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Experience the freedom of bareboat sailing and explore the Ionian entirely on your own terms. Cruise at your own pace, drop anchor wherever the mood takes you, and linger as long as you like in each destination. Travelling with a larger group? Call Travel Club Elite free on 0800 707 6229 to discuss Neilson’s latest fleet additions: the Lagoon Catamaran, Bavaria 41, and Dufour 460 – available on request only.
With bareboat sailing, it’s just you, your crew, and the open sea. You choose the route, set the schedule, and take the helm.
Perfect for experienced sailors confident in handling a yacht independently, bareboat charters offer the ultimate sense of freedom, flexibility, and adventure within the sailing area.
Take a look at the Ionian sailing map (in our featured images section above), to see the designated cruising area, which will also be provided on your onboard chart. For safety reasons, all sailing must remain within these boundaries – with Parga on the mainland as the northernmost point and Poros on Kefalonia as the southern limit.
Before departure, Neilson will review your planned route and share recommendations on places worth visiting. Once you’re underway, you’ll still have support from them. Each morning, Neilson will send a weather update along with advice on the best harbours to visit and any areas to avoid based on the conditions.
Highlights Along the Way
Fiscardo
A charming harbour village on northern Kefalonia, known for its colourful waterfront, relaxed atmosphere, and inviting cafés and tavernas.
Kalamos
A peaceful Ionian island with a welcoming harbour, traditional tavernas, local shops, and beachfront bars.
Preveza Town
Perfectly positioned between the north and south Ionian, Preveza is an ideal gateway to islands including Paxos, Antipaxos, and Lefkada.
Parga
Famous for its hilltop Venetian castle overlooking the town and nearby Valtou Bay, where visiting yachts can moor.
Lakka
Located on northern Paxos, Lakka offers calm turquoise waters, lush scenery, and a sheltered bay ideal for anchoring.
Gaios (Paxos)
The main port of Paxos, loved for its picturesque harbour, traditional architecture, and laid-back Greek island charm.
Bareboat Charter Experience
Before setting off on your bareboat charter, Neilson will need to confirm that you have the necessary sailing experience. A minimum of two adults aged 18+ must have previous sailing experience. One person must hold a recognised sailing qualification, while the second must be experienced enough to take control of the yacht and carry out a man overboard procedure if required.
Accepted qualifications include RYA Yachtmaster, RYA Coastal Skipper, and RYA Day Skipper. Skippers must also hold a valid ICC (International Certificate of Competence Sail) issued by the RYA and carry this alongside their original qualification certificates during the flotilla.
If you don’t yet hold the required certification, training and assessments can be arranged through approved UK training centres.
Your yacht will be ready from 5pm on your arrival day. Once settled on board, the Neilson crew will give an individual boat briefing. If you arrive after 7.30pm the crew will provide a short briefing on essentials such as lights, loos and gas with a full boat briefing the following morning.
Boats are free to leave on Monday morning after completing sailing briefings and paperwork.
All boats must be back at the Neilson base before 6pm on the final sailing day and vacated by 9.30am on the day of departure.
Once you’re away from the Neilson yacht marina at Vounaki Beach Club, before you set sail for the day, Neilson will need to contact you. Drop in to Neilson’s marina office each morning, letting the staff know your planned route for the day. Your route needs the green light from them before you cast off from the harbour.
Please feel free to reach out to Neilson anytime, day or night, and one of their team members will be there to help you with any maintenance issues or mechanical glitches. Neilson supply your first full tank of fuel but any additional fuel you need during your trip is your responsibility.
Exclusive prices available on request. Our Pricing Policy.
Please call us free on 0800 707 6229 for pricing and availability
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