Hire a boat in Kefalonia with or without a licence

Boat hire in Kefalonia with Click&Boat

Kefalonia is a lush and breathtakingly beautiful Greek island, located in the Ionian Sea. Like many other islands in Greece, Kefalonia is a top tourist destination with so much to see and do, especially since it is the biggest island in the Ionian archipelago. 

The island is famous for many things; fans of Greek mythology will know it as home to the legendary king Odysseus and cinephiles will recognise it as the setting for the blockbuster film “Captain Corelli’s Mandolin. But what Kefalonia is best known for is its stunning natural landscape which is decorated with quaint villages, mysterious caves and exotic greenery. 

With a boat hire in Kefalonia, you can sail the sparkling, azure waters and have the holiday of a lifetime.  If you're keen on expanding your maritime journey in the Ionian Sea, consider a yacht charter to Lefkada to explore another gem of the Greek islands.

What type of boat is best for a yacht charter in Kefalonia?

The best type of boat for hire in Kefalonia depends on your preferences, budget, and planned activities. Here is a quick overview of available boats in Kefalonia on Click&Boat:

How much does it cost for boat hire in Kefalonia?

If you’re considering a boat hire in Kefalonia you should know that the price will vary considerably based on a number of factors such as time of year and how many people will be sailing on board the vessel. The size and type of boat also affect the price, and the cost of a bareboat rental will differ from that of a skippered vessel. The average price of boat rental in Kefalonia is £450 per day. Below are some starting prices by vessel type:

• Sailboat: Prices start from £115 per day / £805 per week.
• Motorboat:  Prices start from £88 per day / £616 per week.
• RIB: Prices start from £176 per day / £1,232 per week.
• Boat without licence: Prices start from £75 per day / £525 per week.
• Catamaran: Prices start from £265 per day / £1,855 per week.
• Gulet: Prices start from £706 per day / £4,942 per week.
• Yacht: Prices start from £176 per day / £1,232 per week.

What is included in the cost?

When you hire a boat with Click&Boat, additional extras may vary depending on the boat and location, but typically include fuel and insurance. Some boat rentals may also include a skipper or crew to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience on the water. If you're interested in water sports, some boats may offer equipment like snorkelling gear, wakeboards, or water skis.

What season is the best to charter a yacht in Kefalonia?

The best time to embark on a Kefalonia yacht charter is from May to September as well as the month of November. It’s best to avoid October as there is a lot of rainfall, and sailing conditions can be unpredictable. 

For the hottest weather visit in August when air and water temperatures reach up to 28°C! However, the summer months are the high tourist season in Kefalonia which means more crowds and higher prices. 

If you don’t mind slightly cooler weather, visit in May or September when temperatures are still warm, but there are fewer people, and of course, lower prices on boat hires!

Hire a boat with or without a skipper?

Want to charter a yacht in Kefalonia but don't have a licence or permit? No problem! At Click&Boat there is a wide range of vessels to help you find exactly what you’re looking for.

Although there are some bareboat vessels for licensed customers and more experienced sailors, there are also skippered vessels for the average, unlicenced renter. 

Even if you have a licence, having a skipper on board can enhance your holiday experience. Skippers are nautical experts who handle all boating logistics so you can sit back, and relax. The best part about having a skipper on board is that together, you can create a personalised itinerary, and they can take you to all the best places on your list, and more. 

Skippers are usually locals who can bring you to hidden gems that you won’t find on travel websites and give you recommendations to help you make the most out of your time in Kefalonia. For the best boat hire experience, choose one with a skipper!

Where to hire a boat in Kefalonia?

There are various ports and marinas scattered around the island, including:

• Port of Argostoli: Approximately 7km from Kefalonia International Airport (EFL).
• Port of Lixouri: The distance from the airport is about 42km, considering you need to travel via the ferry from Argostoli to Lixouri​. 
• Marina of Fiskardo: Approximately 50km away from Kefalonia International Airport (EFL). 

Each port and marina has a different number of boats available for rent, so you can choose the one that suits your needs. They also offer a range of facilities including berthing and mooring, fuel stations, water and electricity supply, waste disposal, repair services, showers and toilets, proximity to shops and restaurants, and security services​.

Where to sail in on your yacht charter in Kefalonia?

Kefalonia is a beautiful island that offers stunning destinations for your yacht charter. 

One of the highlights is the hidden cove of Dafnoudi, a secluded beach accessible only by boat.
Another must-visit destination is the picturesque fishing village of Assos, with its colourful houses and traditional tavernas. 
For a unique experience, you can sail to the Melissani Cave, an underground lake with turquoise waters and dramatic lighting. 
And of course, you can't miss exploring the Ionian Islands, with their beautiful landscapes and charming villages.

Kefalonia 1 week sailing itinerary

Kefalonia (Fiskardo) → Lefkas (Sivota) - 13NM | 1H 45M
Sail to Sivota, enjoy a leisurely lunch at a waterfront taverna, and explore the quaint village streets and local shops.
Lefkas → Meganisi - 11NM | 1H 30M
Head to Meganisi, anchor at Porto Spilia, swim in the clear waters, and dine at a local seafood restaurant.
Meganisi → Kalamos - 11NM | 1H 30M
Cruise to Kalamos, hike up to the ancient ruins, and relax on the peaceful beaches.
Kalamos → Kastos - 4NM | 30M
Sail to Kastos, visit the charming church of Agios Ioannis, and enjoy fresh seafood at a beachside taverna.
Kastos → Ithaca (Vathi) - 17NM | 2H 30M
Navigate to Ithaca, explore the Homeric sites and local museums, and enjoy a sunset dinner by the harbour.
Ithaca (Vathi) → Kefalonia (Fiskardo) - 15NM | 2H 15M
Return to Fiskardo, snorkel in the nearby coves, and stroll through the picturesque village while sampling local delicacies.

For a more detailed view of this itinerary, visit the Click&Boat blog!