Top 3 anchorages in the Southern Ionian

Aerial view of Fiskardo port, Kefalonia, Greece

There’s a special place in my heart for the Ionian. I have lived, sailed, swam, and grew as a person there. From Lefkas to Kefalonia, these islands are what I called home onboard a 2015, 37ft Bavaria called PARIS.

She may not look like much, but this girl got us through some bad weather, sticky situations, and above all, our refuge.

Like many sailors who have sailed in one particular area, you tend to have your favourite anchorages – your ‘go-to’ place which is versatile and enjoyed by many a ‘crowd-pleaser’ if you will! Below I talk about my top three anchorages and why you should incorporate them in your itinerary.

Number 1. KIONI – Ithaki Island.

The pretty bay and harbour of Kioni on the small island of Ithaki.

Check out our 7-day bareboat sailing itinerary here!

Why?

  • Kioni, in my opinion, has the cleanest water due to how quiet it is. In the evenings you MUST go swimming! It’s absolutely teeming with phosphorescent algae which sparkle when disturbed.
  • You can, more often than not, find a place to drop anchor and tie off to a rock, and if there’s space, on the town quay.
  • The town is quaint, with a few stunning restaurants located along the harbour wall and up in the foothills overlooking the bay.
  • Fantastic holding, and normally fairly quiet.

Where?

Kioni pin drop.

Kioni is located on the northeastern tip, protected from the northwesterly prevailing winds. Many sailors tend to hot-foot it down to (big) Vathy located further south which subsequently means that Kioni is fairly quiet, even during high season.

In this lovely town, the time has stopped in the previous century

When?

This anchorage is best enjoyed overnight. It provides protection from the prevailing NW winds and is best viewed early morning!

Anything to watch out for?

A common phenomenon happens pretty much everywhere in the Ionian and that is the Katabatic winds. Most of the tiny anchorages in the Ionian are hidden and tucked away between hills. As the air cools, and the land is warm, it pushed air and funnels between the hills. From around 5:30 PM onwards it can get pretty breezy. It normally settles by about 7:30/8 pm so make sure your anchor is well dug before heading off for your fresh greek dinner!

Number 2. Foki Bay – Kephalonia.

Yes, before you ask it really is called that – and it is truly stunning.

White yacht moored in the bay of Foki beach with cypress trees in background, Fiskardo, Cefalonia, Ionian, Greece.

Why?

  • The Trees. I nicknamed this bay ‘Little Canada’ because of the Cypress trees that almost fall into the water.
  • The caves. Accessable by tender or simply swim in! Turn your outboard off just as you enter the caves as people swim in and out of them. The Caves were used for mining in the ’50s and still remain now. Don’t worry if you’re scared of small spaces as these caves are absolutely massive. They are so big you could easily fit a two-story house in them! Take a torch and enclosed shoes (don’t wear flipflops as some bits are quite steep).
  • The beach. Sometimes while sailing around you just need some time on a beach! Well, this bay has one. In the top right-hand corner is an adorable beach with a quaint taverna serving the best drinks!
  • You can walk into Fiskardo for some shopping, it’s around 1.5-2km walk.
  • The water is CRYSTAL clear!

Where?

Foki bay is based on the northeastern tip of Kephelonia, a stone’s throw (or 10-minute tender ride) into the famous Fiskardo, boasting up-market restaurants and beautiful jewellery shops.

When?

This is a perfect lunch spot, or evening stopover (if the winds are favourable). Great holding for lunchtime with the most stunning scenery to enjoy your freshly prepared lunch!

Foki Fiskardo with crystal clear and transparent water, Kefalonia, Ionian Islands, Greece.

Anything to watch out for?

In the high season time, the beach is buoyed off to protect the swimmers, make sure you don’t get caught up in there. Try and head as far in towards the beach as possible as most of the superyachts take the entrance area as its deeper. This will also protect you from the swell that is created from the passing ferries.

Number 3. One house bay – Atokos

Beautiful bay in Ionian sea, called One house bay.

Why?

  • The pictures speak for its self. One House Bay, characterised by the one house which sits by its self in the foothills.
  • The crystal blue water and picturesque beach are just some of the reasons you should stop over here!
  • Gorgeous scenery.
  • Deep blue water.
  • Excellent walking.

Where?

One House Bay is on the Southeastern corner of Atoko Island, East of Ithica island. The island is only home to goats, which the shepherd attends to every 4th day.

When?

A perfect lunch spot when travelling from the eastern islands to the western islands. If the winds are favourable, you can possibly stay here overnight, please bear in mind it offers little to no protection.

Getting first-hand knowledge about the area is key to creating a memorable charter. I have traveled extensively throughout Greece and the Meditterenian to visit destinations to provide you with the best recommendations and advice. Looking to explore the Southern Ionian? Speak with Alice today at [email protected]!

Fine Dining on the Amalfi Coast

What is the world’s favourite cuisine? Suitable for all ages, tastes and dietary requirements, Italian gets our vote. When chartering a yacht along the Amalfi Coast, you will sample the unique cuisine of Campania. The area is world-famous for lemons and San Marzano tomatoes, as well as fresh octopus, sea bream and shrimps. An Amalfi Coast yacht charter delivers excellent restaurants in each town, but which ones should you visit for summer 2020?

C/O Quattro Passi Nerano

Quattro Passi, Nerano

Quattro Passi in Nerano overlooks the stunning Marina del Cantone in Nerano. Nerano is the first village you will explore on your Amalfi Coast motor yacht charter. First impressions are everything and Nerano will not disappoint!

