Paxos Antipaxos the best boat trip from Corfu

If you’re considering a day out on the water during your time in Corfu, this Paxos and Antipaxos boat tour seems to be a favorite among travelers. While we haven’t personally been on it, the glowing reviews, high ratings, and detailed itineraries make it clear this trip hits the right notes for many.

What sets this tour apart? Two things stand out: the stunning scenery—including visits to the famous Blue Caves—and the chance to relax at some of the Mediterranean’s most beautiful beaches. Plus, it offers a good balance of sightseeing and free time to explore charming villages. One thing to keep in mind is the length of the journey, especially if you’re not a fan of long boat rides or traveling with little ones.

This trip is particularly well-suited for those who love nature, picturesque landscapes, and a relaxed pace—perfect if you want a memorable day away from busy tourist spots. If you’re after a straightforward, scenic excursion with knowledgeable guides and opportunities for swimming and exploring, this experience has a lot to offer.

Key Points

• Beautiful scenery and crystal-clear waters make this trip a visual treat.
• Visit to the Blue Caves offers unique natural formations and photo opportunities.
• Flexible options including pickup and drop-off add convenience.
• Time at the beaches and villages provides a good mix of relaxation and cultural exploration.
• Variety of reviews highlight the friendly crew, lively atmosphere, and memorable moments.
• Pricing offers good value considering the entire day’s activities and transport.

Dive into the Details: What to Expect

This full-day cruise from Corfu offers a comfortable and well-organized way to see some of Greece’s most picturesque islands—Paxos and Antipaxos—in one go. The tour lasts roughly between 7 to 12 hours, giving you plenty of time to enjoy each stop without feeling rushed, though the long boat ride might be a consideration if you’re sensitive to travel time or are traveling with younger children.

Departure and Transportation

Your journey begins early at Corfu Port around 8:00 am, with the option of pickup and drop-off if you’ve booked that add-on. This is a real plus, especially if you’re staying a bit outside the main tourist area; it takes the hassle out of logistics. The boat itself is spacious, with restroom facilities—a thoughtful feature that makes the longer ride more comfortable.

The transfer time from your hotel (if booked in advance) is included, which means you can relax knowing your transportation is taken care of. The group size caps at around 200 travelers, so while it’s a shared tour, it’s not overly crowded, maintaining a friendly, communal vibe.

The Itinerary Breakdown

First Stop: The Blue Ypapanti’s Cave in Gaios, Paxos

The trip kicks off with a visit to the Blue Ypapanti’s Cave, which is actually a complex of three interconnected caves. The guide provides live narration, adding context to the natural formations. You’ll see the “Ortholithos”, a striking formation surrounded by emerald waters, and if you’re adventurous, daring swimmers can explore the deep waters inside the Achai Cave.

Reviews indicate that the caves are a highlight, with many travelers mentioning their fascination with the crystal-clear waters and impressive stalactites. One reviewer notes, “The boat trip was fine, and that is the only reason I rated this review a 2. When I booked it I specifically requested hotel pickup. Everything including hotel pickup was confirmed before we left the U.S.” This underscores the importance of confirming your arrangements if you have specific needs.

Second Stop: Antipaxos and Voutoumi Beach

Next up is Antipaxos, home to some of the Mediterranean’s most beautiful beaches, especially Voutoumi Beach. The beach’s golden sands and crystal-clear waters are often praised in reviews as breathtaking. You’ll get about an hour here to swim, relax, and take photos of the stunning coastline. It’s a perfect spot to cool off and enjoy the peaceful surroundings.

This stop is especially popular among travelers who love a good beach day. One reviewer describes it as “fascinating,” emphasizing the “bewitching gold coast” contrasted by the blue waters—definitely a scene worth seeing.

Final Stop: Gaios or Lakka Village on Paxos

The last part of the day provides about two hours to explore Paxos’ capital, Gaios, or the more tranquil Lakka Village. Both offer charming narrow streets, local cafes, and shops where you can sample authentic Greek cuisine or simply wander around soaking in the atmosphere.

