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Ionian Island Hopping Odyssey with Haley: Zakynthos, Kefalonia & Lefkada

Sep 21, 2026 - Sep 28, 2026

Adventure Adventure

$3,286 USD

BOOK WITH $500 DEPOSIT

Ionian Island Hopping Odyssey with Haley: Zakynthos, Kefalonia & Lefkada

Sep 21, 2026 - Sep 28, 2026

$3,286  USD

BOOK WITH $500 DEPOSIT

Get ready for an unforgettable island-hopping adventure through the heart of the Ionian Sea, hosted by Haley Decatur. This journey weaves together some of Greece’s most breathtaking islands, from the dramatic cliffs and electric-blue waters of Zakynthos to the lush landscapes of Kefalonia and the striking coastlines of Lefkada. Expect a perfect balance of iconic sights, time on the water, and relaxed island moments that capture everything we love about Greek summer.

Designed to move at a thoughtful, enjoyable pace, the itinerary blends must-see experiences with plenty of space to slow down and soak it all in. Think boat days to famous coastlines, swimming in impossibly clear water, scenic ferries across the Ionian, charming villages, and immersive local experiences that go beyond simply ticking off highlights. Along the way, there’s time for free exploration, beach afternoons, and spontaneous moments that make group travel truly special.

With Haley hosting the group and experienced local partners guiding each destination, this trip is about connection as much as discovery. You’ll travel alongside like-minded people who share a love for the ocean, beautiful places, and meaningful experiences, all while enjoying the ease of having logistics taken care of. Come ready for sun-soaked days, shared meals, and an island adventure that feels both effortless and deeply memorable.

Trip Start: Zakynthos, Greece - Monday September 21st 2026

Trip Finish: Lefkada, Greece - Monday September 28th 2026

Trip Duration: 8 Days / 7 Nights

Accommodation: 7 Nights Hand-picked Hotels (Shared & Private Available)

Included Meals: Daily Breakfast, Lunch x 1 (Cooking Class), Dinner x 1

Group Size: Up to 15 Guests

Inclusions

Accommodation: 7 Nights Hand-picked Hotels (Shared & Private Available)

Included Meals: Daily Breakfast, Lunch x 1 (Cooking Class), Dinner x 1

Hosted Group Trip with Haley Decatur (@salty_gypsea)

Local Destination Representatives and Guides as per Itinerary

Zakynthos Check-in Assistance and Island Introduction

Hotel to Ferry Transfers During Trip

Welcome Dinner at a Local Beach Club in Zakynthos

Boat Cruise to the Blue Caves and Shipwreck Beach (Photo Stop Only)

Ferry Transfer from Zakynthos to Kefalonia

Panoramic Kefalonia Island Tour

Robola Winery Visit and Wine Tasting

Entrance to Drogarati Caves

Visit to Melissani Lake

Greek Cooking Class and Communal Dining Experience for Lunch

Ferry Transfer to Ithaca and Return

Boat Trip Around Ithaca with Swim Stop at Gidaki Beach

Ferry Transfer from Kefalonia to Lefkada

Guided Hike Through Dimosari Gorge to Rachi Waterfall

Departure Assistance on the Final Day

Exclusions

Arrival/Departure Flights

Arrival/Departure Transfers

Visa/Entry Requirements

Meals Not Mentioned in Inclusions

Personal Expenses incl Tips

Travel Insurance (Required)

Your Host

Haley Decatur

Hi there, I’m Haley! As a surfer, my travels have long revolved around tropical, wave-filled destinations, but lately I’ve felt called to slow down and experience bucket-list destinations in a deeper, more cultural way, outside of surfing.

That’s exactly why I created this 8-day, 7-night Greek island-hopping journey through the Ionian Sea. From crystal-clear beaches and scenic boat days to a hands-on cooking class, winery visit, sailing through dramatic coastlines, beach days, and a breathtaking trek through Dimosari Gorge to Rachi Waterfall, this trip is all about savoring Greece beyond the postcard moments.

I know how intimidating solo travel can feel, especially as a woman, so this experience is designed to bring you a trip of a lifetime… it was created to be effortless, supportive, and intentionally shared – from the landscapes to the moments in between.

This women-only group trip is about forming genuine friendships, sharing unforgettable once in a lifetime moments, and exploring some of Greece’s most beautiful islands together. I can’t wait to experience this adventure with you – it’s going to be pure magic 🤍

Itinerary

Day 1 Welcome to Zakynthos

Arrive on the sun-drenched Ionian island of Zakynthos, where your island-hopping adventure begins. Make your own way to the joining hotel, where a local representative will assist with check-in and provide an introduction to the island, helping you get your bearings and setting the tone for the days ahead.

The rest of the day is yours to ease into island life. Wander along the harborfront, soak up the atmosphere around Solomos Square, or simply relax after your travels. In the evening, gather with the group for a Welcome Dinner at a relaxed local beach club, the perfect chance to meet your fellow travellers and toast the start of the journey.

