Departure Time: 17:00 (Please try and arrive 30 minutes before)
Finish Time: 09:00 (On the following Saturday, docking at Corfu)
The Ionian Islands are an emerald scattering of seven main islands –, Ithaca, Corfu, Kefalonia, Lefkada, Paxos and Kythira – 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 – our beautiful motorised ocean vessel that can accommodate up to 25 passengers with 9 cabins – operates the Ionian Cruise. We will 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. Our Ionian Cruise operates with multiple boats, ie Harmonia, Aphrodite, Eros based on departure dates and seasonality.
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.
The friendly crew will attend to all your needs along the way. There are freshly prepared meals (Breakfast and Lunch), and all cabins include a private bathroom and air-conditioning.
CorFu sailing vacation itinerary
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, you can feel the multi-layers of Corfu island history. If you have 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, we get acquainted with our sailing home for the next few days and get settled in, starting by dining with a view of the ocean as we set sail towards Kassiopi.
Note: On the rare occasion of any issues that may result from late arrivals, there is a possibility that we do not depart Corfu on Monday evening, and instead set sail on Tuesday morning.
Vacation 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. You can find this in the Mourtos and Sivota Islands, south of Corfu, where we sail and stop to marvel at some of the island best natural highlights. This includes the striking Papanikolis Cave and the famed Blue Lagoon Bay, where you can swim in the iridescent blue waters. In the evening, stroll the traditional Marina village and take your pick of Greek eats from the idyllic tavern-lined promenade, where you can watch the sunset.
Vacation 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. We will have lunch onboard, but stay in town for an evening of Greek feasting and hospitality.
Note: If the vessel manages to dock in the port, you will not need to use a water taxi. However, if you need one, the cost of the Water Taxi is not included in the overall price package.
Vacation Day 4: Antipaxos
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, we 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. Go 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. We will dine 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.
Vacation Day 5: Gaios-Paxos
With white pebble beaches, striking blue seas and lush green countryside, Paxos is one of Greece’s best-kept secrets. We will dock at the port of Gaios ready for a full day on the island. You can easily explore with a motorcycle, 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.
Vacation 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 while we 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. We will dock overnight at a picturesque bay here.
Note: The vessel cannot dock in the marina in this area.
Vacation Day 7: Corfu
Before we head back to the mainland of Corfu Island, with free time to explore, we take the chance to fit in one more of Corfu’s long sandy beaches. We visit 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. We spend the night in the Marina of Corfu Old Town, where we enjoy an optional traditional dinner with the group in our final farewell party.
Vacation Day 8: Departure
As we come back in full circle to Corfu, this is our departure day, where you’ll say goodbye to your new friends and your crew. Hopefully, we have inspired you with this Greece sailing trip and hope to see you next year for more sailing around the Greek islands.

Since today is arrival day and we don’t set sail until after sunset, you have plenty of time to explore the wonders of Zante Island. If you have time don’t miss the chance to explore the Byzantine Museum, the National Marine Park in Laganás Bay.
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.
Nestled on the Ionian coastline of the Greece Mainland, Ithaca 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.
Not many people know of Meganisi, Grece. It is overshadowed by the main island of Corfu, but you will be glad you got to experience this lesser-known beauty spot. First, we have lunch before stopping for some coastal relaxation at some of the island's secluded areas. Go snorkelling in the turquoise waters, feel the pebbles under your feet, take a walk amongst the clifftop surroundings and visit the Town. We will dine 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.
With white pebble beaches, striking blue seas and lush green countryside, Paxos is one of Greece’s best-kept secrets. We will dock at the port of Gaios ready for a full day on the island. You can easily explore with a motorcycle, 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.
Dotted with secluded bays and sea caves, with shallow waters for those keen to explore the underworld of the Ionian Sea, this part of Kefalonia Island is an explorer’s dream. Enjoy lunch on the vessel while we sail towards bustling Poros, 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 Poros is the epitome of old school Greek charm. We will dock overnight at a picturesque bay here.
Before we head back to the mainland of Zante Island, with free time to explore, we take the chance to fit in one more of Zante’s long sandy beaches. We visit the beautiful Shipwreck Beach and village on the east coast of the island, enjoying an onboard lunch on the way for some final sweeping sea views.




