Where are the main charter base locations for sailing in the Ionian Sea?
There are several well-established charter bases in the Ionian Sea, each offering access to beautiful cruising grounds. Here are your main options:
Lefkada (Lefkas)
The most popular Ionian charter base is easily accessed via Preveza Airport (~20 minutes by road). Lefkada provides a gateway to all the main Ionian Sea island attractions, with excellent marina facilities and provisioning options.
Corfu
Located in the north Ionian, Corfu is ideal for exploring Paxos, Antipaxos, and the Epirus coastline as well as further south - especially if you are enjoying a two week itinerary. Corfu has an international airport with a vibrant culture and history. One-way itineraries to or from Lefkada can be arranged. Gouvia Marina is a large, well-equipped marina just outside Corfu Town and home to many charter fleets.
Preveza
A quieter alternative to Lefkada, located close to the Preveza (Aktion) Airport. Preveza is a practical starting point for sailing either north to Corfu or south toward Lefkada and Kefalonia.
Sami or Fiskardo (Kefalonia)
Not regular charter bases but may be used for custom pick-up or drop-off arrangements. Typically part of bespoke itineraries or one-way trips arranged through specific operators.
Each base offers access to different parts of the Ionian, so your choice depends on where you want to explore and the type of itinerary you’re planning.
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