From Corfu Island: Antipaxos & Paxos Blue Caves Boat Cruise

Discovering the Corfu to Paxos & Antipaxos Blue Caves Boat Cruise: An Honest Review

If you’re dreaming of a day spent sailing through crystal-clear waters, exploring charming Greek villages, and marveling at sea caves, the Corfu-based Antipaxos & Paxos Blue Caves Boat Cruise might just be your ticket. We’ve come across plenty of reviews and details to give you a clear picture of what to expect. While we haven’t personally been on this exact tour, the feedback and itinerary paint a pretty appealing picture for those who love scenic, well-organized day trips.

What really catches our eye about this cruise is how it combines natural beauty—like the famous Blue Caves—with opportunities to swim, explore quaint villages, and enjoy a relaxing day on the water. Plus, the price of around $47 per person makes it seem like good value, especially considering the length and variety of stops. That said, it’s worth noting that the cruise can be quite long, lasting up to 12 hours, which means a full day’s commitment.

One thing to keep in mind is the potential for crowds, especially on the popular stops like Paxos and Antipaxos, which are famed for their stunning waters and beaches. If you’re someone who prefers quiet, secluded moments, this might feel a bit crowded at times. Still, for those who enjoy lively atmospheres with a good mix of sightseeing and social fun, this cruise offers a solid experience suited to many travelers, whether couples, groups, or even solo adventurers looking for a taste of Greece’s best.

This tour is especially well-suited for anyone wanting a comprehensive day of scenic views, swimming, and Greek island charm without the hassle of self-organizing multiple transfers or boat rentals. If you’re after a relaxing, picturesque adventure that hits some of Greece’s most iconic sights, this cruise is worth considering.

Key Points

• Stunning natural sights: The Blue Caves and white cliffs of Erimitis make for breathtaking views and great photo opportunities.
• Well-organized itinerary: Multiple stops include village exploration, swimming spots, and cave visits, providing a good balance of activity and relaxation.
• Excellent value: For roughly $47, you get a full day’s entertainment, guidance, and scenic cruising, plus onboard bar options.
• Guides and narration: Multilingual guides and audio options help you understand what you’re seeing, making the experience more enriching.
• Crowd factor: Expect some busy spots, especially during peak times, which might mean limited space at popular swimming beaches.
• Long day: With a duration of 7 to 12 hours, it’s best suited for those ready for a full-day adventure and comfortable with long boat rides.

You can check availability for your dates here:

The Itinerary in Detail

Starting Point and Departure

The tour begins early in the morning, with pickup options available depending on where you stay in Corfu. If you choose the included transfer, you’ll be picked up from designated locations and taken to the port, which is well-organized and efficient. Embarkation begins as early as 7:40 am, with departure around 8:25 am, so arriving a little earlier ensures a good seat—especially if you want to sit on the right side of the boat upstairs, as some reviews suggest this gives the best views.

The Scenic Sail Into the Ionian Sea

Once on board, you’ll get your first glimpse of Corfu’s iconic Old Town, with views of Venetian castles and the Kanoni Peninsula. Sailing past the Mon Repo Palace and the towns of Perama, Benitses, and Kavos, you’ll start to feel the anticipation building. The scenery here is lush, with olive and cypress trees covering the islands—legend says Poseidon separated the tip of Corfu to create Paxos, making the landscape even more fascinating.

Lakka Village: The First Stop

The first major stop is the charming village of Lakka. Here, you’ll have about two hours to explore, walk around narrow streets, and soak in the traditional Greek island vibe. Many reviews highlight the opportunity to grab a snack or a drink at local tavernas overlooking the port, such as one reviewer mentioning they enjoyed a meal on the waterfront. If you’re into sightseeing and shopping, this is a laid-back spot to sample local products, maybe pick up some olive oil, or just relax on the beach.

It’s worth noting that the boat anchors quite close to this village—around a five-minute walk from a beautiful beach—giving you the chance to enjoy a quick dip or sunbathe. As one traveler said, “The swim in the clear blue waters in Antipaxos was awesome,” so having some time here helps you prepare for the next swim.

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Blue Caves: The Natural Marvel

Next, the boat heads along Paxos’ west coast to the famous Blue Caves. This spot is a highlight for many, with photos capturing the caves’ dramatic openings and the vivid blue waters inside. The caves are also home to monk seals, adding an element of wildlife to your visit. The boat stops inside the caves, allowing you to take photos and get a true feel of their grandeur. Several reviews mention the caves as “spectacular” and “amazing,” so this is definitely a moment to remember.

Antipaxos: The Swimming Paradise

Then, it’s off to Antipaxos, a tiny island famed for its pristine beaches and transparent waters. You’ll have around 50-70 minutes here for swimming at either Mesovrika or Voutoumi, both known for their turquoise waters and soft sand. The reviews are unanimous in praising this stop as “breathtaking” and “awesome,” with many swimmers noting how clear and inviting the water is.