Vacation Day 1: Arrive San Diego, California
After breakfast we will take the Old Time Trolley over to the Old Town Historic Park, stopping at Coronado Island to visit the famous hotel on the way.
Back on the Trolley enjoy the scenic coastal landscape while we make our way to Old Town” As we ride our conductor will tell us fascinating stories and historical trivia of San Diego.
hotel, now the reconstructed building is the Wells Fargo Museum that displays exhibits related to mining, banking and stagecoach travel. The park contains several historic adobe structures built circa 1830 including the Casa de Estudillo, one of the oldest mansions in California. The Mormon Battalion helped construct the First Brick Courthouse, it served as town hall, the mayor’s office and a schoolhouse. The historic district not only features heritage architecture but there are also shops and restaurants offering authentic handicrafts and cuisine.
Before we leave the area, we'll walk over to Heritage Park, to see examples of San Diego's historic Victorian architecture. The properties were all relocated from their original locations. Visit an 1880s working-class people's cottage without the amenities of gas, electricity, water, or sewer and San Diego’s first synagogue, which reflects the church styles of the late 1800s.
Today we spend the day on or near the water of the San Diego Bay, one of the best destinations to whale watch. This morning we embark on a whale-watching cruise along the California Coast, where we will likely see seals, seabirds, sea lions, and dolphins. While cruising listen to interesting facts about the whales, their migratory patterns, their ocean habitat, and other ocean species. Keep your eyes peeled for the grey whales, we might catch a glimpse of them or if we are real lucky, jumping up and making a big splash. Gray Whales migrate winter to spring from feeding grounds in Alaskan waters to calving lagoons in Baja California.
This afternoon we take a trip through American naval history at the USS Midway Museum. This enormous ship, known as the longest-serving aircraft carrier of the 20th century, now offers a range of interactive exhibits, a self-guided audio tour and numerous restored aircraft across its 4-acre flight deck and sections below. This marvel of engineering once housed more than 4,500 crew members across its various decks, and served in the US Navy between 1945 and 1992. Enjoy the audio tour, told through the stories of the ship’s former officers and sailors, visit some of the 65 highlighted locations throughout the vessel, covering its bridge to its engine
room and explore the ship’s restored living quarters, including the galleys, sleeping quarters and officer’s country. There’s also 25 restored aircraft lining its deck and a range of interactive exhibits.
Today is all about animals and nature at the Balboa Park, home to more than 16 museums, performing arts venues, lovely gardens, trails plus the San Diego Zoo.. After breakfast it's our opportunity to ride the local bus 5 stops from the San Diego Depot into the heart of Balboa Park.
polar bears, penguins, gorillas, and more—with up-close encounters and a wild and fun atmosphere. We start with the 35-minute Guided Bus Tour that wil give us an overview of the Zoo and acquaint us with the various areas we would like to spend more time at. The Zoo's unique animal habitats include Elephant Odyssey, the Australian Outback, Monkey Trails, and Polar Bear Plunge. The zoo is famous for its breeding colony of koalas, the largest one outside of Australia. The koalas thrive mainly because their sole food, eucalyptus, grows abundantly on the zoo grounds. The zoo also maintains successful breeding groups of gorillas, tigers, giraffes, hippopotamuses, pygmy chimpanzees, Galapagos tortoises, and a wide variety of other animals. Its many notable exhibits include
walk-through tropical rainforests, aviaries, a polar bear habitat with a chilled pool, an Asian river environment featuring tigers, and gorillas and Malayan sun bears in simulated natural habitats.
Start off with an old favorite, the Balboa Park Carousel. Did you know this is one of a handful of carousels in the U.S. that includes the traditional brass ring game? Take a ride and try your skill by reaching out to grab the ring! The Balboa Park Visitors Center, located in the House of Hospitality in the Plaza de Panama can give you the most updated information on what’s happening at all the attractions in the park. The Spanish Village isn’t an art museum, but where you’ll find artists creating art that you can buy. Every object for sale here has been created by the local artists you’ll meet working in their studios. The Botanical Building, Timken & Gem Society museums are free to enter plus 16 out of the 17 gardens are all free to enter.
