Kefalonia’s rugged coastline, crystal-clear waters, and scenic beaches make it a perfect place to see by boat. Whether you’re after a relaxing day with a homemade Greek meal or an adrenaline-fueled swim and snorkel adventure, the island offers options that fit different tastes. We especially love the full-day traditional boat cruise from Argostoli because it combines stunning scenery with fun activities like dolphin spotting and a homemade Greek lunch. Plus, the chance to take part in a clay spa treatment at Xi Beach makes it a memorable experience.
Other trips on our list include island-hopping cruises to Ithaca and Zakynthos, which showcase the region’s famous Blue Caves and the iconic Shipwreck Beach. These are great for travelers who want a mix of sightseeing, swimming, and exploring multiple islands in one day. For those looking for a budget-friendly option, there’s a less-expensive tour with a bus and cruise combo exploring Ithaca, perfect if you’re interested in local legends and scenic ports.
Below, you’ll find detailed descriptions of each tour to help you decide which one suits your interests, schedule, and budget. Let’s get started.
1. Argostoli: Full-Day Traditional Boat Cruise with Lunch
Starting in Argostoli, this 7-hour full-day trip is a classic Kefalonia experience. The cruise takes you on a traditional Greek boat, with plenty of opportunities for swimming, snorkeling, and relaxing. What makes this trip stand out is its combination of vibrant stops, local cuisine, and chances to see marine life like dolphins, sea turtles, and monk seals.
You’ll visit the White Rocks Beach for a dip in its clear waters, explore Vardiani or Rabbit Island, and enjoy a homemade Greek lunch with fresh salad, fruit, and wine onboard. The trip also includes a clay spa treatment at Xi Beach, which is a unique highlight. The itinerary balances scenic cruising with stops for photos and relaxation, making it ideal for families and those who want a full day on the water.
Guests give this tour a 4.8-star rating from over 400 reviews, often mentioning the friendly crew, the delicious food, and the fun activities like paddleboarding. One reviewer noted, “The lunch was scrumptious and the crew made everyone feel at home.”
Bottom Line: Perfect for anyone wanting a comprehensive day on the water with food, marine life, and beach fun included.
2. From Agia Efimia: Day Cruise to Ithaki Island with Lunch
At number 2 on our list, this 8.5-hour day cruise takes you from Agia Efimia, aboard a modern sailing yacht to explore Ithaca. The focus here is on experiencing the island’s stunning bays and secret beaches. It’s a more intimate trip with a small group atmosphere that appeals to travelers seeking a relaxed yet engaging day out.
Highlights include swimming and snorkeling at Gidaki Beach, a beautiful spot known for its clear waters, and enjoying onboard local snacks and a hearty lunch. The boat also stops for a short visit to Ithaca’s charming villages, such as Kioni and Frikes, where you can explore at your own pace. The crew are praised for their hospitality and providing a “lifetime sailing experience,” making this trip stand apart from larger, more hurried tours.
Reviews mention the calm, friendly atmosphere and the exceptional food, with one praising their captain Evangelus for his courteous service. For around $169, the combination of sailing, swimming, and island exploration offers excellent value, especially for those wanting to experience the Ionian Sea in style.
Bottom Line: Best suited for couples or small groups craving a tranquil boat trip with fantastic food and a taste of authentic Ithaca.
3. From Kefalonia: Blue Cave Boat Cruise & Shipwreck Photo Stop
This 7-hour cruise from Poros is perfect for travelers eager to see some of the most photogenic spots along the Zakynthos shoreline. The trip includes visits to the famous Navagio (Shipwreck) Beach and the stunning Blue Caves, with plenty of time for photos and swimming. It’s a good pick if you’re after iconic sights and dramatic coastline vistas.
The Blue Caves are known for their mesmerizing blue light reflections, and the Shipwreck Beach’s story is legendary. The tour includes stops at Alykanas village and Mounda Beach, with opportunities for swimming and exploring secluded coves. You’ll also get a chance to visit Alykanas village at your own pace, making it more than just a sightseeing cruise.
Reviews highlight the comfortable boat and the thoughtful itinerary, with some guests noting that they appreciated the flexibility to explore and swim. One comment mentioned, “The wreck and caves are a must-see, and the boat was very clean and well-organized.”
Bottom Line: Ideal for travelers who want to combine photography with fun swimming stops at Zakynthos’ top sights.
4. Ithaca Island Tour with Bus & Cruise with Swim Stops
This 9-hour guided tour offers a mix of bus travel and boat cruising, focusing on the legendary island of Ithaca. You’ll start in Vathi, then cruise to Kioni and Frikes, with plenty of time for walking, shopping, or relaxing. The trip blends cultural exploration with scenic boat rides, perfect for travelers who want a rundown of Ithaca.
The tour includes stops for swimming at a secluded beach and a coffee break at the small village of Stavros. You’ll enjoy a scenic cruise along the coast, with opportunities to swim, snorkel, and take photos of the stunning coastline. The tour emphasizes storytelling, sharing the myths of Odysseus and the island’s role in Greek legend.
Reviewers appreciate the well-organized itinerary and the chance to see multiple sites without rushing. One reviewer commented that the trip provided “great swim stops and plenty of free time to explore the charming villages.” The price of $51 makes it a budget-friendly option for those interested in seeing the main highlights without a full-day commitment.
Bottom Line: Best suited for budget-conscious travelers who want a mix of sightseeing, swimming, and mythology.
5. From Kefalonia: Zakynthos Cruise with Shipwreck Beach
This 6.5-hour cruise to Zakynthos is perfect for those who want to see the island’s most famous sights on a shorter trip. It features stops at Navagio Beach, Blue Caves, and St. Nicholas Harbour. The itinerary is straightforward but packed with photo opportunities and swimming in the Ionian Sea.
The highlight, of course, is the Shipwreck Beach, where you get a 15-minute photo stop and some time for exploring the area. The Blue Caves are also included, offering incredible views and underwater caves to admire. The tour ends with a visit to St. Nicholas Harbour, where you can enjoy a traditional Greek meal at a local tavern.
Guests mention the comfortable boat ride and the chance to see dolphins and turtles. One reviewer said, “The trip was great, and the crew was very friendly. The blue caves and shipwreck are unforgettable.” While this tour is shorter, it still covers the essentials for a memorable day out.
Bottom Line: Ideal for travelers with limited time who still want to see Zakynthos’ best-known sights.
How to Choose
When deciding between these boat tours, consider your budget, time availability, and interests. For a full day with activities and food, the Argostoli cruise offers excellent value. If you’re after a relaxing sail with fewer crowds, the Ithaki small-group cruise is a great pick. For iconic photo spots, the Zakynthos trips shine, especially the Blue Cave and Shipwreck tour.
If you want a blend of mythology, scenery, and swimming, the Ithaca bus and cruise combines history with leisure. And remember, booking early is wise—these tours fill up fast during peak season.
Final Thoughts
Kefalonia offers a fantastic variety of boat trips that can match nearly any travel style. From the immersive full-day cruises with homemade Greek food to the quick, photo-rich trips to Zakynthos, there’s something for all. If you’re after a family-friendly experience, the Argostoli cruise is hard to beat. For romantics or small groups, the Ithaki sailing adventure is perfect. And for those short on time but eager to see Zakynthos’ famous harbor, the shorter cruise hits the spot.
Whatever you choose, these tours provide a chance to see Kefalonia’s stunning coastline and marine life, making your trip unforgettable. Be sure to compare schedules, read recent reviews, and book early for the best experience. Happy sailing!
