Greece

With gentle winds, milky-blue seas and predictable weather patterns, the Ionian Islands offer superlative cruising conditions. Add the islands’ charming waterside restaurants, stunning secluded coves and laid-back ambience, and it’s easy to see how blissful relaxation goes hand in hand with an Ionian Islands Yacht Charter.

Day 1 - Corfu

Corfu is the perfect place to get away from it all. It’s packed with idyllic coves tailor-made to recharge your batteries, like the dreamy unspoilt beaches of Cape Erimitis. Follow a day stretched out on soft white sand with dinner in Corfu’s Old Town. Although plenty of special restaurants dot the area, The Venetian Well is one of the most historical and atmospheric. You’ll find it in picturesque Kremasti Square, facing (as you might rightly surmise) an authentic Venetian well.

Day 2 - Anti Paxos

Sheltered waters make Anti Paxos the perfect place to get acquainted with your luxury yacht’s toy chest. After a morning frolicking in translucent water, a beach siesta provides the perfect antidote for tired limbs. Vrika and Voutoumi beaches boast waters of such an intense blue you’ll feel the need to check you’re not wearing tinted glasses. At sundown, head to one of the seaside tavernas to enjoy umbrella drinks with a view. 

Day 3 - Levkas

With its laid-back atmosphere, Levkas is a hit with those who prefer their slice of Ionian life at the slowest pace possible. Whether you hit a paradisiacal beach, explore a picturesque village or lounge on a water-side terrace, time seems to slow as soon as you step onto the island.

When you’re ready to do something a little more active, head to the south, where conditions attract kite- and windsurfers from all over the planet. And if surfing sounds way too strenuous, just find a glorious spot to sit and watch the colourful kites whizz past. 

Day 4 - Ithaca / Zakinthos

Mythical Ithaca, about 32 miles from Levkas, shines bright with its charismatic harbour villages and little cove beaches, most only reachable by boat. For something different, hop in the yacht’s tender for a picnic lunch on Atokos Island. Aside from a lovely soundtrack of chirping cicadas, uninhabited and untouched Atokos is blissfully quiet. 

Back on board, head to Greece’s greenest island, Zakynthos. Here, you’ll find emerald hills, forested wilderness and a nature reserve which protects endangered loggerhead sea turtles. 

Day 5 - Kefalonia

Although Kefalonia is one of the most visited of all the Greek islands, finding quietude is as easy as heading to the next headland or quaint village. Assos and Fiskardo are perhaps the prettiest villages and boast an abundance of rustic seafront restaurants. Family-run Tassia, in Fiskardo, is our perennial favourite. Chef and owner Tassia Dendrinou are internationally renowned for her delicious Kefalonian cooking. Sit down at one of the terrace’s blue chairs and you’ll soon discover why.

Day 6 - Paxos

Three delightful harbour towns are tucked into Paxos’ eastern shore – Lakka, Longos and Gaios. Whether you’re looking for something special to bring home to a friend or the perfect spot for a languid lunch, all three abound with lovely boutiques and gorgeous waterside restaurants. 

For sundowners, head to see-and-be-seen Ben’s Bar on Monodendri beach. To kick back here, stretched out on a sun lounger and with a piña colada in hand, is as close to perfection as it comes. 

Day 7 - Paxos/Corfu

After a last morning swim in Paxos’ luminous waters, it will be time to head back to Corfu. Cap off your Ionian Islands yacht charter with a saunter around the Old Town. You’ll find plenty of outside tables to people- watch Corfiots and celebrate an unforgettable holiday with a Kumquat cocktail, the locals’ tipple of choice.