Exploring Ithaca by Boat: A Practical Review of the Sami Island Trip
If you’re considering a day trip to Ithaca, this boat experience promises a good blend of scenic views, relaxing swims, and a taste of local charm. While I haven’t personally taken this exact tour, reviews and detailed descriptions paint a clear picture of what you can expect. It’s a popular choice for those wanting to see the island’s highlights without fussing over transportation or planning every detail themselves.
What many travelers appreciate about this tour is the opportunity to swim in crystal-clear waters at some of Ithaca’s most beautiful beaches, like Gidaki. Plus, the visit to Vathi, the island’s lively capital, offers a taste of local life, shopping, and photo opportunities. On the downside, the overall pace might not satisfy those craving more time at each stop or a more flexible itinerary.
This experience seems especially suited for travelers who want a well-organized, full-day outing that combines sightseeing with moments of relaxation. If you’re after a straightforward way to enjoy Ithaca’s natural beauty and charming villages without the hassle of independent travel, this boat trip could be just right.
Key Points
- Comfort and Convenience: All boat tickets and snacks are included, making it simple to enjoy the day without extra planning.
- Variety of Stops: From secluded beaches to lively towns, the itinerary offers diverse experiences.
- Good Value: For around $85, you get a full day of swimming, sightseeing, and snacks—making it an affordable way to explore.
- Limited Flexibility: The schedule is fixed, so if you like flexibility, this might feel a bit structured.
- Expert Guidance: The reviews praise knowledgeable guides who share interesting insights.
- Ideal for Relaxed Travelers: The mix of swimming, sightseeing, and light exploration suits those wanting a laid-back day.
The Full Scoop: What to Expect from the Sami Ithaca Island Tour
This 7-hour cruise kicks off at Sami Port, a scenic departure point that puts you right in the heart of Western Greece’s beautiful coastline. The tour is operated by Kefalonia Excursions, with English-speaking hosts and a well-structured itinerary designed to balance relaxation with sightseeing.
Departure and Early Stops
At 9:00 AM (though check availability for exact times), you’ll board a comfortable boat and set sail. The first stop is Filiatro Beach, famed for its turquoise waters and lush scenery. It’s the perfect place for a refreshing swim and some sunbathing. The reviews highlight how beautiful this beach is, with Athina describing it as a “fantastic water” spot that makes the whole experience worthwhile.
Swimming in Secluded Bays
After Filiatro, the boat takes you around the island, with quick sightseeing cruises in between stops. The highlight here is the Gidaki Beach, a hidden gem reachable only by boat. With its soft pebbles and pristine waters, it promises a tranquil escape. Travelers consistently mention how peaceful and beautiful this beach is, making it a highlight of the tour.
A Stroll through Vathi
Next up is Vathi, the vibrant capital of Ithaca. Here, you’ll have around an hour and a half—enough time for a leisurely walk through its charming streets, browsing shops for local crafts, and soaking in the island’s ambiance. Some reviews suggest that this is a good opportunity for photos and a bit of shopping, though others wish for a tad more free time. Still, it’s a manageable stop that adds cultural flavor to the day.
Exploring Lazarato Island
One of the more unique parts of the tour is the visit to Lazarato Island, a tiny but historically intriguing islet. Here, you can snap pictures of the picturesque landscape and get a quick lesson on its past from your guide. It’s a compact stop but adds a dash of historical context to your trip.
Snacks and Refreshments
Throughout the day, the crew provides fruit, water, and snacks, keeping everyone energized. Reviewers, like Athina, appreciate the thoughtful provision of food and drinks, which adds to the overall value and comfort of the experience. It’s a good way to stay refreshed without needing to buy extra on board.
Final Stop at Gidaki
The trip concludes at Gidaki Beach, where you can spend about 50 minutes swimming or simply relaxing by the water. The quiet, boat-access-only nature of Gidaki makes it feel like a special secret, and many travelers describe it as a peaceful haven perfect for unwinding after a busy morning.
Return Journey
After Gidaki, the boat cruises back to Sami, with a final sightseeing cruise before arrival. The entire experience wraps up around mid-afternoon, leaving you with plenty of time to explore more of the island or head back to your accommodation.
