Vathi, Ithaka
No Greek Island sailing holiday in the beautiful Ionian sea would be complete without a visit to Ithaca. A much smaller version of its neighbour, Kefalonia, Ithaca has been largely ignored by mass tourism. It is a peaceful Greek island that can only be reached by boat from Kefalonia. It has a population of about 3000 people and is approx. 37 square miles in size. Like Kefalonia it is mountainous, very narrow in the middle to the extent that it is almost two islands.
It’s main claim to fame is that is that it is believed to be the home of Homer’s mythological hero Odysseus. However, recent research favours Paliki, near Lixouri in Kefalonia.
The capital of Ithaca, Vathi is one of the world’s largest natural harbours, a horseshoe shaped bay surrounded by restaurants specialising in Greek Mediterranean cuisine, fish and seafood. Take time to relax and enjoy the special beauty of this outstanding bay.
Vathi offers plenty of mooring options for sailing yachts, although the wind strength and direction may dictate where you berth. Vathi means deep in Greek, so have enough scope prepared where necessary. Your Greek Islands Sailing pilot will offer more detailed information.
There are several restaurants in town offering mostly Greek style cuisine. Fresh fish seems available in abundance and you will enjoy your meal here. Sample the home made ice-cream for dessert from any of the cake-shops along the seafront.
The wind here can blow up to Force 6 during the summer, providing some excellent sailing along the east coast. Whether you are travelling north or south, be sure to leave enough time to sail to the many anchorages along this coastline, such as Akrotiri and Sarakiniko.
Latest News
Free Day Refresher May and October 2024
Save £150 with our fabulous free Day Refresher on all bareboat sailing holidays during May and October 2024. A relaxing, fun, yet informative day to ensure you get the best out of the boat and your holiday. A great opportunity to discuss your plans, the sailing area,...