🏨 Accommodation

🍽️ Included Meals

  • Welcome Dinner

✅ Activities

  • Hotel Check-In Assistance
  • Island Introduction
  • Free Time in Zakynthos Town
  • Welcome Dinner at a Local Beach Club

Day 2 Discovering Zakynthos – Shipwreck & Blue Caves

Today is all about Zakynthos’ dramatic coastline. Travel to Porto Vromi Maries and set sail along the rugged western shores, where towering limestone cliffs plunge into electric-blue waters. The boat journey itself is a highlight, offering endless photo opportunities and a true sense of the island’s wild beauty.

You’ll stop for a refreshing swim at the famous Blue Caves, known for their glowing turquoise hues created by sunlight reflecting off the rock formations. The experience culminates with a boat approach to the iconic Navagio Beach for photos. While beach landings are currently restricted, the view from the water remains unforgettable and one of Greece’s most recognisable sights.

🏨 Accommodation

  • Hotel Strada Marina or similar

🍽️ Included Meals

  • Breakfast

✅ Activities

  • Scenic Boat Cruise Along the West Coast
  • Swimming at the Blue Caves
  • Photo Stop at Shipwreck Beach

Day 3 From Zakynthos to Kefalonia

An early start sees you transferred to Agios Nikolaos port to board the ferry bound for Kefalonia. The crossing across the Ionian Sea is a scenic one, offering sweeping views of open water and distant islands as you leave Zakynthos behind.

On arrival, a transfer takes you to your hotel on Kefalonia. The remainder of the day is free to explore at your own pace. You might choose to relax by the sea, wander nearby villages, or simply settle in and enjoy the island’s laid-back, green landscapes.

🏨 Accommodation

🍽️ Included Meals

  • Breakfast

✅ Activities

  • Ferry Crossing to Kefalonia
  • Hotel Transfer
  • Free Time on Kefalonia

Day 4 Kefalonia’s Best – Wine, Caves & Coast

Today showcases the diverse highlights of Kefalonia. Begin with a panoramic island tour, including a visit to a Robola winery for a tasting of the island’s signature wine. Continue on to the impressive Drogarati Caves, followed by the magical Melissani Lake, where sunlight illuminates the underground waters in shifting shades of blue.

After free time for lunch in the charming harbor village of Fiscardo, the journey continues to postcard-perfect Assos and a viewpoint overlooking the famous Myrtos Beach. The afternoon brings a deeper cultural experience at a rustic organic farm-restaurant, set among citrus groves and gardens. Here, you’ll take part in a hands-on cooking lesson using fresh local ingredients, finishing the day with a shared meal celebrating traditional Greek flavours.

🏨 Accommodation

  • Hotel Karavados Beach or similar

🍽️ Included Meals

  • Breakfast

  • Cooking Class Experience

✅ Activities

  • Robola Wine Tasting
  • Drogarati Caves Visit
  • Melissani Lake Visit
  • Free Time in Fiscardo
  • Assos Village Stop
  • Myrtos Beach Viewpoint
  • Greek Cooking Lesson and Communal Dining

Day 5 Day Trip to Ithaca – The Home of Odysseus

Rise early for a full-day island adventure as you transfer to Sami Port and board the ferry to Ithaca, the legendary homeland of Odysseus. After arriving at Piso Aetos, enjoy a scenic drive to the island’s capital, Vathi, where you’ll have free time to wander the waterfront and soak up the slower pace of life.

Later, board a local boat for a coastal exploration, including a swim stop at the secluded Gidaki Beach. The journey continues to the picturesque village of Kioni, followed by a final stop at Stavros before returning to Kefalonia by ferry. It’s a long but rewarding day, blending mythology, crystal-clear waters, and traditional island villages.

🏨 Accommodation

  • Hotel Karavados Beach or similar

🍽️ Included Meals

  • Breakfast

✅ Activities

  • Ferry to Ithaca
  • Scenic Drive to Vathi
  • Free Time in Vathi
  • Boat Trip Around Ithaca
  • Swimming at Gidaki Beach
  • Visits to Kioni and Stavros

Day 6 From Kefalonia to Lefkada

This morning, transfer to Sami Port and board the ferry to Lefkada, the Ionian island closest to the Greek mainland. Known for its striking landscapes and famous beaches, Lefkada offers a distinctly different feel from the islands you’ve visited so far.

After arriving, you’ll be transferred to your hotel. The rest of the day is free to begin discovering Lefkada at your own pace, whether that means a stroll through town, a relaxed seaside coffee, or simply unwinding after the journey.

🏨 Accommodation

🍽️ Included Meals

  • Breakfast

✅ Activities

  • Ferry Crossing to Lefkada
  • Hotel Transfer
  • Free Time in Lefkada

Day 7 Discover the Marvelous Lefkada Island

After breakfast, head inland for a refreshing morning hike that reveals a quieter side of Lefkada. The trail from Nydri through the scenic Dimosari Gorge leads you upward to the beautiful Rachi Waterfall, offering shaded paths, natural pools, and sweeping views along the way.

