Corfu boat trip, swimming & BBQ

Planning a day on the water in Corfu? This boat trip promises a blend of scenic views, beach relaxing, and tasty food — all within a manageable 7-hour window. It’s a popular choice among travelers, boasting a solid 4.5-star rating from over 200 reviews. Whether you’re craving stunning coastal scenery, a laid-back day swimming at gorgeous beaches, or just a fun group outing, this tour offers a little bit of everything.

What really draws us in are the engaging crew and the authentic Greek BBQ—a highlight for many—and the chance to swim in some of the island’s most beautiful spots. On the flip side, some travelers mentioned that the experience can feel crowded, and drinks during the trip aren’t all-inclusive, so it’s worth keeping those things in mind.

If you enjoy boat tours that combine scenic exploration with relaxing beach time and good food, this trip is likely to suit you. It’s especially well-suited for those who want a balanced day with a bit of everything, but keep in mind that it’s not a secluded escape — the boat can get busy, and the itinerary depends heavily on weather and safety conditions.

Key Points

• Great for scenic views and beach lovers who want to enjoy Corfu from the water
• Includes a traditional Greek BBQ with plenty of food and drinks (some drinks are paid separately)
• Swim stops at beautiful beaches like Erimitis—perfect for sunbathers and snorkelers
• A family-friendly vibe, with a friendly crew that makes everyone feel welcome
• Weather-dependent activities like cave visits may be canceled for safety reasons
• Good value, especially considering the length and variety of activities included

An Honest Look at the Corfu Boat Trip, Swimming & BBQ

If you’re considering this tour, you’re probably after a full day of exploring Corfu’s coast without the hassle of planning transportation or multiple bookings. This boat trip is designed to give you a snapshot of the island’s northeast corner, with plenty of opportunities to relax and enjoy the scenery.

The Itinerary in Detail

The trip kicks off at Gouvia, where you’ll meet your crew and hop aboard a sizable boat capable of accommodating up to 180 travelers comfortably. From there, the first leg takes you along Corfu’s northeastern coast, giving you great views of smaller villages like Nissaki, Kalami, Kouloura, and Agios Stefanos. These spots are picture-perfect, with some reviews mentioning how the views alone are worth the trip.

Stop 1: Kaparelli and the Greek BBQ (around 3 hours)

This is the main highlight for many. The boat anchors near Kaparelli, a lovely spot for enjoying a genuine Greek barbecue. The hosts, often described as friendly and attentive, prepare a delicious meal that includes sausage and other local delicacies. Reviewers rave about how much food there is — “the sausage at the BBQ was the BEST,” one said. The meal is often accompanied by soft drinks, although some reviews mention that beverages are not fully all-inclusive and may require payment if you want extras beyond the provided drinks.

The atmosphere here is relaxed; many guests appreciate the chance to chat, eat quality food, and take in the peaceful surroundings. You’ll have about three hours here, which is enough to eat, stretch, and explore a bit if you wish. Some travelers find the time perfect, while others wish for a little more flexibility.

Stop 2: Erimitis for Swimming (around 1 hour 20 minutes)

Next, the boat heads to Erimitis beach, a stunning stretch of sand and clear waters. This stop is all about swimming, sunbathing, and snapping photos. The reviews highlight how beautiful the beaches are — “the swimming was magnificent,” one traveler shared. The shallow, calm waters are ideal for families and those who want to lounge without worry.

Snorkeling opportunities are also available, and many find this section a highlight of the trip. Because the boat doesn’t stay long, it’s more about enjoying the moment rather than extensive exploring. Some reviews mention that weather conditions, like wind or clouds, can affect the swimming and cave visits, so patience and flexibility are key.

The Return: Relaxing and Enjoying the Views

On the way back, passengers can relax on deck, enjoy more scenery, or chat with fellow travelers. The boat’s size means it can accommodate a lively crowd, but many reviews note that the crew does a good job of keeping it fun and friendly.

What Travelers Love About This Tour

The majority of reviews emphasize the enthusiastic and personable crew, with Captain Spyros often praised for his joyful attitude and ability to make everyone feel at home. Several mention how he not only steers the boat but also cooks the BBQ and even gives guests a chance to drive the boat — a fun and memorable touch.

