AITO: The Association of Independent Tour Operators
Two Week Placement Flotillas

Two Week Placement Flotillas

Two Week Placement Flotillas Overview

During the winter, our yachts are 'winterised' in Gouvia Marina, Corfu, where they receive comprehensive maintenance and cosmetic attention. At the end of April all the yachts are sailed to their summer bases and these trips are known as ‘delivery’ or ‘shakedown’ cruises.

These are some of the most popular flotillas of the year! They only happen once or twice a year and because they are at the end of April and October they are some of our most affordable. This time of year also means the weather is less predictable than peak season, meaning good wind is more common. Fantastic for keen sailors!

These trips are a great way to sneak in some early or late summer sunshine. These flotillas are incredibly popular with our keener sailors who like a little bit more wind. It is slightly cooler than peak summer months and you do risk a day or two of unsettled weather but it is generally around 20-25°c. We'd say that's still pretty dreamy!

Typical Itinerary & Highlights

Day 1, Flotilla starts in Gouvia

Travelling from North to South you begin at Gouvia Marina on Corfu Island. Here you will be met by our crew who will show you to your boat. After a quick look round it is time to sit down and relax at one of the many tavernas on offer, with a cold beer and bite to eat.

Days 2 - 6, North Ionian Highlights

From Corfu you will wend your way south via the delightful villages of Lakka and Gaios on Paxos Island. A highlight of the trip is a lunchtime stop (or two) in Emerald Bay on Anti-Paxos Island.

You may also stop on the Greek mainland at either Plataria or Mourtos where the sunsets out over Paxos are excellent.

A mainland stop in the Greek Town of Parga should not be missed, with its long sandy beach, buzzing promenade and the unbeatable choice of evening entertainment. This is also the home to one of our Shore to Sail options, the Salvator Spa Hotel. As the flotilla heads south, you may be able to enjoy a glorious sunset in the small harbour of Ligia, or a night at anchor in Two Rock Bay.

Historic Vonitsa inside the Gulf of Amvrakia may also be included on this route.

Day 7, Through the Lefkas Canal

After going through the Lefkas Bridge, Lefkas town awaits with its marvellous Greek atmosphere. An evening cappuccino in the square is the perfect way to wind down after a long day. An alternative option to the town quay is an optional stay in Lefkas marina with impressive showers and a pool in which you can cool off (worth it if you don’t mind forking out – this is the only marina on the trip).

Days 8 - 13, South Ionian Highlights

In the South Ionian you will visit a few of our old favourites as well as quieter spots (which we love as they remind us of what flotillas used to be like 30 years ago)!

Kastos and Kalamos are two such places that make you feel as if you have stepped back in time. The quaint harbours, with just a couple of tavernas and crystal clear waters make the absence of modern amenities well worth it!

The larger islands of Kefalonia and Ithaka are also on the agenda – and the channel between the two islands offers terrific afternoon breezes for those seeking a little extra wind.

Days 14 - 15, Finishing in Sivota

Your final night stop will be at the charming village of Sivota which nestles in a sheltered natural inlet at the southern end of Lefkas Island (for Sunday to Sunday dates OR Agia Euphemia for Saturday to Saturday dates).

The lead crew will arrange a final night dinner where you can enjoy the company of your fellow sailors one final time before heading home!

We also run these delivery flotillas in reverse, at the end of the season, and they are just as popular!

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