The afternoon is yours to enjoy however you wish. Return to Lefkada town for shopping and café hopping, or make your way to one of the island’s renowned beaches, such as Egremni, to spend your final full day swimming and relaxing by the sea.

🏨 Accommodation

  • Hotel Ianos or similar

🍽️ Included Meals

  • Breakfast

✅ Activities

  • Guided Hike Through Dimosari Gorge
  • Visit to Rachi Waterfall
  • Free Time in Lefkada Town or at the Beach

Day 8 Farewell Lefkada

Enjoy a leisurely final breakfast overlooking the island you’ve come to know over the past few days. With no scheduled activities, the morning offers a last chance to reflect on the journey, from turquoise coves and dramatic cliffs to charming villages and shared meals around the table.

As you receive departure assistance for your onward journey, say goodbye to the Ionian Islands with a camera full of memories and a deeper appreciation for the rhythm of Greek island life. While the itinerary comes to an end, the stories, connections, and moments from this adventure will travel home with you.

🍽️ Included Meals

  • Breakfast

✅ Activities

  • Final Breakfast
  • Departure Assistance

Trip Photos

Important Notes

WOMEN’S ONLY TRIP:
Please note that this is a women’s only trip.

ARRIVAL:
You will need to make sure your travel plans allow you to arrive at the hotel on Zakynthos by the scheduled guest meeting time. More information on this will be provided once the trip is confirmed. The trip starts on the island of Zakynthos.

For information on how to travel to Zakynthos please refer to our destination guide: https://bestintravelgroup.com/greek-islands-destination-guide/

DEPARTURE:
On the final day, you are free to depart at any time. The trip concludes on the island of Lefkada.

For information on your departure options from Lefkada please refer to our destination guide: https://bestintravelgroup.com/greek-islands-destination-guide/

ARRIVAL & DEPARTURE TRANSFERS:
Arrival and departure transfers are not included as part of this trip, so you will need to make your own arrangements. Pre-booked transfers may be available via Expedia – please select “Cars” and then “Airport Transportation”: https://bit.ly/expedia-best-in-travel-vip

ADDITIONAL NIGHTS ACCOMMODATION:
We are unable to organise additional nights accommodation on your behalf. Our exact hotels will be finalised and advised roughly 2-3 months prior to the trip starting. We will advise guests once that happens, and we then recommend booking accommodation via our affiliate link at https://bit.ly/booking-com-best-in-travel

ENTRY REQUIREMENTS:
Be sure to check entry requirements based on the passport that you will be travelling with. It is your responsibility to ensure that your passport meets minimum requirements, and that you have arranged any required visas before arrival. Visa information is available in the destination guide linked below.

DESTINATION GUIDE:
For a detailed destination guide for this trip’s location, head to https://bestintravelgroup.com/greek-islands-destination-guide/

TRIP CONFIRMATION:
A trip is listed as PENDING until the minimum guest numbers are reached, at which point the trip becomes CONFIRMED. Guests will be notified when a trip becomes CONFIRMED.

BOOKING T&Cs:
We recommend you familiarise yourself with our Booking Terms & Conditions for more information about our booking, deposit and cancellation policies.

BOOKING FLIGHTS:
We recommend booking flights as soon as your trip is CONFIRMED, but not before unless you are able to secure flexible tickets.

TRAVEL INSURANCE:
Travel insurance is required for this trip and must be arranged independently. Please ensure you purchase a policy that suits your personal needs and covers the destination and activities included in your itinerary. We strongly recommend organising your travel insurance as soon as your trip is CONFIRMED.

For more information on travel insurance and to view our recommended travel insurance providers, head to https://bestintravelgroup.com/protect-your-adventure-best-in-travels-guide-to-travel-insurance/

ISSUES & CONTACTS DURING THE TRIP:
If you experience any issues that you need resolved during this trip, please chat to your host or your local driver/guide. Emergency contact details for your local trip operator will be provided prior to the trip starting.

For more information on the correct process for handling issues during a trip, including emergency situations, please read the following guide: https://bestintravelgroup.com/managing-emergencies-other-issues-on-your-best-in-travel-adventure/

INCLUSIVITY:
For information on how Best In Travel creates a welcoming space for all travellers, please head to: https://bestintravelgroup.com/everyones-welcome-inclusivity-on-best-in-travel-group-trips/

TRAVELLER CONDUCT & WELLBEING:
For a quick guide on how to enjoy our group trips safely, respectfully, and with the right balance of fun and wellbeing, head to: https://bestintravelgroup.com/group-trips-great-times-how-to-eat-drink-stay-well-on-the-road/

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Ionian Island Hopping Odyssey with Haley: Zakynthos, Kefalonia & Lefkada



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