The island of Lefkas or Lefkada, mostly known for its exceptional beaches, is also called “the Caribbean of Greece”, and is known as one of the most popular yacht charter destinations in Greece. It is connected by a bridge with the mainland, making it easily accessible by car. Even though it is a well-known sailing and tourist destination, the island is still referred to as the Ionian’s most untouched destination. Lefkas is also the birthplace of Aphrodite, the goddess of love and beauty, according to Greek mythology.
Except for Lefkada, there are many more beautiful islands in the Ionian easily reachable and can be added to your sailing itinerary. Kefalonia, Zakynthos, and Ithaki are one of the most popular.
Find Your Ideal Yacht in Lefkas Sailing Region
Why Is Lefkada Popular Among Sailors
Lefkada is one of the top destinations for a sailing holiday in the summer. There is a big difference between the coasts of the island where the cliffs prevail on the western coast and sandy beaches cover the east coast. The most popular beach is the Porto Katsiki beach on the south-eastern part of the island. Except for the mesmerizing sandy beaches surrounded by turquoise sea, the island offers much more, such as small, charming villages, historical monasteries, and beautiful views from cliff tops. Water sports are one of the main activities on Lefkas. You can choose windsurfing, kitesurfing, or scuba diving.
The nearby island of Zakynthos, except for the most popular beach Navagio (Shipwreck) beach with towering cliffs, white sand, and turquoise water, has other spectacular beaches such as Laganas Zante, Gerakas, Vasilikos, and Spiantza, waiting for you to discover on a bareboat or skippered charter. Some of these beaches are home to the endangered Caretta sea turtles that lay their eggs there every spring and summer. If you are lucky enough to see them getting out of the sea to hide their eggs under the sand, please do not disturb them – just enjoy the view.
Yacht Charter in Lefkas Sailing Region
To visit Lefkas and the Ionian, you can arrive by car or take a flight to Aktion International Airport (PVK). The airport is next to Preveza on the coast. You can also start your journey from Preveza, which has a great selection of charter yachts as well. The biggest marina in Lefkada is Lefkas Marina or D-Marin where most of the yachts can be found. You can also choose to start your journey from Zakynthos or Kefalonia as there are some sailing boats and catamarans available for charter.
The best time to sail is from April to November where July and August are high-season months. If you would like fewer crowds, we suggest sailing in the shoulder season, such as May, June, or October.
Best Places to Visit in Lefkas Region
The beauty of Lefkas is in its diversity. This island is famous for its impressive nature, stunning mountains, and beautiful sandy beaches. The most popular are Porto Katsiki, Egremni, Milos, Lefkada and Kathisma beach. If you would prefer more isolated beaches, visit Mylos, Kalamitsi and Kaminia to relax and get some peace. Do not miss the seaside villages, such as Nidri and Agios Nikitas, or Dimosari waterfalls and sea lakes Divari and Ivaria that will leave you in awe.
Zakynthos, also known as Zante, is one of the top destinations in the Ionian Islands with its landscape and beautiful beaches. The Venetians named Zakynthos “Fiore di Levante” or Flower of the East. The most famous beach is the Navagio (Shipwreck) beach, accessible only by boat.
Cefalonia or Kefalonia is the largest of the Ionian Islands and located just south of Lefkada. You might recognize the scenery from the famous movie “Captain Corelli’s Mandolin”. Another peculiarity of Cefalonia is the Cave Lake of Melissani close to Sami Town. Kefalonia is also home to Mount Ainos, the tallest mountain in the Ionian Islands. Most of the island is also covered in olive trees and vineyards, hence the two biggest industries are winemaking and olive oil production.
Ithaca is the second smallest island out of the seven principal islands in the Ionian Sea. You probably know of Ithaca from Homer’s epic tale of Odysseus and his return to his beloved home Ithaca. There are plenty of bike and hike trails, while scuba diving and kayaking are popular activities on the beaches.
Skorpios is one of the most famous islets in the world near Nydri and the summer refuge of the tycoon Aristotle Onassis.
Important Info for Sailing in Lefkas Region
Best time to sail
April to November
Most popular marinas
D-Marin Lefkas marina, Port of Lefkada, Nydri marina, Sivota marina, Preveza marina
Nearest airports
Aktion International Airport (PVK)
Number of charter yachts
750+
Popular regattas
International Regatta
Top attractions
Porto Katsiki, Egremni Beach, Milos Beach, Kathisma Beach, Nydri Waterfalls
Gastronomy Highlights of Lefkada
When visiting the island of Lefkada one must try their local spicy sausages and salami. The locals are very proud of their meat production. Except for meat, there are many fish dishes to try which are usually cooked with garlic, onions, and rosemary. When it comes to sweet dishes, Madolato is the most common local dessert introduced by the Venetians.
Egklouvi lentils are cooked lentils which you can try in most restaurants in Lefkada.
Lefkaditiki ladopita (Oilpie) is a pie whose main ingredient is olive oil.
Kefalonian meat pie is one of the most beloved dishes in Kefalonia. Pie with ground meats, Greek cheese, and spices.
Aubergines skordostoubi has its origins in Zakynthos. The main ingredients are eggplant and a lot of garlic.
