Sailing the Ionian Islands

Sailing the Ionian Islands

4,000 Views
8 Days From

$900

This tour is no longer available, please see similar tours below or send an enquiry

Tour Overview

Embark on an unforgettable journey through the stunning Ionian Islands with our "Sailing the Ionian Islands" tour. This singles-friendly adventure takes you on a gulet cruise, exploring the UNESCO-listed Corfu Old Town, the lush Sivota and Mourtos Islands, the picturesque village of Parga, and the hidden gem of Antipaxos. Discover the secluded coves of Lakka and Paxos, renowned for their crystal-clear waters and vibrant marine life. Enjoy 7 nights aboard a comfortable gulet, with the services of an experienced captain and crew, and indulge in delicious meals including 7 breakfasts, 6 lunches, and 2 dinners. While itineraries may change due to weather or other factors, the enchanting experience remains constant. This tour offers a perfect blend of relaxation and exploration, making it an ideal getaway for those seeking a unique sailing adventure in Greece. ...more ...less

Highlights

  • UNESCO listed Corfu Old Town

  • Sailing around the lush Sivota and Mourtos Islands

  • Exploring the beautiful village of Parga

  • Discovering the hidden gem of Antipaxos

  • Relaxing in the secluded coves of Paxos

  • Diving and exploring sea caves in Lakka

  • Roaming the vibrant streets of Corfu's Old Town

Itinerary

Expand All

Day 1 : Embark In Corfu

Location: Corfu

Accommodation Name: On board gulet

Meals Included: Dinner

Our Corfu cruise starts on Saturdays, at 17:00. Disembarkation, also takes place on Saturdays, exactly one week after embarkation, at 09:00. With this in mind, we start our journey from Corfu’s Old Port, which is full of Greek tavernas, local product markets and plenty of antique shops. Apart from that, the UNESCO World Heritage-listed “Old Town” offers a unique scenic experience, given its architecture and general structure which is quite unique! After boarding and meeting with the rest of your group, a lovely welcome dinner will be offered to you, which we will enjoy right before, we head to our first destination, Kassiopi! ...more ...less

Day 2 : Sailing Around Sivota And Mourtos Islands

Location: Sivota

Accommodation Name: On board gulet

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch

The Ionian Islands are the wettest of the Greek islands, so forget about the typical rugged, rocky coasts of Greece. The Ionian Sea will amaze you with its lush forests, green hills covered with olive groves, crystal clear waters and sparkling white beaches! You can find this descriptive scenery, hidden among the Sivota – Mourtos Islands, which are located south of Corfu’s mainland. We arrive here, on the second day and while we are at this island complex, we need to visit its highlights, the blue lagoon and the famous Papanikolis cave! Later into the day, don’t miss out on strolling through the traditional Marina village and before you leave, be sure to grab something to eat and drink from the numerous idyllic tavern-lined tavernas, which are located on the marina, above the shore!

Day 3 : Exploring Parga

Location: Parga

Accommodation Name: On board gulet

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch

Parga has been described as one of the most beautiful villages in Greece and undoubtingly, as the most beautiful in the Ionian Sea! With its two crystal clear bays, each on both sides of the village, its famous Venetian castle, and its numerous bars and water sports facilities, Parga is a must-see for your summer holidays! Grab your hats and sunglasses, put on plenty of sunscreen and prepare to create some forever-lasting Greek summer memories, at this beautiful, picturesque destination! Note: Due to Parga’s undeveloped-port infrastructure, there is not plenty of available space, on the marina, which means, that in case the gulet does not manage to dock at the port, you will need to use a water taxi, to reach the shore. The cost, for this, is not included in the overall price package!

Day 4 : Hidden Antipaxos

Location: Antipaxos

Accommodation Name: On board gulet

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch

The small island of Antipaxos is a true hidden gem and will be, a one-of-a-kind experience, for you! While here, we fuel up with lunch, before stopping for some coastal relaxation, at some of the island’s most secluded and tranquil bays, which are home to the famous Greek beaches of Voutoumi and Vrika! You will have the chance, to snorkel, in the turquoise waters and feel the pebbles under your feet! Take a walk amongst the clifftop and visit one of the three main towns – Gaios, Loggos or Lakka. Later in the night, we dine at a pop-up beachfront tavern, on a private beach off the public-main coast, and admire the sparkling night sky, from our gulet’s deck! Note: The late-night dinner, is not included in the initial package price.

Day 5 : Beautiful Paxos

Location: Paxos

Accommodation Name: On board gulet

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch

Until recently, Paxos was best known for its excellent olive oil, which is rumored to be one of the world’s, best varieties! Enjoy the lush green scenery of this tiny island, by renting a bicycle or a bike and head to any of its secluded coves to spend an idyllic summer afternoon, while sunbathing and swimming! After returning to the city, enjoy some traditional local Greek seafood or even Meze, at one of the many local taverns, which are run by the local fishermen!

