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With yacht charter Greece for a fantastic sailing trip around the beautiful Ionian Islands.

Made up of a chain of seven, beautiful isles off the west coast of Greece – Corfu, Lefkada, Kefalonia, Zakynthos, Paxil, Kythira, and Ithaki – are idyllic sun-drenched holiday hot spots. Diving, snorkeling, and windsurfing are all superb and popular water activities, which the Isles stunning blue Mediterranean waters have to offer. But if you’re really looking to experience island life, then island hopping by sailing boat is definitely the best way to explore these magnificent islands. And with so many port towns, sailing across from one island to another is a breeze.

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Blessed with near-perfect, year-round weather, these evergreen islands are dotted with lush vineyards, forests of cypress and olive groves, whilst the coastline boasts towering limestone cliffs, pristine swimming spots, and seductive beaches. There are in fact dozens of beaches: Zakynthos’ isolated cove Navagio beach popularly known as Shipwreck Beach is arguably the most sensational, certainly the most photographed. The beach is home to a shipwrecked, smuggler ship and provides visitors looking to get the perfect Instagram shot with plenty of photo opportunities. Book2sail can help you get the perfect shot with great Greece tours.

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Enjoying a sumptuous lunch at a family-run tavern, a traditional Greek eating spot is the best indoctrination to the Ionian Islands. Strategically located at the water’s edge some of these taverns even have their own private dock, so you can drop anchor right outside.  There you can sample the Ionians’ distinct cuisine such as Kefalonia’s signature meat pie, Kreatopita, or if you’re craving something sweet why try out Lefkada’s traditional olive oil cake, the Lefkadítiki ladópita. Corfu’s Venetian-inspired, a fish dish, Bourdeto hints at the Ionian Islands’ fascinating cultural heritage left behind through the ages by the Corinthians, Byzantines, Venetians, French and British. The impact of diverse cultural influences is not limited to the Ionian’s cuisine; it’s also visible in historic palaces, houses, forts, and churches.   So, if you ever get tired of all the sunbathing and swimming, there are plenty of other things to see and do. For instance, Kerkyra city, a UNESCO Heritage Site in the town of Corfu is well-worth the visit.

(Image Source: Pexels.com)

Frequently asked questions

  • 1
    What are some of the key preparations I should consider prior to my yacht charter?
    • Travel Documentation

      Always ensure you have some form of acceptable identification, in legible condition and valid.

      Medication

      Double check that both you and other individuals in your group remember to bring important medications that you are currently being prescribed, accounting for the amount of time you will be at sea.

      Money & Additional expenses

      It would be prudent to budget for slightly over what you anticipate spending. Charter related expenses will be made known, however you never know whether you will need something once travelling.

      Research

      Set aside some time look up the areas you intend on visiting, both whilst chartering (as part of your anticipated itinerary) and whilst travelling to the location at which you will begin your charter.

      Supplies

      As with any journey or holiday, ensure you have adequate toiletries, perhaps some favored foods and snacks.

      Clothing

      Bring the types of clothing that will, in your estimation, suit the weather conditions of the location in which you will be chartering. It may be handy to spend some time researching a few sailing blogs and weather forecasts.

      Equipment

      All necessary equipment should be found already aboard (including safety equipment and anything required to properly operate the vessel. Though you may like to bring a few extra mod-cons to ensure you have the best of experiences.

  • 2
    What is the best way to choose the right vessel and charter for me?
    • Choosing the best vessel for you and those joining you on your yacht charter, would be dependent on your personal preference. Though we recommend considering the following points:

      • Your level of experience
      • Where you will be chartering
      • The time of year and associated weather conditions
      • The ages and competence of both yourself and those in your group

      It would be very helpful for you to conduct some basic research pertaining to all of the above, by way of asking those who you know have chartered the type of vessel or been to the location you are considering, before. Yacht charter blogs and other relevant websites that will offer you an understanding of the key factors you should consider.

      And of course, we are more than happy to help you with your decision.

  • 3
    Do I need a licence to charter a yacht?
    • That all depends on where you intend to charter. If you would like to charter a yacht within Europe, the answer would be yes. It is important to remember that the correct licencing and/or documentation for your charter is your responsibility and we would strongly advise you to enquire into the legal prerequisites of your chosen charter region, taking care to note any differences if you are to cross maritime boarders.

      Regarding Europe, you will require an International Certificate of Competence, also known as the ICC.

  • 4
    What is an APA?
    • As a rule of thumb, the fee you pay for your charter, includes the rental of the vessel and the necessary crew to operate it, all other expenses associated with the charter are separate and are financed by the APA, which stands for the Advance provisioning allowance.

      The APA generally amounts to 30% of the total charter fee, though this may vary depending on the vessel.

      Dockage fees, fuel, communications and food & beverages will all be financed by the APA. Any remaining money from the APA at the end of the charter, will be returned to you.

  • 5
    What happens if the owner/captain does not show up, or is late?
    • All boat owners are bound to have someone meeting charterers on the day of charter. It is important that you as a charterer notify us if there is something wrong with your charter. For more information read the charterer’s policy.

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Charter a yacht with Book2Sail

Book2Sail makes you feel that when it comes to chartering a boat, there is no limitation. You can choose any form of boat at any time and anywhere (catamaran, sailboat, motorboat, jet ski). Whether you’re sailing in August with a catamaran to explore the Dalmatian coastline or spending Easter holidays in the French Riviera, you will find your dream boat.

Our team of chartering specialists are ready to assist you to make your chartering experience as easy as possible. We have different itineraries to cater for any type of activity you choose to do, once you are ashore.

Get in touch now and Book2Sail today.