Planning a day around the beautiful island of Ithaca? This cruise from Kefalonia offers a chance to explore the legendary homeland of Odysseus without the hassle of navigating yourself. As someone who’s seen a lot of tours, I can tell you this experience has some real highlights, but it’s worth knowing what to expect before you book.
What really draws people in are the stunning swim stops at Amoudi and Gidaki beaches, plus the chance to wander through charming villages like Kioni and Vathy. We love how the trip combines scenic cruising with free time on land, giving you a taste of local life and unspoiled nature. But, of course, the tour has its limitations—like the packed schedule and the fact that food and drinks aren’t included.
This kind of tour is best suited for travelers who enjoy a day on the water, are comfortable with a busy itinerary, and want a balanced mix of sightseeing and relaxation. If you’re after an effortless way to see Ithaca’s highlights, this cruise could be just what you need.
Key Points
- Stunning swim spots: Swim at Gidaki, one of the island’s most pristine beaches, accessible only by boat.
- Charming villages: Explore Kioni’s flower-filled alleys and Vathy’s scenic harbor.
- Full-island experience: Sail around Ithaca’s entire coastline, taking in some of its most beautiful views.
- Flexible free time: Enjoy time on land for shopping, wandering, or relaxing.
- Cost-effective: At $73, it offers a lot of value, especially considering the guided commentary and boat rides.
- No included food or drinks: Be prepared to bring your own or plan to purchase on land.
An Honest Breakdown of the Experience
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The Departure and Setting the Scene
The tour kicks off at Romantika boat Cruises at Agia Efimia Port, a friendly spot right across from Dodoni Cafe. We appreciated the early start—departing at 9:30 am—giving plenty of daylight to soak in the sights. Arriving 15 minutes early helps avoid last-minute stress and guarantees you’re onboard on time. The boat, operated by Kefalonia Sightseeing & Tours, is equipped with necessary safety gear, including lifejackets, and the crew speaks English, making communication straightforward.
The Itinerary Overview
The day is structured with multiple stops and cruising segments. It’s a busy schedule, but thoughtfully planned to give you a good mix of land exploration and swimming. Here’s what you can expect:
- First cruise segment: A 45-minute sail that offers initial scenic views of Ithaca. This part sets the tone with beautiful coastlines and the promise of adventures ahead.
- Gidaki Beach: About 40 minutes allocated for swimming at this secluded beach. Gidaki is often praised for its pristine waters and untouched atmosphere. Keep in mind, it’s only accessible by boat, which adds to its charm, but also means limited facilities.
- Second cruise: A 30-minute sail, providing a different perspective of the island’s rugged coastline.
- Vathy exploration: You get about an hour here, enough time to stroll through the harbor, visit local shops, or peek into museums. Vathy is known for its beautiful harbor, lively atmosphere, and authentic feel. Several reviews mention the “friendly locals and lovely scenery” as highlights.
- Kioni visit: The tour allows 1.5 hours in this colorful village. You’ll wander flower-filled alleys, sample local sweets, and take in panoramic views at the harbor. Reviewers note Kioni’s “cosmopolitan vibe and hidden gems,” making it a favorite stop.
- Final swim at Ammoudi Beach: A 30-minute swim in another tranquil spot to round off the day. The beach’s quiet, unspoiled nature is often praised, but some mention it can be rocky or pebbly.
- Cruising back: The last cruise segment lasts for about an hour, giving you a chance to relax and absorb the scenery before returning to Agia Efimia.
What You’ll Love
The secluded beaches like Gidaki and Ammoudi stand out. They’re perfect for swimming in clear waters away from crowds. The guides are generally knowledgeable, providing interesting commentary about Ithaca’s history and landscape, which adds depth to the experience. The villages of Kioni and Vathy offer a charming break from the boat, with plenty of opportunities to take photos, shop for souvenirs, or simply enjoy the local atmosphere.
More Great Tours NearbyThe Downside?
The main consideration is the tight schedule—with several stops and cruising segments, it can feel rushed, especially if you like to linger or explore at your own pace. Also, food and drinks aren’t included, so you’ll need to budget for meals or bring snacks. Some reviews mention that the boat isn’t overly spacious, which could be a factor if you’re prone to seasickness or prefer a more relaxed environment.
Who Is It Best For?
If you’re someone who enjoys guided tours combining scenic cruising with land visits, this is a solid choice. It’s especially suitable if you want to see a variety of sights without worrying about transportation or planning. It’s perfect for first-timers to Ithaca or travelers who appreciate a well-organized day with plenty of swimming and exploring. However, if you prefer more time on land or want a more leisurely pace, you might find this tour a bit hurried.
