Ithaca Cruise to Kioni & Vathy with transfer to the port

Exploring Ithaca by Boat: A Detailed Look at the Kioni & Vathy Cruise

If you’re considering a day trip around the beautiful island of Ithaca, this cruise offers a comfortable and scenic way to see some of the most memorable spots without the hassle of self-driving or organizing multiple transfers. While I haven’t been on it myself, I’ve gathered enough info to give you a clear picture of what to expect — and honestly, it sounds like a lovely way to spend a day in the Ionian.

What I love about this tour is the combination of diverse experiences — from secluded beaches with crystal-clear waters to charming villages filled with local character. Plus, the fact that it includes transport to and from the port makes it super practical. On the flip side, as with many group tours, it’s a fairly structured day, so if you’re after a totally freeform adventure, this might feel a bit too scheduled. But overall, it looks to suit travelers who want a balanced mix of relaxation, sightseeing, and swimming, all wrapped in a day that’s manageable and well-paced.

• Comfortable group size of up to 50 travelers ensures a lively but not overwhelming experience.
• Includes bus transfer to the port and boat tickets, simplifying logistics and saving you time.
• Stops at four unique locations offering a mix of secluded beaches and charming villages.
• Stunning sea views and clear waters are a highlight, as confirmed by glowing reviews.
• Flexible itinerary, with plenty of time to explore each stop at your own pace.
• No food or drinks included, so plan to bring snacks or plan your meals around the stops.

What the Tour Offers and Why It Works

This cruise is designed for those who want to soak in the looks of Ithaca without the stress of navigating alone. Starting early (at 8:00 am), the day is packed with scenic stops that showcase the island’s natural beauty and local culture. While it’s not a private or luxury experience, the value lies in the effortless organization and the chance to see multiple spots in one day.

The price of $86.90 per person seems fair when you consider it covers boat tickets, transport, and a well-curated itinerary. You’ll get around eight hours of exploration, making it a full but not exhausting day. The reviews are unanimous about the stunning views, which seem to be the standout feature, with travelers frequently mentioning that they took countless photos of the scenery.

The Itinerary in Detail

Gidaki Beach: A Hidden Treasure

The day kicks off at the exclusive Gidaki Beach, accessible only by boat. This secluded spot is renowned for its crystal-clear waters and tranquil vibe. The water’s shades of turquoise, combined with the unspoiled natural setting, make it an ideal place for a peaceful swim. The fact that it’s a hidden spot adds to its special feel, and it’s easy to see why many reviews highlight the amazing sea views. You’ll spend about 40 minutes here, enough time to float, snap photos, or simply enjoy the serenity.

Vathy: The Heart of Ithaca

Next up is the island’s capital, Vathy, which is described as a charming village with a cozy, laid-back atmosphere. After the boat docks, you have about an hour to wander through cobblestone streets, browse local shops, and soak in the vibrant yet relaxed vibe. It’s a place where history and culture mingle easily — you can explore museums or enjoy a coffee at a seaside café. Reviewers have mentioned that it’s a great spot to experience local flavors and discover souvenirs.

Kioni Village: A Floral Haven

Then, onto Kioni, a true highlight for many travelers. The village is famous for its vibrant flower-filled alleys and picturesque harbor. You’ll have about an hour and a half here, plenty of time to stroll, take photos, and enjoy the unique charm of this quintessential Greek village. Visitors rave about the colorful houses and the friendly atmosphere, making it a perfect spot for a relaxed walk and some casual sightseeing.

Ammoudi Beach: A Perfect Swim to End the Day

The final stop is Ammoudi Beach, a peaceful cove where you can unwind after a busy morning. With crystal waters and gentle waves, it’s an ideal place to cool off, float, or simply sit by the shore and enjoy the natural beauty. This stop lasts about 30 minutes, providing enough time for a quick dip or some relaxing sunbathing.

Return to Kefalonia

After these memorable stops, the boat sails back to Kefalonia, with the journey taking about an hour. The approach back offers a last look at the stunning coastline, perfect for reflecting on a day well spent.

What Travelers Say

The positive reviews focus heavily on the stunning sea views and the quality of swimming spots, which seem to truly stand out. One reviewer mentioned, “The views were amazing, we took so many photos. If you only want to do one trip, then this is it,” highlighting the visual impact of the tour. They also recommended eating at the second stop, noting the delicious local food, even though food isn’t included in the tour price.

While the tour is well-rated overall, some might find the schedule a bit tight, especially if they love lingering longer at each location. But for those who prefer a structured day with a variety of experiences, this cruise strikes a good balance.

Practical Details and Considerations

• Group size is capped at 50, which helps keep the experience lively but manageable.
• Pickup service and bus transfer to the port are included, which reduces hassle and makes the day smoother.
• The duration of around 8 hours means you’ll get plenty of sightseeing without it feeling overly rushed.
• Food and drinks aren’t included, so pack some snacks or plan to grab a meal during your stops.
• The moderate physical fitness level is recommended, primarily because there will be walking around villages and some swimming.
• The tour is priced at $86.90, which seems reasonable given the inclusions and the scenic value.

Who is This Tour Best For?

This experience suits travelers who want a well-organized, scenic day exploring some of Ithaca’s best spots. It’s particularly good if you’re interested in swimming in beautiful waters, exploring traditional villages, and enjoying breathtaking sea views without having to figure out transportation or boat bookings yourself. If you’re traveling with friends or a small group who appreciate a mix of relaxation and sightseeing, this could be just right.

It’s less suited for those looking for a fully flexible or private experience, or travelers who want to spend a lot of time in one spot rather than moving between several locations. Also, since food isn’t included, travelers should plan accordingly.

Final Thoughts

All in all, this cruise offers a beautiful and practical way to see some of the best parts of Ithaca in one day. The combination of secluded beaches, vibrant villages, and stunning vistas makes it an appealing choice for anyone wanting to make the most of their time on the island.

If you’re the type of traveler who appreciates easy logistics, scenic stops, and quality swimming, then this tour could be a highlight of your trip. Just remember to pack a swimsuit, some snacks, and your camera — the views will probably leave you reaching for your phone.

FAQ

Is the tour suitable for travelers with moderate physical fitness?
Yes, the tour is recommended for those with a moderate fitness level, as there will be walking around villages and some swimming.

Are transportation arrangements complicated?
Not at all. The tour includes bus transfer to the port and boat tickets, making the logistics straightforward.

How long does each stop last?
Gidaki Beach is about 40 minutes, Vathy for an hour, Kioni for 1.5 hours, and Ammoudi Beach for 30 minutes. The return trip to Kefalonia takes about an hour.

What should I bring?
Bring a swimsuit, towel, sunscreen, possibly some snacks or drinks, and your camera. Since food isn’t included, plan accordingly.

Is there an age limit or family suitability?
While not explicitly mentioned, the tour’s physicality suggests it’s suitable for most ages, but families with young children should consider the walking and swimming components.

Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, cancellations are free if made at least 24 hours in advance, with a full refund.

If you’re after an easy-to-book, scenic day with plenty of opportunities to enjoy the natural beauty of Ithaca, this cruise seems like a solid choice. Just keep expectations realistic — it’s a guided tour, not a free-form adventure — but with stunning views and memorable stops, it’s a trip worth considering.