Explore Ionian Sea with its 50 shades of blue on Makedonia Palace

We’ve found that this full-day boat tour genuinely delivers on its promise of showcasing the Ionian Sea’s remarkable range of colors and hidden corners. What really impresses us about this experience is the sheer scope of what you’ll see—six different islands and beaches in a single day—combined with the enthusiastic energy the crew brings to the journey, particularly Captain Costa, who reviewers consistently praise for creating an unexpectedly fun atmosphere onboard.

The price point is genuinely hard to beat. At $60.46 per person for nearly nine hours of guided exploration, lunch included, you’re looking at one of the better values for a full-day excursion in Greece. The tour covers a lot of geographical ground, meaning you’ll experience multiple ecosystems and landscapes in one outing rather than being stuck in one location.

That said, there’s one significant consideration worth understanding upfront: this boat operates at substantial capacity—up to 500 travelers—and recent visitors have noted that crowding can impact comfort, particularly during the long stretches at sea. If you’re someone who values elbow room and peaceful exploration, you’ll want to go in with realistic expectations about what a large-capacity vessel means for your personal space.

This tour works best for travelers who prioritize seeing a lot of different places over spending extended time in any single location, adventurous swimmers willing to try multiple beaches in one day, and anyone seeking a social, energetic experience rather than a quiet contemplative journey.

What You’re Actually Getting: The Itinerary Breakdown

The Journey Itself

Your day starts at 9:15 a.m. from Lefkada, with the boat returning to the same meeting point in late afternoon. The full experience runs 8 to 9 hours, which means you’re committing a significant chunk of your day, but you’re also covering territory that would take multiple separate trips to experience otherwise.

The Makedonia Palace is described by visitors as an “enormous” vessel, which is worth understanding. This isn’t a small, intimate boat experience. It’s a large, well-equipped cruiser designed to safely transport and accommodate many passengers while still providing structure and organization to your day. The size actually works in your favor for stability and facilities, though it does mean you’re sharing the experience with a crowd.

Stop One: Porto Katsiki (20 Minutes)

Your first stop is one of Lefkada’s most photographed beaches, and for good reason. Porto Katsiki is famous for its dramatic clifftop setting and distinctive turquoise waters. You’ll have roughly 20 minutes here, which is enough time for photos and to take in the scenery from the water’s perspective—something most land-based visitors don’t get to experience. This isn’t a swimming stop, but rather a chance to see one of the island’s most iconic landscapes from the vantage point of the sea.

Stop Two: Egremni Beach (1 Hour)

Here’s where you get your first real swim. Egremni is a legitimate beach stop with about an hour to play in the water and relax on the sand. The crew arranges safe landing via what they call a “safe landa,” meaning you’re not jumping into deep water or scrambling over rocks—the boat positioning allows for straightforward beach access. This is one of Lefkada’s famous stretches of sand, and the water quality at this stop consistently receives praise from reviewers.

Stop Three: Fiscardo Harbor, Kefalonia (1 Hour 15 Minutes)

You’ll cross over to the island of Kefalonia to visit Fiscardo, described by the tour operator as “the diamond of the Ionian Sea.” This charming harbor village has colorful buildings, tavernas, and a genuine Greek island feel. The hour and fifteen minutes gives you time to grab a coffee, walk around, and soak in the atmosphere. Some reviewers mentioned wanting more time here, which is worth considering if you’re the type who enjoys lingering in picturesque villages rather than constantly moving between beaches.

Stop Four: Afales Beach, Ithaca (45 Minutes)

Ithaca, the legendary home of Odysseus in Homer’s epics, offers Afales Beach as your next swimming opportunity. The water here is noted as having that mesmerizing turquoise quality the tour title references. Forty-five minutes gives you time to swim, sunbathe, and catch your breath before the afternoon portion of the tour.

Stop Five: Papanikolis Cave (15 Minutes)

This is where history enters the picture. The Papanikolis Cave has a World War II backstory—it’s where a submarine commanded by Captain Papanicolis used to hide. This 15-minute stop is primarily for photos and historical context from the crew, rather than a place to swim or spend extended time. It’s the kind of moment that adds depth to the experience beyond just beach hopping.

Stop Six: Skorpios Island (30 Minutes)

The final stop brings you to Skorpios Island, with its famous connection to the Onassis family and current ownership by Russian billionaire Roman Abramovich. You’ll circle the island and receive information about its history. Depending on whether the current owner is present, you may get to swim at Jackie Kennedy Beach—a detail that adds a touch of celebrity glamour to the experience, even if it’s somewhat distant.

The Food Situation: What You Need to Know

Lunch is included in the $60.46 price, and this deserves its own section because the reviews consistently mention it. You get a traditional Greek gyro (pork), Greek salad, and two pieces of bread. No drinks are included—cold or hot beverages cost extra and aren’t part of the package.

Here’s where the reviews become honest and helpful: the lunch has received mixed feedback. One traveler noted that “the lunch which came as part of the package, it wasn’t good particularly the veggie option,” and another mentioned the food queuing system created “absolute carnage” with four separate lines trying to funnel into one service area. If you have dietary restrictions or particular food preferences, bringing your own provisions is worth considering.

That said, the inclusion of any meal at this price point is valuable. You’re not paying extra for food like you would on many other tours. The challenge isn’t the concept—it’s the execution during service for a large group. Arriving early to the meal service or bringing supplementary snacks you enjoy is a practical workaround.

The Captain and Crew: The Secret Ingredient

Multiple five-star reviews specifically highlight Captain Costa and the crew’s energy and friendliness. One visitor described how “the captain is so much fun & got people (cross generations & nationalities) singing & dancing on the top deck in the afternoon.” Another noted that “what made this cruise different from any other was the personal interaction from the captain and the rest of the crew” and called the captain “very witty” and full of “entertainment.”

This is notable because the crew’s enthusiasm can genuinely shape your experience. A long day on a boat with hundreds of people could feel tedious, but when the captain is actively creating moments of joy and connection, it transforms the journey. This appears to be a strength of this particular operation.

The Crowding Reality: What Recent Visitors Say

We need to address the elephant in the boat: capacity and comfort. Recent reviews raise legitimate concerns about overcrowding. One traveler stated plainly: “The boat is enormous and it felt like it was way over capacity. It was hard to find anywhere to sit which isn’t great for a 9 hr trip!” Another noted: “The boat was so crowded which made it really uncomfortable. Would recommend getting there as early as possible to secure a seat. I got there 20min early and was already full.”

This is important information. If you’re booking this tour, arriving significantly early to claim a seat is genuinely necessary. The boat does have a maximum capacity of 500 travelers, and on popular dates, it apparently reaches or approaches that limit. For a nine-hour experience, having a place to sit matters.

Plus, some visitors mentioned that large portions of the top deck lack shade, and that smoking is permitted onboard—details worth considering if you have sensitivities to either issue.

Who This Tour Suits Best

Active swimmers and beach lovers will find genuine value here. You’re getting multiple swimming opportunities at some of the Ionian’s most beautiful beaches, with professional crew managing safe entry and exit.

History and culture enthusiasts will appreciate the historical context provided at stops like Papanikolis Cave and the information about Skorpios Island. You’re not just swimming; you’re learning.

Budget-conscious travelers will recognize the exceptional value. Nearly nine hours of guided exploration, lunch, and access to multiple islands for $60.46 per person is genuinely competitive pricing for Greek island tours.

Social travelers who enjoy group energy will thrive with the captain’s entertainment and the international mix of passengers. This isn’t a quiet, introspective experience—it’s communal and lively.

Families with older children and teens can have a great day, though parents should note that some beach stops have deeper water and wavier conditions, making them less ideal for very young swimmers.

Not the Best Fit For

If you prefer intimate, small-group experiences with plenty of personal space, this large-capacity boat may feel overwhelming. If you want to spend significant time in each location rather than quickly moving between stops, the rapid-fire itinerary might feel rushed. If you’re traveling with very young children, you might find the long day and crowding challenging.

