Kefalonia Yacht Charter

Kefalonia, the largest of the Ionian Islands, is a wonderfully laid-back yacht charter destination, known for its lush hillsides, pretty villages, and long sweeps of golden sand. Its most famous stretch of coast is Myrtos Beach, a dramatic curve of white pebbles backed by sheer limestone cliffs and washed by striking turquoise water. Many of the island’s most beautiful coves can only be reached by boat, which makes exploring them by yacht feel especially private and exclusive. Beyond the coastline, Kefalonia offers a surprising amount of history and culture. There are remnants of ancient civilizations, graceful Venetian architecture, and lively towns such as Argostoli, where waterfront promenades, cafés, and tavernas bring local life into focus. For charterers, there is a wide choice of vessels, from sleek motor yachts and spacious catamarans to classic sailing yachts, with itineraries that can easily include nearby islands like Ithaca and Zakynthos. Thanks to a long cruising season and generally calm waters, Kefalonia works just as well for peak-summer escapes as it does for quieter shoulder-season voyages.

Kefalonia is a dream setting for a yacht charter, with glassy turquoise waters, dramatic mountains, and hidden caves creating a spectacular backdrop at every turn. Accessible by ferry or air, its cruising season spans from May to October. The island has premium marinas in Argostoli and Fiskardo, guaranteeing top-notch amenities. Kefalonia appeals to families, couples, adventure seekers, and luxury travelers alike, with activities ranging from hiking and diving to exploring ancient ruins or enchanting villages.

Kefalonia features several key yacht rental hubs, each offering distinct coastal settings and experiences. Argostoli, the island's capital, combines a busy harbor with the calm surroundings of Koutavos Lagoon, which is well suited to gentle boat tours and relaxed cruising. On the western side, Lixouri is quieter and framed by beaches such as Xi Beach, creating a more laid-back environment away from heavier visitor traffic. Sami serves as a convenient base for visiting natural landmarks, including Melissani Cave and nearby beaches like Antisamos, which appeal to those interested in scenic landscapes and swimming. Fiskardo, a picturesque village in the north, is a known meeting point for luxury yachts and offers access to nearby islands such as Ithaca, supported by a marina with characteristic Venetian-style architecture. Assos—a small coastal village—provides a sense of seclusion through its traditional layout and the presence of Assos Castle on the peninsula above, making it suitable for tranquil yacht stops. Vardiani Island, located off the southwestern coast, is uninhabited and known for its clear waters, which are favorable for swimming and snorkeling during anchorage.

Kefalonia has several convenient harbors and small marinas for yacht charters, each with its own character and level of services.​

Argostoli Marina—located in the island’s capital—is a well-protected harbor that welcomes visiting yachts along its quay areas. It offers essential services such as water and electricity, nearby fuel stations, chandlery options in town, and easy access to restaurants, shops, and local attractions.

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Lixouri Marina, in the charming town of Lixouri, is a smaller municipal harbor with limited capacity of roughly 10–15 berths for visiting yachts. It has basic facilities, primarily water and electricity on the quay, and stands out more for its quiet, relaxed atmosphere and proximity to the town’s seafront tavernas than for advanced yachting amenities.

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Poros Harbor, near the village of Poros on the southeast coast, functions as a small port that can receive yachts up to about 18–20 m along the quay. Services are generally limited to fundamentals such as water and electricity, with tavernas and shops close by, and the setting is relatively tranquil.

Yacht charter prices in Kefalonia vary based on yacht type, rental duration, and season. Rates peak during the busiest summer months of July and August, driven by high demand. Shoulder seasons—from April to June or September to October—have milder prices, pleasant weather, and fewer crowds—ideal for a serene sailing trip. One-week charters are standard, but longer bookings often come with discounts for better overall value. Early reservations lock in top yachts and rates. Flexible schedules might uncover last-minute bargains, though with potentially fewer choices.

Kefalonia charters typically add 13% VAT to the base price. An Advance Provisioning Allowance (APA) of 30-35% of the charter fee is also common, covering fuel, food, docking, and onboard extras. Unused APA funds get refunded, and any excess costs settle separately, paving the way for a smooth, customized sail through those gorgeous waters.

The best time to embark on a yacht charter in Kefalonia is between April and October, with the peak season taking place in the bustling summer months of July and August. For a more peaceful and serene experience, late spring and early summer—particularly May through June—have pleasant weather, calm seas, and fewer tourists, making it perfect for a relaxing sailing adventure. As autumn arrives in September and October, the warm waters and gentle breezes provide an ideal environment for a luxurious journey around Kefalonia, where every moment is crafted for rest and indulgence amidst stunning natural beauty.

Kefalonia is an exceptional yacht charter destination, combining azure waters, dramatic coastlines, and authentic Greek island culture. Sail through tranquil bays and hidden coves, access secluded beaches, and visit picturesque villages, then enjoy fresh local cuisine, regional wines, and warm island hospitality beneath clear Ionian skies.

Contact Us for the ultimate private luxury yacht experience in Kefalonia. Yacht Hunter’s expert charter consultants will craft a bespoke itinerary, seamlessly aligning your desires with insider recommendations to indulge in this enchanting destination.