The Ionian islands are greener and gentler than the Cyclades, with emerald hillsides, colourful harbours and some of the clearest water in Greece. This eight-day cruise reaches them by sailing west from Athens through the Corinth Canal.
The route
You board at Marina Zea and cross the Corinth Canal overnight. Day two starts with a swim near Sami on Kefalonia, the setting of Captain Corelli's Mandolin, with time for Melissani Cave or an optional island tour. Antipaxos brings a beach swim and a barbecue on board, and the evening is spent in Gaios on Paxos.
A full day on Corfu covers the UNESCO-listed Old Town, with an optional tour to Kanoni and Mon Repos, and a Greek Night on board. You overnight in Vathi on Ithaca, home of Odysseus, then call at Nafpaktos or Messolonghi before crossing the canal again for a last swim at Agistri and the Captain's Farewell Dinner.
The yacht
Most sailings use M/Y Harmony G, a 54-metre yacht with 21 cabins for up to 44 guests, renovated in 2023. One July date sails on M/S Panorama. Board is half board.
Prices and dates for 2027
Departures run on Fridays from 4 June to 20 August. Prices per person, two sharing, on Harmony G are €2,660 in Category C, €3,190 in B, €3,590 in A and €4,000 in Category P. Book by 31 January 2027 to save 10%, except on 18 and 25 June and 6 August. Port charges are €355 per person. See the Ionian odyssey listing.
What we add
The cruise covers your cabin, meals on board as listed and the included visits. We arrange everything around it: flights or a private jet, private transfers to and from the port, a hotel night before or after, private guides ashore and restaurant tables in port. One concierge manager handles the whole trip, and you can pay in fiat or crypto.
Frequently asked questions
How do you reach the Ionian from Athens?
The yacht sails through the Corinth Canal, which you cross twice during the week.
Which Ionian islands are included?
Kefalonia, Antipaxos, Paxos, Corfu and Ithaca, plus a stop on the mainland at Nafpaktos or Messolonghi.
How many guests are on board?
Up to 44 on Harmony G.
