Sailing around Zakynthos is a unique experience. It shows off the island’s stunning coastlines and clear waters. Zakynthos, the southernmost Ionian Island, is known for its history and beauty. It’s perfect for sailors of all levels.
There are many yacht charter options in Zakynthos. Sailors can discover beautiful bays and hidden spots along the shore.
This guide helps you plan your sailing trip to Zakynthos. It covers essential routes and local attractions. The island has great sailing conditions, with winds and depths suitable for all.
From Navagio Beach to the Blue Caves, each spot offers relaxation and adventure. These places are waiting to be explored.
Key Takeaways
- Zakynthos offers ideal sailing conditions with its sheltered ports and manageable winds.
- The island boasts diverse anchoring locations with depths ranging from 5 to 20 metres.
- A variety of yacht charter Zakynthos options enhances your sailing experience.
- Exploring local attractions enhances your journey, from historical sites to natural wonders.
- The best sailing season is from May to October, particularly in September and October.
Introduction to Zakynthos
Zakynthos, also known as Zante, is the southernmost gem of the Ionian Islands. It has a rich mix of natural beauty and cultural heritage. The island’s landscape is dramatic, with a karstic plateau reaching 758 metres in the west. The east is a fertile plain, full of lush greenery.
This diverse landscape is perfect for exploring by boat. The main port is a lively spot for sailors and tourists. It has shops, restaurants, and beautiful beaches.
The island is famous for its great bathing spots. It’s ideal for those who want to relax or have an adventure. You can take exciting sailing trips to find hidden coves and see vibrant marine life.
The National Marine Park is a key reason to explore Zakynthos by boat. It protects endangered sea creatures like sea turtles and monk seals. The park has different zones, with some areas off-limits to boats.
Vromi is a safe place to anchor and enjoy the island’s beauty. It has solid ground for boats, making it a reliable spot for sailors. Navagio beach is famous for its stunning views and the shipwreck of the MV Panagiotis in 1980.
As the sun sets, Zakynthos comes alive. It offers a mix of lively nightlife and peaceful moments.
Why Choose Yacht Charter Zakynthos
Zakynthos, known as Zante, is a top pick for yacht charters. It’s a stunning island in the Ionian archipelago. Here, sailors of all levels can enjoy its stunning coastlines and calm waters.
Choosing a yacht charter here means a mix of fun and chill. You can pick from many trusted companies, like Gotosailing.com. They have everything from small sailing yachts to big motor yachts. This makes it simple to find the perfect sailing holiday in Zakynthos.
The waters are perfect for both new and experienced sailors. You can take day trips to places like Agios Nikolaos. It’s a beautiful fishing village with a lovely harbour. You can also find secret coves and beaches only reachable by boat.
Ending your trip in Zakynthos after visiting Paxos is a highlight. Each day brings more of Zakynthos’ beauty. You’ll see lush plains and rugged mountains.
The port offers great facilities, making your charter smooth. You can enjoy local sights and the National Marine Park. It’s great for those who love nature and history.
Opting for a yacht charter in Zakynthos means unforgettable sailing holidays. Every trip offers beautiful views and unique experiences.
Sailing around Zakynthos: Essential Tips
Starting your sailing adventure in Zakynthos is thrilling but requires careful planning. The weather is crucial, as the Ionian Sea’s winds and sea states vary. Summer winds are mostly northwest, ranging from force 2 to 6, perfect for sailing.
September and October are the best months for sailing in the Mediterranean. These months have better winds and fewer crowds than summer. However, autumn can bring sudden weather changes, including tropical storms called “medicanes.” Zakynthos gets more rain than other Greek places, so navigate with caution.
Make sure to include safe places in your sailing plans. Port Zakynthos protects well from northwesterly winds, keeping you safe in bad weather. Visit famous spots like Navagio Beach and the Blue Caves when it’s less busy for a better experience.
- Plan your trips with consideration to the prevailing winds and weather forecasts.
- Familiarise yourself with local sailing regulations to respect the natural environment.
- Practice stern-to docking as it is a common berthing technique in Greece.
With the right preparation, your sailing in Zakynthos will be unforgettable. You need a valid sailing licence for motorboats over 30hp. Chartering a boat opens up many sailing options, and Gotosailing.com is a great resource for finding the right yacht.
