The Ionian islands are located at the western coast of Greece and the area is famous for its natural beauty and the calm weather conditions.
Sailing trips start either from Lefkas or Corfu islands. In the last years, the increasing number of yachts for charter necessitates the use of additional ports near Lefkas, such as Preveza and Palairos. Although you can follow different sailing routes from Corfu vs. the other ports, the weather conditions are similar across the Ionian islands.
Usually, the morning hours come without any wind. It is the best to start the day early and enjoy swimming in the coves and the breathtaking sea colours. The wind starts at midday, around 2-3 pm. The wind force ranges around 4-5 of the Beaufort scale, with northwestern direction and gets stronger in the straits among the islands. The western coast of the islands (e.g. Lefkas, Paxoi, Kefalonia) are affected by the waves, so it is not convenient to swim any longer. The wind stays strong until the night hours and usually fades out before midnight. In general, the conditions are safe for the yachts during the night hours.
The islands of the Ionian Sea might be affected also by sudden storms with fierce winds and heavy rain, conditions that might prevail for few hours to a couple of days. It is necessary to check the weather forecast regularly, so you get informed about possible storms and seek safe shelter in a port. These storms won't hit the Ionian Sea more than once or twice per year but caution is definetely required in order to prevent on time.
