Ionian Odyssey Southern - Luxury Guided Sailing - 8 Days

Your Odyssey begins today as you board your yacht, ready to sail the Ionian Islands from Paleros or Lefkada from where we will at the Porto Skrofa, a well-established ecological park. This remote gem offers secluded anchorages and boasts breathtaking natural landscapes, making it an ideal setting for peaceful relaxation.

You’ll have the opportunity to anchor offshore and then disembark using the tender, allowing you to access the beach. Here you’ll find the only restaurant in the vicinity, which is renowned for its delectable and incredibly fresh seafood. It promises to be an unforgettable culinary experience against the backdrop of this pristine paradise.

Prepare for a day filled with historical delights as you disembark and journey back in time to the ancient Archaeological Site of Olympia, the birthplace of the Olympic Games. Here you’ll have the opportunity to explore the impressive archaeological ruins, visit the fascinating museum and stand on the grounds where ancient Greek heroes displayed their athletic prowess.

Back at sea you’ll head to sail across to the picturesque island of Zakynthos, renowned for its stunning landscapes, pristine beaches, including the world-famous Shipwreck Beach (Navagio Bay) and vibrant culture. This captivating island boasts a diverse array of attractions, from breathtaking cliffs to sea turtle nesting sites. Take your time to wander through the island’s charming towns, pay a visit to the Venetian Castle and savour the local cuisine. Zakynthos promises an unforgettable vacation experience.

Navagio Bay, accessible only by boat is also known as Shipwreck Beach, and it is a stunning and iconic location in Greece. The bay gained fame due to the shipwreck of the MV Panagiotis, which ran aground on the beach in 1980. Navagio Bay boasts crystal-clear turquoise waters that are perfect for swimming and snorkelling. Towering limestone cliffs surround the bay, creating a breathtaking backdrop, and there are caves to explore in the vicinity. Despite its remote location, Navagio Bay is a popular tourist attraction and one of the most photographed beaches in the world. Overall, Navagio Bay is a natural wonder that combines a dramatic shipwreck, pristine waters, and stunning cliffs to create a unique and memorable destination in Greece.

The Blue Caves in Zakynthos, Greece, are a natural wonder renowned for their stunning beauty. The caves are located along the island’s northeastern coast, and their waters are incredibly clear, displaying mesmerizing shades of blue and green. These caves are a geological marvel, formed by erosion and underwater seismic activity. The unique rock formations create arches and tunnels to explore. Those who enjoy snorkelling and swimming can immerse themselves in the translucent waters, revealing a world of colourful marine life beneath the surface. Overall, the Blue Caves of Zakynthos offer a natural spectacle that captivates visitors with their vibrant hues, underwater beauty, and stunning rock formations.

Sami (Kefalonia) is another town known for its natural beauty. Explore the nearby Melissani Cave and Lake, where you can take a boat ride through an underground lake, as well as visit the Drogarati cave a magnificent cave with stalactites and stalagmites.

Melissani Cave is a natural wonder known for its captivating beauty. The cave features a stunning underground lake with clear waters and a partially collapsed roof that allows sunlight to filter in, creating mesmerizing light effects. You will visit the cave on a guided boat tour, floating through the serene waters while admiring the breathtaking stalactites and stalagmites that adorn the cave’s interior. The archaeological significance of the site is also noteworthy, with ancient artifacts and pottery found within the cave. Melissani Cave’s unique blend of natural beauty and history makes it a must-visit destination for travellers seeking a memorable experience in Kefalonia.

You will also get to visit the Drogarati Cave, which is a natural wonder known for its stunning features. This underground cavern boasts impressive stalactites and stalagmites formed over thousands of years, creating a mesmerizing visual display. The cave’s main chamber, the Sala of Apotheosis, is particularly renowned for its exceptional acoustics. You can explore the cave’s well-lit pathways and marvel at the intricate formations, including the enormous stalactite column known as the “Royal Balcony.”

You will have the opportunity to enjoy sailing and swimming on our way to Ithaka, where we will berth in Vathi, the main town on the island of Ithaka. Vathi is a charming harbour town and is said to be the legendary home of Odysseus. You will enjoy the evening with the laid-back atmosphere of the island and can also visit the local Archaeological Museum.

On your way to Fiskardo you will have the opportunity to swim at the beautiful beaches of Afales, a picturesque beach located on the Ionian Island of Ithaca, Greece. Known for its stunning natural beauty, it offers clear turquoise waters, golden sands, and lush greenery. The highlights of Paralia Afales include its tranquillity, making it an ideal spot for relaxation and swimming. Visitors can explore the surrounding caves and cliffs, offering opportunities for hiking and adventure, and Polis on the coast of Ithaka.

Fiskardo is a picturesque harbour town that promises a charming Mediterranean experience. Fiskardo proudly showcases its Venetian architecture, colourful houses, and cobblestone streets. The marina in Fiskardo serves as a bustling hub for luxury yachts and boasts several waterfront tavernas for delightful dining, creating a serene ambiance. The crystal-clear waters and vibrant flora of Fiskardo are an irresistible invitation for travellers seeking a tranquil paradise.

While in the village, you can savour delectable seafood at local tavernas, explore boutique shops for unique souvenirs, and relish the laid-back atmosphere that makes Fiskardo such a unique destination. Visitors can revel in the tranquillity and rich history that defines Fiskardo, making it an absolute must-see destination in Kefalonia.

Moreover, the region is blessed with natural beauty, including lush cypress forests and stunning beaches like Emblissi and Foki. For adventure seekers, there are opportunities to explore sea caves and indulge in snorkelling and navigate the paths and trails on land.

You can visit Paralia Afales again on your way to Meganisi. Traditional Greek tavernas line the beach, serving local delicacies and fresh seafood. The beach is relatively uncrowded, providing a serene escape for those seeking a more peaceful and authentic Greek island experience in a paradisiacal setting. We will berth at Meganisi for further exploration of the island and swimming opportunities.

On our last day, we will sail to Vathiavali Beach and enjoy a day of swimming and relaxation. In the evening you will also enjoy the final group dinner together.

You will disembark at 09:00 on the last day of your sailing tour in Paleros, where our amazing journey ends.