For more tips on exploring the islands, check out this link. It will help with your planning and discovery.
Best Routes for Sailing Trips Zakynthos
The sailing area around Zakynthos has many stunning routes. These are perfect for your sailing tours Zakynthos. A famous route goes from Zakynthos Town to Navagio Beach. It’s known for its amazing views and clear waters, great for a swim.
Another great trip is to the Blue Caves. Here, you’ll see incredible geological formations. These caves are blue and offer a unique setting for photos. You can also sail from Agios Nikolaos to find hidden islands and beaches.
When planning your sailing, remember the summer winds. They blow from the northwest at 2-6 (6-25 knots). Sailing is best from May to October, especially in September and October.
It’s important to know safe places to anchor. The Ionian Sea can have unpredictable weather. Thunderstorms are more common in autumn and spring. Be ready for southwest winds in the afternoon that go away by sunset.
Summer is great for sailing, but August can be crowded. Wasps are also more common then. In summary, Zakynthos offers amazing sailing routes. For a better experience, use local resources like transportation options on the island.
Local Attractions and Activities
Sailing excursions Zakynthos are a great way to see the island. You can visit places like Navagio Beach, famous for its shipwreck and blue waters. It’s only accessible by boat, making it a must-see.
For those who love adventure, the Blue Caves are a treat. Here, you can swim and snorkel to see amazing underwater views.
The island is also rich in history. The Castle of Zakynthos, built in the 15th century, offers a glimpse into the past. It was used to protect against pirate raids. Nearby, the Post Byzantine Art Museum has beautiful icons and frescoes for culture lovers.
Nature lovers will enjoy Marathonisi Island. It has sandy beaches and is a home for sea turtles. You can also visit Agios Dionysios Church and the Monastery of Panagia Spiliotissa for a taste of local spirituality.
Zakynthos offers over 50 activities for all. Families can enjoy horse riding, mini-golf, and turtle tours. Couples can watch sunsets at Keri Lighthouse or have a picnic at Cameo Island. For thrill-seekers, there’s paramotor and sailing excursions Zakynthos for unique adventures.
Overview of Sailing Holidays in Zakynthos
Sailing holidays in Zakynthos mix adventure with relaxation, perfect for all sailors. The island’s diverse coastline and clear waters are great for exploring. You can choose from exciting sailing trips or a calm exploration, based on what you like.
The marine life and Greek hospitality make the sailing experience special. There are many charter options for different budgets. Prices for a five-day trip in the South Ionian Islands vary from €2520 in October to €3250 in summer.
For a shorter trip, a four-day journey around Zakynthos and Ancient Olympia starts at €2050 in October. Prices go up to €2860 in the busiest months. Daily excursions in the North or South of Zakynthos cost about €500, covering skipper fees and more.
This flexibility lets sailors enjoy the islands at their own pace. They can sail for 3-4 hours a day, with time for swimming and rest. They can cover about 100 miles, making the journey exciting but not too long.
The GibSea43 sailboat is a favourite among locals. Greek Water Yachts responds quickly to booking requests, aiming for 24-48 hours. Zante Cruise offers a unique experience on the M/S Aphrodite, with up to 25 passengers.
From May to October, cruises leave every Saturday at 17:00. They return the next Saturday at 09:00. Guests enjoy daily meals and swim stops, making the trip memorable.
Zakynthos offers a mix of history, nature, and culture, making sailing holidays here unforgettable. Sailing in Zakynthos is an exciting adventure, with the chance to discover new places and experience Greek island life.
Planning Your Sailing Itinerary in Zakynthos
Creating your sailing plans in Zakynthos needs a mix of adventure and calm. Your trip’s length and the places you want to see will shape your journey. Don’t miss spots like the Mizithres viewpoint for a refreshing drink, and Cameo Island for a €5 entrance fee that comes with a photo keychain.
Knowing about local marina services makes your trip better. The Keri Lighthouse Restaurant is great for lunch, opening at noon. It offers stunning views. Remember, sailing in Zakynthos is best from May to October, with winds perfect for sailing.
When planning, think about the rules, like needing a skipper’s licence. Also, watch the weather, especially for medicanes in autumn. This way, you can enjoy the Ionian Sea’s beauty safely.
