Lefkada, with its dramatic cliffs, crystal-clear waters, and nearby small islands, is a sailing paradise. The northeastern winds and calm bays make it perfect for exploring by boat. We especially love the full-day sailing cruise from Nydri, which combines snorkeling, swimming, regional food, and scenic stops — a well-rounded taste of Lefkada’s maritime charm. If you’re after a more personalized experience, the Day Sailing Trips from Nidri offer tailored adventures for small groups. For those who want to spend a week island-hopping, the 7-Day Island Hopping Sailing Boat Cruise provides a comprehensive taste of the Ionian’s most beautiful spots. And for the thrill-seekers, the Lefkada to Lefkada 7 Day Scuba Diving Sailing Tour promises reef, cave, and wreck diving in perfect blue waters. Finally, the Yoga Sailing tour combines relaxation, wellness, and island hopping for a restful yet active experience.
Below, you’ll find detailed descriptions of each of these top Lefkada sailing experiences, helping you choose the right one for your style and interests.
1. Nydri: Full-Day Sailing Cruise with Swim Stops & Meal
At number 1 on our list, this full-day sailing cruise from Nydri offers a classic Lefkada experience perfect for those who want a balanced mix of relaxation and adventure. The tour lasts about 8 hours and includes stops at secluded bays and small islands, where you can swim, snorkel, and soak up the sun. The boat crew prepares regional food onboard, giving you a taste of local flavors amid stunning scenery.
What makes this tour stand out is its well-planned itinerary, including visits to Skorpios for photos, a long stop at a hidden gem for lunch and marine life viewing, and a dolphin-watching cruise around Meganisi. The boat is comfortable, with opportunities for stand-up paddleboarding, and the scenic views along the coast are truly memorable. Reviewers praise the friendly host and delicious food, with one noting, “Very nice host and such a beautiful day and area. The food was delicious.”
This cruise is ideal for travelers seeking a full-day, all-in-one experience that combines swimming, scenic cruising, and regional cuisine. The price of $124 per person offers good value for the quality of the day’s activities.
Bottom Line: A great choice for those wanting a comprehensive, relaxed day with plenty of swimming, snorkeling, and regional food onboard.
2. Day Sailing Trips from Nidri
Sitting at the top of our list for personalized experiences, the Day Sailing Trips from Nidri are perfect if you prefer a flexible, private cruise. These trips, costing around $300 per person, are limited to your group of up to 7 people, making it feel like a bespoke journey. The itinerary is very much shaped by your preferences — whether you want to visit Porto Katsiki, Egremnoi, or explore hidden beaches and remote coves.
One of the tour’s key strengths is the ability to choose your own adventure. The boat captain has extensive knowledge of the area, offering tailored routes and insight into each stop. The boat is small enough to access intimate spots inaccessible to larger vessels, and the crew’s local expertise enhances the experience. Because the trip is customizable, it’s a fantastic option for families, couples, or groups with specific interests.
While it doesn’t include a set itinerary, the flexibility and private nature make it excellent for travelers who want control over their day. The main downside is the higher price, but many find the personalized service and exclusive access worth it.
Bottom Line: Best suited for travelers who want a personalized, private sailing experience with the freedom to pick their favorite spots.
3. From Lefkada: 7-Day Island Hopping Sailing Boat Cruise
If a week of exploring the Ionian Islands sounds like your perfect trip, this 7-day island-hopping cruise is hard to beat. Starting from Lefkada’s D-Marin Lefkas Marina, you’ll visit Kefalonia, Ithaca, Kalamos, Meganisi, and more. The route is designed to showcase the best coastal towns, beaches, and remote bays, with plenty of time for swimming, snorkeling, and relaxing.
What sets this tour apart is its immersive nature. You’ll spend days sailing, discovering new islands, and enjoying Greek hospitality onboard. The itinerary includes notable stops like Vathi and Spartachori, with optional excursions to local villages. The boat comes with a crew experienced in navigating the Ionian’s tricky currents and guiding you safely around the islands.
Most reviewers praise the professionalism and friendliness of the crew, and many mention the chance to unwind and disconnect. The price of around $1,694 per person is justified by a full week of adventure, with all accommodation, meals, and activities included.
Bottom Line: Ideal for travelers seeking a comprehensive, week-long escape filled with scenic sailing and island discoveries.
4. Lefkada to Lefkada: 7-Day Scuba Diving Sailing Tour
For those passionate about underwater exploration, this 7-day scuba diving sailing tour offers a chance to see the Ionian’s best reefs, caves, and wrecks. Starting from D-Marin Lefkas Marina, the itinerary includes dives at Kefalonia, Ithaca, Kastos, Kalamos, and Meganisi, combining the thrill of diving with relaxed sailing.
What makes this tour stand out is its curated destinations, based on the crew’s extensive experience diving and sailing in the region. The skippers are highly knowledgeable about the local waters, ensuring safe and exciting dives. The package includes all necessary gear, and the dives are suited for certified divers, though some trips may include introductory dives for beginners.
Reviewers note the professional guidance and the variety of dive sites, from coral reefs to wrecks, providing a well-rounded diving experience. The price of approximately $2,363 per person reflects the specialized nature of the tour, including diving, sailing, and accommodations.
Bottom Line: Perfect for experienced divers wanting a week of sailing and exploration beneath the waves.
5. Lefkada to Lefkada Yoga Sailing Ionian Island Hopping 7 Days
For a serene, wellness-focused escape, the Yoga Sailing tour offers seven days of gentle sailing combined with daily yoga sessions. Starting from Lefkada, this trip takes you through six Ionian islands, including Meganisi, Kefalonia, and Kastos, with ample time to relax on beaches or practice yoga onboard.
What makes this tour different is its emphasis on mindfulness and physical wellness intertwined with island exploration. The crew, experienced in both sailing and yoga instruction, guides you through daily practices designed to rejuvenate mind and body. The destinations are carefully curated for tranquility, and the itinerary balances sailing, yoga, and leisure time.
Reviewers mention the calming atmosphere and the chance to disconnect from daily stress. The combination of gentle sailing and wellness makes it suitable for travelers seeking relaxation rather than high-adventure activities. Priced similarly to the diving tour at around $2,363, it offers a holistic experience.
Bottom Line: Ideal for wellness-minded travelers wanting a peaceful, rejuvenating week of sailing and yoga.
How to Choose the Right Sailing Experience in Lefkada
When deciding which sailing trip suits you best, consider your interests, budget, and physical activity preferences. For those wanting a full-day exploration with swimming and regional food, the Nydri cruise is a fantastic option. If you prefer a fully private, customizable day, the Nidri private trips will give you tailored control over your itinerary.
For travelers interested in an extended adventure, the 7-day island-hopping cruise offers a comprehensive taste of the Ionian, while divers should consider the scuba diving tour for underwater exploration. Wellness seekers will find the Yoga Sailing tour perfect for a relaxing, health-focused week.
Always check availability and book early, especially in peak summer months, to secure your preferred dates. Think about how much time you want to dedicate to sailing versus other activities, and whether you seek adrenaline, tranquility, or a mix.
To sum it up, Lefkada offers a diverse range of sailing experiences to match almost any traveler’s dream. Whether you want a day of swimming and regional cuisine, a private customized trip, or a week of island hopping, the options are plentiful. For those seeking underwater adventures or wellness retreats, specialized tours are also available. With so many choices, now’s the time to start planning and book early — Lefkada’s boats fill quickly in summer, and you don’t want to miss out on your perfect sailing escape.
