From Sami: Ithaca Daily Cruise with Swim Stop and Snacks

If you’re planning a trip to Kefalonia and considering a day trip to the nearby island of Ithaca, this cruise might just be what you’re looking for. Although I haven’t personally been on this specific tour, reviews and detailed descriptions paint a pretty enticing picture. It’s a seven-hour journey that promises a leisurely experience with plenty of opportunities to swim, explore, and enjoy the scenery at your own pace.

What really stands out are the crystal-clear waters at multiple swimming spots and the chance to wander through the charming village of Vathy, which reflects a lovely Venetian influence. Plus, the inclusion of traditional Greek snacks and fresh fruit makes it feel like a taste of local life.

A potential consideration? The tour is quite structured, so if you’re someone who likes complete flexibility or wants to spend more time in one place, this might feel a bit rushed. Still, it’s a great fit for travelers who want a balanced mix of swimming, sightseeing, and relaxation. It’s especially well-suited for those who appreciate picturesque scenery and enjoy small-group boat experiences that aren’t overly crowded.

All in all, if you’re after a calm, scenic day on the water with opportunities to swim, explore a quaint village, and enjoy authentic Greek snacks, this cruise will probably check a lot of boxes.

Key Points

• Beautiful swimming spots with transparent waters perfect for snorkeling and relaxing.
• Charming village exploration in Vathy, with picturesque streets and local cafes.
• Inclusion of traditional snacks and fresh fruit, adding a local touch to your day.
• Flexible itinerary with multiple stops, including Lazaretto with its historical background.
• Small group size (up to 25 travelers), making for a more intimate experience.
• Good value at around $86 per person, considering the number of stops and activities included.

This tour offers a relaxed way to see parts of Ithaca that are often hard to reach on your own, especially if you prefer being on the water rather than in a car. The boat itself is described as charming, and with a maximum of 25 travelers, it promises a cozy, friendly vibe rather than a packed tour bus experience.

The day kicks off from Sami Port at 9:00 am, giving you plenty of time to enjoy the scenery without feeling rushed. After a one-hour boat ride, you’ll reach Pera Pigadi, an isolated pebble beach with super clear waters—perfect for a quick swim or just soaking up the sun. The boat then moves on to Filiatro Beach, which is one of the nearest beaches to Vathy and known for its gentle, shallow waters. Expect to enjoy another hour here, swimming or simply relaxing on the boat.

Next, you’ll get to explore Vathy, the island’s main town since the 16th century. The town’s narrow streets, tiled roofs, and stone-paved alleys create a picture-perfect scene. It’s a chance to wander freely for about an hour and a half, discovering local taverns and cafes lining the waterfront. Based on reviews, visitors have appreciated the chance to explore this town’s hidden gems and enjoy its Venetian charm.

From Vathy, the boat cruises to Lazaretto, a small pine-covered island with a chapel and a fascinating history as a quarantine station during Venetian rule. The 20-minute stop here offers a great photo opportunity and a quick dose of history amidst nature.

The highlight for many is Gidaki Beach, accessible only by boat, with its striking white cliffs and lush greenery. Backed by dramatic cliffs and surrounded by vibrant waters, this spot is ideal for swimming and sunbathing, offering a sense of escapism. The boat stays here for about an hour, giving you ample time to unwind.

The return journey to Sami starts around 4:00 pm, giving plenty of time to reflect on a full day of scenic beauty, swimming, and exploring. The entire experience is about enjoying the relaxed pace of island life, with the added comfort of snacks and drinks included.

Value-wise, the tour covers all fees, taxes, and the boat tickets, which means you won’t have to worry about extra costs during the day. The snacks—traditional Kefalonian Riganada, fresh seasonal fruits, and drinks like juice and water—are a nice touch, giving you a taste of local flavors without extra expense.

You’ll need to budget separately for personal expenses, such as souvenirs, additional drinks, or meals during your time in Vathy. The tour is suitable for most travelers, with confirmation received at booking and a max group size of 25, which helps keep the experience intimate.

What truly makes this trip appealing is the chance to enjoy multiple swim stops in some of Ithaca’s most beautiful beaches. The water here is a highlight—crystal-clear and inviting, perfect for a quick swim or snorkel. The boat’s size and small group format should make it easier to relax and enjoy the surroundings without feeling overwhelmed.

The boat itself is described as charming, and the crew is praised for being polite and friendly. That personal touch can make a big difference when you’re out on the water for several hours.

Vathy is often highlighted as a charming, authentic Greek village with a history reflected in its architecture and layout. Walking through its narrow streets, you’ll discover pretty houses, some imposing mansions, and small shops that seem untouched by mass tourism. Based on reviews, visitors enjoyed wandering through the streets and finding hidden spots to sit and soak in the atmosphere.

The waterfront cafes and taverns offer a relaxed setting to grab a coffee or a cold drink, making it an ideal spot for a leisurely lunch or snack during your stop.

Photographers and Instagram lovers will find plenty to love here. Lazaretto’s chapel amid the pine trees makes for a peaceful, almost mystical scene, especially if you’re into historical settings. Gidaki’s dramatic cliffs and pristine waters provide a stunning backdrop for pictures that will remind you of this trip long after.

The waters around Gidaki vary from deep blue to green, adding to the visual appeal. Its isolation and natural beauty make it a highlight of the day, especially if you enjoy swimming in less crowded spots.

If you’re someone who appreciates scenic views, small-group experiences, and the chance to swim in clear waters, this tour is a good fit. It’s ideal for travelers who want a mix of sightseeing, relaxing, and authentic local flavors without a rush or overly formal atmosphere.

It’s not a tour for those seeking a highly structured or flexible itinerary—everything is pretty much planned, with specific stops and set times. If you love to explore on your own or spend longer in one place, you might find the schedule a bit tight.

This cruise offers a well-rounded day of swimming, exploring, and soaking in the scenery. The fact that it’s praised for the stunning waters and scenic stops, combined with the small-group vibe, makes it attractive for many travelers. Its price point is reasonable given the length of the trip and what’s included—especially the snacks and drinks.

While it’s not a tour with hours of free time in each spot, the stops are timed well enough to give you a taste of each location without feeling hurried. The boat’s charm, the friendly crew, and the beautiful surroundings make this a relaxing way to experience Ithaca’s highlights without a lot of hassle.

If your ideal day involves gentle sailing, scenic beaches, and charming villages, this could be just the experience you’re after. It’s especially suited for those who want to enjoy the water and scenery at a relaxed pace, with a touch of local flavor.

How long is the cruise?
The tour lasts approximately 7 hours, starting at 9:00 am and returning around 4:00 pm.

What are the main stops on the tour?
You’ll visit Pera Pigadi beach, Filiatro beach, Vathy, Lazaretto island, and Gidaki beach, plus a return to Sami Port.

Is food included?
Yes, the tour includes traditional Greek snacks like Riganada, fresh seasonal fruits, and drinks such as juice and water.

How many people are usually on the tour?
The maximum group size is 25 travelers, making for a more intimate experience.

Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, there’s a full refund available if you cancel at least 24 hours in advance.

Is this suitable for children or families?
While the tour is generally suitable for most travelers, especially those who enjoy swimming and scenic views, specifics about children aren’t highlighted. Remember, it’s a boat trip with specific timings, so consider your family’s comfort with boat travel and variable schedules.

If you’re looking for a relaxing, scenic day out with plenty of swimming and exploring, this Ithaca cruise from Sami hits many of the right notes. It’s about enjoying the water, discovering a picturesque town, and soaking up the Greek island atmosphere—all at a gentle, easygoing pace.