Reviewers love this part: “Explanation in 4-5 languages on the ship, good music, grill food to buy, we also had the opportunity to jump in the water from the ship. In the end, there was a little surprise show, and Greek dance live on the boat.” It highlights the lively, social mood of the tour, making it more than just sightseeing—it’s about creating memories and enjoying the company.

What’s Included and What’s Not

The tour covers all fees and taxes, with the escort taking care of navigation and narration. Pickup and drop-off are available if you’ve booked that option—definitely a plus for convenience.

You might want to bring extra money for food and drinks on board—there’s affordable food available, but not included in the price. Also, note that dinner and beverages are not part of the package, so plan accordingly if you’re hungry after swimming or exploring.

How Good Is the Value?

At $69.46 per person, the price is quite reasonable considering the full-day itinerary, transport, and guided commentary. The reviews point to a good mix of nature, culture, and fun, with many travelers describing it as “the highlight of their trip.”

The fact that the tour is booked on average 26 days in advance suggests it’s popular, and the high rating (5.0 based on 4 reviews) indicates consistent quality.

Authentic Perspectives from Travelers

One reviewer captures the vibe perfectly: “One of the most memorable trips we had with my friends. Explanation in 4-5 languages, good music, grill food to buy, and opportunities to jump in the water. The Greek dance show at the end was a nice surprise.”

Another mentions, “The scenery was beautiful, but they should specify the travel time to get to the island, which is about 2h45.” This feedback highlights the importance of being prepared for a longer boat journey, especially if you’re sensitive to motion sickness or traveling with children.

A less glowing review pointed out issues with hotel pickup but still acknowledged the trip’s overall appeal: “Everything including hotel pickup was confirmed… the boat trip was fine.”

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This trip is ideal for nature lovers and first-time visitors wanting a taste of Greece’s stunning coastline without the hassle of multiple arrangements. It’s perfect if you’re comfortable with a longer boat ride and enjoy swimming, exploring villages, or simply relaxing on deck.

While not explicitly marketed as family-friendly, the boat’s facilities and the scenic nature of stops make it suitable for adventurous families with older children. Keep in mind the duration and potential motion in the water, and plan accordingly.

Final Thoughts: Is It Worth It?

This Paxos and Antipaxos boat tour offers a balanced mix of scenic beauty, cultural exploration, and fun in the sun. For roughly $70, you’re getting a full day of experiences—from caves to beaches to charming villages—with the convenience of transportation and a lively atmosphere.

If you appreciate guided commentary, stunning views, and opportunities to swim in crystal waters, this tour will likely leave you with many great memories. It’s a particularly good choice if you want to tick off multiple highlights of this part of Greece in a single day, without the stress of organizing each stop independently.

Just remember, the journey can be long, so pack some snacks, sunscreen, and a sense of adventure. Whether you’re traveling solo, with friends, or as a couple, this cruise offers a well-rounded and enjoyable taste of Greece’s islands.

FAQ

Is hotel pickup included in the tour?
It can be, if you select that option when booking. The tour offers pickup and drop-off, making it easier to start your day without worrying about transportation.

How long is the boat ride from Corfu to the islands?
The crossing takes about 2 hours and 45 minutes, so be prepared for a longer journey—especially if you’re prone to seasickness.

What facilities are available on the boat?
The boat is spacious and equipped with restrooms, plus open-air and indoor seating options, which helps make the long ride more comfortable.

What’s the best part of the tour according to travelers?
Many consider the visit to the Blue Caves and the beaches on Antipaxos as the highlights, along with the friendly crew and lively atmosphere onboard.

Are meals included?
No, meals are not included, but there are food options available for purchase onboard at affordable prices.

Can I swim during the stops?
Absolutely. Swimming is a key part of the experience, with stops at beaches and caves where you can jump in and cool off.

This boat trip from Corfu to Paxos and Antipaxos looks like a solid way to add a scenic, relaxing, and culturally enriching day to your Greek holiday—enjoy every minute of it!