Kefalonia: Ithaca Cruise from Poros Port with Swim Stops

Kefalonia: Ithaca Cruise from Poros Port with Swim Stops

Imagine spending a day exploring two of Greece’s most enchanting islands while enjoying the comfort of a boat cruise with all the essentials covered. For around $85 per person, this 7-hour trip takes you from Poros Port to Ithaca, with stops designed to showcase the best of Greek island life—crystal-clear swimming spots, charming villages, and scenic vistas. Led by friendly English-speaking crew, this tour offers a relaxed pace and plenty of opportunities to soak in the natural beauty and authentic atmosphere of the Ionian Islands.

We loved how the tour combines leisurely sightseeing with refreshing swim stops at exclusive beaches—Gidaki, in particular, which you can only reach by boat, makes for a memorable dip. Plus, exploring Vathi, the island’s capital with its narrow alleys and local shops, really captures the traditional Greek island vibe. The village of Kioni offers a picturesque setting for a leisurely stroll and seaside dining, making the day both scenic and flavorful.

A potential consideration? The tour’s focus on boat travel means you’ll want to be comfortable with a full day on the water. Also, the itinerary is designed for those who enjoy flexible, relaxed sightseeing, rather than fast-paced or extensive walking. It’s ideal for families, seniors, or anyone looking to enjoy the Greek islands without the hassle of transportation or planning.

If you’re after a genuine, laid-back taste of Ithaca’s legendary scenery and local life, this cruise is a great fit. It’s especially suited for travelers who appreciate swimming, stunning views, and charming villages, offering a balanced mix of activity and relaxation.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Key Points

• Unique Swim Stops: Gidaki beach offers a rare opportunity to swim in pristine waters only accessible by boat.
• Cultural Highlights: Explore Vathi’s alleys, museums, and shops for a taste of traditional Ionian life.
• Scenic Villages: Kioni’s seaside charm and authentic taverns provide a relaxing setting for lunch or strolling.
• All-Inclusive Comfort: The tour includes essentials like life vests, restrooms, and cozy cabins to change.
• Flexible & Family-Friendly: Suitable for all ages, with accessible areas for strollers and a gentle pace.
• Value for Money: At $85, this cruise offers a full day of sightseeing, swimming, and cultural experiences with no hidden costs.

A Deep Dive into the Kefalonia: Ithaca Cruise Experience

Starting Point and First Impressions

The adventure begins at Valsamis Cruises at Poros Port, a straightforward meeting point just opposite the Remetzo Cafe. From the moment you step aboard, the crew’s friendly attitude sets the tone. With a capacity designed for a comfortable group, you’ll quickly realize this isn’t a rushed, crowded tour. The boat itself features sun protection, restrooms, and cozy cabins—perfect for changing or escaping the sun for a bit.

The day kicks off with a short 30-minute sightseeing cruise. This initial leg offers a chance to admire the coastline and get a feel for the islands’ rugged beauty. The crew’s commentary, though not extensively detailed, adds a pleasant layer of context to the sights passing by.

Exploring Ithaca’s Capital, Vathi

Next, you’ll anchor in Vathi, the bustling yet laid-back capital of Ithaca. Here, you’ll have around 1.5 hours of free time to wander the narrow alleys, peek into small museums, or sit down for a coffee. Many reviews appreciate this stop for its nostalgic charm and local vibe. It’s a great opportunity to buy handcrafted souvenirs or simply enjoy watching everyday island life unfold.

What we loved was how the town’s backstreets retain their traditional character. You might find yourself pausing at a café with a view of the waterfront, soaking in the relaxed pace of island living. For history buffs, the chance to visit local museums offers a deeper connection to the island’s past—though the tour doesn’t specify which museums, the atmosphere itself is worth the visit.

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The Highlight — Gidaki Beach Swim Stop

After Vathi, the boat heads to the highlight of the day: Gidaki Beach. It’s a 40-minute swim stop and an absolute must-see. This beach is famous for its crystal-clear waters and secluded location, only accessible by boat or foot—making it a real hidden gem. The water’s transparency invites you to float and look down at the sandy seabed, while the pristine setting makes you feel like you’ve discovered a private paradise.