The boat often allows you to jump into the water directly from the boat, making this a fun, spontaneous experience. For those who aren’t confident swimmers, life vests are available, and the guides provide guidance during the swim.

Return and Final Views

As the trip winds down, the boat cruises along Paxos’ east coast, giving you views of small islands like Skaltsonisi and Mongonisi. The journey back often involves lively music, dancing, and even Greek traditional dances, as noted by several reviewers. The mood is festive, and many describe the trip back as “fun” and “lively,” adding to the overall positive vibe.

End of the Day

The tour concludes at around 8 pm, with drop-off points across Corfu, including popular spots like Corfu Port and Benitses Marina. If you booked the optional pickup, your transfer will be coordinated smoothly, so you can relax after a long, scenic day.

The Experience: What You’ll Love and What to Consider

The Highlights

The real charm of this cruise lies in its combination of stunning scenery and well-paced stops. The Blue Caves are a visual treat, perfect for photos and soaking in the natural beauty. Paired with the quaint village of Lakka, the swimming stops, and the cheerful onboard atmosphere, you’ll find this day trip hits all the right notes.

Many travelers rave about the guides’ multilingual narration and the friendly crew, which help make the experience more enjoyable and informative. The onboard bar adds a relaxed vibe for those who want a drink while drifting along.

The Real Value

Considering the price of around $47 per person, the experience offers a lot: scenic cruising, guided commentary, swimming opportunities, and stops for exploring a Greek island village. Guests consistently mention that the trip feels like good value for money, especially when you factor in the spectacular views and the chance to swim in crystal waters.

The Downside: Long Hours and Crowds

While most reviews are glowing, some mention the length of the day—up to 12 hours can be tiring for some, especially if you’re not used to boat trips or long days outdoors. It’s important to bring essentials like sunscreen, a hat, and water, as not all stops have food or drinks included, and you might find yourself hungry after all the swimming and sightseeing.

Crowding at popular spots like the beaches on Antipaxos can also be an issue, especially during peak season. Many travelers mention that the beaches become quite busy with multiple boats docking nearby, so don’t expect complete solitude.

Practical Tips

• Get to the port early to secure a good seat, particularly on the right side of the upper deck.
• Bring your own towels, sunscreen, swimwear, and a hat for sun protection.
• Pack some snacks or drinks if you’re hungry, as they aren’t included in the price.
• Be prepared for a long day, and if you’re sensitive to choppy waters, bringing a light jacket can help on the return trip.
• If you have mobility issues, this might not be the best option, as the tour isn’t designed for wheelchair accessibility.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This cruise suits anyone who appreciates natural beauty, loves swimming in clear waters, and enjoys a lively, social atmosphere. It’s great for travelers who want to see iconic Greek sights without fussing over logistics, as it includes transfers and guided commentary. The trip is also perfect for those with a day available in Corfu, looking for a memorable sea adventure with plenty of photo-worthy moments.

If you’re after a quieter, more secluded experience or prefer a shorter outing, this may not be the best fit. But for travelers eager to explore Paxos, Antipaxos, and the Blue Caves in one go, it delivers on scenery, fun, and value.

FAQs

Is the pickup service included?
Pickup options are available if you book the transfer. If selected, you’ll be informed via email 48 hours before departure with detailed instructions.

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts between 7 and 12 hours, depending on your hotel location and the specific day’s schedule. It begins early in the morning and finishes in the evening.

What should I bring?
Bring comfortable shoes, sunglasses, a sun hat, swimwear, a towel, sunscreen, and a light jacket for the return trip.

Are food and drinks included?
No, food and drinks are not included, but there’s an onboard bar with options for purchase. It’s a good idea to bring some snacks for between stops.

Is it suitable for children?
Unaccompanied minors aren’t allowed, but families with children can consider the suitability based on their kids’ comfort with long boat rides and swimming.

Are the caves accessible for everyone?
The caves are visited via boat stop, allowing for photo-taking and sightseeing, but not for walking inside. Those with mobility issues should be aware that the tour isn’t designed for wheelchair users.

How crowded does it get?
Popular stops like Paxos and Antipaxos can be busy, especially in peak season. Expect some crowds at the beaches and swimming spots.

Can I upgrade for transportation?
Yes, there’s an option for hotel transfers, which can make your day more seamless and comfortable.

Final Thoughts

All in all, this Corfu to Paxos & Antipaxos Blue Caves Boat Cruise offers a comprehensive, scenic, and lively way to spend a day exploring some of Greece’s most beautiful spots. It’s best suited for travelers looking for a full day of sightseeing, swimming, and socializing, all wrapped into one affordable package. The guides, stunning vistas, and the chance to swim in pristine waters make it a memorable experience, especially if you enjoy lively atmospheres with plenty of opportunities for photos.

While it’s a long day with some busy spots, the overall feedback shows that most travelers find it worth every minute. If you’re prepared for a full itinerary, love the sea, and want to see iconic Greek sights without the hassle, this trip is definitely worth considering.

Happy sailing and exploring the beautiful Greek islands!

You can check availability for your dates here: