Sailing in the Ionian Islands

The Ionian is the gentlest of Greece's sailing grounds and, for exactly that reason, one of the most loved.

Green, mountainous islands sit close together in sheltered, mostly benign water, so a week's cruise out of Lefkada is a series of short, easy hops between harbours — Meganisi's quiet coves, Ithaca of the Odyssey, the beaches of Kefalonia — rather than long open passages.

A reliable afternoon breeze fills in most summer days, strong enough to sail properly but predictable enough not to alarm, which makes this the classic place to learn, to bring a family, or simply to potter.

Evenings are spent moored stern-to in a waterfront taverna village, eating fresh fish as the sun goes down.

It is sailing as a relaxed holiday rather than a test of seamanship — warm, forgiving, and impossibly pretty.

Short, sheltered hops between close-together islands, on mostly calm morning water with a reliable, moderate afternoon breeze that makes for easy, enjoyable sailing. Distances are small, open-sea passages few, and anchorages and harbours plentiful, so it's forgiving for beginners, families and first-time charterers — especially with a skipper aboard.

You moor stern-to in village harbours most evenings, walk ashore for dinner, and swim off the boat in warm, clear water by day. Nothing here is a test of seamanship; the pleasures are the villages, the coves, and the rhythm of a gentle cruise.

Occasional stronger afternoon winds keep it interesting without being intimidating.

Charter a yacht from one of the Lefkada-area bases, sailing from May to October when the weather is settled and the afternoon breeze reliable.

If you're qualified — an ICC or equivalent for bareboat — you can take the helm yourself; if not, book a skippered charter and let an experienced hand run the boat while you crew and relax, ideal for beginners and families.

Plan a loose loop taking in Meganisi, Ithaca and Kefalonia, mooring in a different harbour each night. Book ahead for peak July and August. Bring soft bags, layers for evenings, and sun protection; the sailing itself asks very little.