There has been a huge surge in online interest over the last three months for ‘Mediterranean sailing holidays’ and ‘boat holidays in the Mediterranean’ (up by 457% and 1,300% respectively), and so travel expert Becky Hutton, Holiday Planner at Sunsail, has outlined her top summer sailing spots in Croatia and Greece along with discounts and offers*.
Paleros – Paleros is a great spot to catch the local flavour of the Ionian Isles, particularly in the summer, as you’ll find lots of summertime puppet shows, theatrical performances and traditional Greek dancing in the town square. After a day of exploring, dine on freshly caught octopus, bream and bass at one of the many waterfront tavernas.
Kalamos and Kastos – Kalamos and Kastos are sleepy fishing villages that feel like stepping back 40 years thanks to the traditional stone houses and quiet streets! They are both up a very steep hill though and not for the faint-hearted, perfect for active families, couples and holidaymakers.
Both islands have some really stunning anchorages and whilst the rest of the Ionian can get a little busier in the high season months, you can normally always find a quiet spot in a bay to the south of the islands which is why they’re ideal if you want to escape the crowds this summer.
Lefkas – There’s no better place to visit on your summer sailing holiday than mythical Lefkas, an island central to Greek mythology, in particular to Homer’s Odyssey. Lefkas is known for its water sports, with windsurfing, kite surfing and paragliding especially popular in the region, while the ancient Venetian fortress of Agia Mavra is always worth a visit. There’s something for everyone to enjoy, whether you love being out on the water all day, immersing yourself in local culture or learning more about Greek history and mythology.
Ithaca – World famous as the home of Odysseus, Ithaca symbolises the return to the haven, the discovery and the fulfillment. It is peaceful, quiet and undiscovered, thus being an ideal place to relax, unwind and explore the beautiful surroundings.
One of the must-visit areas of Ithaca is Kioni, one of the most picturesque small fishing villages that is simply stunning. Built like most Greek villages, around its harbour, it was a very prosperous village, as can be seen by the architecture, with stunning bougainvillea entwined everywhere. Ithaca is famous for its delicious Onion Pie, which is particularly good in Kioni. It is also built at the bottom of a deep valley, meaning the afternoon Katabatic wind can be quite exciting.
Meganisi – Meganisi is a true jewel of the Mediterranean, with countless stunning villages, beaches, caves and gems to discover. One must-visit hotspot on Meganisi is Port Atheni, a beautiful bay that is split in two by a small reef. On one side, there is a really lovely bay, where you can take a long line ashore and spend the night at anchor, eating on board. On the other, there is a small quay at the southernmost end with a small shop and a single taverna.
Another incredible destination on Meganisi is Spartochori. The village is perched above the harbour of Spilia, and means “town on the hill.” It’s a beautiful example of the traditional life that still exists in the Ionian. Walk to the village either by the 153 stone steps ascending through pine trees or by the roadway for a gentler climb. At the top is the most breathtaking view of the crystal clear and deep cobalt blue bay!
Lastovo Island – “The island of crystal stars” sits at the centre of an archipelago of forty-five uninhabited islands and is an area of natural beauty. Out of bounds to foreigners for many years, the island remains charmingly unspoiled by tourism.
Skrivena Luka is one of the largest and loveliest inlets on the island of Lastovo and well-worth visiting this summer. Translated it means ‘Hidden Bay’ and you will see why as you enter. It is located on the southern side of the island and is protected from all winds. With it facing south, it gets a large amount of sun and is considered the warmest place on the island. Dominant in the bay of Skrivena Luka is the Struga Lighthouse (built in 1839), one of the oldest on the Adriatic.
Korčula Island – The quiet coves, luscious vineyards and sheltered beaches of Korčula are exceptional. If you’re looking to immerse yourself in local culture, head to Korčula Town, where you’ll find museums, galleries and fine restaurants within the beautiful cobbled streets and defensive walls of the town.
Not far from Korčula is the tiny island of Badija, renowned for its beautiful beaches and 14th century Franciscan monastery. The southern tip in particular of this idyllic island is fringed with numerous beaches perfect for a picnic lunch!
Šipan Island – Šipan is the largest of the Elafiti Islands. Recently dubbed the ‘Croatian Riviera’, this lush island offers olive, fig and grape groves and picturesque views if you venture on shore for a stroll. The island has a very rich history and is a quick escape from the tedious daily routine!
One of only two inhabited places there, Suđurađ, is dominated by two large fortification towers that were built within the complex of two Renaissance summer manors owned by the Skočibuha family (XVI century). The second settlement on the Šipan island, Šipanska Luka was a favourite place of the nobles from Dubrovnik because of the beautiful landscape, fertile lands, an area sheltered from the winds and closeness to Dubrovnik!
Mljet Island – Hike around Mljet’s spectacular saltwater lakes and cool off with a dip when you get too hot, a perfect way to spend a summer’s day. You can also head to a beautiful little bay on the northern shore of the island, Okuklje. A very popular summer destination for visitors to Mljet, the bay is also a popular anchorage spot for sailors as a safe haven (in case of bad weather).
Facing Croatian Mainland, Okuklje has a lot of brilliant swimming spots to enjoy the clear waters. Hills around the bay are also excellent hiking locations, offering great views over the channel. A must-visit hotspot for any Mediterranean sailing itinerary this summer.
Kobaš Bay – The Bay of Kobaš, with a sandy shoreline and its own marina, has become very popular with the yachting community. Although it is only 7 km away from Ston, this village is not easy to reach, so ideal for adventurers looking for a challenge. For a long time, Kobaš could be reached by boat only and was called “an island on a peninsula”. Nowadays, Kobaš is first of all a secluded cove visited by yachting enthusiasts, who are interested in a beautiful beach and a delicious seafood meal.
*Discounts & Offers
£500 Mediterranean Flight Credit Terms and Conditions
Sunsail’s new £500 Mediterranean flight credit offer gives you £500 flight credit on bookings confirmed between 1 and 30 April 2025. To qualify for the £500 flight credit, the minimum cost of yacht only (before any discount) must be £3000. It applies to charters of 7 days or more for Mediterranean destinations. The offer is valid only for Croatia and Greece. It can be combined with Sunsail’s Summer Sailing Special discount, but cannot be combined with any other promotions, including the loyalty discount. It is only available for bookings made over the phone. You can find full terms and conditions here.
