Cruise to Kassiopi from Corfu

Exploring Kassiopi from Corfu by Boat: A Relaxed Day on the Water

If you’re looking for a way to escape the bustling land-based attractions of Corfu and explore a quieter corner of Greece, this cruise to Kassiopi might just be what you need. From what we’ve seen, it’s a well-rated trip that offers a peaceful, scenic experience—especially appealing if you enjoy being on the water and discovering lesser-known spots. The highlight for many seems to be the chance to explore the charming fishing village at your own pace, combined with some swimming in crystal-clear waters.

Two features that stand out are the stress-free hotel pickup in Agios Andreas—which takes the hassle out of organizing transport—and the free time in Kassiopi and at Agios Andreas, which allows you to tailor your day according to your interests. The relatively modest price of around $73 per person makes this a good-value outing, especially considering the two main stops, a boat ride along gorgeous coastline views, and the inclusion of all fees and taxes.

However, one consideration is that this tour involves a good chunk of time on the water—about 7 hours in total—so if you’re not comfortable aboard a boat or prone to seasickness, it might not be the best fit. Also, while the tour is praised for its atmosphere and crew, it’s best suited for travelers who enjoy a relaxed pace and spontaneous exploration rather than strict schedules.

This cruise seems ideal for those wanting a leisurely day out, combining scenic views, cultural exploration, and a bit of swimming. It’s perfect if you’re eager to see a quieter side of Corfu, away from the busy tourist spots, and appreciate the freedom to explore at your own pace.

<h3 id="section-0">Key Points

• Relaxed, flexible experience with free time to explore Kassiopi and swim.
• Beautiful coastline views along the way, including the Albanian coast.
• Stress-free logistics with hotel pickup and drop-off included.
• Great value for the price, with all fees and taxes covered.
• Ideal for those who enjoy scenic boat rides, outdoor exploration, and spontaneous swimming.
• Potential for longer waiting times or seasickness if you’re sensitive to boat travel.

A Detailed Look at the Experience

Starting Out: Ease of Access and Departure

The tour kicks off in Gouvia, with a convenient start point on the coast of Corfu. The morning begins around 10:15 am, giving you plenty of time to relax before setting sail. One of the first things we appreciate about this setup is the hotel pickup in Agios Andreas, which means you don’t have to worry about finding your way to a crowded port or organizing transport—something that’s often overlooked but makes the day much more enjoyable.

The Coastal Cruise: Beautiful Views and Quiet Charm

Once on board, the boat glides along the coast, and you’ll get to see some of the island’s most picturesque spots. The cruise skirts past Nissaki, Kalami, Kouloura, and Agios Stefanos, with the Albanian coast visible at the right side. We loved how the boat moves close to the coastline, offering a different perspective compared to land-based views. The roughly two-hour stretch is great for relaxing, chatting with fellow travelers, or simply soaking up the scenery.

Kassiopi: The Village and Its Fortress

The highlight for many is the stop in Kassiopi, an authentic fishing village that’s far less commercialized than some of the island’s other tourist spots. Here, you’re given free time to explore, which means you can wander at your own pace—whether that’s grabbing a local lunch, browsing quaint shops, or simply strolling along the waterfront.

A particularly notable feature is the old fortress ruins, which are easily accessible and worth a quick visit. The views from the fortress are described as “magnificent,” making it a worthwhile hike if you’re up for it. As one reviewer mentioned, “the view you get after exploring this impressive monument is worth the hike through,” which hints at a rewarding panoramic vantage point.

Swimming in Agios Andreas Cave

On the way back, the boat makes a short stop at the Agios Andreas cave—a spot renowned for its clear waters, perfect for swimming. Many travelers find this highlight refreshing, especially after a day of shipboard lounging and exploration. It’s a good opportunity to cool off and enjoy Greece’s famously pristine waters.

The Overall Value

At roughly $73 per person, this tour covers all fees and taxes, making it straightforward and transparent. Based on the reviews, travelers feel they get good value for their money—especially since the trip includes both sightseeing and free time for personal exploration and swimming. The relaxed pace and scenic route seem to resonate well with those seeking a peaceful, scenic escape.

The Experience on the Boat

Review comments consistently praise the friendly crew and the ship’s atmosphere. One reviewer noted, “Sehr nette Crew, tolles Schiff! Der Kaffee war ebenfalls lecker,” which translates to “Very nice crew, great ship! The coffee was also tasty.” Such details show that the experience isn’t just about the sights but also about feeling comfortable and welcomed.

Who Would Love This Tour?

This cruise suits travelers who prefer a laid-back day, enjoy being on the water, and appreciate free time to explore without feeling rushed. It’s especially suitable if you’re keen on scenic views, spontaneous swimming, and discovering a less touristy side of Corfu. If comfort and flexibility are your priorities, this might just be your perfect day out.

The Practical Details

Itinerary Breakdown

• Gouvia Departure: The cruise begins from this port with a 10:15 am departure, a good time for travelers to settle in.
• Coastal Sightseeing: A two-hour sail along the coast, with views of Nissaki, Kalami, Kouloura, and Agios Stefanos, plus the Albanian coast.
• Kassiopi Exploration: Arriving in the old fishing village, you have about five hours to explore, visit the fortress ruins, and enjoy local food or shopping.
• Swim Stop at Agios Andreas: A short cruise stop for swimming, allowing you to relax and enjoy Greece’s famous waters.
• Return: The boat heads back to Gouvia, with the tour ending at the starting point.

Duration and Group Size

The tour runs approximately 7 hours, with a maximum group size of 60 travelers, ensuring a comfortable experience without feeling crowded.

Cost and Value

At $72.88 per person, this cruise offers a good deal considering the scenic route, included fees, and the flexibility it provides. It’s not a luxury experience but quite a solid value, especially if you’re looking to add a scenic water-based adventure to your trip.

Weather Considerations

Since the experience depends on good weather, it’s wise to keep an eye on the forecast. If canceled due to bad weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

If you’re someone who loves relaxing boat rides, spontaneous swimming, and exploring quaint villages at your own pace, this cruise is a real winner. It’s particularly suited for those who want to avoid the crowded tourist spots and prefer a more laid-back, scenic day on the water. Families with older children, outdoor enthusiasts, or even solo travelers seeking a peaceful escape have found this to be a memorable outing.

However, if you’re prone to seasickness or prefer more structured, guided tours with specific scheduled visits, this might not be your best fit. It’s meant to be flexible, relaxed, and driven by your own interests.

FAQ

Is hotel pickup included?
Yes, hotel pickup and drop-off in Agios Andreas are included, making logistics much easier.

What is the tour duration?
The entire experience lasts approximately 7 hours, including sailing, exploring, swimming, and returning.

How much does it cost?
The price per person is around $72.88, covering all fees and taxes.

Are meals included?
No, meals are not provided, but you have free time in Kassiopi to grab lunch or snacks.

Can I swim during the tour?
Yes, swimming is available at the Agios Andreas cave, which is a highlight for many.

What’s the group size?
The tour can accommodate up to 60 travelers, ensuring a comfortable group without feeling crowded.

Is this suitable for families?
While not explicitly marketed as family-friendly, the leisurely pace and scenic stops could work well for families with older children who enjoy boats and exploring.

What should I bring?
Bring swimwear, sunscreen, water, and perhaps some cash for snacks or souvenirs in Kassiopi.

What if the weather is bad?
If canceled due to poor weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

In the end, this cruise to Kassiopi seems to strike a good balance between scenic cruising, free exploration, and relaxing swimming stops. It’s a straightforward, enjoyable way to see a quieter side of Corfu with minimal fuss. If you’re after a day of sun, sea, and small-town charm, it’s definitely worth considering.