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The Greek Ionian islands have been for many years a popular destination with many holiday makers; this is partly due to the dry hot summers and mild Mediterranean climate but also for its picturesque islands, scenery and emerald green crystal waters.

The Greek Ionian is the most popular yachting destination on the Mediterranean; predictable weather patterns offer excellent and safe sailing conditions not only for professionals but amateurs alike. Ionian Sailing holidays have become extremely attractive to families, couples, groups and singles looking to find likeminded fellows to spend time with.

One of the best things about sailing holidays in the Ionian is that there are various holidays available, and you needn't be a seasoned sailor to be able to enjoy them. The various levels of charter available are Skippered, Assisted bareboat or bareboat charter.

Skippered sailing is purely for the non sailors out there who wish to just sit back, relax and unwind, skippers are able to provide tuition for those who wish to learn to sail but as it is your holiday obviously this option is not compulsory.

Assisted bareboat, this option allows for a crew of less experienced sailors to try their hand at Ionian sailing holidays without relying on a skipper. Assisted bareboat charters are usually a cross between a bareboat holiday and a flotilla holiday. This means that you will be part of a small group of yachts sailing around together, this can be the ultimate social holiday meeting lots of likeminded people to dine with or anchor with, ultimately a lead crew will be part of the flotilla for immediate help should you run into any difficulties, but in the main your holiday can remain as unobtrusive as you wish.

Finally bareboat charter, this sailing holiday is totally unassisted allowing you to cast off at the start of your holiday, finding your own way round the islands, many bareboat charters choose to wonder further afield stretching into northern Ionian, offering longer sailing passages, steady breezes and less crowded waters.

The Southern Ionian is perfect for the amateur sailing holiday, with many islands dotted around, you will never be too far from a sheltered harbour, somewhere to anchor and a local taverna, the south provides gentle breezes which will ease you round the beautiful islands of Lefkas, Cephalonia, Ithica, Meganissi and Kalamos.

Ionian sailing holidays aren't all about sitting on board a boat; they have become increasingly popular with families who enjoy meeting new people, visiting new places, exploring islands and finding landmarks, playing on the beach together and swimming, lots of swimming!

Choosing a skippered Ionian sailing holiday can provide a valuable in providing information regarding the islands and local history, providing tourist information which can be of interest if wanting to spend a day or two exploring.

Another attractive advantage of arranging a sailing holiday in the Ionian is the easy accessibility of the location, with direct flights from many of the UKs major airports, with a minimal taxi ride to your destination. Pick up from the airport can usually be arranged with your yacht charter company.

Yacht Charter season in the Ionian usually runs from early may to late October, allowing for the chill of winter to start lifting and for the waters to warm again. Although the sea still remains a little chilly until the end of June beginning of July. The season draws to a close at the end of October as the waters cool and the temperatures drop slightly preparing for the onset of the Mediterranean winter.

Anna Stenning investigates the attraction of Ionian sailing holidays for both the amateur and seasoned sailor and the various holidays on offer.