Day 6 : Paxos Island

Location: Paxos

Accommodation Name: On board gulet

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch

This part of Paxos Island is packed with secluded coves and sea caves.A true dream, for any sea explorer! Lakka is home to a small but vibrant village with shallow waters, known as a diving hotspot, for those who want to discover the Ionian Sea, by exploring its underwater wonders!With multiple bars and tavernas, off the coast, Lakka is the epitome of Greek charm! Note: The vessel cannot dock at Lakka’s marina, that is why we dock at one, of its numerous, secluded private coves!

Day 7 : Return To Corfu Old Town

Location: Corfu

Accommodation Name: On board gulet

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

We arrive at Corfu’s Old Port, in the afternoon, which means that we will have enough time, to roam around its new and Old Town! Head to the old Venetian fortress to see the city from up high, or walk through the Old Town, admiring its gems, if of course, you have a couple of hours left! While in the Old Town, make some time, to grab some Greek local souvenirs, or visit its museums and churches for a last sightseeing! We spend the night at the Marina of Corfu’s Old Town, where we enjoy an optional traditional dinner with the group, for our final farewell party! After that, we head to the gulet, to enjoy our last night together on board, and on the next day, early in the morning, we sadly depart.

Day 8 : Departure Day

Location: Corfu

Accommodation Name: As we have successfully cruised around Corfu and its island complex, this is our departure day..We say goodbye to each other, take some last photos and head back!Hopefully, though, we will see you again. Until then, we wish you all the best!<STRONG> OVER

Meals Included: Breakfast

As we have successfully cruised around Corfu and its island complex, this is our departure day.. We say goodbye to each other, take some last photos and head back! Hopefully, though, we will see you again. Until then, we wish you all the best!

What's Included

  • Transportation by Gulet boat

    Transportation is provided by a Gulet boat for the duration of the tour.

  • 7 nights gulet accommodation in a double cabin

    Accommodation for 7 nights is provided in a double cabin on the gulet.

  • Services of captain and supporting crew

    The services of a captain and supporting crew are included in the tour.

What's Not Included

  • International Flights

    International flights are not included in the tour package.

  • Airport transfers

    Transfers to and from the airport are not included.

  • Port Fees

    Port fees of €80.00 per person are payable at the start of your trip and are not included.

  • Single room supplement

    A single room supplement is required for solo travellers and is not included.

  • Suggested optional activities

    Optional activities suggested during the tour are not included.

  • Tips - Captain and Gulet crew

    Tips for the captain and gulet crew are not included.

  • Drinks, snacks and personal expenses

    Drinks, snacks, and personal expenses are not covered by the tour package.

  • Travel Insurance

    Travel insurance is required but not included in the tour package.

Mode of Transport

Travel by gulet boat, with itineraries subject to change based on weather conditions and other factors, ensuring a consistent overall experience.

Accommodation

Enjoy 7 nights of gulet accommodation in a double cabin, complete with the services of a captain and supporting crew, as you sail through the stunning Ionian Islands.

Check out our Q&As

  • What type of boat is used for the tour?

    The tour uses a Gulet boat for transportation and accommodation.

  • Are meals included during the tour?

    Yes, the tour includes 7 breakfasts, 6 lunches, and 2 dinners.

  • What happens if the weather conditions change during the tour?

    Gulet cruises and itineraries are subject to alterations due to weather conditions, the number of other boats in certain bays, or other practical reasons. These changes are at the discretion of the boat captain, but the same overall experience will be maintained.

  • Is travel insurance required for this tour?

    Yes, travel insurance is required for this tour.

  • Are there any additional fees I should be aware of?

    Yes, there is a port fee of €80.00 per person, payable at the start of your trip. Additionally, there is a single room supplement required for solo travelers.

  • What is the embarkation and disembarkation schedule?

    The cruise starts on Saturdays at 17:00 and disembarkation takes place the following Saturday at 09:00.

  • What activities are available on Paxos Island?

    On Paxos Island, you can enjoy the lush green scenery, rent a bicycle or bike to explore secluded coves, and enjoy traditional local Greek seafood at local taverns.

  • Is travel insurance compulsory?

    Yes! Travel insurance is compulsory on all of our tours and needs to cover personal accident & liability, medical expenses and repatriation, travel delay & abandonment. We also strongly recommend that you take out cover against cancellation and lost/stolen baggage. Personal medical insurance does not normally provide sufficient cover and is generally not suitable for travel on our tours. You will not be able to join your tour if you have not provided us with details of your insurance or if you arrive without cover in place (no refunds will be due in this event).

  • What happens if I need to change my holiday date once I’ve booked?

    You are always able to change your travel date. However, some charges may apply depending on how long before your departure you make the change. Our flexible booking conditions and reduced charges will apply if you are changing date because of a Covid-19 reason or because your government is advising against travel to your destination. Please check our detailed booking conditions for full details.

  • When is my balance payment due?

    60 days prior to departure

  • Do you operate a “single share” option and how does it work?

    On most of our group tours, solo travellers may choose to form a temporary 'tour bubble' and share a room with another traveller of the same sex in the group. If a room share is not available then a single room supplement may be payable, with the costs for these kept as low as possible. We have also removed compulsory single supplements from many of our tours, and are reducing the cost by 50% on s

  • Can I transfer my booking to someone else?

    Customers may transfer their booking or any Credit on File to another person who satisfies all the relevant conditions to the tour, provided that we are notified not less than 7 days before departure, and the transferee agrees to these booking conditions and all other terms of the contract between us. The Client and new booker are jointly and severally responsible for any outstanding payments and a transfer administration fee of GBP50 / USD75 / CAD100 / AUD100 / NZD100 / EUR75 / ZAR1000 / INR5000 or GBP100 / USD150 / CAD200 / AUD200 / NZD200 / EUR150 / ZAR2000 / INR10,000 if the transfer is made less than 60 days before departure. Important Note: Certain arrangements may not be amended or transferred after they have been confirmed (for example flight tickets, Gorilla Permits) and any alteration could incur a cancellation and rebooking charge of up to 100% of that part of the arrangements.

Reviews from travellers on this tour

Coachman16  

Best of Italy and Greece review

October 2019

We just returned from our Oct 6 - Oct 20 Encounter Tours Best of Italy and Greece. What a FANTASTIC experience! Every aspect of the trip was exceptional. The hotels were all as advertised, 4 Star and centrally located. The transportation was always on time, in a nice vehicle and with a pleasant driver. The food at each breakfast was plentiful, full of choices and very tasty. All tours were “Skip the Line” so we never had to wait. The groups were very small and the tour guides were very polite, knowledgeable and spoke excellent English (our language). We were allowed to make trip modifications at very nominal cost. For example, our trips to Florence and Venice were on a fast train instead of a bus. We flew to Greece from Venice rather than take the ferry. Chevy was always available. I had a few questions and he responded within a few hours and answered our questions perfectly. We will definitely consider working with Encounter Tours and Chevy again. We expected a glitch or two over the 2 weeks, but experienced a 100% perfect experience. Thanks for everything and memories we will never forget. ...more ...less

Marijo Wilson  

Recommended Trip

February 2018

Best trip I have ever been on. I have traveled with many tour companies but none compare to the itinerary, information, and professionalism of this company.

Lia Aiello  

Local Guide

January 2020

Very professional and customer service oriented company. All of the staff I encountered were thoughtful, and accommodating. When there was a bit of a concern I had, I was not brushed off and treated rudely as I've experienced with other companies; my concern was addressed immediately in a fair manner. I highly recommend this tour company; they treat people with respect and honestly seem to want your trip to be the best it can be ...more ...less

1 Select your preferred date

Saturday - Saturday

May 10, 2025 - May 17, 2025
$900 (USD)

Saturday - Saturday

Jul 12, 2025 - Jul 19, 2025
$1140 (USD)

Saturday - Saturday

Aug 16, 2025 - Aug 23, 2025
$1140 (USD)

Saturday - Saturday

Oct 04, 2025 - Oct 11, 2025
$900 (USD)

Book with Confidence

  • Transfer as credit to Future Tours

    Encounters Travel allows you to transfer existing payments to a future tour to avoid cancellation fees if you can't travel and inform encounters travel, 60 days before departure.

  • Low Deposit

    Encounters Travel requires a minimum deposit of 150 GBP per person or the full booking value, whichever is less, with the final balance not due until 60 days before departure.

  • Cancellation Policy

    We don't charge a cancellation fee, here is a summary of encounters travel charges.

    Up to 61 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of deposit.

    At 60 days before tour starts: Forfeit 35% of booking price.

    At 41 days before tour starts: Forfeit 70% of booking price.

    At 27 days before tour starts: Forfeit 90% of booking price.

    At 14 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of booking price.

Sailing the Ionian Islands

8 Days Starting and ending in Corfu, Greece

Visiting: Corfu, Sivota, Parga, Antipaxos, Paxos

Tour operator:

Encounters Travel

Tour code:

607

Specialist Group:

Singles Solo

Guide Type:

Fully Guided

Physical rating:

Moderate

Age range:

18-90

Special diets catered:

Please advise requests

Tour operated in:

English

Trip Styles:

Sailing

From: $900 (USD)

NB: Prices correct on 20-Feb-2025 but subject to change.

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