People also appreciate the authenticity of the food — generous portions, tasty sauces, and a relaxed, family-run vibe. The scenery is another big plus, with many reviewers saying the beaches and coastal views are stunning and photos turn out beautifully.

Are There Downsides?

Not everything is perfect. A few guests noted that the boat can feel crowded, especially during peak season, which might affect comfort levels. One traveler mentioned that drinks during the trip weren’t all included, which is good to know if you’re expecting unlimited beverages. Also, some reports of canceled cave visits due to safety issues remind us that weather can impact the experience, and flexibility is necessary.

The boat itself is described as large and well-organized, but some reviews mention that it’s not the cleanest, and the loud music and jokes can be a bit vulgar, depending on your preferences. It’s not a quiet, romantic cruise — more of a lively day out — so if you’re after serenity, this might not be the best fit.

Cost and Value

At $65 per person, this trip offers a lot: scenic views, a hearty BBQ, beach swimming, and a lively crew. Many reviewers feel it’s good value, especially considering how much they enjoyed the food and the friendly atmosphere. A few comments about drinks being paid for separately might surprise some, but overall, the price seems fair for a full day’s entertainment and relaxation.

Practical Tips

• Bring cash for extra drinks or any souvenirs.
• Prepare for weather variability — bring a hat, sunscreen, and perhaps a light jacket if it’s windy.
• Book in advance if possible, especially during busy times, to secure your spot.
• Arrive on time at Gouvia, since the tour starts from there and punctuality helps everything run smoothly.
• Children are welcome, but keep in mind it’s a lively boat environment, so consider their comfort levels.

Who Is This Tour Perfect For?

This boat trip is ideal for travelers who want a relaxed, fun-filled day with scenic coastal views and beach time. It suits those who appreciate good food, engaging crew members, and a lively atmosphere. If you’re traveling with friends, a partner, or even solo and looking to meet new people, you’ll be in good company. It’s less suitable if you’re after a quiet, secluded experience or have very specific dietary or mobility needs, as the tour depends on weather and group size.

It’s especially appealing for first-time visitors wanting a taste of Corfu’s beautiful northeast without the hassle of organizing multiple activities. Families with older children or teenagers may also enjoy the mix of swimming, scenic cruising, and casual dining.

FAQ

Is the boat trip suitable for children?
Yes, children are allowed, but keep in mind it’s a lively boat with a large group. Make sure your kids are comfortable with boat rides and crowds.

Are drinks included in the price?
Soft drinks and water are included during the BBQ, but other beverages or alcohol might require extra payment. It’s wise to bring some cash.

How long does the trip last?
The entire experience is approximately 7 hours, including time for the BBQ and beach stops.

Where does the tour start and end?
It begins and ends at the same meeting point in Gouvia, Greece.

Can I cancel or reschedule?
Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours beforehand. Cancellations within 24 hours are non-refundable.

What should I bring?
Bring sunscreen, a hat, swimwear, a towel, possibly cash for extras, and your camera for the photos.

Is the tour weather-dependent?
Yes, activities like cave visits depend on safe weather conditions. If canceled due to bad weather, you’ll be offered a different date or full refund.

Is the boat clean and well-maintained?
Reviews mention some cleanliness concerns, but overall it’s described as a large, capable vessel.

What’s the atmosphere like?
It’s lively, with music and a friendly crew. If you prefer quiet, this may not be the ideal choice.

Final Thoughts

This Corfu boat trip offers a well-rounded day of scenic cruising, beach lounging, and delicious food, all wrapped up in a friendly, family-run vibe. Its value for money is generally appreciated, especially the generous portions of BBQ and the chance to swim in some of Corfu’s most beautiful spots.

It’s perfect if you’re looking to relax, meet new people, and enjoy the island’s coast without the stress of planning every detail. Just remember to stay flexible, bring cash, and enjoy the lively atmosphere. If that sounds like your kind of day, this tour could be just the thing to add a memorable chapter to your Corfu adventure.