The Ionian has a deserved reputation as one of the finest sailing grounds in Europe, and the Paxos channel delivers it in concentrated form. The Maistros breeze builds from the north-west most summer mornings, delivering 12 to 18 knots of clean air across open water between Corfu and Paxos. The 12-kilometre passage from Gaios to Antipaxos is short enough for an afternoon sail and rewarding enough to sail twice.
The sailing yachts chartered from this area include crewed ketches, performance sloops and large Perini Navi-type sailing vessels with engine power to cover ground when the wind drops. Most carry eight to twelve guests across four or five cabins, and the professional crew of captain and hostess handles the boat completely. Guests can take the helm, trim sails or simply sit on the bow and watch the water change colour as the depth reduces approaching Antipaxos.
Weekly charter rates for sailing yachts in the Paxos region start from around 30,000 euros and reach 200,000 euros for the larger and more prestigious vessels. The advance provisioning allowance of approximately 30 percent covers fuel for motoring, food, berthing and drinks. Sailing yachts use considerably less fuel than motor yachts in the same area, which keeps the overall cost of the week more predictable.
The passage through the Antipaxos channel from the south, coming up from Lefkada, is one of the quieter approaches and often delivers the best breeze. Voutoumi beach rewards a long morning sail with lunch at anchor in water that is genuinely transparent to eight metres. The anchorage on the eastern side of Antipaxos, behind the headland, holds well and stays calm in the afternoon.
