Ithaca, Corfu, Kefalonia, Lefkada, Paxos and Anti-Paxos
Prices are from £649 per person sharing cruise only. Recommended for ages 35 to 65 years. Flights can be added from a variety of UK departure airports (please contact us for details) and transfers can be arranged to and from the port.
The Ionian Islands are an emerald scattering of seven main islands – Ithaca, Corfu, Kefalonia, Lefkada, Paxos and Anti-Paxos – found off the west coast of mainland Greece. The region is famed for pristine beaches, the unforgettable blue of the sea, and the lush Mediterranean landscape. Several lesser-known smaller islands make up this paradise cluster. M/S HERA – a beautiful motorised ocean vessel that can accommodate up to 25 passengers with 9 cabins – generally operates the Ionian Cruise (similar gulets of an equivalent standard may also be substituted).
Spend a week at sea, exploring the very best of this island cluster paradise, stopping in Sivota, Parga, Antipaxos, Gaios and Lakka in a round trip from Corfu. This trip is best suited for those who want to set sail for discovery, heritage and historical sightseeing, the best of nature and deserted beaches, on-deck sea-view unwinding and the friendly atmosphere of a small ship cruise.
Please note that there is a locally payable embarkation fee which must be paid by all passengers in cash. this is €80 per person. No card payments can be accepted for this or on board transactions.
Upgrades to superior cabins or overnight air-conditioning available on request at a supplement
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Prices include:
7 nights accommodation on board, with flights from London and transfers
Buffet Breakfast daily
6 Lunches
Welcome Dinner & Captain's Dinner
Private beaches
Swim stops
Guided tour
Traditional ensuite ship
Free 3G Wi-Fi onboard ( subject to limitations )
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The Ionian Cruise itinerary is subject to change dependent on weather conditions, difficulties at docking or unforeseen circumstances. This decision will be made solely at your captain’s discretion, based on the safety of the group and the ship.
Departure Day: Saturdays (Mid May to early October)
Departure Time: 17:00 (Please try and arrive 30 minutes before)
Finish Time: 09:00 (On the following Saturday, docking at Corfu)
Note: It is also possible to finish the trip on Friday evening, as the vessel will have already arrived in Corfu by then.
There is a local charge payable prior to embarkation of €80 in cash per person
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Day 1 – Kassiopi -As today is the arrival day and the yacht does not set sail from the Old Port (NAOK marina) until after sunset, there will be plenty of time to explore the wonders of Corfu Island. The UNESCO World Heritage town of Kerkyra (Corfu Old Town) is full of cultural heritage from its days under Venetian, French and British rule. From architecture to traditions, towering fortresses to the narrow medieval streets, visitors feel the multi-layers of Corfu island history. For those with more time to see more of the island, don’t miss the chance to explore the fishing village of Agni Bay, the dramatic cliff drops of Cape Drastis, the picturesque channel of the Canal d’Amour and the tucked-away community of Palaiokastritsa. In the evening, passengers can get acquainted with their sailing home for the next few days and get settled in, starting by dining with a view of the ocean as the yacht sets sail towards Kassiopi.
Note: On the rare occasion of any issues that may result from late arrivals, there is a possibility that the yacht will not depart Corfu on the first evening, and instead set sail the following morning.
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Day 2 – Sivota – Mourtos - The rainfall on the Ionian Islands is what enables its lush and verdant landscapes to flourish. Think of thick forests, natural coves, green hills with olive groves, and ardent valleys that sit back-to-back with crystal clear waters and sparkling white beaches. This can be found in the Mourtos and Sivota Islands, south of Corfu, where the yacht will sail and stop to marvel at some of the island’s best natural highlights. This includes the striking Papanikolis Cave and the famed Blue Lagoon Bay, where passengers can swim in the iridescent blue waters. In the evening, stroll the traditional Marina village and choose favourite Greek eats from the idyllic tavern-lined promenade, and watch the sunset.
