Cephalonia is a fantastic island for enjoying memorable lunch experiences that go beyond just eating. Thanks to its stunning coastline, crystal-clear waters, and charming villages, you can combine sightseeing with delicious local flavors. One of our favorite options is the QueenBee Full-Day Boat Trip with Lunch, which offers an immersive day exploring secluded coves and sandy beaches — many only accessible by sea — all while savoring homemade Greek dishes. That trip, along with others on this list, provides a perfect way to enjoy Cephalonia’s natural beauty while indulging in authentic cuisine.
From boat cruises that combine swimming and snorkeling to cultural tours with lunch in picturesque villages, Cephalonia offers a variety of options for a memorable midday break. Whether you’re after a relaxing day at the beach, a scenic cruise, or a guided excursion that touches on the island’s highlights, these experiences promise genuine local flavors and spectacular views. Below, you’ll find detailed descriptions of each tour, helping you decide which suits your style and budget.
Types of Lunch Tours in Cephalonia
Our list includes three standout lunch experiences: a full-day boat trip with homemade food exploring islands off the coast, a relaxing cruise to White Rocks Beach with lunch and wine, and a comprehensive bus and boat tour combining village visits, a cruise, and a meal in Fiscardo. Each offers something different—be it adventure, culture, or relaxation. To see all options, visit QueenBee Full-Day Boat Trip with Lunch, Cruise to White Rocks & Xi Beach with lunch and wine, and Kefalonia Highlights – Bus & Cruise, Assos & Lunch in Fiscardo.
1. QueenBee Full-Day Boat Trip with Lunch
At number one on our list, the QueenBee full-day cruise offers a full eight hours exploring the coast of Cephalonia on charming wooden boats. The tour includes visits to unspoiled beaches and secluded spots like White Rocks, accessible only by sea. The highlight is swimming and snorkeling in the warm Ionian waters, often in quiet, crystal-clear spots where you can really unwind. The crew, a family-owned operation, enhances the experience with their genuine hospitality and local stories.
What makes this trip stand out is the homemade Greek lunch served onboard. Unlike standard tourist fare, this meal is prepared fresh, featuring traditional flavors that local families have enjoyed for generations. The reviews rave about the staff’s friendliness and the lively atmosphere, with one guest noting, “The crew made the day memorable with their jokes and warmth.” The boat’s small size ensures an intimate experience, perfect for making new friends or just relaxing in beautiful surroundings.
Bottom line: If you want a full day of island hopping, swimming in secret coves, and enjoying a home-cooked Greek meal, this trip offers unbeatable value and a friendly vibe that makes it a favorite among travelers.
2. Cruise to White Rocks & Xi Beach with lunch and wine
Number two is the Cruise to White Rocks & Xi Beach, another full-day option that combines stunning scenery with good food and wine. For around $98, you’ll spend about eight hours on a group boat exploring some of Cephalonia’s most photogenic spots. The trip starts with White Rocks Beach, a striking strip of soft sand and turquoise water, accessible only by boat. Here, you can swim, sunbathe, or just relax away from crowds.
Next, the boat heads to Vardiani Island, or “Rabbit Island,” a peaceful retreat with rugged trails, a lighthouse, and a shipwreck to explore. The day ends with a stop at Xi Beach, famous for its reddish sand and shallow waters—ideal for families or those wanting a gentle swim. The included lunch pairs well with local wine, making for a leisurely and enjoyable day. Reviewers appreciate the relaxed pace and the chance to take beautiful photos, with one noting, “The stops were fantastic, and the sea was perfect for swimming.”
This tour suits travelers who want a balance of scenic views, beach relaxation, and good food, all in a friendly group setting. It’s especially appealing if you prefer a more laid-back day with plenty of opportunities for swimming.
Bottom line: For travelers seeking a gentle, scenic cruise with a focus on swimming and relaxing in unspoiled spots, this tour delivers a memorable experience with lovely food and wine included.
3. Kefalonia Highlights – Bus & Cruise, Assos & Lunch in Fiscardo
Third on our list is the comprehensive Kefalonia Highlights tour. For around $109, you get a well-rounded day, starting with door-to-door pickup from your hotel. This tour blends sightseeing, cultural stops, and a scenic cruise, making it perfect for travelers who want to see the island’s highlights without fuss.
The journey begins with the Melissani Cave, where a boat glides across an enchanted underground lake lit by sunlight piercing through an open ceiling. The guide shares stories about the myth of the nymphs and the cave’s formation. Afterward, you visit the fishing village of Agia Efimia for a quick look at local life. The cruise then takes you from Agia Efimia to Assos, a charming village with its colorful houses and a fortress overlooking the sea.
The highlight is a 3-course lunch in Fiscardo, one of the most picturesque villages on the island, featuring fresh, local ingredients. The day concludes with a visit to the iconic Myrtos Beach, best seen from vantage points along the road. Guests praise the variety of sights and the relaxed, informative pace, with some noting, “It’s a great way to see the main spots without worrying about transportation.”
Bottom line: Best suited for travelers wanting a full, curated tour that mixes natural beauty, small villages, and cultural sites, topped with a delicious meal in Fiscardo.
How to Choose Your Cephalonia Lunch Experience
Choosing between these options depends on your interests, budget, and how much time you want to spend in transit. If you prefer a full day of island exploration with a lively crew and homemade Greek food, the QueenBee boat trip is hard to beat. For a more relaxed, scenic day with swimming at White Rocks and wine, the White Rocks & Xi Beach cruise is ideal. Those interested in a mix of sightseeing, cultural highlights, and a good meal in a charming village might prefer the Kefalonia Highlights.
Consider your budget: the boat trips are similarly priced, but the full-day excursions often include more intimate experiences. Think about your fitness level and interests—if you love exploring caves and underwater scenery, the full-day cruise is perfect. If you want a gentle day with plenty of photo opportunities and local flavor, the guided bus and cruise tour hits the mark.
Booking early is recommended, especially during peak season, to secure your preferred date and avoid disappointment.
Final Thoughts
Cephalonia offers a rich mix of lunch experiences that suit various tastes. Whether you’re after a lively day on a boat exploring hidden beaches, a relaxed cruise with swimming and wine, or a guided tour of the island’s cultural sites paired with a hearty meal, there’s something for all. For an authentic and fun-filled day, the QueenBee full-day cruise stands out as a top choice for its friendly vibe and homemade food. Meanwhile, the White Rocks & Xi Beach cruise is perfect for those seeking a peaceful day near nature.
Whatever your preference, booking early and planning around your interests will ensure you enjoy some of the best lunch experiences Cephalonia has to offer.
