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Catamaran Charter Corfu
Costa del Sol, Spain

Catamaran Charter Corfu

You want a catamaran charter in Corfu, but you are not sure where to start. The good news is that Corfu is one of the best places in the Ionian Sea for a catamaran trip, with flat waters, reliable winds, and dozens of secluded coves. The bad news is that sorting through the options can be a pain. That is where BoatHire24 comes in. We list catamarans from private owners and local charter companies, all with a licensed skipper included, so you can just turn up and enjoy the day.

Whether you want a half-day cruise along the coast, a full-day island hop to Paxos and Antipaxos, or a week-long liveaboard adventure, we have the boat for you. Departure ports include Corfu Town, Gouvia Marina, and Kassiopi. Prices start from around EUR 800 for a half-day on a 40-foot catamaran for up to 8 guests. You can browse our full inventory on the BoatHire24 homepage and filter by size, duration, and price.

What Is Included in a Catamaran Charter Corfu

Every catamaran charter listed on BoatHire24 includes a professional skipper who knows the local waters. That means you do not need a boating licence or any previous experience. The skipper handles navigation, safety, and mooring, so you can focus on swimming, sunbathing, and eating. Fuel costs are usually extra and are charged at the end of the trip based on hours used. Some charters also include a hostess or a chef for an additional fee. Standard inclusions are life jackets, snorkelling gear, a cooler with ice, and a Bluetooth speaker. You should confirm the exact inclusions with the owner before booking.

Why Corfu Is Perfect for a Catamaran Trip

Corfu sits in the northern Ionian Sea, where the water is calm and the coastline is rugged. The island has a mix of sandy beaches, pebble coves, and dramatic cliffs. The prevailing wind is the northwesterly Maistro, which is gentle in summer, rarely exceeding 15 knots. That makes catamaran sailing comfortable even for guests who get seasick. You can anchor at Paleokastritsa, swim in the Blue Lagoon, or visit the tiny island of Vido. The water temperature in July and August is around 26 degrees C, so you can stay in for hours.

Departure Ports for Catamaran Charter Corfu

Most catamarans depart from Corfu Town, specifically the old port or the new marina. Gouvia Marina is the largest and best equipped, with parking, restaurants, and a supermarket. Kassiopi, in the northeast, is a good option if you want to sail towards Albania or the Diapontia Islands. Some smaller boats can also be chartered from Benitses or Petriti on the south coast. Each port has its own advantages. Corfu Town gives you quick access to the west coast beaches. Kassiopi is closer to the mainland and the islands of Othonoi and Erikoussa.

Types of Catamarans Available

You can find catamarans from 36 to 50 feet on BoatHire24. The most common are the Lagoon 42, the Bali 4.2, and the Fountaine Pajot Saba 50. These boats have 4 to 6 cabins and can sleep 8 to 12 guests, though day charters usually limit the number to 10 or 12 due to safety regulations. If you want something smaller, there are 38-foot catamarans with 3 cabins. For a premium experience, look for a newer model with a flybridge, a bowsprit net, and a hydraulic swim platform. Every listing includes photos, a layout diagram, and a list of onboard equipment.

Pricing Guidance for Catamaran Charter Corfu

Prices vary depending on the boat size, age, season, and duration. A half-day charter (4 to 5 hours) on a 40-foot catamaran starts from around EUR 800 in low season and goes up to EUR 1,200 in August. A full day (8 hours) costs between EUR 1,200 and EUR 2,000. Weekly charters for a liveaboard experience start from around EUR 4,000 in June and can reach EUR 8,000 in August. All prices include the skipper. Fuel is extra and typically costs EUR 100 to EUR 200 per day. You should also budget for a tip for the skipper, usually 10% to 15% of the charter fee. For exact prices, use the search page and filter by your dates.

Best Time to Book a Catamaran Charter Corfu

The season runs from April to October. May and June are the best months for sailing because the weather is warm but not too hot, and the wind is steady. July and August are peak season, with higher prices and more crowded anchorages. September is also excellent, with water temperatures still around 24 degrees C and fewer tourists. October can be windy, but it is still possible for a day trip if you are flexible. If you want to book a specific boat for August, do it at least 2 months in advance. For May or September, 2 to 4 weeks ahead is usually enough.

Popular Itineraries for a Corfu Catamaran Charter

Most day charters head south to the beaches of Agios Gordios, Glyfada, and Myrtiotissa. A full-day trip can reach the famous Blue Lagoon on the east coast near the Albanian border, where the water is shallow and turquoise. Another popular route is to the west coast caves near Paleokastritsa. For a longer trip, you can sail to the island of Paxos and Antipaxos, which is about 2 hours from Corfu Town. There you will find the Voutoumi beach and the blue caves. Some charters also offer a sunset cruise with dinner included. You can read more about these itineraries on our blog.

Who Should Book a Catamaran Charter Corfu

Catamaran charters are ideal for families with children, because the boat is stable and has plenty of deck space. They are also great for groups of friends who want to party without the risk of seasickness. Couples looking for a romantic sunset sail will appreciate the comfort and privacy. If you are a solo traveller, you can join a shared catamaran day trip, which is cheaper and a good way to meet people. Corporate groups often book catamarans for team-building events or client entertainment. The skipper can organise a barbecue on board or arrange a stop at a beachside taverna.

How to Book a Catamaran Charter Corfu on BoatHire24

Booking is straightforward. Go to the BoatHire24 website, enter your destination as Corfu, and select your dates. You will see a list of available catamarans with prices, photos, and skipper profiles. Click on a listing to see the full details, including cancellation policy, what to bring, and the exact meeting point. Once you choose a boat, you can send an inquiry or book directly if the calendar shows instant booking. You pay a deposit of 30% to 50% online, and the balance is due on the day of the charter. The skipper will meet you at the port 15 minutes before departure.

What to Bring on a Catamaran Charter Corfu

Pack sunscreen, a hat, sunglasses, a swimsuit, and a towel. The sun in Corfu is strong, even in spring. Bring a light jacket or a windbreaker for the afternoon breeze. If you plan to eat on board, you can bring your own food and drinks, or ask the owner if they provide a catering service. Most catamarans have a fridge and a gas stove. Alcoholic drinks are allowed, but the skipper will limit consumption if it becomes unsafe. Do not forget a camera or a phone with a waterproof case. The views of the Corfu coastline from the sea are spectacular.

Safety on Catamaran Charter Corfu

All catamarans on BoatHire24 are fully insured and comply with Greek maritime regulations. The skipper holds a valid license and has passed a safety briefing. Life jackets are provided for all guests, and there is a liferaft on board. The skipper will give a short safety talk before departure. You should listen carefully and ask questions if something is unclear. In case of bad weather, the skipper has the authority to cancel or modify the itinerary. Your deposit will be refunded if the cancellation is due to unsafe conditions. We recommend travel insurance that covers trip cancellation.

Local Highlights Near Corfu

Corfu Town is a UNESCO World Heritage site with Venetian architecture, narrow streets, and a lively square called Spianada. The old fortress and the new fortress offer panoramic views. If you have time before or after your charter, visit the Achilleion Palace, built for Empress Elisabeth of Austria. The nearby island of Vido has a small beach and a cafe. For a taste of local food, try pastitsada, sofrito, and bourdeto. The local wine is mostly white and pairs well with seafood. You can find tavernas in the old town and along the waterfront in Gouvia.

Frequently Asked Questions

Comparing Corfu Catamarans with Other Boat Types

If you are deciding between a catamaran and a monohull sailing yacht, the main difference is stability. A catamaran has two hulls, so it does not heel over when sailing. That means you can walk around, pour a drink, and use the toilet without holding on. Monohulls are cheaper to charter, but they lean and can make some guests uncomfortable. A motor yacht is faster but burns more fuel and has less deck space. For a day trip with a group of 8 to 12 people, a catamaran is the best compromise of space, comfort, and cost. You can filter by boat type on the search page to compare options side by side.

How to Choose the Right Catamaran Size for Your Group

The number of guests determines the minimum size you need. For a group of 6 to 8 people, a 38 to 40 foot catamaran is fine. For 10 to 12 guests, go for 44 feet or larger. The extra length gives you more deck space, a bigger trampoline at the front, and a more comfortable saloon. If you want to eat lunch on board, check that the cockpit table seats everyone. Some catamarans have an outdoor grill or a wet bar, which is useful for longer trips. The skipper will usually stay in the forward cabin or the saloon, so do not count that cabin for guests. Ask the owner about the exact sleeping configuration if you plan an overnight charter.

What to Expect from the Skipper on a Corfu Catamaran Charter

The skipper is a local professional who knows the Corfu coastline well. They will navigate, handle the sails, anchor, and dock. They will also point out landmarks, recommend swimming spots, and suggest tavernas for lunch. Most skippers speak English and Greek. They are not tour guides, but they will share their knowledge if you ask. You can request a specific route or activity, but the skipper has the final say on safety. If you want a more relaxed experience, let the skipper choose the itinerary based on the wind and weather. Some skippers are also qualified to teach basic sailing skills if you ask in advance.

How the Weather Affects Your Catamaran Charter in Corfu

The Ionian Sea is generally calm in summer, but conditions can change. The Maistro wind usually picks up in the afternoon, reaching 10 to 15 knots. That is perfect for sailing, but it can create a short chop in exposed areas. The west coast of Corfu is more exposed to the open sea, so the water can be rougher there. The east coast and the channel to Albania are usually flat. If the forecast shows strong winds above 25 knots, the skipper may cancel or change the itinerary. In July and August, the risk of thunderstorms is low, but isolated storms can occur. Always check the forecast a day before your charter and stay flexible.

