From Corfu Island: Antipaxos & Paxos Blue Caves Boat Cruise

Corfu’s Best Kept Secret: A Day Exploring Paxos and Antipaxos

If you’re visiting Corfu and craving a day of swimming, sightseeing, and authentic Greek island charm, the Antipaxos & Paxos Blue Caves Boat Cruise offers an excellent way to see some of Greece’s most spectacular coastal scenery. At just $65 per person, this full-day tour takes you through the famous Blue Caves, along the rugged cliffs of Paxos, and into the turquoise waters of Antipaxos, all with the convenience of guided commentary and plenty of opportunities to swim and explore.

What we really love about this trip is how it balances stunning natural sights with relaxed free time—you get to see the beautiful white cliffs of Erimitis and the Blue Caves, then hop in the water at some of the clearest beaches we’ve ever seen. Plus, with live guide narration in several languages, you’ll get plenty of interesting tidbits about the islands’ legends and history.

A small downside might be the crowd—reviews mention that during peak times, the boat can feel a bit busy, especially at the popular swimming spots. If you’re looking for a quiet, secluded escape, this may not be your perfect fit. Still, for most travelers, the chance to see iconic sights and enjoy the crystal waters makes this tour a worthwhile splurge. It’s best suited for those who love adventure, swimming, scenic views, and a lively, social atmosphere.

Key Points

• Spectacular Sights: Visit the Blue Caves and the white cliffs of Erimitis, with commentary that enhances the experience.
• Ideal for Water Lovers: Plenty of swimming and snorkeling opportunities in famously clear waters.
• Authentic Village Time: Free time in Lakka offers a glimpse of traditional Paxos life and the chance to shop or relax.
• Value for Money: All-included guided tour with bar options makes the price very reasonable considering the sights.
• Comfort & Convenience: Optional hotel transfers simplify logistics, especially if you’re staying outside Corfu town.
• Family Friendly: Suitable for those comfortable on boats and eager to explore Greece’s scenic coast.

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Detailed Review of the Ionian Cruises Paxos & Antipaxos Blue Caves Tour

The Itinerary: From Corfu’s Old Town to Blue Waters and Hidden Caves

This tour kicks off early in the morning, with embarkation from Corfu’s port around 8:00 am, giving you enough time to settle in and enjoy the scenery en route. The journey begins with a splendid view of Corfu’s Venetian Old Town, seen from the water as the boat departs. Imagine sailing past Mon Repos Palace, with its lush gardens, and catching sight of Kensington Palace-like fortresses that hint at Corfu’s layered history. Soaring above are the Venetian castles, providing a dramatic backdrop to your cruise.

Once out in the Ionian Sea, the boat slowly makes its way south, passing local towns like Perama, Benitses,, and Kavos. The guide’s narration, available in several languages, adds context, explaining legends like how Poseidon severed Paxos from Corfu with his trident to carve out a peaceful haven for the sea goddess Amphitrite. This storytelling enriches the experience, turning a scenic cruise into a lesson in Greek mythology and history.

Exploring Paxos: Lakka and the Blue Caves

The first major stop is the small, unspoiled village of Lakka on the northern tip of Paxos. Here, you can stroll its narrow streets, lined with traditional tavernas, or simply relax on the nearby Harami Beach for a quick dip. As one reviewer noted, this is “time to enjoy the beaches before all the other boats arrive”—so arriving early offers a more peaceful experience.

Next, the boat enters Lakka’s natural bay, surrounded by rugged cliffs and breathtaking scenery. The highlight here is the Blue Caves, where the boat slows down for a close-up view inside these famous formations. The caves are known for their vivid blue reflections, and the boat anchors briefly inside, allowing you to snap photos and marvel at the monk seals reportedly inhabiting the area. Many reviews rave about the “spectacular” caves, describing the experience as “one of the most beautiful sights” seen on the trip.

Antipaxos: Beaches and Swimming in Crystal Clear Waters

After exploring Paxos, the boat heads to the small island of Antipaxos, renowned for its turquoise waters and pristine beaches. The main swimming spots—Mesovrika and Voutoumi—are often described as “breathtaking” and “perfect for swimming and snorkeling.” You’re given roughly 50-70 minutes to dive into these inviting waters, which, according to reviews, are “some of the clearest in Greece”.