Practical Details That Matter

Timing: The 9:15 a.m. start is reasonable, giving you time for breakfast before heading to the meeting point. The full-day commitment means you’re done by late afternoon, still leaving evening time to explore your home base.

Cancellation: The free cancellation up to 24 hours before is genuinely helpful. If weather threatens or plans change, you have flexibility. The tour does require good weather, and if it’s canceled due to poor conditions, you get a full refund or can reschedule.

What to Bring: Swimwear, towel, sunscreen, and water are essentials. Many travelers bring their own snacks and drinks given the lunch limitations and drink costs. A waterproof bag for electronics is practical.

Accessibility: The tour notes that “most travelers can participate,” and service animals are allowed. The crew manages safe beach landings, though the boarding process has been noted as slow by some visitors.

The Value Proposition

At $60.46 per person, you’re getting transportation to six different islands, professional crew guidance, lunch, and the benefit of expert local knowledge about the region. You’re also getting the intangible benefit of Captain Costa’s entertainment value, which reviewers suggest genuinely enhances the day. When you break down the cost per island visited or per hour of guided time, the math works in this tour’s favor.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Is the lunch actually good quality?
A: Opinions vary. You’ll receive a traditional Greek gyro with pork, Greek salad, and bread. Some travelers found it satisfactory as an included meal; others felt the vegetarian option was lacking. Many recommend bringing supplementary snacks you know you’ll enjoy, especially if you have specific dietary preferences.

Q: How early should I arrive to get a good seat?
A: Recent reviews suggest arriving 20+ minutes early, as the boat fills up quickly on popular dates. If comfortable seating during a 9-hour journey matters to you, arriving even earlier is prudent.

Q: What if I get seasick?
A: The tour doesn’t specifically address this, so you may want to bring motion sickness medication if you’re prone to it. The boat’s size generally means more stability than smaller vessels, but the Ionian Sea can have varying conditions.

Q: Are drinks really not included?
A: Correct. Cold and hot beverages are not included in the price. You’ll need to purchase any drinks you want onboard, which is worth budgeting for during your long day.

Q: Can I bring my own food?
A: The tour doesn’t explicitly prohibit this. Given mixed reviews about the included lunch, bringing snacks or a sandwich you prefer appears to be a common and practical approach.

Q: Is this suitable for children?
A: The tour accommodates all ages, and many families do enjoy it. However, some beach stops have deeper water and stronger waves, which might not be ideal for very young swimmers. Older children and teens generally have a great time.

Q: What happens if the weather is bad?
A: The tour requires good weather to operate. If it’s canceled due to poor conditions, you’ll receive either a full refund or the option to reschedule for another date.

Q: How large is the boat, and will it feel crowded?
A: The boat is large—described as “enormous” by visitors—and can accommodate up to 500 passengers. Recent reviews note that it does feel crowded, particularly on popular dates. Arriving early to secure a seat is important.

Q: What should I bring with me?
A: Essentials include swimwear, towel, sunscreen, and water. Many travelers also bring snacks, a waterproof phone case, and a change of clothes. Hat or sunglasses for sun protection are practical given limited shade on deck.

The Bottom Line

The Makedonia Palace tour delivers genuine value for travelers seeking to experience multiple Ionian islands and beaches in a single day. The crew’s energy, particularly Captain Costa’s entertaining approach, elevates what could be a routine boat day into something genuinely memorable. The price is competitive, lunch is included, and you’ll see landscapes and swimming spots that would take multiple separate trips to experience otherwise.

The crowding is real and worth acknowledging—this isn’t an exclusive experience, and arriving early to secure comfortable seating is genuinely necessary. The lunch is functional rather than exceptional, and bringing your own snacks or drinks you prefer is a smart move. But for travelers who prioritize seeing a lot, don’t mind being part of a larger group, and want an energetic, social day on the water, this tour punches well above its price point. If you’re in Lefkada for more than a day, this is a legitimate highlight worth your time.