If the shared day boats feel too busy, a private yacht cruise is the alternative. This product is a private cruise on a sailing yacht, run for your own group rather than a mixed boat, and it is one of the best-reviewed boat experiences from Corfu with several hundred reviews and a rating close to five stars. A private charter lets you set a gentler pace: you choose, within what the skipper recommends, how long to swim, where to anchor and when to turn back, and you can bring your own party without sharing deck space with strangers. The coastline of Corfu is well suited to this, with green headlands, small coves and clear water, and the yacht can reach quiet bays that larger boats skip. It is also the most expensive way to be on the water, because you are paying for the whole boat rather than a seat, so it works best for a group, a couple on a special occasion or a family that wants control over the day. As with all boat trips here, it is a warm-season product. In early November the weather is changeable and operators may not sail, so check availability.
How it works
You book the yacht for your group, meet the skipper at the marina or pier named on the tour details and sail along the coast for the length of the charter. Different departures and durations are offered, and the price is for the boat rather than per person, so the cost per head falls as the group grows. The route is shaped by wind and sea, and the skipper may change plans for safety, which is a good reason to book with some flexibility in your schedule.
What to expect
Sailing is quiet compared with motor boats, and much of the pleasure is the sound of the wind and water and the lack of engine noise when the sails are up. You swim from the boat, lie on deck and eat whatever is arranged under the terms on the tour details, so check what food and drink are included and whether you may bring your own.
Bring sun protection, a swimsuit, a towel and a light jacket, since a breeze on the water can feel cool even on a sunny day. People who suffer from seasickness should choose a calm day and consider medication in advance.
Making the most of it
Use a private cruise for an occasion, such as an anniversary, a birthday or a family day when you want the day on your own terms. Ask the skipper where the best swimming is on the day rather than fixing a destination in advance, and keep a flexible start time so that the weather decides the plan. In the shoulder months the trade-off is the chance of wind and cooler water, so most visitors will find a May to September sail more rewarding, and in November a land-based day in the old town or at a winery is usually the better choice.
Think carefully about the length of charter you choose. A half-day cruise is enough for one or two swim stops and a relaxed return, while a longer outing lets you reach farther bays and eat on board without watching the clock. Ask whether the skipper can customise the route, and whether bringing a picnic from a local deli is allowed, since a private boat is the one setting in which a long, slow lunch of local bread, cheese, olives and fruit feels exactly right.
What to expect
The experience
A private sailing yacht cruise for your own group along the Corfu coast, with a skipper, swimming stops and a relaxed pace.
Best time
Settled summer weather with calm seas; the shoulder months are weather-dependent.
How long
Varies by departure; the tour details lists the options.
Tips
The price is for the boat, so share it with a group, ask the skipper where the best swimming is on the day and keep your schedule flexible for the weather.
Quick picks
- Best for
- Couples, families and small groups who want a private day on the water.
- Families
- A private boat lets you set the pace for children, though young swimmers need supervision.
- Couples
- One of the most romantic ways to see the coast, ideal for an anniversary or a quiet day away.
- Pair with
- A relaxed dinner in the old town or a visit to Paleokastritsa on land.
- Time needed
- Half to full day, depending on the option.
Good questions
Is the yacht cruise private?+
Yes, the product is a private cruise for your own group, so you do not share the boat with other guests.
Is the price per person?+
Private charters are usually priced per boat, so the cost per person falls as your group grows. Check the tour details for the exact basis.
Does it run in November?+
It is a warm-season product and sailing depends on weather. Check availability on the tour details before relying on it.
What should I bring?+
Bring sun protection, swimwear, a towel and a light jacket, and check whether food and drink are included.
What if I get seasick?+
Choose a calm day and consider seasickness medication in advance; the skipper can adjust the route.