One traveler noted, “Swim at Gidaki is unforgettable—the water is so clear, and it’s fun to be somewhere so remote.” The downside? Because it’s a bit of a trek to reach on foot, some may find the walk or the boat ride to the beach a little challenging, especially if mobility is an issue.

Continuing the Voyage

Post-swim, the cruise continues with another 30-minute sightseeing leg, providing different scenic perspectives of the islands. Then, the boat arrives at Kioni, a small village renowned for its picturesque harbor and traditional taverns. Here, you’ll have about 1.5 hours to explore, dine, or relax. Many say Kioni’s charm lies in its authenticity and peaceful atmosphere, perfect for a slow lunch or a gentle stroll.

Final Leg and Return

The cruise’s last stops include brief sightseeing sessions and a final 20-minute cruise segment, bringing you back to Poros. The entire day has been paced to avoid rushing but still offers plenty of time to enjoy each location.

What’s Included and What to Bring

Cost-wise, the $85 per person fee covers boat tickets, life vests, insurance, all fees & taxes, an English-speaking crew, and basic amenities like restrooms and sheltered areas. We think this offers good value, considering the full day of activity packed into the experience.

What you need to bring: a hat, swimwear, change of clothes, towel, camera, snacks, sunscreen, and water. The tour welcomes your own snacks and drinks, which can be a nice way to keep costs down or customize your experience.

Reviews and Real Traveler Insights

Many reviews highlight the stunning views and beautiful beaches as the main draws. One traveler mentioned, “The water at Gidaki was so clear it was almost surreal,” while another appreciated the authentic village visits that avoided overly touristy spots. Some note the relaxed pace as being perfect for families or those seeking a quieter day.

A few reviewers mentioned the weather as a factor—bad weather can lead to cancellations, but the tour offers full refunds or rescheduling if that happens.

Who Should Book This Tour?

This cruise is best suited for travelers who love scenic boat rides, swimming, and authentic village visits without the hassle of planning every detail. It’s great for families, seniors, or anyone wanting a taste of Ithaca’s legendary scenery combined with a relaxing day on the water. It’s less ideal if mobility is a concern or if you prefer a more active or fast-paced experience.

The Sum Up

This Kefalonia: Ithaca cruise offers a balanced blend of scenic views, swimming opportunities, and cultural exploration. It’s an excellent choice for travelers who want to experience the authentic charm of the Ionian Islands without straying too far from comfort or convenience. The inclusion of secluded beaches, traditional villages, and friendly crew makes for a memorable day.

The price reflects good value, considering the all-day itinerary, swim stops, and local flavor. Whether you’re a first-time visitor eager to see legendary Ithaca or a seasoned traveler seeking a relaxed day on the water, this tour offers a genuine taste of Greece’s enchanting islands.

However, if you’re after a more active adventure or have limited mobility, you might consider other options. For most, the stunning scenery and authentic villages will make this cruise a highlight of their Greek island trip.

FAQ

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 7 hours, starting and ending at Poros Port. Exact start times vary, so check availability when booking.

What’s included in the price?
Your ticket covers boat transportation, life vests, insurance, all taxes, and use of amenities like restrooms and shaded areas.

Can I bring my own food and drinks?
Yes, you’re welcome to bring snacks and beverages to enjoy during the day.

Is the tour suitable for children?
Yes, it’s suitable for children of all ages, pregnant women, and the elderly. It’s accessible for strollers but not for wheelchairs.

What should I bring?
Bring a hat, swimwear, towel, change of clothes, camera, sunscreen, water, and snacks for the day.

What if the weather is bad?
In case of bad weather preventing the tour, you will receive a full refund or the option to reschedule.

How much free time do I get at each stop?
You’ll have about 1.5 hours at Vathi and Kioni each, with additional swim time at Gidaki of around 40 minutes.

Is the tour suitable for people with mobility issues?
It’s not accessible for wheelchairs and may be challenging for those with mobility impairments but is fine for most able-bodied travelers.

Does the cruise provide commentary?
While the crew speaks English, the tour does not specify detailed narration, focusing more on the scenic and cultural highlights.

This cruise from Kefalonia to Ithaca offers a genuine slice of Greek island life, with plenty of opportunities for swimming, exploring charming villages, and enjoying stunning views. For those seeking a relaxed, scenic day on the water with authentic experiences, it’s worth considering for your next Greek adventure.

You can check availability for your dates here: