From Agia Efimia: All Inclusive Sailing Day Tour to Ithaca

Imagine spending a relaxing day sailing across the sparkling waters of the Ionian, exploring hidden beaches, and savoring authentic Greek dishes—without the crowds. That’s the promise of this All-Inclusive Sailing Day Tour to Ithaca. We haven’t been on this exact trip ourselves, but from what countless travelers say, it’s a genuine highlight for those looking to combine adventure, tranquility, and good food in a small-group setting.

What really draws us to this experience are two things: first, the way it offers a more intimate cruise with only up to 8 guests, making it perfect for a relaxed, personal day on the water. And second, the home-cooked style lunch and variety of snacks and drinks onboard—something that adds a layer of warmth to the day, making it feel like a trip with friends rather than a tour.

However, one thing to keep in mind is the lack of hotel pick-up and drop-off, which might mean coordinating your own transportation to Agia Efimia. This isn’t a major hurdle but worth noting if you’re staying outside the immediate area. This tour seems best suited for travelers craving a peaceful day on the sea, with plenty of time for swimming, lounging, and soaking up the scenery.

Key Points

• Small group size (max 8 travelers) ensures personalized, relaxed experiences.
• All-inclusive offerings mean no hidden costs—lunch, snacks, drinks, and equipment are covered.
• Beautiful stops at Gidaki Beach and Lygia provide ideal spots for swimming, snorkeling, and paddleboarding.
• Authentic Greek cuisine served onboard offers homemade recipes, adding a special touch.
• The tour offers great value considering the inclusions and unique experience.
• Flexible cancellation policy allows free cancellation up to 24 hours before the tour.

Exploring the Itinerary: What to Expect

This tour kicks off early at 9:00am from Agia Efimia, a charming village on Kefalonia’s eastern coast. From there, you’ll hop aboard a cozy boat with a small group of like-minded travelers. The relaxed pace and limited number of guests create a convivial atmosphere, where you can truly unwind.

Stop 1: Gidaki Beach

The first stop is Gidaki Beach, widely regarded as one of the most stunning beaches in Ithaca. Its turquoise waters, soft sands, and dramatic cliffs make it a perfect place to set your towel and settle in. The star here is the opportunity to swim or snorkel in the clear water, discovering vibrant marine life just beneath the surface. Many reviews mention the excellent snorkeling, highlighting how the shallow, calm waters make it ideal for exploring without feeling overwhelmed.

We loved the way the reviews depict this spot: “Sunbathe on the soft sand while enjoying the stunning views of the Ionian Sea,” one reviewer says—sounds pretty idyllic. The hour and fifteen minutes at this stop allow plenty of time to dip in and out of the water or just relax on the boat’s deck.

Stop 2: Lygia and Lunch

Next, the boat moves toward Lygia, a small, picturesque island southeast of Ithaca. This is where you’ll get to enjoy a homemade Greek lunch, served right at the port. The crew prepares and serves the meal, giving it a personal, home-cooked feel. The two-hour stop in Lygia isn’t just about eating; it’s also about soaking in the peaceful environment, with shallow waters perfect for snorkeling once again.

This part of the trip is especially praised for its delicious food. Multiple reviews rave about the fresh, homemade recipes, and one reviewer notes, “The amazing food, freshly prepared and served by our captain, was a real highlight.” It’s a chance to taste authentic Greek flavors in a setting that’s relaxed and friendly, often with wine and drinks included.

What’s Included and What’s Not

The tour offers impressive value for money. For $171.96 per person, you get lunch, snacks, alcoholic beverages, soda, and the use of snorkeling equipment and paddle boards. Plus, WiFi is available onboard, which is a nice touch if you want to share your adventures or just stay connected.

It’s worth noting that hotel pickup or drop-off isn’t included, so you’ll need to make your own way to Agia Efimia. If you’re staying nearby, that’s straightforward, but if not, plan accordingly.

