
- October: 20–24°C, variable winds, many restaurants and facilities still open
- July–August: spectacular weather and the warmest swimming; busy anchorages require early arrivals
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best base for sailing the Greek Ionian Islands?
Lefkada marina is the most versatile base: central to the island chain, easy road access from Athens (4hr) or Preveza airport (30min). Corfu is better for sailors flying directly from the UK or Northern Europe. Both bases give access to the full Ionian itinerary within a week.
Do I need a Greek sailing licence to charter in the Ionian?
An ICC (International Certificate of Competence) or equivalent national certificate (RYA, ASA) is accepted in Greek waters. A VHF Short Range Certificate (SRC) is also required. Greek sailing licences are not necessary for EU and most international charterers.
Is anchoring free in the Greek Ionian?
Most anchorages in the Ionian are free. Some bays operated by private concessions charge €5–15/night for a mooring buoy (Fiskardo, certain Corfu bays). National park areas require paid buoys. Town quays typically charge €10–25/night.
What wind conditions should I expect in the Ionian in summer?
Prevailing winds are NW (Maestrale) 10–18 knots, typically building mid-morning and easing by sunset. The Ionian does not experience the Meltemi that affects the Aegean. July and August can occasionally see stronger NW blows (20–25 knots) for 24–48 hours; these are forecastable and well-sheltered anchorages are always nearby.