Enjoy being on the water? Here are other boat experiences we've looked into in Sami Cephalonia
The Details That Matter
Pricing and Value
At $85 per person, this tour offers what appears to be good value considering the length of the trip, the multiple stops, and included snacks. The reviews reinforce that many travelers feel they received their money’s worth, especially with the opportunity to swim in gorgeous spots and enjoy nice food on the boat.
Duration and Schedule
The full-day cruise lasts around 7 hours, with starting times checked upon booking. The fixed schedule means you’ll need to be punctual, but it also ensures a well-paced day with enough time at each stop. The structured itinerary may feel a bit rigid for some, but for most, it’s enough to see the key sights without feeling rushed.
Group Size and Comfort
While not explicitly detailed, group tours like this tend to be moderate-sized, allowing for a friendly atmosphere but still enough space on the boat. The reviews mention polite crew and professional guides, which makes a difference when you’re spending a whole day at sea.
What You Should Bring
Expect to need comfortable clothing and shoes, swimsuits, towels, a hat, and sunscreen. A camera is also essential to capture those stunning views. Packing light but thoughtfully will ensure you make the most of your day.
Accessibility and Considerations
It’s worth noting that this tour isn’t suitable for people with mobility impairments due to the nature of boat travel and some uneven terrain at stops. Keep that in mind if accessibility is a concern.
Authentic Feedback from Travelers
Many who’ve taken this trip praise the friendly staff and the beautiful scenery, with Athina specifically mentioning how worthwhile the swim stops were in fantastic waters. Nigel called it a “fabulous day,” highlighting the secluded bays and shopping in Vathi as major pluses. Meanwhile, Illésné appreciated the professionalism of the crew and suggested that an extra few minutes in the town would have been beneficial, a small but useful insight.
Who Should Consider This Tour?
If you’re looking for a relaxed, straightforward way to see key parts of Ithaca, this trip ticks several boxes. It’s ideal for travelers who enjoy swimming, beautiful scenery, and light exploration without the hassle of planning each detail. It’s especially suited for those who value good value for money and don’t mind sticking to a schedule.
However, if you prefer a more flexible day, want longer exploration time at each stop, or have mobility concerns, this might not be the best fit.
More Great Tours NearbyFrequently Asked Questions
What time does the tour depart?
The trip begins at 9:00 AM, but it’s best to check availability for your specific date.
How long is the entire tour?
It lasts around 7 hours, including all stops, swimming, and sightseeing.
What’s included in the price?
Your ticket covers boat travel, snacks, juice/water, and fruit. Food and other drinks are not included.
Is this tour suitable for families?
It’s not explicitly tailored for children, but families comfortable with boat travel and short walks should find it manageable.
Can I swim at all the beaches?
Yes, the stops at Filiatro, Gidaki, and other beaches are designed for swimming and relaxing.
How much free time do I get at Vathi?
About 1.5 hours, enough for a quick look around, shopping, or a coffee.
Are the guides knowledgeable?
Reviews highlight guides as polite and professional, sharing interesting insights.
What should I bring?
Comfortable clothes, swimsuits, towels, hats, sunscreen, and a camera are recommended.
Is the tour accessible for people with mobility issues?
No, it’s not suitable for those with mobility impairments due to boat and terrain constraints.
What’s the value for money?
Most travelers find the price reasonable given the stops, snacks, and overall experience, especially since it’s a full-day activity.
Sami: Ithaca Island Boat Trip with Swimming and Snacks
“Very nice boat trip! We had the chance to see the island of Ithaca and made swim stops along the way in some fantastic waters. The staff were polit…”
Final Thoughts
This boat trip to Ithaca offers a practical and enjoyable way to experience the island’s natural beauty and charming villages. It balances swimming in gorgeous spots with light exploration and good onboard amenities. For those who appreciate a well-organized day with time to relax and take in the views, it’s a strong choice.
While it might lack the flexibility of a private tour or longer time at each stop, it compensates with its affordability, professional staff, and scenic itinerary. If you want a hassle-free way to see some of Ithaca’s highlights, this tour is worth considering.
Overall, it’s a solid pick for travelers wanting an easy, scenic, and fun day on the water—without breaking the bank or complicating your plans.
You can check availability for your dates here:
