Parga, Sivota Islands and The Blue Lagoon Full Day Cruise from Corfu

If you’re planning a trip to Corfu and craving a hassle-free way to explore some of mainland Greece’s most beautiful spots, this full-day cruise might just be the ticket. We’ve come across this experience, and from what we’ve gathered, it seems to offer a solid combination of scenic beauty, local culture, and ease of access—all in one well-organized package.

What really stands out is how this cruise takes away the logistics worries. No need to book separate transportation or worry about ferry timetables; instead, you just hop on and enjoy. Plus, the Blue Lagoon swim, boat cruising around the Sivota Islands, and free time in Parga combine to create a varied day that appeals to many travelers.

One thing to keep in mind is that the tour is quite structured, with set times at each stop, so if you prefer complete flexibility or want to linger longer in a specific spot, that might be a little tight. Still, for most, the experience seems well worth it, especially if you’re looking for a fun day out without much planning stress. This tour is especially suitable for those who enjoy scenic boat trips, cultural stops, and swimming in iconic locations.

Key Points

• Effortless mainland exploration: Cross the Ionian Sea without the hassle of planning.
• Diverse experiences: Swim in the Blue Lagoon, cruise among Sivota’s islets, and explore Parga’s charming streets.
• Expert guides: Knowledgeable hosts enhance the trip with clear explanations and multilingual support.
• All-in-one day: Perfect for travelers who want an efficient yet comprehensive tour.
• Optional hotel pickup: Adds convenience but check if your accommodation qualifies.
• Value for price: At around $65, you get almost a full day’s worth of sightseeing and relaxation.

Why the Full-Day Cruise Stands Out

This tour offers a great way to see some of the Ionian’s most stunning sights without the need to rent a boat or coordinate multiple trips. From Corfu, you’ll head straight across the sea—making the journey part of the fun—toward a mix of natural beauty and local culture.

The Itinerary in Detail

Start at Corfu Port: The tour begins early, at around 8:00 am, with pickup options available—if you’ve booked the hotel transfer, it saves you from navigating the busy port on your own. The boat itself can hold up to 150 travelers, so expect a lively but manageable group.

Pisina Beach and the Blue Lagoon: The first major stop is near Blue Lagoon beach, where you’ll have nearly two hours to swim in those famously clear, blue waters. We love the way the review from Simon_D describes it as a “fantastic boat trip” with a “DJ party on the way back.” That hints at a lively, fun atmosphere, perfect for families or groups of friends. Expect to see vibrant underwater life among the emerald waves—an experience that’s especially worthwhile if you’re into snorkeling or just relaxing in picturesque surroundings.

Cruising the Sivota Islands: The second leg involves sailing around the Sivota Islands, which are steeped in history and visual charm. The scenery here isn’t just pretty; it’s also evocative of ancient naval battles, with sunken vessels adding to the mystique. It’s a peaceful cruise with plenty of chances to snap photos and enjoy the scenery. This part is particularly appreciated by travelers who enjoy boat rides that combine relaxation with a touch of history.

Parga Village: The final stop is in the quaint town of Parga. With about two hours to explore, you’ll have time to stroll through narrow alleys, soak in views from the Venetian Castle, or visit the small Monastery of the Virgin Mary—located on a tiny islet opposite the main beach. The reviews note how the guide explains everything clearly and in multiple languages, making the cultural bits more accessible.

What You Can Expect at Each Stop

At Pisina Beach and the Blue Lagoon, you’ll enjoy swimming in water so clear it looks almost unreal. It’s a favorite for many, with Simon_D praising the “exotic blue waters” and underwater life. The water’s transparency and the lush surroundings make this a highlight.

Cruising around Sivota’s islets offers a gentle, scenic experience—perfect for those who enjoy a relaxed boat ride while taking in picturesque views. The underwater wrecks and lush scenery give this part a slightly adventurous edge, even if you’re just sitting back and soaking it all in.

