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charter a catamaran in Lefkada Greece

Charter a Catamaran in Lefkada, Greece

If you are looking for a relaxed, scenic, and friendly Mediterranean sailing holiday, charter a catamaran in Lefkada.

The Ionian offers calmer seas, predictable winds, short hops between islands, excellent food ashore, and easy access from mainland Europe. Lefkada stands out because it is connected to the mainland by a bridge, has a modern marina, and sits at the heart of a naturally protected cruising ground.

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Why Lefkada is ideal for a catamaran charter

Protected sailing area

The Ionian Sea is for the most party shielded from the open Mediterranean swell.

The islands of Lefkada, Meganisi, Ithaca, Kefalonia, Kalamos, and Kastos form a natural barrier that keeps sea states moderate. This is perfect for catamarans, families, and first time charterers.

Short distances mean:

  • Less time underway
  • More swimming, exploring, and relaxed lunches
  • Easier navigation and stress free passages

Climate and best time to go

Climate overview

The Ionian has a classic Mediterranean climate. Summers are warm and dry, shoulder seasons are mild, and the sea stays comfortable for swimming well into autumn.

Best months

  • May to June: Warm, green landscapes, fewer boats, light to moderate winds
  • July to August: Hot, lively, busiest period, consistent afternoon breezes
  • September: Warm water, stable weather
  • October: Quieter, still pleasant, shorter days, more variable weather

Temperature and wind conditions

Air temperature:

  • May 22–26°C
  • June 25–30°C
  • July–August 30–35°C
  • September 25–30°C

Sea temperature: 22–26°C in summer

Wind:

  • Predominantly NW afternoon sea breeze, typically 10–18 knots
  • Calm mornings, ideal for leaving anchorages early

This wind pattern is forgiving and well suited to catamarans with shallow draft and high stability.

Getting to Lefkada from Europe

Fly to Aktion Preveza Airport (PVK)
Direct summer flights from the UK, Germany, France, Italy, the Netherlands, and Scandinavia

Transfer to Lefkas Marina: 25 minutes by taxi

By car: Drive via mainland Greece. Lefkada is connected by a floating bridge

No ferries are required. This alone makes Lefkada one of the simplest Greek charter bases.

Lefkas Marina

  • Modern, well protected marina
  • Fuel dock, water, power, showers, supermarkets
  • Walking distance to Lefkada town

Most fleets are well stocked with catamarans, from 38 to 50 feet, ideal for Ionian conditions. Look out for Lagoon, Fountaine Pajot, Excess, Bali and Leopard.

Places to see and visit

  • Sivota: Charming, protected bay with waterfront tavernas
  • Vathy: Odysseus’ legendary home, lively but authentic
  • Agia Effimia: Friendly port with great provisioning
  • Meganisi: Dozens of calm anchorages and swimming spots

Eating, entertainment, and nightlife

The Ionian is more about relaxed evenings than all night clubs.

You’ll enjoy fresh fish, grilled octopus, Greek salads, and local wine. Tavernas often sit right on the quay

  • Low key bars in Lefkada town, Sivota, and Vathy
  • Kefalonia offers slightly more buzz but remains laid back

Top anchorages and marinas

  • Porto Spilia, Meganisi
  • Abelike Bay, Meganisi
  • One House Bay, Atokos
  • Sarakiniko Beach, Meganisi
  • Fanari Beach, Lefkada

Most anchorages are well sheltered with good holding.

Suggested 7–8 day catamaran route

Day 1: Lefkas Marina to Sivota
Greek names: Λευκάδα Μαρίνα to Σύβοτα

Coordinates:
Lefkas Marina: 38.8330 N, 20.7035 E
Sivota: 38.6335 N, 20.7445 E
Distance: ~15 nm

Day 2: Sivota to Vathy
Greek names: Σύβοτα to Βαθύ Ιθάκης

Coordinates:
Vathy: 38.3645 N, 20.7205 E
Distance: ~17 nm

Day 3: Vathy to Agia Effimia
Greek names: Βαθύ to Αγία Ευφημία

Coordinates:
Agia Effimia: 38.3030 N, 20.5970 E
Distance: ~15 nm

Day 4: Agia Effimia to Sarakiniko
Greek names: Αγία Ευφημία to Σαρακήνικο

Coordinates:
Sarakiniko: 38.6685 N, 20.7745 E
Distance: ~20 nm

Day 5: Sarakiniko to Port Leone
Greek names: Σαρακήνικο to Πόρτο Λεόνε

Coordinates:
Port Leone: 38.5650 N, 20.8985 E
Distance: ~12 nm

Day 6: Port Leone to Kalamos Port
Greek names: Πόρτο Λεόνε to Κάλαμος

Coordinates:

Kalamos Port: 38.6175 N, 20.9515 E
Distance: ~7 nm

Dinner recommendation: George’s Taverna
(Make sure you book into the port with George)

Day 7: Kalamos to Fanari Beach
Greek names: Κάλαμος to Φανάρι

Coordinates:
Fanari Beach: 38.7800 N, 20.7300 E
Distance: ~18 nm

Day 8: Fanari Beach to Lefkas Marina
Greek names: Φανάρι to Λευκάδα Μαρίνα
Distance: ~8 nm

When it gets busy

  • July and August see the highest charter turnover
  • Saturdays are changeover days at Lefkas Marina
  • Popular ports fill up by mid afternoon

Practical charter tips

If your yacht is ready, leave the marina on Saturday evening and anchor nearby. Book marinas and town quays in advance during high season.

Start sailing early and arrive by lunchtime to secure space. Use stern lines carefully. Catamarans need extra room

Alternative perspectives you may not have considered

  • A catamaran allows more anchoring and less marina reliance
  • Shoulder season charters often deliver better sailing than peak summer
  • One way charters from Lefkada to Corfu are possible for longer trips

Action plan

  • Book flights to Aktion Preveza
  • Choose a 40–45 ft catamaran for 2–3 couples. We can help!
  • Plan a Saturday departure strategy
  • Pre book key marina nights
  • Keep passages under 20 nm for a relaxed pace

Final summary

Chartering a catamaran in Lefkada is a top choice for holiday makers thanks to its ease, safety, and variety.

With sheltered waters, predictable winds, short distances, excellent food, and simple access from Europe, the Ionian is one of the most popular catamaran cruising grounds in the Mediterranean. But that does mean it can get budy in the peak summer months.

Whether you are new to sailing or a seasoned charterer, Lefkada should deliver a brilliant trip. We certainly enjoyed it!