The Experience on the Boat

The boat itself is described as beautiful and comfortable, with a small number of guests ensuring an intimate vibe. The crew, especially Menios, receives glowing praise for their hospitality and knowledge. Reviewers mention that they felt well taken care of, with many describing the day as “super relaxing,” “perfect,” and “unforgettable.”

Timing and Group Size

The tour runs from 9:00am, with the entire experience lasting around 8 hours, including travel, stops, and meals. The group size is capped at 8, providing enough space for everyone to feel comfortable and to enjoy the scenery without feeling crowded.

The Highlights: Why Travelers Keep Raving

Based on the reviews, many guests consider this trip a vacation highlight. The combination of stunning scenery, delicious food, calm waters, and an authentic boat experience creates a memorable day.

“WOW!! Sailing through Ithaca, retracing the steps of Odysseus, was a dream come true,” one reviewer states. Others emphasize the good value, noting that the experience is worth every penny—“Worth 2x the price,” says one enthusiastic traveler.

The small boat and personalized service are frequently mentioned as major pluses. The crew’s friendliness, the quality of the food, and the peaceful stops create a vibe that’s more about relaxing than rushing.

Who Would Love This Tour?

This experience is ideal for couples, friends, or small groups looking to enjoy a serene day on the water with excellent food and drinks. It’s great if you appreciate authentic local flavors, beautiful scenery, and a relaxed pace. If you’re traveling alone, the intimate group setting offers a chance to meet others while enjoying the natural beauty of the Ionian.

However, if you prefer a fast-paced, activity-heavy day or need hotel transfers, this might not be the best fit. It’s quite suitable for anyone who wants a peaceful, scenic escape with the option to swim, snorkel, or paddleboard at some truly stunning spots.

Final Thoughts

This all-inclusive sailing tour from Agia Efimia to Ithaca stands out because it balances personalized service, authentic experience, and great value. The small group size and the focus on genuine Greek hospitality make it feel less like a tour and more like a day spent with friends on the sea.

While the lack of hotel pickup could be a minor inconvenience, the overall experience seems to make up for it with the quality of stops, the delicious homemade food, and the peaceful ambiance. If you’re someone who loves beach days, good food, and exploring idyllic islands without the crowds, this trip might just be what you’re looking for.

It’s best suited for travelers who want a relaxed, intimate, and authentic Greek sailing experience—one that leaves plenty of room for swimming, unwinding, and enjoying the stunning surroundings.

FAQs

Is there a hotel pickup or drop-off?
No, the tour doesn’t include hotel transportation. You’ll need to arrange your own way to meet at Agia Efimia.

What’s the duration of the trip?
The entire experience lasts about 8 hours, including all stops, sailing, and meals.

What’s included in the price?
You get lunch, snacks, alcoholic beverages, soda, snorkeling equipment, paddle boards, WiFi onboard, and all taxes and fees.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before the tour. Cancellations less than 24 hours in advance are non-refundable.

Is this tour suitable for families or children?
While the data doesn’t specify, the small-group, relaxed nature makes it potentially suitable for older children comfortable with boat trips. Check with the provider if you have specific needs.

What stops are included?
The main stops are Gidaki Beach, for swimming and snorkeling, and Lygia, where you’ll enjoy a homemade Greek lunch and more shallow waters for snorkeling.

What is the boat like?
The boat is described as beautiful and cozy, with a small group size that ensures a friendly, intimate atmosphere.

Are drinks and food included?
Yes, both are part of the package—expect a delicious lunch and plenty of drinks, including wine and local spirits.

Can I bring my own equipment or food?
The tour provides snorkeling gear and paddle boards. If you have special dietary needs or equipment, it’s best to check directly with the provider beforehand.

If you’re dreaming of peaceful sailing, gorgeous stops, and tasty home-cooked Greek dishes, this tour from Agia Efimia to Ithaca might just tick all the boxes. It’s a relaxed, personal way to see the Ionian’s beauty, perfect for those who want a break from busy itineraries and crowds.