Why Is Sailing in Corfu a Must for Every Traveler?

Corfu is not just another Greek island — it's one of the most popular holiday destinations in the Mediterranean, and for very good reason. But what most visitors don't realize until they arrive: everything that's beautiful on land becomes absolutely breathtaking when seen from the water. Sailing in Corfu isn't a luxury — it's simply the right way to experience this island.

What Makes Corfu's Waters So Special?

The waters surrounding Corfu offer a rare combination: the Ionian Sea to the west brings gentle swells and deep blue-violet waters, while to the east — the Corfu Strait (between the island and the Albanian mainland) — you'll find calm, flat, and remarkably clear water. Summer temperatures reach 25–27°C (77–81°F), underwater visibility can exceed 20 meters, and a large portion of the coastline is inaccessible by car — only reachable by boat.

Corfu is also one of the few islands in the region where sailing is safe even for those with no nautical experience, thanks to relatively stable sea conditions during the summer months. This makes sailing in Corfu one of the most accessible activities available there.

What Are You Missing If You Stay on Land?

Let's be honest: if you visited Corfu and never went out to sea — you've seen about 40% of the island. The most beautiful beaches, the quietest coves, the sea caves with water colors that look straight out of a social media feed — all of them are only accessible from the water. The stunning coastline of Paleokastritsa, Mouse Island from just the right angle, the small fishing villages — none of these look quite the way they should from the shore.

Types of Sailing in Corfu — Which One Is Right for You?

Before you book, it's worth understanding that there's a significant difference between the types of tours available. Not every Corfu boat tour is the same, and the right choice will greatly impact your experience.

Private Sailing in Corfu — An Uncompromising Experience

Private sailing in Corfu lets you decide everything: you choose when to depart, where to go, how long to stop at each spot, and what to eat. It's perfect for couples seeking privacy, families with children who need flexibility, or groups of friends who want a unique experience without being swept along with other tourists.

On a private boat — typically a catamaran, motorboat, or small yacht — you'll have an experienced captain (often Hebrew-speaking), snorkeling gear, and sometimes a light meal included. The private tour to Paleokastritsa is an excellent example of this kind of experience — a route that combines viewpoints, blue coves, and swimming stops with no waiting around for anyone.

Group Sailing — Fun and Great Value

Group sailing in Corfu is the most popular option among solo travelers, young couples, and small groups looking for a social experience. The price is much more accessible, the route is set in advance and always includes the most spectacular highlights, and there's a fun energy that comes from being on the water with people from all over the world.

Good to know: group tours typically include 15–25 people, depart at a fixed time, and finish at a fixed time. If you have very young children or need a high degree of flexibility — a private sailing tour will be a better fit.

Food and Wine Sailing Tour — Sea Meets Cuisine

One of the least well-known yet most beloved experiences among travelers returning from Corfu — a Corfu sailing tour that combines traditional Greek culinary tastings. Stop for a moment and picture it: you're sitting on the deck of a boat, surrounded by turquoise water, with a plate of fresh octopus, warm pita, and cold ouzo in front of you. That's exactly what the tastings + boat tour offers — a blend of sea, food, and authentic Greek culture.

The Best Places to Anchor Along the Way

Mouse Island — Corfu's Most Iconic Landmark

You can't do a boat trip in Corfu without stopping at Mouse Island (Pontikonisi, which means "little island" in Greek). This tiny island, located just off Kanoni and only about a 5-minute sail away, is arguably Corfu's most photographed view — a densely wooded green island topped by a small white 13th-century Byzantine church, the Pantokrator.

What's less well known: according to one tradition, this island is said to be Odysseus's ship turned to stone — a mythological reference that ties it directly to the Homeric epics. The tour to Mouse Island includes a brief stop that lets you step ashore, take photos, and soak in the magic of the place up close.

Paleokastritsa — Blue Coves and a Clifftop Monastery

If there's one place in Corfu that belongs on every sailing itinerary — it's Paleokastritsa. This small village on the island's western coast is famous for its six stunning blue-toned coves, natural sea caves carved into the rock, and an Orthodox monastery perched dramatically above the sea on a clifftop.

From the water — it looks as though you've opened a storybook. Underwater visibility at Paleokastritsa is among the best in Corfu, and snorkeling in the area reveals a seabed of green algae, colorful fish, and white limestone formations. The best way to get there? Via the private tour to Paleokastritsa by sea — because you'll never see it quite like this from a car.

Hidden Beaches Only a Boat Can Reach

Corfu holds dozens of "secret beaches" that don't appear on any official map — small coves sheltered on all sides by white limestone cliffs, with completely transparent water and total silence. Some are found along the northwest coast, near Arillas and Agios Stefanos, and others are near Erikoussa — a tiny island about 9 km from Corfu with fewer than 500 residents.

These are the spots that travelers returning to Corfu for their second and third visit go looking for — and only private sailing in Corfu can ensure you get there at the right time, before the water fills up with other boats.

How Much Does Sailing in Corfu Cost, and What's Included?

What's the Price Difference Between Private and Group Sailing?

Type of Sailing	Approximate Price Per Person	What's Typically Included
Group sailing	€40–65	Fixed route, guide, snorkeling gear
Small private boat (up to 6)	€200–350 per boat	Full flexibility, sometimes includes food
Private yacht / catamaran	€400–700+ per boat	Full service, meals, drinks
Tastings + sailing tour	€55–80	Food, drinks, beach stops

Prices may vary by season — in July and August, high demand pushes prices up by roughly 15–25%. For a deeper look at costs, check out the complete guide to boat rental prices in Corfu.

What Should You Make Sure Is Included Before Booking?

Before confirming a booking, make sure you have a clear answer to the following questions:

Snorkeling gear — Is it included? It saves you a separate rental fee.
Food and drinks — Are they provided? What exactly? There's a big difference between "water" and "full lunch."
Sun protection and towels — Not always included; worth checking in advance.
Hebrew-speaking guide — Not a given, but Click in Corfu makes sure of it.
Insurance and minimum age — Especially important if you have young children in the group.
Cancellation policy — In Corfu, cancellations due to weather do happen. What's the refund policy?

Practical Tips Before You Head Out to Sea in Corfu

What to Bring on the Boat

The essential packing list for any Corfu sailing tour:

✅ Sunscreen SPF 50+ — The sun on the water is twice as intense due to reflection off the sea
✅ Sunglasses and, if you have one, a wide-brimmed hat
✅ Water shoes — For stepping onto rocky beaches or entering a cove
✅ A spare swimsuit — Because the first one won't dry in time
✅ Light snacks — If the tour is long and no meal is included
✅ Credit card + cash — Some smaller beach vendors only accept cash
✅ Motion sickness medication — If you're prone to seasickness, it's worth taking in advance
✅ Waterproof camera or a waterproof phone case

When Is the Best Time to Go Sailing in Corfu?

Corfu's official sailing season runs from April through October, but the ideal window is June and September. The reason: the water is already warm (24–26°C / 75–79°F), the weather is stable, and the crowds are noticeably thinner than in July and August. Prices are also typically 10–20% lower.

One important note: Corfu sees a well-known afternoon wind that picks up around 2:00–3:00 PM on the western side of the island. For this reason, it's strongly recommended to head out in the morning — between 9:00 and 10:00 AM — and return in the afternoon, once the wind eases off toward evening.

Will Children and Non-Sea-Lovers Enjoy It?

The short answer: yes, if you choose wisely. Corfu is known for relatively calm waters on the eastern side, and most tours pass through sheltered channels. Children aged 4–5 and up generally have a fantastic time, especially when there's a stop for swimming in shallow water.

For those prone to seasickness — it's worth asking in advance about expected sea conditions on your specific day, and opting for tours that travel primarily through the calmer inner part of the Corfu Strait.

Sailing in Corfu With Kids vs. Couples — The Differences

Romantic Sailing for Couples — What's Recommended?

Private sailing in Corfu is without question the right choice for couples. The reason: it's just the two of you (plus the captain, of course), you set the pace, you can anchor in a hidden cove and spend an hour there completely undisturbed, and on certain tours — there's a light sunset dinner with chilled Greek white wine included.

The definition of "romantic" in Corfu: watching the sunset from the deck of a yacht facing Paleokastritsa, with a plate of octopus and a cold glass of vin santo. It happens here, and it doesn't cost as much as you might think.