C/O Quattro Passi Nerano

Chef Antonio Mellino holds 2 Michelin stars for his gourmet cuisine at Quattro Passi. His cuisine focuses on local produce, most prominently lemons and tomatoes. The Michelin guide praises Mellino for his “ability to extract maximum aromas from lemons and tomatoes is unique, lending extraordinary flavour to his dishes.” We know you will be dazzled so book your table for summer 2020 now!

La Sponda at Le Sirenuse Hotel, Positano

The Amalfi Coast is one of the most romantic destinations in the world. A favourite for engagements, honeymoons and anniversaries, you will definitely impress your better half. La Sponda at Le Sirenuse Hotel in Positano is famous for being one of the most romantic restaurants on the Amalfi Coast. Whether you choose to dine on the terrace or under four hundred candles inside, the views are spectacular.

Chef Gennaro Russo’s menu is based on fresh local ingredients and inspired by the great culinary traditions of Naples and the Amalfi Coast. His motto is “respect for the territory, for local traditions and local ingredients”. His risotto is to die for!

The Boatbookings Brokers know the best restaurants on the Amalfi Coast for every taste. The best yachts and restaurants are booked well in advance so speak to the team today to plan your Amalfi Coast adventure for summer 2020.

How about the Azores?

Capelinhos Volcan view from above

So you’re fed up with the crowds that flock to the Mediterranean (sailors and nonsailors alike) and you’re looking for something new to conquer. How about the AZORES? The Azores offer steady winds either side of July and August, with July and August providing comfortable calmer winds perfect for families. Looking for a challenge? Charter in March and April where the winds are strong and steady.

Why?

Are you into your nature, geography, and sailing? Would you like to see whales, dolphins, lagoons, extinct volcanos, fajas, and unique anchorages? Then this cluster of islands located in the Atlantic could be for you. Located roughly 1,400 miles west of mainland Portugal, the Azores boasts 9 exquisite, prehistoric islands ready for you to explore. The archipelago is comprised of 9 islands each with its own individual character.

São Miguel Island – Lagoa das Sete Cidades

Itinerary

Start from Horta and explore Sao Miguel, Pico and Terceira Island all within one week. If you are planning on doing a two-week charter (which would be advised as there is just SO much to see) then you can go further afield and explore the islands such as Graciosa Island and Sao Jorge island.

Azores landscape with waterfalls and cliffs in Flores island. Portugal.

Getting there

Direct flights are available from most major airports (within flying distance!) From the US you have the luxury of choosing between Azores Airlines and Delta Airlines. You can fly directly via Boston, Oakland, and New York City. Flight time from Boston is roughly around the 4.5-hour mark with the UK being the same. Tap Air Portugal and Ryanair fly most frequently to the Azores.

Panoramic view over the Sete Cidades lake on Sao Miguel Azores

Want to find out more? Contact us today to find out how you could sail in the Jurrasic world of the Azores!

Horizon Yachts FD92 will launch in 2020

Horizon yachts will continue to build their popular Fast Displacement line with the 28m FD92, which is scheduled for delivery in July 2020. The historic power catamaran manufacturer is famous for delivering standout charter catamarans operating in the Caribbean. These catamarans are fantastic for exploring destinations like the Bahamas with their small drafts, as well as fast island hopping in the Virgin Islands.

The tri-deck Horizon superyacht was designed from the owner’s desire to build a yacht with both an enclosed sky lounge and an open flybridge. The FD92 will feature an extended hull for greater exterior spaces. For those interested in lifestyle, she is perfect for al fresco dining and lounging. The forward jacuzzi area is the perfect place to relax at anchor with a glass of champagne. Can you see yourself anchored in the magical Colombiers bay in St Barths?

The Horizon FD92 has five cabins. These will include a full-beam master on the main deck and four further staterooms below. There will be accommodation for three crew aboard. Spend your days relaxing on the foredeck sunpads and a jump in from the fully-equipped swim platform. Enjoy captain’s cocktails in the bar on the upper deck before sampling your chef’s delights. There is no better holiday than chartering a yacht.

Watch this space for the latest manufacturer news and releases, as well as destination insights into the world’s best yacht charter destinations. Contact the Boatbookings Team today!

Yacht Charter for Miami Super Bowl 2020

The Boatbookings Broker team love Miami! Where else can you find such a metropolis on the water? Home to a fusion of fascinating cultures, centres for art and theatre, as well as a thriving food scene, Miami has something for everyone. But in 2020, there’s something even more exciting about to hit this city! Bring on Super Bowl LIV, which will commence on the 2nd February 2020 at the Hard Rock Stadium.

Not that Miami needs much help, but the Super Bowl 2020 will transcend the city into party atmosphere. Jennifer Lopez and Shakira are the headliners for the Super Bowl LIV Halftime Show. The premium Miami resorts have hiked up the prices but there are always options, especially on the water. The only way to embrace the luxury of Super Bowl LIV is onboard a Miami yacht charter.

Miami will attract the world’s most expensive super yachts for the Super Bowl. You are guaranteed to be amongst good company. Kick back on the Azimut 100 INTERVENTION and be pampered by Captain Jose and his crew. With accommodation for 8 guests in 4 cabins and available for weekly or short charters, INTERVENTION is the perfect partner to Super Bowl LIV.

Further ideas could include coastal cruising on the Ferretti 88 CINQUE MARE or transfers around the city on the 54 Searay WHY NOT. The Boatbookings team will have you covered!

Watch this space for further insights into how you should celebrate the Super Bowl in Miami, as well as Spring Break!