Yacht charters in the Ionian - catamarans
The main bases for yacht charters of catamarans are in the Ionian (out of Corfu, Preveza and Lefkas/Nidri) and the Saronic (out of Athens/Kalamaki marina). Not by coincidence these two venues are also the most tranquil with least winds and waves, ideal for larger groups and families with luxury in mind. For groups larger than 6 or 8 guests (depending on how many children) a catamaran is a wise choice for yacht charters in the Ionian or the Saronic. More space and privacy and often ensuite bathrooms and for the elderly it is very easy to enter the yacht and to walk from the cockpit to the sleeping quarters/galley etc. The Ionian Sea unfortunately can be crowded in August, when the majority of sailors and beach tourists visits Greece, hence sailing outside the main season is highly recommended also because catamarans require more space mooring along the quays in ports, and in the main season particularly the must-see picturesque ports can be overcrowded by flotilla fleets an issue that can be overcome by arriving early, before 14:00 for instance.The yacht charters in the Ionion are either in the North (predominantly out of Gouvia Marina, Corfu/Korfu), or in the south Ionian which offers more islands and better temperatures most months. These areas can be connected in one itinerary but one requires 2 weeks of more, but highly recommended since a visit to for instance Paxoi (Paxos) can be included.
The northern Ionian is bordered by Albania, which used to be an area to avoid at all costs. Even entering Albanian waters by accident could mean a lot of trouble. Nowadays, the situation is less tense but crossing is still prohibited with nearly all (if not all) charter yachts and should only be attempted when a visit has been planned beforehand and on private yachts or catamarans. I a number of years Albania will promise to be a new lovely cruising area.
