Start
Salerno, Italy
Finish
Corfu, Greece
Total
~450nm
Difficulty
Intermediate
In this guide
Overview
This itinerary takes you from the baroque splendor of Naples via the Amalfi Coast, across the heel of Italy, through the Strait of Messina, and across the Ionian Sea to Corfu.
Day by day (summary)
1–3
Day 1–3 — Amalfi Coast
Depart Salerno, sail to Positano, Amalfi, anchor off Capri.
4–5
Day 4–5 — Calabria
Down the Italian toe — stop at Tropea, one of Italy's most beautiful cliff-top towns.
6
Day 6 — Strait of Messina
Time the tidal stream carefully, go through at slack water.
7–8
Day 7–8 — Crossing to Greece
Overnight or two-day passage across the Ionian Sea.
9–14
Day 9–14 — Greek Ionian
Explore Corfu, Paxos, Lefkada, and the southern Ionian at leisure.
Key passages
The Strait of Messina requires careful timing — tidal streams run at up to 3 knots. The Ionian crossing (60–80nm) is best made with a settled weather forecast; the Ionian Sea can produce short, steep seas in strong winds.
Frequently asked questions
Is this suitable for beginners?
This is an intermediate route due to the offshore crossing. Beginners should have 500+ miles of experience.
Can I do this as a one-way charter?
Yes — arrange to leave the boat in Corfu and fly home. Most operators allow one-way for a repositioning fee.
What is the best time of year?
May and June are ideal — the crossing is calmer before summer heat builds the Ionian's afternoon thermals.