The Moorings, the world’s leading yacht charter company, announced today it will open a new base in Corfu, located just off Greece’s northwest coast. Corfu is the perfect starting point for a luxurious Moorings bareboat sailing or skippered charter through the region’s famous northern and southern Ionian Islands.

The flexible itineraries of Corfu yacht charter offer a range of experiences to suit all tastes. Cheryl Powell, Chief Operating Officer of The Moorings, notes, “This destination is highly regarded by sailors for consistently superb weather, as well as its combination of open sea sailing through longer passages to the South lonian, shorter island hops in between and even stops in scenic ports of call along the mainland.”

Before or after a charter, there is much to explore on the island of Corfu, which has earned international acclaim and been nicknamed “Jewel of the Ionian” for its historical ports, warm hospitality, stunning beaches and well-preserved Old Town, a UNESCO World Heritage site.

Guests will have the opportunity to explore fascinating sights along their itinerary, such as Drogarati, a magnificent  cavern 196 feet below ground on Kefalonia, as well as the uniquely different ports of Frikes, Kioni and Vathy that are located on the easygoing isle of Ithaca, the fabled home of Odysseus. The renowned town of Lefkas on Lefkas Island is also well within reach and offers boutiques, several museums and some of the area’s best seafood tavernas. Afloat, Greece’s clean, crystal clear waters offer excellent snorkeling and scuba diving.

According to Powell, Corfu is also an excellent destination for vacationers because of the many flight options it affords travelers around the world; it is easily reached by short connecting flights from Athens and most European cities. The Moorings base is a short 10-minute drive from Corfu International Airport.

The Moorings Corfu base will be open during Greece’s primary sailing season from April through November, when guests can expect northwest winds from 10 to 20 knots with calms in the morning. Temperatures are comfortable, ranging between 76oF and 82oF (24oC to 28oC), and water temperatures average 78oF (26oC).

The Moorings will offer a series of custom Beneteau-built monohulls, including the Moorings 41.3 (3-cabin/2-head), Moorings 43.3 (3-cabin/3-head) and the Moorings 50.5 (5-cabin/5-head).  In addition, fleet’s newest catamaran, Moorings 3900 (3-cabin/2-head), will be offered. This charter model was based upon the award-winning hull design, interior accommodation plan and helm station of the private model Leopard 38, named Cruising World’s Boat of the Year 2010 and Best Boat 2010 by SAIL. Virtual tours for each yacht model are available and can be viewed on their individual overviews.

For information about The Moorings charter vacations, visit www.moorings.com or call 1-800-535-7289.