Corfu: Semi-Private Cruise to Paxos and Antipaxos Islands

Corfu: Semi-Private Cruise to Paxos and Antipaxos Islands

If you’re dreaming of a day spent sailing through the Ionian’s sparkling waters, this semi-private cruise from Corfu to Paxos and Antipaxos might catch your eye. While I haven’t personally taken this exact trip, the glowing reviews and detailed descriptions suggest it’s a well-loved experience. It promises a relaxed, intimate day at sea with plenty of swimming, good food, and gorgeous scenery.

What really appeals to us about this tour are how personal and flexible the experience seems—it’s not a giant crowded boat, but a more intimate semi-private adventure. Plus, the inclusion of delicious Greek food and wine makes it feel like a true taste of the region. On the downside, some travelers might want to consider the duration and specific activities, especially if they’re not comfortable with boat travel or have limited mobility.

This cruise looks perfect for those who want a leisurely day at sea, are interested in swimming in stunning waters, and love to eat well while enjoying beautiful views. It’s especially suited for travelers who appreciate a friendly crew and a more personalized experience, rather than large group tours. If you’re after an authentic, relaxing island-hopping day, this one might be just what you’re looking for.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Key Points

• Intimate Experience: The semi-private setup means fewer people and more personal attention, according to reviews.
• Beautiful Stops: Swim and snorkel in Lakka Bay on Paxos and Voutoumi Beach on Antipaxos, both praised for their clarity and tranquility.
• Tasty Greek Cuisine: Enjoy a full menu featuring traditional Greek salad, chicken gyro pita, and fresh fruit, with an open bar including local wine.
• Scenic Sailing: Cruise along Corfu’s east coastline with breathtaking views, perfect for photography or just soaking in the scenery.
• Well-Reviewed Crew: Multiple reviews highlight the knowledgeable and caring staff who go the extra mile.
• Good Value: Considering the included meals, drinks, and stops, many travelers find this tour offers excellent value for money.

The Full Experience: What to Expect on Your Day at Sea

The tour starts at the Benitses marina, where you’ll find the boat—named ODDYSEIA. From the outset, you’ll notice how smooth the process is; the crew handles safety equipment, fuel, and taxes, so you can just relax and enjoy the ride. The journey begins with a cruise along Corfu’s southeastern coast, which offers some of the most stunning views of the island’s rugged shoreline and lush landscapes.

First Stop: Lakka Bay on Paxos

The first highlight is Lakka Bay, a peaceful haven characterized by cypress and olive trees lining the shores. Here, you’ll have about 45 minutes to swim or snorkel in the incredibly clear, calm waters. Many reviews mention how pristine and tranquil this spot is—perfect for a quick dip and some sunbathing. We loved the way the water looked like it belonged in a postcard, with bright blue hues that make photos pop.

Second Stop: Voutoumi Beach on Antipaxos

Next, the boat cruises to Voutoumi Beach, regarded as one of the world’s top beaches by travelers and travel guides alike. This stretch of white sand and crystal waters is what dreams are made of. Spend roughly 75 minutes here swimming, snorkeling, or simply relaxing on the sand. Reviewers often describe it as a paradise-like setting, ideal for a refreshing break. The peaceful ambiance makes it a highlight that travelers rave about.

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Lunch on Board: Greek Flavors in the Sun

About 15 minutes before heading back, everyone gathers for a delicious lunch. The menu features a traditional Greek chicken gyro pita, tzatziki, and a Greek salad, with vegetarian options available. The chef receives high praise for their quality and presentation, with one reviewer calling the gyros “fantastic” and the fruit platter “beautiful.” The open bar offers water, coffee, and local house wine, flowing generously to keep everyone refreshed.

Cruising and Scenic Views

After lunch, you’ll cruise along Paxos and Corfu’s coastlines, soaking in the views and enjoying the gentle sea breeze. The boat is described as comfortable and never crowded, which makes for a relaxing atmosphere. Travelers mention the crew’s attentiveness—Captain Tomas, for example, is noted for making sure everyone is doing well, and Christina, the crew member, looks after guests exceptionally well.

Final Relaxation: Fruit and Shots

As the day winds down, indulge in seasonal fruit salad and a shot of local spirits, a sweet and memorable way to end your sea day. Many reviews emphasize how well-organized and enjoyable the entire experience is, from the food to the scenery to the crew.

The Itinerary Deep Dive

• Start: The adventure begins at Pier E in Benitses, where you’ll find the ODDYSEIA boat. This initial meeting point is straightforward, and the staff is clear about safety and boarding procedures.
• Cruise Duration: The entire trip lasts about 10 hours, with the boat spending roughly 3.75 hours sailing and the rest stopping at beautiful spots.
• Stops: The itinerary includes stops at Lakka Bay (45 minutes), Voutoumi Beach (75 minutes), and scenic cruising along Paxos and Corfu’s east coast.
• Meals & Drinks: The included meal—a Greek salad, gyro pita, and fruit—plus an open bar, means you won’t go hungry or thirsty.
• Return: The cruise ends back at the marina, with plenty of time to explore the area afterward if you wish.

The reviews highlight how consistent the experience is—people love the comfortable boat, the friendly crew, and the gorgeous swimming spots.

Who This Tour Suits Best

This cruise is ideal if you’re looking for a relaxed, intimate day at sea with plenty of swimming, good food, and beautiful scenery. It’s well-suited for travelers who appreciate personalized service and a friendly atmosphere. If enjoying wine and fresh Greek dishes while sailing past stunning coastlines sounds appealing, this tour hits the mark.

However, it’s important to note the tour isn’t designed for those with mobility issues or vertigo, as it involves some boat movement and specific stops. Kids over 1 year are generally okay, but the tour isn’t specifically tailored for families with very young children. If you’re prone to seasickness or have difficulty on boats, consider whether a more stable or shorter trip might be better.

Final Thoughts: Is This Tour Worth It?

For travelers seeking a balance of relaxation, scenic beauty, and good food, this semi-private cruise seems like a fantastic choice. The reviews confirm that it offers excellent value—not just in terms of the cost but also for the experience itself. The stops at Paxos and Antipaxos are widely praised, as are the friendly crew, delicious meals, and stunning views.

The tour’s smaller, semi-private format means fewer crowds and a more personalized vibe. You’ll have time to swim in crystal waters, snap photos of postcard-worthy scenery, and enjoy a laid-back day with good company. It’s a perfect outing for couples, small groups, or anyone who loves a relaxed day on the water.

If you’re after an authentic, well-organized day exploring some of Greece’s top islands, this cruise might just become a highlight of your trip. Just remember to bring sunscreen, a hat, and a camera—trust me, you’ll want to capture these moments.

FAQ

Is the tour suitable for children?
It’s generally suitable for kids over 1 year old. However, the tour isn’t specifically geared toward children, and the stops involve swimming and boat movement, so consider your child’s comfort with those activities.

What should I bring with me?
Bring a hat, swimwear, towel, camera, and sunscreen. Since there’s food and drinks on board, you don’t need to worry about bringing your own unless you prefer extra snacks.

Can I buy additional drinks?
Yes, the open bar includes water, coffee, refreshments, and local wine. Additional cocktail drinks and beer are not included but might be available for purchase.

How long is each stop?
Lakka Bay is about 45 minutes, and Voutoumi Beach is roughly 75 minutes. These are enough time for swimming and relaxing but not overly long, keeping the day breezy and enjoyable.

Is this tour wheelchair accessible?
No, it isn’t suitable for wheelchair users or those with vertigo, as the boat and stops involve some movement and specific terrain.

What happens if I need to cancel?
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, which offers some flexibility if your plans change.

This cruise offers a well-balanced mix of scenic cruising, swimming, delicious food, and friendly service. It’s a great pick for anyone wanting a peaceful, memorable day on the Ionian Sea without the crowds.

You can check availability for your dates here: