Boat Rental in Lefkada: Licence-Free Boats, Sailing & Catamarans
Lefkada is best seen from the water. The east coast looks onto a sheltered inland sea dotted with small islands – Meganisi, Skorpios, Madouri, Kalamos – so even first-timers can rent a small motorboat in Nidri and spend the day anchoring in empty coves. This guide covers licence-free boats, skippered boats, sailing yachts and catamarans: where to rent, roughly what it costs, and the routes we recommend to our guests.
Can you rent a boat without a licence in Lefkada?
Yes. In Greece you can rent a small motorboat without a boating licence, as long as the engine is within the legal limit for licence-free boats (currently up to 30 hp). These boats are usually 4.5–6 metres long, carry 4–7 people and are perfect for gentle coastal trips. The rental company gives you a short briefing, a map of the area and safety equipment before you leave.
A few simple rules apply:
- The person driving must be an adult and is responsible for the boat and passengers.
- You must stay within the area agreed with the rental company, usually the inland sea between Lefkada, Meganisi and Skorpios.
- You must return before sunset and avoid going out in strong wind.
- Life jackets must be on board for every passenger, including children.
If you have a licence, you can rent bigger and faster boats, or a RIB with a stronger engine.
Where to rent a boat in Lefkada
Nidri is the boat capital of the island. Most licence-free rentals leave from the Nidri waterfront, and the calm bay and nearby islands make it the easiest starting point for beginners.
Lefkada Town marina is the main base for sailing yachts and catamarans. Most week-long charters start and end here.
Vasiliki in the south is the place for trips to the dramatic west-coast beaches, including Porto Katsiki and Egremni, which are hard to reach by small boat from the east.
Sivota is a tiny, sheltered harbour on the south coast, popular with sailing flotillas and great for exploring quiet southern coves.
Which type of boat is right for you?
| Option | Licence needed | Crew | Best for |
| Licence-free motorboat | No | You drive | Couples and families, one-day trips around Meganisi and Skorpios |
| Speedboat or RIB | Yes | You drive, or with skipper | Faster trips, longer distances |
| Skippered motorboat | No (skipper drives) | Skipper | Groups who want to relax and be shown the best spots |
| Sailing yacht | Yes, or with skipper | Bareboat or skippered | Week-long sailing holidays in the Ionian |
| Catamaran | Yes, or with skipper | Bareboat or skippered | Families and groups who want space and stability |
Prices change with the season, the size of the boat and fuel. As a rough idea, a small licence-free boat for a day costs far less than a skippered yacht, and splitting a boat between two families is often cheaper than an organised tour. Ask us and we will send current prices from the partners we trust.
Four boat routes we love
1. Skorpios, Madouri and the Meganisi caves
The classic first day out from Nidri. Cruise past the private island of Skorpios (you can swim in its bays but not land), see Madouri, and continue to the sea caves on Meganisi, including the famous Papanikolis cave. Stop for lunch in Vathy or Spartochori on Meganisi.
2. Kalamos and Kastos
For more experienced skippers or a skippered trip. These two quiet islands east of Meganisi have very few visitors, clear water and simple tavernas by the harbour.
3. The southern coves around Sivota
From Sivota or Vasiliki, explore the little bays of the south coast: Mikros Gialos, Ammousa and Agiofili, some of which are much easier by boat than by road.
4. The west coast to Porto Katsiki
On a calm day, boats from Vasiliki run along the cliffs of Cape Lefkatas to Porto Katsiki and Egremni. Seeing these beaches from the sea is unforgettable, but this coast is exposed to wind, so it is best with an experienced skipper or a scheduled boat trip.
Practical tips for a day at sea
- Start early. The sea is calmest in the morning. On most summer days the wind rises in the afternoon, especially on the west coast.
- Check fuel. Ask whether fuel is included or charged on return.
- Bring water, snacks, hats, reef-safe sun cream, a towel for each person and a waterproof bag for phones.
- Anchoring: drop anchor on sand, not on seagrass, and keep a safe distance from swimmers.
- Respect Skorpios. The island is private; you may swim in the bays, but you cannot go ashore.
- Children must wear life jackets while the boat is moving.
Where to stay for boat trips
If boating is a big part of your holiday, stay on the east coast. Nidri puts you a short walk from the rental boats, while Nikiana and Perigiali are quieter and only a few minutes away by car. We can also organise your boat through our boat rental service.
FAQ
Do I need a licence to rent a boat in Lefkada?
No, not for small motorboats within the licence-free engine limit (currently up to 30 hp). For larger or faster boats you need a licence or a skipper.
How much does a boat rental cost per day?
It depends on the season, the boat size and fuel. Licence-free boats are the cheapest option; skippered yachts and catamarans cost more but can be shared by a group. Contact us for current prices.
Can I rent a sailing boat with a skipper?
Yes. Day trips and week-long charters with a skipper leave mainly from Lefkada Town marina and Nidri.
Is the sea calm on the east coast?
Usually, yes. The inland sea between Lefkada, Meganisi and Skorpios is sheltered, which is why it is ideal for beginners. Mornings are the calmest.
