The northern Ionian Sea is separated from the rest of Greek waters and the peculiarities of its climate are unique. The Meltemi, the strong northerly wind which prevails in the Aegean in late summer, is unknown here. On summer afternoons, instead, the Maestro blows (north-westerly), affecting the eastern shores in particular. It rarely exceeds 4 Beaufort, and in the evening the wind dies down. Corfu is famed for its mild climate (local sailors call their sea 'holy') and visitors - with or without yachts - can enjoy their holidays far from the climatic vagaries of the Aegean. Windsurfing enthusiasts should head for Kassiopi, Agios Georgios (Pagi) and Agios Georgios (Argyrades).Sailing fans should also head south, into the Paxos channel and even further south. The Diapontian Islands north of Corfu offer another alternative.

During the winter months, the prevailing winds blow from the south. Their strength often exceeds 8 Beaufort and they can last for days, but the island is very rarely cut off due to the comparatively short distance that separates it from the coast of Epirus. Yachtsmen will appreciate the characteristics of the south wind, which swells the sails slowly, allowing time to reach a safe anchorage.

 

To the northwest of Corfu are the Diapontian Islands , individually known as Mathraki, Othoni and Erikoussa. The first is surrounded by reefs and rocks and has very difficult access, and for that reason is the least-known. The other two islands, however, were always the first landfall for ships coming out of the Adriatic and thus enjoy a flow of traffic. The precipitous coastline here is particularly attractive to lovers of wild life and nature.

The coast from Sidari to the peninsula of Saint Spiridon, with its shallow seas and sandy beaches, is ideal for novice swimmers and beach games of rackets and frisbee.

The north-east coast is well-suited to sea trips as it offers easy access to the shore and has calm, warm waters. The picturesue port of Kassiopi is the destination of many one-day caique trips, and a stroll along the quayside will demonstrate the plethora of cruises which are on offer. In the 4th century BC Kassiopi was a Roman port, and its population worshipped the god Kassios Dias, Protector of the Seas. The coastline between Kassiopi and Barbati is deeply indented with many coves, perfect anchorages for all types of vessel. Agios Stefanos, Kouloura, Kalami and Agni are just a few of these spots.

The west coast of the island offers the most contrasts. The northern section, with its rocky, isolated headlands, is crowned by the cliffs of Palaiocastritsa, an ideal venue for scuba diving. Its small harbour offers a safe anchorage and a cosmopolitan atmosphere. Further south, the landscape softens, with boundless beaches of golden sand bordered by a sea tinted with blue and green. Strong swimmers wil enjoy body surfing at one of these beaches. For sailors, the area does not hold a great deal of interest, due to the lack of bays and the large number of reefs.

South of the town of Corfu, the coast is more uniform in nature, with shallow water which is excellent for swimming. Just before Kavos, Lefkimmi, the little fishing village of Petriti is considered a 'must' for a good meal of fresh fish.

The unique beauty of the coastline of Paxos is renowned throughout the Ionian, and the natural harbours of Lakka, Gaios and Mongonisi fill up with yachts during the summer months. The value of these anchorages is revealed when the Maestro blows and in the straits of Paxos the currents and waves strengthen. The western shore of the island is distinguished by impressive cliffs with sea-caves, some of them underwater, which, weather permitting, are well worth a visit.

Although Antipaxos does not have a safe anchorage, there is a constant stream of visitors to the gorgeous, many-hued beaches of its north-eastern shore.