The Regatta

The International Ionian Sailing Week (IISW), known in Greece as the «Ionian Rally», is a multi-stage offshore race organised in turn by the Sailing Club of Patras and the Sailing Club of Corfu.

History

Tracing back through history and according to the accounts of veterans, the precursors to this event appear to be races such as the Kefalonia Cup, or initiatives that were not sustained, such as the Corfu – Piraeus or Patras – Corfu races.

The regatta in its current form began in 1989, initially with few participants and routes such as Corfu – Zakynthos non-stop or Patras – Corfu non-stop. A defining feature of those early races was the chance to sail alongside legendary figures of Greek sailing, such as the late Savvas Georgiou.

Interest grew steadily, and by 1999 the event had acquired its present form and character in terms of routes, mileage and overall philosophy. It has become a popular event with a steady participation of around 70 boats a year, the widest representation among sailing clubs (boats from about 25 clubs each year) and international entries, most often from Italy.

The pioneers of the event are the Sailing Club of Patras and the Sailing Club of Corfu, supported by pillars of the Ionian sailing community such as A.N.O. Zakynthos, N.O. Kefalonia-Ithaca, N.O. Argostoli (formerly), N.O. Lefkada (formerly the Club of Lefkadian Naval Athletes) and A.O. Ithaca “I Proodos”.

A unique characteristic of the International Ionian Sailing Week is that the organising club alternates between Patras and Corfu, and the start alternates with it. The regatta has no fixed course, so it visits different ports every year — variety and surprise in one of the most historic and beautiful seas in the world.

A big reason for its popularity is that the route design, the prevailing weather and the distances make it possible for low-budget teams to take part, and give sailors with moderate experience the chance to race against some of the best sailors in the country.

The race is usually Category 4 (occasionally Category 3), with ORC Club, ORC International and IRC entries, and sometimes a cruising class.