Luxury Yacht Charter Ionian Islands Greece

Each Ionian island has its own personality, with plenty to see and do across the archipelago.

Top experiences:

• Explore Kefalonia, the largest island, famous as the setting for Captain Corelli’s Mandolin. Visit Myrtos Beach, considered one of the world’s most picturesque coves.
• Step inside the Melissani Cave on Kefalonia, an underground lake that glows electric blue when the sun hits.
• Visit Moni Taxiarchon, a medieval Greek monastery on Ithaca, known as the birthplace of Odysseus.
• Relax on Zante’s stunning beaches. A visit to Smugglers’ Cove or Navagio is a must, arguably the most famous beach in Greece.
• Cruise to Corfu and explore its Venetian fortresses, Achilleion Palace, and Corfu Town’s historic center.
• Wander the olive groves on Paxos before venturing to the Blue Caves along the island’s west coast.

Top restaurants:

• Angsana Corfu, headed up by Michelin-starred chef Ettore Botrini
• Maya Restaurant, Zante
• Erimitis Restaurant, Paxos
• Vassilis Restaurant Loggos, Paxos
• Tassia Restaurant, Kefalonia

Moran Yacht & Ship can help secure reservations at the most in-demand spots on the islands. Just ask.

Base charter rate: The cost of renting a private yacht in the Ionian Islands depends primarily on the duration of your vacation and the size of the charter vessel. Expect a starting rate of around US$200,000 per week for a crewed yacht charter, with the largest superyachts and mega yachts exceeding a million dollars per week. Moran Yacht & Ship has access to vessels built by European pedigree shipyards like Lürssen, Feadship, Oceanco, and Heesen Yachts.

Advance Provisioning Allowance (APA): On top of the base rate, the APA covers non-fixed costs like fuel, berthing fees, food, and drinks. The APA is typically around 30% of the base charter rate and is paid in advance. Your captain manages these costs throughout your trip, and any unused funds are refunded at the end with a full breakdown of expenses.

As a popular Mediterranean superyacht destination, there’s a superb choice of luxury yachts in the Ionian archipelago, all kept in excellent condition by their crews. Popular options include:

• Superyachts and mega yachts for limitless luxury
• Motor yachts, including planing yachts and full-displacement yachts
• Sailing yachts, from racing yachts to elegant schooners, perfect for a classic Greek sailing holiday
• Multi-hull vessels like catamarans, both sailing and power, with extra interior space and stability
• Expedition yachts built for adventurous itineraries with enhanced selections of water toys and tenders
• Flybridge and tri-deck yachts with generous outdoor space

Moran specializes in fully crewed luxury yacht charters rather than bareboat charters, so you don’t need to be an experienced sailor. Our captains and crew members handle every detail, leaving you free to relax. Contact our team to find your ideal vessel.

Amenities: Amenities vary by vessel since no two yachts are the same. Common features on luxury Ionian charter yachts include:

• Voluminous salons and multiple break-out areas for dining, entertaining, and relaxing
• Hot tubs and swimming pools, some with counter-flow currents
• Dedicated fitness areas with state-of-the-art gym equipment
• Spa treatment rooms, with some yachts including saunas, steam rooms, hammams, and beauty salons
• A wide selection of water toys, including jet skis, kayaks, paddleboards, snorkeling gear, and tenders
• Cinema rooms with state-of-the-art audio equipment
• Lifts providing easy access to all decks

Guest capacity: Most charter yachts accommodate a maximum of 12 guests while cruising, even if the yacht could technically sleep more. This is due to marine legislation and compliance. Some larger vessels can accommodate more guests, so let our team know your group size and we’ll find the right fit.

Booking timeline: The best time to charter a yacht in the Ionian Islands is during the summer months, which is peak sailing season. The shoulder seasons (spring and fall) are also lovely, especially for charter guests seeking a quieter vacation with fewer crowds. Whatever season you choose, we recommend booking as far in advance as possible to secure your preferred yacht.

Seasonal weather:

• Summer (June to August): Peak season with daytime temperatures of 86°F to 95°F (30°C to 35°C). Warm weather, calm waters, and gentle breezes make this the most popular window. Book early.
• Spring (March to May) and Fall (September to November): Milder temperatures of 64°F to 77°F (18°C to 25°C), with fewer crowds and comfortable conditions.
• Winter (December to February): Mild but cooler weather conditions, with daytime temperatures of 54°F to 61°F (12°C to 16°C). Most yachts head to warmer climates like the Caribbean for the season.

Popular ports and marinas:

• Gouvia Marina (Corfu): The largest marina in the Ionian archipelago, with capacity for superyachts and full-service facilities
• Mandraki Marina (Corfu): A historic harbor in the heart of Corfu Town
• Argostoli (Kefalonia): The main port on Kefalonia, popular with charter yachts
• Lefkas Marina (Lefkada): A modern, full-service marina with easy access to the island
• Zakynthos Port: The main harbor on Zakynthos, offering safe anchorages and easy access to the island

Common airports:

• Corfu International Airport (CFU), the largest international hub in the Ionian Islands, with direct flights from major European cities
• Kefalonia International Airport (EFL), ideal for charters embarking in Kefalonia
• Zakynthos International Airport (ZTH), for charters starting in Zakynthos
• Aktion International Airport (PVK), near Lefkada and Preveza

Your Moran charter broker will advise on the best embarkation point based on your itinerary and help arrange charter flights or other transportation to and from your yacht.