Sailing trip Corfu
Corfu, Zakynthos & the Ionian Islands - relaxed sailing in green Greece
Gentle hills, turquoise bays and picturesque harbour towns: The Ionian Islands are among the most relaxed and greenest sailing areas in Greece. With Sailing-Classics you will discover Corfu, Zakynthos and their neighbouring islands under white sails – enjoyable, varied and with plenty of time for shore leave, swimming stops and a real Mediterranean lifestyle. The Ionian Islands offer ideal conditions for enjoyable sailing trips: short distances, sheltered waters and a wide variety of islands and bays. Depending on the route, you sail around Corfu, along the west coast of Greece or through the southern part of the area to Zakynthos – with stops in charming harbours, quiet anchor bays and authentic villages.
Quick facts about sailing trips from Corfu
Highlights
- Green island area with crystal-clear water and sheltered bays
- Historic harbour towns, small fishing villages and secluded beaches
- Relaxed sailing with plenty of time for shore leave and swimming stops
Best time to visit
The best time for a sailing trip in the Ionian Islands is from May to October. In spring and early summer, the area is particularly green and calm, while July and August are characterized by warm water and stable weather conditions. Autumn offers pleasant temperatures and less activity in harbours and bays.
Sailing conditions
The Ionian Islands are considered one of the most beginner-friendly sailing areas in Greece. Thermal winds ensure pleasant sailing, usually between 3 and 5 Beaufort. The sea remains predominantly calm, the distances between the islands are manageable – ideal for relaxed sailing and enjoyment.
Arrival
Arrival is convenient via the international airports of Corfu (CFU) or Zakynthos (ZTH), depending on the route. From there you can reach the respective port of embarkation in a short time by taxi or organized transfer.
Top highlights & sights in the Ionian Islands
Corfu - Venetian flair & green landscapes
Corfu combines Mediterranean elegance with lush nature. Venetian fortresses, elegant old town streets and lively squares characterize the image of the island’s capital. Away from the towns, green hills, olive groves and numerous bays with clear, deep blue water await you. Corfu is an ideal starting point for sailing trips through the northern part of the Ionian Islands.
Zakynthos - cliffs & iconic bays
Zakynthos is famous for its spectacular coastal landscapes. Steep cliffs, bright turquoise water and the legendary Navagio Beach with its shipwreck are among the most impressive photo motifs in Greece. Away from the well-known spots, quiet bays and small harbour towns invite you to take a relaxing break.
Ionian Islands - Lefkada, Kefalonia & Ithaca
Between Corfu and Zakynthos lie islands such as Lefkada, Kefalonia and Ithaca, each with its own character. Kefalonia delights with its mountains and deeply indented bays, Ithaca with its quiet, original flair and maritime history. The diversity of this archipelago makes the area particularly varied and ideal for enjoyable island hopping.
Your sailing trip - optimally planned
Still not sure which sailing trip suits you best? Our experts will take time for you, answer your questions and work with you to find the perfect route. Simply arrange your personal consultation – free of charge and without obligation.
Enjoy Greek flair on your sailing trip
A sailing trip in the Ionian Islands means relaxed travel to the rhythm of the Mediterranean Sea. Swimming stops in crystal-clear bays, walks through small harbour villages and evenings on deck at sunset characterize everyday life on board. The combination of nature, culture and Mediterranean lightness makes this region particularly popular with connoisseurs – and it is ideal for a first sailing trip without any experience.
What our guests say about their time on board
-
Introductory Sailing Trip in Malta
Ahoy, we'd love to come back.
On that morning of the third day, the waves were high and lashed with great force against the hull of the majestic Chronos. When I asked what wind force we were experiencing, Felix, the young and passionate captain, replied, “We’re at a 5.” It was a surreal scene: a constant up-and-down motion, clinging to any part that resembled a handhold, and the hot coffee, sitting steady on the breakfast table (thanks to the rubber mat).
Read the full review
My partner and I spent three unforgettable days on the Chronos, filled with many such experiences. Although I'm naturally a bit of a worrier and have a deep respect for the vast ocean, we felt safe and comfortable the entire time. Not least because of the professional crew, who were very helpful, patient, and went out of their way to pamper the guests. We were also enchanted by the culinary journey aboard the ship, with its many delicacies. How the cook—always with a touch of humor on his lips, even in such cramped quarters—managed to cater to these 20 guests remains one of the great mysteries of seafaring.
