If you’re considering a boat tour around Lefkada to visit some of the island’s most renowned beaches, you’re in good company. This particular tour promises a day spent cruising along the Ionian coast and stopping at three beaches that are only accessible by water — Egremni, Porto Katsiki, and Agiofili. We haven’t taken this trip ourselves, but we’ve sifted through reviews, details, and traveler experiences to give you an honest, balanced look at what you can expect.
What immediately caught our attention are the breathtaking scenery and the chance to explore remote beaches that aren’t reachable by car. We also like that this tour offers a full day of sightseeing and swimming, providing a good opportunity to chill out and see the island from a different perspective. On the flip side, a couple of potential drawbacks stand out — mainly, the experience’s emphasis on beaches that might not exactly match the “sandy paradise” image some travelers expect, and some logistical details that could impact your day.
This tour is best suited for those who love crystal-clear waters, scenic boat trips, and discovering lesser-known spots. If you’re after a relaxing, visually stunning day on the water, and you’re okay with some rocky or pebbly beaches rather than soft sand, this might be a good fit. Keep in mind, if you’re traveling with kids or looking for traditional sandy beaches for lounging, you might want to manage expectations or explore other options.
Key Points
- Stunning coastal views and unique swimming locations make this a photo-worthy experience.
- The full-day itinerary packs in three stops, offering a diverse taste of Lefkada’s best spots.
- Remote beaches accessible only by boat add a sense of adventure and exclusivity.
- The price per person of around $52 offers a decent value for a full day on the water, especially considering the included stops.
- Reviews highlight the beauty of the waters and bays, but also point out rocky beaches that aren’t ideal for children or sunbathers seeking soft sand.
- Transportation to the meeting point is not included, so plan accordingly, and food/drinks are also separate.
What to Expect from This Lefkada Beach Tour
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The Itinerary Breakdown
The tour kicks off at 9:30 am from Santa Maura Travel in Nidri, where you’ll hop aboard a shared boat with a group of fellow travelers. It’s a full-day outing designed to maximize your time in the water and at some of Lefkada’s most picturesque beaches.
The first stop is Egremni Beach, renowned for its dramatic cliffs and striking turquoise waters. You’ll have around 2 hours here — plenty of time to swim, snap photos, or just soak in the views. Reviewers describe feeling like they’re swimming in “blue milk,” which really captures how special the water can look.
Next, the boat moves on to Porto Katsiiki, where you’ll get about an hour for another swim. This beach is famous for its imposing cliffs and clear waters, often considered one of the must-see spots in Lefkada. Some reviews mention that the access with a car is possible, which might surprise you if you expected this to be a completely secluded, boat-only destination.
The third stop is Agiofili Beach, a tiny gem with a charming setting. It’s usually quieter in the afternoon and ideal for a laid-back swim. Travelers mention that the water is beautiful, but many also note the pebbly surface and rocky surroundings. One review specifically points out that these beaches don’t have traditional soft sand, which is important to keep in mind if you prefer lounging on sandy shores.
The Experience on the Water
We love the idea of being on a boat cruising along the coastline, taking in spectacular views of Lefkada’s cliffs and coves. Many reviews commend the professionalism and friendliness of the tour provider, MTM TOURISM GREECE OE. The group size is limited to 150 people, so it’s not overly crowded.
Travelers report that the swimming experience is the highlight — the water is described as beautiful, clear, and inviting. Some mention that water shoes are necessary due to pebbles and rocks, which might be a good tip for anyone planning to swim.
Pros and Cons Based on Reviews
Pros:
– The scenery is genuinely stunning — you’ll get postcard-worthy views.
– Visiting three different beaches in one day is efficient, especially for travelers short on time.
– The remote beaches are a real plus, giving a sense of exclusivity and adventure.
– The price is reasonable for a full day on a boat with multiple stops.
Cons:
– Not all beaches are sandy, which might disappoint those expecting endless stretches of soft sand and beach chairs.
– Some reviews mention that access to some beaches is possible by car, which could make the boat trip seem less exclusive.
– The lunch or refreshments are not included, so you’ll need to bring snacks or plan to buy food on the islands or at the ports.
– Transportation to/from your hotel isn’t included, so you’ll need to arrange your own transfers.
The Value of This Tour
At around $52 per person, this experience offers a fair price for a full day of sightseeing, swimming, and enjoying Lefkada’s coast. For travelers who relish scenic boat rides and discovering beaches that few others get to see, it’s a solid choice. The reviews indicate that many find the water’s beauty worth the price, especially considering the unique opportunity to explore remote beaches.
However, it’s essential to recognize what this tour is — a boat trip with three stops at beaches that are more rocky than sandy. If your priority is lounging on soft, sandy beaches, or you prefer a more relaxed, sunbathing-focused experience, you might want to consider other options or verify if the beaches meet your expectations beforehand.
Who Will Enjoy This Experience?
This tour is ideal for adventurers and nature lovers who want to see Lefkada’s coastline from a different perspective. It’s perfect for those who appreciate stunning vistas, swimming in crystal waters, and exploring lesser-known spots. If you’re a group of friends or a couple wanting a full day of scenic cruising and swimming, you’ll likely find this experience rewarding.
If you’re traveling with kids or seeking beaches for sunbathing and building sandcastles, the rocky and pebbly nature of these beaches might be a downside. Also, if you’re on a tight schedule or prefer included meals and transfers, this tour’s structure might not suit your needs.
Final Thoughts
The 3 Best Sandy Beaches of Lefkada boat tour offers a fantastic opportunity to see some of the island’s most iconic and remote beaches. The scenery alone makes it worth considering, especially if you’re into photography and scenic swims. The boat trip adds a sense of adventure and exclusivity, allowing you to access spots that are hard to reach otherwise.
That said, it’s good to go in with the right expectations — these beaches aren’t all the soft-sand paradise, but rather beautiful rocky coves and pebbly beaches with incredible waters. The experience suits travelers eager to explore beyond the usual, seeking memorable swimming spots rather than lounging all day on sandy shores.
If you’re looking for a relaxed, scenic day with lots of opportunities for swimming and stunning views, this tour could be a highlight of your Lefkada trip. Just make sure you’re prepared for rocky beaches, bring water shoes, and plan your transfers in advance.
3 Best Sandy Beaches of Lefkada
FAQ
Is the tour suitable for families with children?
While it’s generally a relaxed day on the water, many beaches are rocky and not ideal for young children wanting soft sand or shallow swimming areas. Consider your children’s comfort with rocky surfaces and swimming in natural waters.
Are food and drinks included?
No, they are not included. You’ll need to bring your own snacks or plan to purchase something locally, as the tour price covers sightseeing and swimming only.
Does the tour include transportation from hotels?
No, transfers to and from your hotel are not part of the package. You’ll need to make your way to the meeting point at Santa Maura Travel in Nidri.
What’s the best time of day for this tour?
It starts at 9:30 am and lasts around 7.5 hours, so it’s a full-day experience. Morning departure helps avoid afternoon crowds and makes the most of daylight.
Is this tour available year-round?
Confirmation is received at the time of booking, and it depends on weather conditions. It’s best to check with the provider for seasonal availability.
How many people typically join this tour?
The maximum group size is 150 travelers, but reviews suggest it’s often smaller, creating a friendly, communal atmosphere.
What should I bring?
Water shoes are recommended due to rocky beaches. Also, bring sunscreen, a hat, towel, and perhaps a camera to capture the spectacular scenery.
Can I swim at all three beaches?
Yes, the itinerary allows for swimming at each stop, with around 2 hours at Egremni, 1 hour at Porto Katsiiki, and time at Agiofili in the afternoon.
Are the beaches truly remote?
Some beaches are only accessible by boat, which adds to their charm. However, reviews indicate that at least some beaches are accessible by car, so the level of remoteness varies.
What is the cancellation policy?
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. Cancellations less than 24 hours before the start are not refunded, so plan accordingly.
If you’re after a day of scenic cruising, swimming, and capturing Lefkada’s rugged beauty, this boat tour offers plenty of value. Just keep your expectations aligned with the rocky, less sandy nature of these beaches, and you’re set for an unforgettable day on the water.