Swimmers love the chance to jump from the boat into the water—a feature that many reviewers highlight as “the best part of the trip.” There are even life vests available for those who don’t swim confidently, making it accessible for families and less experienced swimmers.

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Free Time and Optional Extras

Beyond the guided visits, you get some free time in Lakka and on the beaches of Antipaxos to relax, explore, or grab a snack. The tour includes an onboard bar, so you can purchase drinks and snacks—though food and drinks are extra. Some reviews mention that the onboard snacks are affordable compared to land prices, adding value, especially if you’re thirsty after swimming.

If you opt for the hotel transfer, the pickup is arranged from designated points or from Pagoi on a limited schedule (Wednesday, Thursday, Sunday). The pickup process is well organized, with email updates 48 hours prior, though the transfer duration varies depending on your hotel location—anywhere from 20 to 90 minutes.

The Experience: What It Feels Like

Onboard, the atmosphere is lively but not overwhelming. Many travelers rave about the friendly guides and crew, with Maria, Kamilla, and others often praised for their knowledge and enthusiasm. The live commentary and multilingual guides mean you’ll learn about the islands’ myths, history, and geology as you sail.

The music and Greek dancing during the return journey add a festive touch, making the 3-hour ride back feel shorter and more fun. Reviewers mention that the DJ and traditional dancing helped create a friendly, upbeat vibe, perfect for those wanting a lively holiday experience.

The Value: Is It Worth It?

At $65, this tour offers a lot—spectacular sights, swimming opportunities, guided commentary, and a lively atmosphere. For most travelers, the cost feels justified when considering the quality of scenery and the organized nature of the trip. Many reviews highlight the excellent value, with some noting that food and drinks onboard are cheaper than land-based options, adding to the overall value.

However, one consideration is that the boat can be quite crowded, especially during peak season, which might impact comfort for some. Yet, most find this acceptable given the stunning scenery and fun atmosphere.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This cruise suits adventurous travelers who love water activities and want a photo-worthy experience. It’s perfect for families, groups of friends, or couples wanting to combine sightseeing with swimming and relaxing. If you appreciate guide-led tours with lively energy and are comfortable on boats, you’ll leave with cherished memories of Greece’s coast.

The Sum Up

For anyone visiting Corfu, a day trip to Paxos and Antipaxos via this boat cruise offers an ideal mix of scenic beauty, cultural insight, and fun. The Blue Caves alone are worth the trip, but the chance to swim in some of Greece’s clearest waters, explore a charming village, and enjoy a lively onboard atmosphere makes it a well-rounded experience.

While it’s not for those seeking complete solitude or a quiet day, it’s perfect for travelers craving authentic Greek island scenery, guided stories, and water-based adventures. Expect to come away with great photos, new stories, and a deep appreciation for Greece’s rugged, beautiful coast.

FAQs

• What is the price of the tour?
  The tour costs $65 per person, which includes guided commentary, the boat cruise, and optional hotel transfers.

• What should I bring?
  Comfortable shoes, sunglasses, a sun hat, swimwear, towel, sunscreen, and a light jacket are recommended for comfort and sun protection.

• Are food and drinks included?
  No, they are not included, but an onboard bar is available for purchases. Snacks may be bought at an extra cost.

• Is this tour suitable for children or non-swimmers?
  Yes, especially since life vests are provided, but children must be supervised. Non-swimmers should use vests and stay close to the boat.

• How long is the cruise?
  The total trip lasts approximately 8 hours, with around 2 hours of free time at Lakka and swimming stops of 50-70 minutes.

• What are the main sights visited?
  The Blue Caves, the white cliffs of Erimitis, the village of Lakka, and the beaches of Antipaxos.

• Are hotel transfers available?
  Yes, if you book the transfer option, pickup is arranged from selected areas, with details sent 48 hours before.

• Is this tour seasonal?
  Yes, the guides conduct tours Wednesday through Sunday, with audio guides in Romanian and Spanish available on some days.

• How crowded does the boat get?
  It can be quite busy, especially in peak season, but reviews say there are enough seats and space for most.

• What is the best time to do this tour?
  Early in the day, to avoid the crowds and enjoy a more peaceful experience at the beaches and villages.

This boat cruise from Corfu to Paxos and Antipaxos offers a memorable taste of Greece’s spectacular coastline, perfect for those eager to combine scenic beauty with active swimming and cultural exploration.

You can check availability for your dates here: