Agia Effimia is a fantastic hub for exploring the nearby islands of Kefalonia and Ithaca. Its prime location along the Ionian Sea means you can enjoy a variety of boat trips, from relaxing day sails to full-day explorations. We love how these tours allow you to see hidden beaches and authentic villages that are practically unreachable by land. For example, the All-Inclusive Sailing Day Trip to Ithaca offers a laid-back vibe with plenty of swimming and local food, all aboard a cozy boat. Meanwhile, the Ithaca Cruise, Gidaki Beach, & Kioni Tour gets you around the entire island affordably, perfect for those wanting a quick yet comprehensive look at Ithaca’s highlights. And if you prefer a longer, more immersive experience, the Kefalonia: Ithaca Cruise with Vathy and Swim Stops offers a full-day adventure with plenty of swimming and exploring.
Below, you’ll find a detailed look at each of these highly-rated tours. Whether you’re after a luxurious sailing experience or a practical island cruise, these options cover different budgets, interests, and time constraints.
1. From Agia Efimia: All Inclusive Sailing Day Trip to Ithaca
At number 1 on our list, this full-day sailing trip to Ithaca is designed for those who want to relax and enjoy the Ionian Sea without the hassle of planning every detail. The tour lasts about 8 hours and includes stops for swimming, snorkeling, and puddle boarding in the crystal-clear waters near Gidaki beach and Lygia-Pera Pigadi. The highlight is the chance to try local recipes and products from small producers of Kefalonia and Ithaca, giving you a taste of authentic Greek cuisine. The boat features two separate stops for swimming and snorkeling, making it perfect for water lovers.
What sets this trip apart is the intimate group size and the focus on exploring places only accessible by sea. The crew, led by Menios and Stassos, is praised for their friendliness and attention to detail. The lunch is a memorable highlight—a home-cooked Greek meal served on a shaded pier, with drinks included. Although some disappointed that the sails weren’t up during the trip, most reviews celebrate the relaxing pace and personalized service.
Bottom line: This trip is ideal if you want a laid-back day on the water with excellent food and the chance to discover unspoiled beaches and small Greek villages. Costing $169 per person, it offers good value for a comprehensive and relaxing day.
2. From Agia Effimia: Ithaca Cruise, Gidaki Beach, & Kioni Tour
At number 2, this cruise around Ithaca provides a more affordable way to see the island’s main highlights. Priced at $73 per person, it lasts about 7 hours and includes multiple stops for swimming and exploring. You’ll start at Marinoi Întipa and enjoy several sightseeing cruise segments before reaching land at the picturesque villages of Vathy and Kioni.
This tour’s main attraction is the opportunity to swim at Gidaki beach and Ammoudi beach—both known for their clear waters. The itinerary also includes brief visits to Vathy, the island’s capital, and Kioni, a charming village with colorful houses. The cruise is a good choice for travelers who want a quick overview without the full-day commitment or higher price.
However, some reviews mention the trip feeling “impersonal,” with less interaction during the cruise. Still, the stunning swimming spots and scenic villages make it worthwhile. If you’re on a budget or short on time, this tour offers a practical way to enjoy Ithaca’s beauty.
Bottom line: With its affordable price and focus on swimming and sightseeing, this cruise suits travelers who want a straightforward, no-frills day on the water. Perfect for those who value time-efficient exploring.
3. Kefalonia: Ithaca Cruise with Vathy and Swim Stops
Finally, at number 3, this full-day cruise from Kefalonia takes you around the entire island of Ithaca for about 8 hours. Priced at $73 per person, it’s designed for travelers who want to combine a scenic boat ride with multiple swim stops, including Gidaki and Ammoudi beaches. The cruise departs from Kefalonia’s port and includes stops to explore Vathy, the capital of Ithaca, and Kioni, a vibrant village with plenty of local charm.
What makes this tour stand out is the focus on comprehensive exploration—you get to see the island’s best beaches and its main town in one day. The itinerary also includes a lunch and free time in Kioni, making it a balanced mix of relaxing swimming and cultural discovery. The tour’s reviews highlight the quality of the secluded beaches and the opportunity to stroll through the colorful streets of Kioni, uncovering local gems.
This cruise is best suited for travelers who want to see the full breadth of Ithaca without multiple trips or complicated logistics. It’s a good value for the full-day experience, combining sightseeing, swimming, and local culture.
Bottom line: If you’re looking for an all-in-one boat trip that covers highlights of Ithaca and offers plenty of swimming, this is a reliable choice.
How to Choose
When selecting the right tour, consider your budget, time available, and interests. For a luxurious, all-day experience with gourmet Greek food, the All-Inclusive Sailing Day Trip to Ithaca stands out. If you want a quick, budget-friendly overview of Ithaca’s best swimming spots, the Ithaca Cruise, Gidaki Beach, & Kioni Tour offers excellent value. For those desiring a full-day adventure that balances sightseeing and swimming across both islands, the Kefalonia: Ithaca Cruise might be the best fit.
Booking early is advisable, especially for popular trips, and check availability to match your schedule. Consider whether you prefer a small, intimate boat or larger vessel, and whether your priority is relaxation, exploration, or a bit of both.
Doing a boat tour around Kefalonia and Ithaca offers a fantastic way to see these islands from the water—accessing secluded beaches, exploring charming villages, and enjoying Greek hospitality. Whether you pick a luxurious all-day sail, a quick cruise, or a comprehensive full-day adventure, these trips will give you memories that last long after you return home. We recommend booking well in advance, especially during the busy summer months, to secure your spot on these highly-rated experiences.