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Day 3 – Parga - Nestled on the Ionian coastline of the Greece Mainland, Parga has been described as one of the region’s most beautiful villages. This is because of its two crystal clear bays that line either side of its main town and the iconic Venetian fortress that forms an impressive backdrop. Known for its stunning natural environment that gives it an island feel, there are plenty of beachside hangouts and watersports to enjoy the coastline views, especially in the large bay west of Parga town. Lunch will be servced onboard, but the yacht will also stay in town for an evening of Greek feasting and hospitality.
Note: If the vessel manages to dock in the port, guests will not need to use a water taxi. However, if required, the cost of the Water Taxi is not included in the overall price package.
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Day 4 – Anti-Paxos - Not many people know of Antipaxos, overshadowed by the main island of Paxos, but you will be glad you got to experience this lesser-known beauty spot. First, fuel up with a lunch before stopping for some coastal relaxation time at some of the islands secluded, tranquil bays that are home to the beaches of Voutoumi and Vrika. Enjoy snorkelling in the turquoise waters, feel the pebbles under your feet, take a walk amongst the clifftop surroundings and visit one of the three main towns – Gaios, Loggos and Lakka. This evening, dinner will be at a pop-up beach tavern in a secluded bay tucked away from the crowds, and later watch the stars from the deck of the yacht.
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Day 5 – Gaios – Paxos - With white pebble beaches, striking blue seas and lush green countryside, Paxos is one of Greece’s best-kept secrets. After docking dock at the port of Gaios, explore via the local bus, although it’s also easy by foot, bike or car too. Spend the day seeking out the secluded coves and bays for swimming, enjoy the Venetian architecture of Gaios town or sample the world-renowned olive oil from the surrounding groves. Watch the fisherman go about their work from one of the seafront cafes, before enjoying some of the best and freshest seafood at one of the excellent local tavernas that stock the best catch of the day.
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Day 6 – Lakka – Paxos - Dotted with secluded bays and sea caves, with shallow waters for those keen to explore the underworld of the Ionian Sea, this part of Paxos Island is an explorer’s dream.
Enjoy lunch on the vessel during the sail towards bustling Lakka, the second largest village on the island set in a horseshoe bay to a backdrop of olive and cypresses trees. Visit the pebbled Kanoni beach and sandy Harami beach and wander amongst nature. Later, stroll the vibrant promenade along the seafront. Full of bars and tavernas Lakka is the epitome of old school Greek charm. The yacht will dock overnight at a picturesque bay here.
Note: The vessel cannot dock in the marina in this area.
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Day 7 – Corfu - Before heading back to the mainland of Corfu Island, with free time to explore, take the chance to fit in one more of Corfu’s long sandy beaches. Vvisit the beautiful Benitses Beach and village on the east coast of the island, enjoying an onboard lunch on the way for some final sweeping sea views.
The final night will be spent in the Marina of Corfu Old Town, where guests will enjoy a Captain’s dinner with the group in a final farewell.
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Day 8 – Corfu -This is our departure day, where passengers will say goodbye to your new friends and the crew. Transfer to the airport or on to accommodation for the rest of the holiday.
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Please download and read the attached for further details as to what is included on this cruise
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M/S Hera is able to accommodate up to 25 people on board offering double and triple en suite fully air conditioned cabins. This astonishing yacht offers a spacious outdoor dining area surrounded by comfortable and cozy cushions for passengers to enjoy group meals, lazy laid back nights or happy summer moments.
At the front part of M/S Hera, there is a huge sun deck to sunbathe and relax endlessly, a lush comfortable sofa and a wide open deck with space for all passengers.
Inside is a stylish sitting lounge area where passengers can mingle with rest of the group, play fun games or read a book from the on board library. In the same area the bar is available for on board drinks.
M/S Hera, offers 3G wifi on board for its guests and is fully crewed in order to make sure that all passengers experience a real home away from home.