In Parga, expect a charming, lively town with plenty of photo opportunities, historic sites, and local shops. The optional visit to the Venetian Castle is popular and adds a historical layer to the trip—though it’s not included in the ticket price.

The Experience on the Boat

The boat has a bar onboard, so you can buy drinks or snacks during the day, which enhances the laid-back cruise vibe. No meals or drinks are included in the ticket price, so if you’re hungry or thirsty, plan ahead or take advantage of the shops in Parga.

The guides are described as clear and very informative, which means you’ll learn a bit about the sights without feeling overwhelmed. This is especially helpful if you’re unfamiliar with Greek history or geography.

Price and Value

At roughly $65 per person, this tour offers a lot of value considering the length and diversity of the experience. The inclusion of insurance, local taxes, and pickup options adds to the convenience. Many reviews mention how the day is well-organized and worth the cost, especially given the scenic stops and the relaxing boat ride.

If you’re looking for a comprehensive day out that combines swimming, sightseeing, and cultural exploration, it’s hard to beat this package. However, it’s not a culinary tour—lunch isn’t included, so you might want to bring snacks or plan to eat in Parga.

Who This Tour Is Best Suited For

This experience appeals most to those who enjoy scenic boat rides, swimming in beautiful waters, and exploring charming towns. It’s suitable for most travelers, including those who can manage a full day on the water, but if you prefer highly flexible schedules or are very particular about food, you might want to plan ahead for meals.

While not specifically marketed as family-friendly, the relaxed pace and safe swimming areas make it suitable for travelers with children who are comfortable in the water. Just be aware of the set timetable and the need to be on the boat during the specified times.

Final Thoughts

This cruise from Corfu offers a practical and enjoyable way to see key sights on the Greek mainland without the hassle of organizing multiple trips. The combination of swimming in the Blue Lagoon, cruising around the Sivota Islands, and exploring Parga makes for a varied day that covers natural beauty, history, and local culture.

We loved the way the guides explain things clearly and how the boat ride itself is described as lively and fun, with opportunities for relaxing, swimming, and snapping photos. The experience is well-suited for travelers who want to maximize their time and enjoy a balanced mix of adventure and leisure.

If you’re after a full-day adventure that simplifies logistics while offering stunning scenery, this tour might be a perfect fit. It’s especially worthwhile if you’re interested in swimming, scenic cruising, and exploring a picturesque Greek town all in one go.

FAQ

Is hotel pickup included?
Yes, hotel pickup and drop-off are available if you select that option when booking, adding extra convenience.

How long is the total tour?
The whole experience lasts about 9 hours, starting at 8:00 am and ending back at Corfu port later in the day.

Can I swim at the Blue Lagoon?
Absolutely. The first stop near Pisina Beach gives you nearly two hours to swim in the Blue Lagoon’s clear waters and enjoy the underwater scenery.

Are meals included in the tour?
No, meals and drinks are not included, but there’s a bar onboard where you can purchase refreshments.

Is this tour suitable for children?
While not specifically marketed as family-oriented, the relaxed pace and swimming opportunities make it suitable for children who are comfortable in the water.

What does the cruise around Sivota Islands involve?
You’ll cruise around islets with scenic views, and you might see sunken vessels that evoke stories of ancient naval battles, adding a touch of historical interest.

What is the size of the tour group?
The tour can accommodate up to 150 travelers, so expect a lively but manageable group.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, the tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours before the start, with a full refund.

What is the cost of the tour?
It’s approximately $64.83 per person, offering good value considering the full day of sightseeing, swimming, and cultural exploration.

Do I need to book in advance?
Yes, on average, this tour is booked about 42 days ahead, so planning early ensures availability, especially during peak season.

This cruise from Corfu balances scenic beauty, cultural exploration, and relaxed travel in a way that will appeal to many. Whether you’re after a fun day of swimming, sightseeing, or just soaking up the Greek sunshine, it’s worth considering.