You can look forward to a little adventure—whether it’s relaxing in the sun on deck, taking trips by motorboat to the most beautiful spots, watching the captain at work, or helping to hoist the big sails; a journey you won’t experience every day.
Ahoy, we'd love to come back.Samuel and Elke on the Chronos, sailing around Malta in June '26 -
We enjoy our 5th trip
High praise
This is the fifth time we have enjoyed a trip with Sailing Classics, this time between the Greek islands. And in November we want to sail across the Atlantic with the Rhea. In Pieter we have met an outstanding captain who has given us a lot of pleasure. I would also like to praise the speaker Marc, who introduced us to Greek history with his immense knowledge and his engaging and humorous manner. I would also like to praise the entire team.
Read the full review
Peter and Lore in October on the RHEA - Sailing & History in the southern CycladesPeter and Lore -
Loved every minute of it
Absolutely marvelous charter
It was an absolutely marvelous charter. Loved every minute of it. I have chartered boats a number of times, and I have never had such a friendly, positive, and accommodating captain and crew. And the food was superb.
Read the full reviewDavid (USA) with family and friends after a private charter of KAIRÓS in Croatia July 2025 -
3 days in Italy
It was marvelous
About 10 days ago, we had zero sailing experience and no idea what to expect as a family with two young kids (ages 5 and 7) boarding a 3-night charter in the south of Italy. As we waited for the tender to bring us aboard, we spotted our fellow passengers - no other children in sight and most well outside our usual age range. We were more than a little nervous.
Read the full review
But wow - it was marvelous. From the moment we boarded, we felt not only welcomed but truly cared for. Normally, our daughter is quite shy around men, yet she immediately gravitated toward Captain Niko. She followed him around the boat with admiration, and he responded with incredible patience and kindness.
Everyone was fantastic and worked together like a well oiled machine. Thank you for a once-in-a-lifetime experience that we hope becomes a lifelong tradition.Sophie and her family after their trip at the Amalfi coast -
Wedding anniversary on board
A special experience
You are probably more than aware that sailing on the Rhea is a particularly beautiful experience. It was a special experience for me. Not that it was my first time sailing (North Sea, Atlantic, Mediterranean Sea), but it was my wife's first trip under sail. She enjoyed the time and we have decided to go on more sailing trips. We were also able to celebrate our 35th wedding anniversary on board. We would like to thank you very much for the service on board and the highlights.
Read the full reviewGert and Birgitt after their trial cruise on the RHEA off Malta -
We had a fantastic vacation that we will look back on fondly
It was in 1 word: Great
It was in 1 word: Great. We really enjoyed this trip with KAIRÓS. Everyone was super friendly and they tried more than 100% to make us feel comfortable. And they succeeded. We had a fantastic vacation that we will look back on fondly.
Read the full reviewBertie and John after their trip to the Aeolian Islands
Experience the Mediterranean lifestyle on board the RHEA
Discover our sailing trips through the Ionian Sea
stylish, authentic, unforgettable
We have the answers for you
Important information
From May to October, the weather is predominantly stable with thermal winds and plenty of sunshine – ideal for relaxed sailing.
Sailing trips in the Ionian Islands are particularly suitable for beginners, couples and connoisseurs who appreciate calm conditions, short legs and plenty of time to go ashore.
Depending on the route, the departure and arrival ports are on Corfu or Zakynthos. You will receive the exact details with your travel documents.
Yes – in true Sailing Classics style, the wind determines the course. The route can be flexibly adapted to enjoy the best sailing conditions and most beautiful bays. Authentic sailing is our focus, not a rigid timetable.
Yes, the Ionian Islands offer numerous sheltered bays, beaches and charming harbours that are regularly visited.
A lot is already prepared for you on board – towels, shampoo and usually also sun protection products are available. For your summer sailing vacation, we recommend light, comfortable clothing, sturdy shoes for shore excursions, swimwear, possibly a windbreaker and a sun hat. It is best to travel with soft travel bags, as they are easier to stow in the cabins and offer more space than suitcases.
Our cabins are comfortable and well-designed, with a wardrobe, shelves and storage space under the beds. There is plenty of space for the duration of the trip, and foldable travel bags are the best option instead of hard-shell suitcases.
Updated on