Then you need the essentials.
Keep reading to find out what you need to know before sailing on a luxury yacht in Greece.
A sailing holiday is a holiday like no other and the feeling of gliding over the water on your own yacht is a feeling difficult to put into words.
Sailing in Greece must be experienced at least once. From that first morning swim in the silk like Ionian to sailing into beautiful bays and watching the most stunning of sunsets.
The Ionian can be yours from April to October onboard both sailing yachts or sailing catamarans all of which come with an expert crew, unlimited watersports and the comforts of a luxury villa.
We’ve gathered the essentials to help sway (small yacht pun intended) you or reach out to Helen – Greek Sailing specialist at Fleewinter for more information.
The season in Greece is growing meaning more opportunities for sailing and experiencing the Ionian. Our yachts Aurous, Lunous and Argentous sail April to October.
The water is never bluer than it is in April and May. If you prefer cooler temperatures but are restricted to school holidays Easter and May half term are great choices.
June, September and October are quickly becoming the most popular sailing months. The temperatures are rising but the villages are quiet and peaceful.
July and August bring predictable sailing conditions. Calm in the morning with a welcome breeze in the afternoon. Make the most of those swim stops and lovingly enjoy what we call the ‘Champagne Sailing’ months.
Luckily for you we mostly make this decision for you!
Let me explain…the only things set in stone will be your starting and finishing location. Although we have itineraries as examples the week is governed by your preferences, crew recommendations and of course the weather.
Our advice? Go with the flow and let nature guide your holiday. We promise to take you to the most beautiful locations and your week will be completely unique to you and your family.
Want to see as many islands as possible? No problem.
Love a bay so much you want to stay there two days? No problem.
Keen to eat up the miles and visit seven islands in seven days? Then a One-Way route is for you.
Wakeboarding and exploring ashore more your priority? Then our Typical or Odyssey routes are perfect.
You love: little known destinations.
The joy of a luxury crewed yacht means you can visit places that can only be accessed by aquatic transport.
Take a leaf out of Homers book and Odyssey with us…the more exclusive islands are just a sail away.
You want: your holiday to work for you.
If a luxury sailing holiday sounds perfect but you promised yourself you would prioritise health and wellness this year…well look no further than our Holistic Wellness Retreats. Sunrise yoga, nutritional coaching plus luxury sailing…yes please!
Flights to Greece are regular and operated by multiple airlines.
Our yachts are based in Gouvia Marina on Corfu or Agia Effimia on Kefalonia. There are both direct flights and transits through all major European hubs.
There are three main airports which may be of interest to you when Sailing in the Greek Islands; Corfu, Kefalonia and Preveza or you may need to connect via Athens airport.
Please check your route and booking statement before confirming your flights. We need you to land on the correct island!
Whether you are arriving by plane, ferry or are already on the island, we can help you get around Greece with the help of our dedicated team of drivers.
We have a strong relationship with multiple drivers throughout the Ionian whom we have worked with for years – they are reliable, friendly and know our crews extremely well.
Once on board your transport takes an aquatic turn.
Think yachts, tenders (small fast boats that get you to your dinner reservations) and paddleboarding!
TRAVEL INSURANCE
Please make sure you have adequate travel insurance from the point of paying your deposit.
It is also important to make sure that your insurance covers ‘sailing holidays’. Please note this is different from Cruise Ship cover.
Some insurance companies will also need information about accessibility to a hospital and onboard medical supplies.
CLOTHING
Generally speaking everyone always brings far too much!
The majority of your time will be spent in swimwear onboard. We would recommend bringing a rash vest, wet shoes, polarised sunglasses and a couple of cover ups or loose shirts.
You get far more sun on the water than you do on land!
ONBOARD AMENITIES
Onboard the following extras are provided to leave space in your bags!
- Shampoo, Conditioner, Body Wash, Hand Wash and Hand Lotion.
- Insect Repellent.
- Waterproof Jackets.
- Lifejackets and other safety equipment (if your child is under 4 please contact us).
- Beach Towels and Bathing Towels.
DIETARIES
Greece has vegetarian options in most tavernas, and gluten free and vegan options are becoming more widely available, too.
If you have allergies of any kind, it is worth having them translated into Greek so smaller tavernas understand exactly what the allergy is.
Your chef onboard can provide for various dietary requirements, allergies and intolerances but must be told in advance.
SOME FINAL THOUGHTS FROM Helen …
I fell in love with yachting and Greece after my very first visit…in fact I fell in love in Greece on a yacht…but that’s a different story…
Yachting is not just a holiday experience, but it truly becomes a way of life, even if that is only for a week or two.
Those morning swims in the most serene locations, al fresco dining to your exact preferences, spotting dolphins playing in your bow waves, the most gorgeous sunsets…and the sailing’s not too bad either!
A holiday onboard is perfect for so many holiday makers. From families with young children, to the not so small now grown-up children, to groups of friends, couples, honeymooners and solo travellers.
“From my time onboard, I will never forget the joy and wonder on guests’ faces as they approach a new location from the sea. The smiles and excitement of discovery in both children and adults alike keeps me warm and cosy on those not so sunny days at home!” – Helen, Sailing Specialist
Top Travel Tip
If holidays are precious and treasured, then sailing holidays are the jewel in your crown.
Don’t spend one more holiday on a quayside looking at the yacht in the background. Instead, be the people having the time of their lives on that yacht!
– Helen