Sailing With Kids — What You Need to Know

For families, the following points are essential:

Choose a tour that includes a stop at a sandy or shallow beach — not just rocky shores
Make sure life jackets are available for children — a legal requirement in Corfu
Check the tour duration — 3–4 hours is ideal for kids; 6+ hours can become exhausting
Bring snacks, water toys, and a small game — kids don't always find scenery alone entertaining
A guaranteed crowd-pleaser: children almost always love snorkeling and spotting fish underwater — it's an activity that keeps them engaged and happy throughout the trip

How to Book a Sailing Tour in Corfu Through Click in Corfu

Click in Corfu is the leading Israeli tour company in Corfu, specializing in sea experiences tailored for Israeli travelers — in Hebrew, with a genuine understanding of what Israeli visitors are looking for.

We offer:

Private sailing tours — for couples, families, and groups of up to 12 people
Group sailing tours — for solo travelers and couples looking for a social experience
Tastings + sailing tours — for lovers of Mediterranean cuisine
Sailing to selected destinations — Mouse Island, Paleokastritsa, hidden beaches
Hebrew-speaking accompaniment on all private tours

The booking process is simple:

Choose the type of tour that suits you
Select a date and time
Complete your booking online — and receive confirmation within 24 hours
Before the tour — we'll send you all the details, the meeting point, and recommended gear

For more inspiration, read the complete guide to boats for a day trip in Corfu — it helps you figure out exactly which type of boat suits the kind of tour you have in mind.

Frequently Asked Questions

How much does sailing in Corfu cost per person?

The price of sailing in Corfu varies depending on the type of tour. A group sailing tour can start from around €40–65 per person, while a private sailing tour may cost €200–350 for the entire boat (not per person). It's recommended to compare what's included in the price: snorkeling gear, food, drinks, and a Hebrew-speaking guide. Prices rise in July and August, so booking early can save you money.

What is Mouse Island in Corfu and how do you get there?

Mouse Island (Pontikonisi) is a small, highly photographed island located just off Corfu Town, home to a 13th-century Byzantine monastery. You can reach it by small boat from the port of Kanoni — the journey takes just about 5 minutes. It's one of the most popular stops on Corfu sailing tours, combining stunning photography opportunities with rich Byzantine history.

Is sailing in Corfu suitable for children?

Absolutely. Corfu is known for its relatively calm waters and sheltered coves that make sailing comfortable even with children on board. It's best to choose a tour that includes a stop at a beach for swimming, and to confirm that children's life jackets are available — a legal requirement in Greece. Children aged 4 and up generally love it, especially the snorkeling and fish-spotting.

What's the difference between private and group sailing in Corfu?

Private sailing in Corfu lets you set the route, pace, and timing entirely according to your preferences — ideal for couples, families, and groups of friends. Group sailing is a more budget-friendly option that joins you with other tourists on a pre-set itinerary. Both can be excellent experiences — the difference comes down to how much flexibility and privacy you want.

What is the best time to go sailing in Corfu?

Peak sailing season in Corfu runs from May through September, with June through August offering stable weather and warm water. June and September are particularly recommended — less crowded, more affordable, and still pleasantly warm. It's best to set out early in the morning (9:00–10:00 AM) to avoid the afternoon wind that typically builds up along the western side of the island.

Can you combine sailing with food and wine in Corfu?

Yes! There are sailing tours in Corfu that incorporate traditional Greek culinary tastings alongside the sea experience — sipping ouzo, enjoying fresh seafood, and stopping in fishing villages. The tastings + sailing tour by Click in Corfu is one of the most popular experiences among travelers who want to connect the food with the scenery — rather than simply hopping from one beach to the next.

Corfu is waiting for you from the sea — and it's a perspective that no photograph can truly prepare you for. Whether you're a couple looking for a quiet moment on a private deck, a family with kids seeking a gentle and safe adventure, or a group of friends ready to make the most unforgettable day of your trip — sailing in Corfu is the safest bet there is.

Browse all our sailing tours ► and choose the experience that's just right for you. Booking is easy, your guides speak Hebrew, and the sea? It's already waiting.

Sailing in Corfu — The Most Recommended Sea Experience for Travelers