Grecian Delights | Corfu to Zakynthos

Full of picturesque fishing villages, fashionable harbors and beaches galore, Corfu has long been a favored stopover for the yachting crowd and is a great place to embark on a charter through the Ionian archipelago. The most northerly lying island in the chain, it has a history rich with writers, artists and poets. Relatively cosmopolitan, Corfu Town is a great place to sit and observe the locals and tourists coming and going, while the coastline has stunning coves, some of which are only accessible by boat.

Cruise alongside the dramatic Emiritis cliffs along the northwest coast of Paxos before discovering the island’s buzzing beaches. With its mix of sophistication and unspoiled seclusion, the three main harbors – Gaios, Laggos and Lakka – provide ample opportunities for entertainment ashore, while small coves and bays offer secluded anchorages.

The Greeks love their “anti” islands and Anti Paxos sums up why. Lying just off the Paxos’ south coast is a tiny islet called Anti Paxos. The antidote to the busier islands on the main tourist trail, anchor off a deserted beach with all the advantages of your fabulous yacht. The islet is a haven for watersports enthusiasts while ashore the island is endowed with a multitude of green vegetation and shaded trails.

Cruise on to Levkas and spend another day enjoying all manner of watersports activities. The island is a paradise for windsurfers, sailors and beach lovers. Reliable winds in the south of the island at Vassiliki provide some of the best windsurfing conditions in the Mediterranean, while the deep coves and turquoise-colored bays of Meganissi provide idyllic anchorages. During the evening, step ashore to Levkas Town where the streets have a hip atmosphere.

From Levkas it is an easy cruise to Homer’s Ithaca. Small, unspoiled and blessed with dramatic scenery, the island is rich in history. For centuries this quintessential Greek island has been synonymous with a hero of epic proportions: Odysseus. Explore the Cave of the Nymphs, where Odysseus is said to have hidden gifts, the Fountain of Arethusa and Odysseus’ Palace. Pebbled beaches, some of which can only be reached by boat, provide secluded anchorages, while the bijou ports are a showcase of charming Greek cafés and tavernas.

Cruise across to the neighboring island of Cephalonia and the port of Fiskardo. A magnet for superyachts, the fashionable fishing port has a bustling waterfront. A magnet for superyachts throughout the summer season, you will find plenty of restaurants and tavernas. Early morning awake for sunrise over the stunning Myrtos beach, with its white and azure waters and sheer cliffs, before discovering the Drogarati and Melissani caves.

Cruise to the furthest island in the Ionian chain, Zakynthos. Rich with vineyards, olive groves and orchards, the island is known as the “Flower of the Levant”. Relax in the therapeutic Sulphur springs around Keri or head to one of the stunning beaches. Early evening stroll along the shorefront of Zakynthos Town before disembarking or cruising overnight to Corfu.