Hidden Costs to Budget for on a Corfu Catamaran Charter

Besides fuel, there are a few extra costs you should plan for. Some ports charge a mooring fee if you stop at a town quay or a marina. In Corfu Town, the marina fee for a catamaran is around EUR 20 to EUR 40 per night. If you take a taxi from your hotel to the port, that is another EUR 20 to EUR 40 depending on the distance. Food and drinks you bring on board are your responsibility. If you want a catered lunch, some owners offer a menu with prices starting from EUR 25 per person. A tip for the skipper is customary, usually 10% to 15% of the charter fee. You can give it in cash at the end of the trip. For a full-day charter, budget an extra EUR 200 to EUR 300 for all incidentals.

How to Combine a Catamaran Charter with a Corfu Land Holiday

Many visitors spend a week in Corfu and book a catamaran for one or two days. That works well because you can explore the coast from the water and still have time for beaches, museums, and restaurants on land. You can base yourself in Corfu Town for easy access to the port, or stay in a resort like Gouvia or Dassia, which are close to the marina. If you are staying in the south, consider a charter from Benitses or Petriti to save travel time. A half-day charter is a good introduction if you are unsure about spending a full day on the water. You can also combine a catamaran trip with a visit to the Achilleion Palace or a wine tasting in the countryside.

What to Do If You Have Never Been on a Catamaran Before

If you are a first timer, a catamaran is a good choice because it is stable and easy to move around. You do not need any sailing skills. The skipper will handle everything. You should arrive at the port with a positive attitude and a willingness to follow safety instructions. If you feel seasick, take a motion sickness tablet an hour before departure. Ginger tea or wristbands can also help. Do not wear high heels or shoes with dark soles, as they can mark the deck. Barefoot or with non marking white soles is standard. The skipper will show you how to use the toilet on board, which is called the head. It works differently from a land toilet, so listen to the briefing.

How to Find the Best Deals on Catamaran Charter Corfu

The cheapest rates are in May and September, when demand is lower. You can find half day charters for around EUR 700 in May. Booking midweek, Tuesday to Thursday, is often cheaper than weekends. Last minute deals are rare in August, but you might find a discount if a boat is still available a week before. On the BoatHire24 platform, you can compare prices across multiple owners. Look for listings that include fuel in the price, as that can save you EUR 100 to EUR 200. Some owners offer a discount for repeat customers or for booking two days in a row. Always read the cancellation policy before paying a deposit.

What to Do on a Rainy Day in Corfu Instead of a Catamaran Charter

If the weather turns bad and your charter is cancelled, you still have plenty of options. Visit the Corfu Aquarium in the old town. Explore the Mon Repos estate, where the gardens are free to walk through. Go to the Archaeological Museum to see artefacts from the ancient city of Corfu. Drive to the top of Mount Pantokrator for views over the island, even in cloudy weather. Spend an afternoon in the Liston arcade, drinking coffee and watching people. If the rain is light, you can still walk through the old town streets and visit the churches. The weather in Corfu changes quickly, so do not cancel your whole trip based on a morning shower.

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Frequently asked questions

Do I need a boating licence for a catamaran charter in Corfu?

No. Every catamaran charter on BoatHire24 includes a licensed skipper who handles all navigation and safety. You just relax and enjoy the trip.

How many people can fit on a catamaran charter in Corfu?

Most catamarans can take 8 to 12 guests for a day charter. The maximum is usually 12 due to safety regulations. Larger groups can book a bigger catamaran or two boats.

What is the cancellation policy for a catamaran charter in Corfu?

Cancellation policies vary by owner. Typically, you get a full refund if you cancel 7 days before the charter. For weather-related cancellations by the skipper, you get a full refund.

Can I bring my own food and drinks on a catamaran charter in Corfu?

Yes, you can bring your own food and drinks. Most catamarans have a fridge and a cooler. Some owners offer catering or a BBQ on board for an extra fee.

How long is a typical catamaran charter in Corfu?

Half-day charters are 4 to 5 hours, usually in the morning or afternoon. Full-day charters are 8 hours. Weekly charters are also available for liveaboard trips.

What is the best time of year for a catamaran charter in Corfu?

May, June, and September are the best months. The weather is warm, the water is calm, and there are fewer tourists. July and August are peak season with higher prices.

Can I book a catamaran charter in Corfu for a wedding or special event?

Yes, many owners can arrange a special event charter with decorations, catering, and music. Contact the owner directly through BoatHire24 to discuss your requirements.

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