There comes a time during every trip to Greece that you start to realise that a standard hotel stay would not do the trip justice. Usually, this comes while looking out towards the Aegean or Ionian Sea, only to see the rocky silhouettes of the lesser-travelled Greek islands. You can’t ignore the thoughts of what each of those islands has to offer. Including their local tavernas, coves, and their way of life.
Greece has over 6,000 beautiful islands, and the only way to appreciate all the beauty that this country has to offer is to not limit yourself to a single luxury resort. There is far more to Greece than the luxury of a single resort. Island hopping is the best way to experience Greece at its fullest.
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What is an Island Vacation?
First-time visitors of Greece often make the mistake of thinking there is only one way to experience the country as a whole. The picturesque white houses with blue roofs in Santorini are often thought to be the only style of architecture found in all of Greece. This, of course, is not true and reveals the multitude of micro-cultures that Greece has to offer.
The stark contrast of the wind-swept, arid landscapes of one island can contrast with the Olive and pine tree-covered islands of the Ionian. Furthermore, as you island hop along the Venetian, Ottoman, or neoclassically influenced islands, you are experiencing Greece’s rich history without stepping foot in a single museum.
Ultimate Freedom of the Sea
Ferry schedules can be very inconvenient, and crowded ports in the peak heat of August are not anyone’s idea of fun. For real control over island hopping schedules, skip the ferries and hit the open waters.
Exploring the sea changes the entire process of planning a trip. Think of waking up in a private bay in Meganisi, swimming before breakfast, and casually sailing to Ithaca for lunch. Think about the things you could see that would be invisible to the coastal roads, like the dramatic coastlines, hidden coves, and sea caves.
If you want to go at your own pace and avoid crowds, a Greece yacht charter is the right move. Sailing out of Nidri on Lefkada, Nisos Yacht Charter offers bareboat, assisted, and skippered options. Imagine a yacht that acts as a floating boutique hotel. With the luxury of not packing and unpacking at every new destination while also gaining access to the clear, shallow anchorages that large cruise ships and ferries are simply not able to reach.
Why You Should Go Ionian Sea Island Hopping
If you’ve never gone island hopping before, the Ionian Sea is the best place to start! The Ionian Sea lies between the mainland of Greece and the westernmost Greek islands. Sailors of all experience levels can all agree that the Ionian Sea is the preferred location for a few very good reasons.
- – The islands are close together, allowing for easy, short travel times.
- – The summer winds here are light, while the winds of the Aegean are quick and tumultuous, making travel dangerous.
- – The harbours are deep and naturally formed, allowing for easy and hassle-free mooring.
Ionian Sea Island Hopping is a Foodie’s Dream
Culinary regionalism is one of the most interesting aspects of Greek culture and food. Because the Ionian islands are so close together, they allow you to sample the different islands like you would at a giant tasting menu.
Like all resorts, a one-island hotel leaves you with a single interpretation of a Greek salad or Moussaka. Take a few steps to another island, and the menu changes. The Ionian islands will surprise you with dishes like Bourdeto (a spicy Venetian fish stew) and Sofrito (veal simmered with garlic and wine).
One taverna might press their olive oil. Another might infuse sea fennel. The islands might even surprise you with some of the oldest and best-aged cheeses. The geography of each island is reflected in the unique dishes.
Tips for Planning
For the best trip, keep these travel rules in mind:
Time it Right: Should I adjust my dates? Yes. The “shoulder seasons” of late May/June and September are the ideal times to travel with warm seas, open tavernas, and less crowded marinas.
Pack Smart: Did you buy a hard shell suitcase? Return it. Hard shell suitcases are impossible to transport on boats and ferries. Soft duffel bags are the best choice.
Expect the Unexpected: This is the best part about travelling. If your schedule is flexible enough and a local tells you about a hidden cove, that’s an opportunity you don’t want to miss.
Conclusion
Greece is not meant to be enjoyed from the walls of a single resort. The culture, history, and beauty of Greece is meant to be explored from the sea. Travelling from island to island, especially on a yacht, isn’t just a vacation. You are participating in exploration of the Aegean and Ionian seas that has been going on for thousands of years, and you get a new view every day.