In-Depth Look at Each Stop
The Cruise Segments
The peaceful moments sailing around Ithaca’s coastline are one of the tour’s greatest assets. The views of rugged cliffs, crystal-clear waters, and small coves are quite memorable. It’s a chance to breathe in the fresh sea air and enjoy the natural beauty of Western Greece, which is often overlooked in favor of more famous islands.
Gidaki Beach
Most travelers rave about Gidaki as one of the island’s hidden gems. It’s a long, unspoiled stretch of sand and pebble beach with no nearby cafes or facilities, which keeps it quiet and pristine. The water is calm and clear—ideal for swimming or just floating around. Since it’s only accessible by boat, it tends to be less crowded, making it perfect for a peaceful dip.
Vathy Village
Vathy’s charm lies in its harbor filled with fishing boats and colorful houses. The walk along the waterfront is relaxing, and many visitors enjoy browsing local shops for handmade crafts or tasting fresh fish at seaside tavernas. The museums here offer a glimpse into the local way of life, which many find fascinating.
Kioni Village
Kioni is often called a “picturesque village,” and it lives up to that reputation. The alleys are filled with flowers, and the harbor is bustling yet cozy. Many reviews highlight its cosmopolitan vibe, with cafes, boutique shops, and local eateries. It’s ideal for a leisurely lunch or a quick browse for souvenirs.
Ammoudi Beach
Concluding the day with a swim at Ammoudi gives a sense of closure—a quiet, scenic spot to relax after a busy morning of sightseeing. Its unspoiled nature makes it a favorite for those seeking tranquility.
Practical Details and Tips
The Price and Value
At $73 per person, this tour offers a lot of value: guided commentary, boat rides, and access to some of Ithaca’s most beautiful beaches and villages. Keep in mind, food and drinks aren’t included, so consider bringing snacks or planning to purchase something during the land stops.
Duration and Timing
Running about 8 hours, this is a full day of activity. Starting at 9:30 am from Agia Efimia Port sets a good pace, but be prepared for a busy schedule. It’s best suited for travelers with flexible plans or those eager to see as much as possible.
Group Size and Comfort
Most reviews don’t specify group size, but tours like these tend to be moderate in scale. The boat’s interior and outdoor decks provide enough space for comfort, but if you’re prone to seasickness, you might want to bring medication or choose a day with calm weather.
Accessibility and Meeting Point
The meeting point at Romantika boat Cruises is easy to find, right opposite Dodoni Cafe. Arriving 15 minutes early ensures a smooth start.
Final Thoughts
This Kefalonia to Ithaca cruise strikes a good balance between guided sightseeing and free exploration. You’ll love the chance to swim at secluded beaches, walk through picturesque villages, and see incredible coastal scenery—all in a single day. The knowledgeable crew and beautiful vistas make it especially appealing for first-time visitors wanting a comprehensive introduction to Ithaca.
That said, it isn’t a laid-back, loitering kind of tour. If you’re after a relaxed, slow-paced experience, it might feel a bit rushed. Also, with expenses for food and drinks on you, it’s best to pack some snacks if you want to keep things simple.
Overall, if scenic cruises, charming villages, and swimming in crystal waters sound like your idea of a perfect day, this tour offers a compelling way to experience Ithaca’s highlights without the stress of planning every detail yourself.
Kefalonia: Ithaca Cruise with Vathy and Swim Stops
FAQ
Is this tour suitable for children?
While the tour is generally family-friendly, it’s best suited for older children who can handle a full day on the water and walking around villages.
Are meals included?
No, food and drinks are not included, so plan to bring snacks or purchase on land during stops.
What should I bring?
Bring sunscreen, a hat, swimwear, towels, comfortable shoes for walking, and any personal essentials. Water bottles are a good idea too.
Will I see Ithaca’s famous landmarks?
The tour focuses on the coast and villages, with commentary about Ithaca’s significance. It doesn’t include specific historic sites but offers a scenic overview.
Is the boat comfortable?
The boat is equipped with safety gear and has both indoor and outdoor seating, but space might be limited if you prefer a lot of personal room.
How long are the swim stops?
Each swim stop is roughly 30 to 40 minutes, enough for a refreshing dip but not extensive leisure time on the beaches.
Can I buy souvenirs on the trip?
Yes, during stops at Vathy and Kioni, you can browse local shops for souvenirs and crafts.
What is the weather usually like?
Weather is typically warm and sunny, ideal for swimming and sightseeing, but check the forecast and dress accordingly.
What’s the cancelation policy?
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, giving you some flexibility if your plans change.
This cruise offers a well-rounded, scenic, and engaging way to explore Ithaca’s highlights in one day. Whether you’re craving quiet beaches or charming villages, it could be a highlight of your Kefalonia trip.
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