From Nydri: Boat to Kefalonia and Ithaki with Swim Stops

If you’re considering a day out on the water around the Ionian Islands, this boat tour from Nydri promises an adventure packed with swimming stops, scenic views, and a taste of local charm. While it’s not a luxury cruise and has some limitations, many travelers find it offers good value for a full day of exploration.

What we really like about this experience is how it combines multiple islands into one trip — giving you a chance to see Kefalonia’s Fiskardo, float in the famous beaches of Porto Katsiki and Egremni, and explore the caves and private island of Scorpios. Plus, the flexible booking options, like reserving now and paying later, make it easy to plan. However, a key consideration is that the tour doesn’t include hotel transfers or meals, so you’ll want to bring snacks and plan your own arrangements.

This tour is best suited for travelers who enjoy boat excursions, love swimming in beautiful waters, and are comfortable with a full day of sightseeing without a lot of downtime. If you’re after a leisurely, all-inclusive experience, this might feel a bit basic. But if you’re up for a packed day of island-hopping with scenic stops, it might just be perfect.

Key Points

• Full-day adventure exploring three islands with swimming at renowned beaches.
• Affordable price point around $59 per person, offering good value considering the multiple stops.
• Includes free exploration time in Fiskardo, giving you freedom to wander and soak in the atmosphere.
• Limited amenities: no included meals or hotel transfers, so plan accordingly.
• Scenic highlights like Papanikolis cave and views of the private island of Scorpios.
• Departure flexibility with booking options that allow you to reserve now and pay later.

You can check availability for your dates here:

What to Expect on the Tour

This boat tour from Nydri covers a lot of ground in roughly nine hours, making it a full but rewarding day. The journey begins with a meet-up at St. Maura Travel, right near Cafe Presto, where you’ll collect your tickets before heading to the port. From there, the boat leaves in the morning and heads through the bay past hillside villages like Vasiliki, setting the scene for a day of island adventures.

Scenic Departure and Travel

The first part of the trip is about enjoying the views — sailing past lush hillsides and tiny villages. The boat itself is presumably a standard day-cruise vessel, designed for comfort and to accommodate groups. While reviews don’t specify group size, most similar trips tend to be reasonably balanced — not too crowded but lively enough to enjoy the shared experience.

Beaches of Porto Katsiki and Egremni

These are among the tour’s biggest draws. Both beaches are world-famous for their striking cliffs and turquoise waters, perfect for swimming and relaxing. You’ll stop here to take photos, dip into the sea, or just marvel at the natural beauty. The experience of swimming in these renowned beaches is often described as a highlight, with many travelers noting the clear waters and dramatic surroundings.

Fiskardo: A Charming Village

After the beach stops, the boat takes you to Fiskardo on Kefalonia, a fishing village that survived the 1953 earthquake. Here, you get some free time — a chance to stroll, shop, or sit at a seaside café. Many reviews mention that Fiskardo retains a unique charm, with narrow alleys and colorful boats, making it a lovely spot to soak in some local atmosphere.

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Papanikolis Cave and Private Island of Scorpios

The tour includes a ride into the Papanikolis cave, a site with historical significance from WWII, when a submarine was hidden inside. This aspect adds an element of intrigue and history to the trip. Passing the private island of Scorpios offers a glimpse of a famously personal retreat, adding a touch of exclusivity to the journey.

Swimming and Relaxation

Along With the beaches, there are multiple swim stops at Lefkada and Ithaki, giving plenty of time to cool off and enjoy the water. The stops are spaced out, so you can anticipate a good balance of activity and downtime.

What the Reviews Say

With a 3.7 out of 5 rating from 73 reviews, opinions are mixed but generally favorable. Travelers appreciate the opportunity to see multiple islands in one day and enjoy the swimming opportunities. One reviewer mentions, “We loved the way the boat stopped at some of the most beautiful beaches,” highlighting the appeal of the scenic spots.

However, some reviews point out that the experience is somewhat basic — no meals are included, and the boat can get crowded. The lack of hotel transfers might be inconvenient for some, especially those staying outside the meeting point area. Still, many feel the price of $59 is reasonable for the entire day of travel and sightseeing.

Practical Details and Tips

Duration and Timing: The trip lasts about nine hours, with multiple starting times available. Check in advance to choose a departure that suits your plans.

Price and Value: At $59 per person, this tour offers a budget-friendly way to see some of Greece’s most famous beaches and islands. Remember, food and drinks are extra, so pack snacks or plan to buy at stops.

What to Bring: Sunscreen, a sun hat, swimsuit, towel, water, and snacks are essentials. Since there are no meals included, bringing some food is wise, especially if you prefer specific dietary options.

Accessibility and Suitability: The tour isn’t suitable for wheelchair users, so consider mobility needs before booking. It’s best for active travelers comfortable with a full day on a boat.

Booking Flexibility: The option to reserve now and pay later provides some peace of mind, especially if your plans might shift.

Final Thoughts: Who This Tour is Best For

This boat trip offers a practical way to experience some of the Ionian Islands’ top sights without breaking the bank. It’s a solid choice for travelers who value scenic beauty, enjoy swimming in famous beaches, and don’t mind a busy schedule. If your idea of a perfect day involves exploring charming villages, soaking in stunning scenery, and hopping between islands, this trip could be a good fit.

However, if you’re after a more relaxed, all-inclusive experience with meals and private transfers, or if you prefer smaller, more intimate tours, you might want to explore other options.

Overall, it’s a straightforward, affordable way to tick off some bucket list spots if you’re prepared for a full day on the water, with some flexibility in what you see and do.

FAQ

Is hotel transfer included?
No, this tour does not include hotel transfers. You’ll need to meet at the designated meeting point near Cafe Presto in Nydri.

What is the duration of the tour?
The full-day cruise lasts about nine hours, so expect a long but scenic day out.

Are meals included?
No, food and drinks are not included, so bring your own snacks or plan to buy at stops.

Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Is this tour suitable for children?
The data doesn’t specify, but since it’s a boat trip involving swimming and walking around villages, it might be suitable for older children comfortable with boat excursions.

What should I bring?
Bring sunscreen, a sun hat, swimwear, towel, water, and snacks for the day.

Does the boat stop at famous beaches?
Yes, stops include Porto Katsiki and Egremni beaches, both known for their beauty and excellent swimming.

Can I explore Fiskardo at my own pace?
Yes, the tour provides free time to walk around, shop, or relax in Fiskardo.

What views will I see?
Expect scenic sailing past hillside villages, the caves of Papanikolis, and views of Scorpios island, making for plenty of memorable moments.

If you’re looking for a way to hop between some of Greece’s iconic islands with a good mix of swimming and sightseeing, this tour offers a practical, budget-friendly option. Just keep your expectations in check about amenities, and it can be a memorable part of your Greek holiday.

You can check availability for your dates here: