From Agia Efimia: Day Cruise to Ithaki Island with Lunch

A Practical and Enjoyable Day Cruise from Agia Efimia to Ithaca

If you’re looking to explore Ithaca beyond just a quick visit, a day cruise from Agia Efimia might be just what you need. This particular trip offers a chance to enjoy sailing on a modern yacht, visit some of the most beautiful beaches, and indulge in a lovely onboard lunch—all in one seamless experience. We’ve looked into this tour based on genuine reviews and detailed descriptions, and it seems like a solid option for travelers wanting a relaxing yet scenic day on the water.

What draws us in are the intimate group size, limited to just ten participants, which promises a more personal, less crowded feel. Plus, the focus on swimming, snorkeling, and enjoying the natural beauty—not to mention the chance to spot dolphins and sea turtles—makes this a trip that appeals to those who love a bit of sea life and outdoor adventure. On the downside, it’s worth noting that this tour isn’t suitable for travelers with mobility issues or seasickness, so keep that in mind if you’re sensitive to motion.

This tour is perfect for anyone who loves a relaxed pace, appreciates good food and wine, and wants to see Ithaca’s most famous beaches without the hassle of planning it all themselves. If you’re after a memorable day with friendly guides and stunning scenery, this cruise might just hit the spot.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Key Points

• Small group experience ensures a more personal and relaxed atmosphere.
• Multiple swimming and snorkeling stops allow plenty of time to enjoy Ithaca’s crystal-clear waters.
• Delicious onboard lunch with local wine and snacks adds a gourmet touch to the day.
• Expert skippers who share insights and ensure safety, making the trip informative and smooth.
• Flexible route adjustments based on weather conditions mean you’ll get the best possible experience.
• Limited availability and early check-in (meet at 8:50 am) help keep the group intimate and organized.

Why This Cruise Stands Out

From the moment you step onto the yacht in Agia Efimia, the experience begins with a sense of calm and anticipation. This cruise isn’t just about ticking off a list of sights; it’s about enjoying the journey itself. The boat, described as sleek and comfortable, provides a great vantage point for soaking in the scenery. Plus, onboard WiFi is a nice touch, so you can share moments or check your messages while drifting among Greece’s beautiful islands.

The route takes you across the water to explore the eastern coast of Ithaca, with the captain and crew setting the tone with their friendliness and knowledge. They’re experienced sailors who are eager to share their love for the island and make sure everyone feels safe and involved.

The Itinerary: A Day Filled with Beauty and Fun

Starting Point: Dodoni

Your adventure begins at the picturesque harbor of Agia Efimia, right in front of the Dodoni ice-cream café. Meeting at 8:50 am, you’ll get introduced to the crew and the yacht, ready to set sail. This early start pays off later, as you’ll have plenty of daylight to enjoy each stop fully.

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First Stop: Gidaki Beach

The first major highlight is Gidaki Beach, often called “paradise on earth” and ranked among Greece’s top beaches. Here, you’ll find crystal-clear waters perfect for swimming and snorkeling, with colorful fish darting around the rocks. The beach is pebbled, with larger stones on one side and smaller on the other, adding to its natural charm.

Guests consistently praise this stop—reviewers call the experience “brilliant” and highlight the peaceful, scenic environment. The calm waters and lush surroundings make it an ideal spot for a refreshing dip. You’ll also have the chance to try stand-up paddleboarding, which adds extra fun.

Second Stop: Skinos Bay

Next, the boat heads to Skinos Bay, a breathtaking spot surrounded by pine trees. Here, the crew prepares a delicious onboard lunch, which is served along with soft drinks, beers, and local wine, making this a real treat. The scenery is described as “breathtaking,” emphasizing the combination of natural beauty and good food.

This stop is especially appreciated because of the mealtime atmosphere, with fresh food and drinks enjoyed while anchored in a stunning bay. Reviewers mention that the meals are plentiful and tasty, making it a highlight of the day.

Third Stop: Talaros / Pera Pigadia Bay

The journey continues along the south coast of Ithaca to Talaros Beach, also known as Pera Pigadia Bay. It’s seen as a quieter, calmer spot ideal for swimming and relaxing after lunch. The waters here are described as calm and warm, perfect for a laid-back swim.

The Return: Sailing Back to Agia Efimia

After a full day of exploring, swimming, and lounging, the boat heads back towards Agia Efimia, arriving around 5:00 pm. The return journey offers the chance to unwind, reflect on the day, and enjoy the view one last time.

What Makes This Experience Truly Valuable

The real strength of this tour lies in the combination of scenic stops, expert crew, and onboard amenities. The captain and crew aren’t just skippers—they’re hosts who aim to make the day memorable. Many reviews emphasize how friendly and attentive they are, from offering snacks and drinks to sharing insights about the islands.

The snorkeling equipment and paddleboards are a nice touch, giving you the flexibility to explore at your own pace. The GoPro camera provided means you can capture those special moments, whether it’s snorkeling with fish or lounging on deck.

Value for Money

At $169 per person, this cruise offers a lot. You get a full day’s activity, including lunch, drinks, snacks, snorkeling gear, paddleboards, and WiFi—all in a small group setting. Compared to larger tours that may feel more rushed or crowded, this experience offers a relaxed pace and personalized attention, making it worth the price for many travelers.

Real Traveler Insights

From the reviews, it’s clear that most guests are genuinely pleased. Judy mentions, “There was enough space on the boat for all of us (under the awning and on the front).” She appreciated the courteous captain and the delicious snacks and lunch. Mircea sums it up with “Very beautiful trip with a very nice crew on a beautiful ship!”

Others highlight the magical atmosphere of the beaches and the excellent onboard service. Niez notes the “perfect on-board service,” and Ian adds, “the crew made delicious snacks and lunch, and offered drinks regularly.” These comments suggest a well-organized, friendly, and scenic experience that leaves most guests with lasting positive impressions.

Who Will Enjoy This Cruise?

If you’re someone who loves relaxing days on the water, snorkeling in clear waters, and tasting local food and wine, this cruise is a natural fit. It’s ideal if you enjoy small groups, personalized service, and stunning scenery. It’s also suitable if you prefer a more laid-back pace rather than a jam-packed itinerary.

However, if you have mobility issues, are prone to seasickness, or travel with very young children who can’t handle boat rides, you might want to reconsider or prepare accordingly. The tour requires a good level of comfort with boat travel and active participation in swimming and paddleboarding.

FAQs

Is this tour suitable for families?
While the tour is not explicitly marketed as family-focused, many reviews mention it as a memorable experience for all ages. Keep in mind the boat’s movement and swimming stops—young children should be supervised and comfortable in open water.

Do I need to bring anything?
Yes, just your swimwear and a towel. The tour provides snorkeling gear, paddleboards, and GoPro cameras for capturing your moments.

What’s included in the price?
The price covers the cruise, skipper, onboard WiFi, lunch, snacks and fruit, drinks including wine and beer, snorkeling equipment, paddleboards, and the GoPro camera.

Are there any hidden costs?
Not with this tour. Hotel transfers are not included, but the meeting point is straightforward in front of the Dodoni café.

What happens if the weather isn’t good?
The captain will adjust the route based on weather conditions to ensure a pleasant experience. Safety and comfort are priorities.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering flexibility if your plans shift.

In The Sum Up

This day cruise from Agia Efimia to Ithaca offers a well-rounded mix of scenic sailing, swimming, and delicious food, all delivered with friendly service and small group intimacy. Perfect for travelers who want a laid-back, authentic experience without the chaos of larger tours, it naturally appeals to those who enjoy a bit of adventure and a lot of natural beauty.

You’ll love the effortless way this trip combines comfort, picturesque stops, and engaging activities. Whether you’re a seasoned sailor or just want a peaceful day on the water, this cruise can deliver a memorable slice of Greek island life.

If you value personalized service, stunning beaches, and good food, this experience will likely be a highlight of your Kefalonia/Ithaca trip. Keep in mind the physical requirements and weather conditions, but overall, it’s a highly praised option that many travelers find worth every euro.

Happy sailing!

You can check availability for your dates here: