Our very own Content Marketing Executive, Suzanne, set sail on a Bareboat Charter last summer with a group of friends, departing from Vounaki Beach Club in Paleros, Greece. With the freedom to plan their own route – and the reassurance of a flotilla team nearby – it was a week of discovering the Ionian on their own terms. Here, she shares what life on board was really like, in her own words.
What did a typical day on your sailing holiday look like, and how did it feel being out on the water?
Typically, the mornings were early bird starts, with the sunrise peeking through the portholes and the soft hum of other yachties waking up around us. The first person up put the kettle on before we headed out to grab some local pastries from a seaside Greek village for breakfast.
Sitting up top, watching the sun peer over the horizon with a coffee in hand, a cool breeze in the air and the gentle morning tide lapping around the boat is just heaven.
Was there a moment or place that really stuck with you – what made it so special?
There were so many that make it hard to pick just one but the moment that sticks with me most was sailing along the Meganisi Channel, a stretch of tranquil paradise, exploring hidden caves and private beaches. It was like we had the whole sea to ourselves – total freedom.
How easy did you find getting into the rhythm of sailing, especially in the first few days?
It was nice and easy, mainly because of the excitement of being out on the water, trying new things, and getting stuck in. Living in close quarters takes some getting used to but with friends, it was great fun.
Our first few days were full of wow moments. It’s an amazing idea to think that your accommodation is floating, and you never really get used to the breathtaking views. Big kudos to the skipper of our flotilla for delegating roles and getting us all involved.
What was the atmosphere like with your crew or the flotilla – any standout moments together?
We were bareboat sailing for most of the week, but we did meet up with the Neilson South Ionian Flotilla on one evening in the little town of Sivota, a hidden gem on the east coast of Greece.
It was a great occasion – we got a big table in a local taverna and pre-ordered our meals so we could get down to the serious business of sharing stories and plenty of laughs. Many of the crews from different yachts were familiar with one another after sailing alongside each other for the week, so it was really wholesome to see these new friendships flourishing. That definitely stood out to me.
Did anything surprise you or change your expectations once you were out there?
The sleeping arrangements and the close living proximity with my friends surprised me slightly. It didn't take anything away from the whole experience, though, as the real surprise was how much freedom I felt as we sliced through the calm waves in the glorious Greek sunshine.
How did the whole experience compare to a normal holiday, and how did you feel when it ended?
It felt special as I don't think two sailing holidays will ever feel the same. The choices of where you can explore, at sea and on land, are endless. It’s different to staying at a Beach Club purely for the views you see – waking up to a different sight, beach, bay or cove every morning.
Pair this with discovering picturesque coastal villages, glowing orange sunsets and countless smiles with friends and family, and it’s an absolute dream come true.
A week to remember
For Suzanne, it was more than just a holiday – it was a week of freedom, new experiences and moments that will stay with her long after stepping ashore. If you’re looking to do something a little different, gather your crew and experience it for yourself. The Ionian is ready when you are.
