Kefalonia Highlights: Full day cruise from Zakynthos

Kefalonia Highlights: Full Day Cruise from Zakynthos – An Honest Review

If you’re staying in Zakynthos and eager to see a different Greek island, this full-day cruise to Kefalonia might catch your eye. For around $99.55 per person, you’ll spend about ten hours traveling between some of Kefalonia’s most iconic sights, including St. Gerassimos Monastery, Drogarati Cave, Melissani Lake, and Myrtos Bay. The trip is organized by MTM TOURISM GREECE OE, who offers hotel pickup and drop-off, along with roundtrip boat tickets and a tour escort. The day is packed, with several stops that promise a mix of natural beauty, cultural heritage, and some well-earned leisure time.

What we really appreciate are the scenic viewpoints—from the impressive caves to the stunning beaches—and the opportunity to explore Kefalonia’s natural and spiritual sites in one go. The monastery of St. Gerassimos, nestled beneath Mount Ainos, is an especially meaningful stop for those interested in local religious traditions. Plus, the boat trip into Melissani Lake offers a chance to see stalactites over 20,000 years old — quite a visual treat.

One downside to note is the long hours on transport, with some reviews mentioning that the journey can be as much as eleven hours on the road and boat. If you’re not comfortable with lengthy travel or hot weather (since August trips can be quite warm), this might be a consideration. Also, the tour costs extra for entrance fees to the caves, so budget accordingly.

This tour suits travelers who enjoy scenic excursions with a mix of cultural and natural sights. It’s ideal for those who don’t mind a lot of time on the road and want a guided, hassle-free way to see Kefalonia’s highlights in a day.

Key Points

• All-in-one experience: Combines visits to religious sites, caves, lakes, beaches, and a capital city.
• Value for money: Includes boat tickets, pickup, and an escort — a good way to cover many highlights without extra planning.
• Long travel times: Expect around 10-11 hours, with some reviews noting it could be too much for some travelers.
• Entrance fees extra: Budget for additional costs at Drogarati Cave (€5) and Melissani Cave (€8).
• Authentic scenic stops: The stops at Myrtos Bay and Meganisi provide great photo opportunities and a taste of local beauty.
• Limited time at each stop: Stops vary in length, so expect quick visits rather than deep explorations.

A Detailed Look at the Kefalonia Highlights Tour

Starting Early: Convenience and Punctuality

The tour kicks off at 9:30 am, with hotel pickups arranged by the tour company. If your accommodation isn’t directly accessible, they’ll set a convenient meeting point. This early start suits anyone eager to pack a lot into a single day but could be tiring for those not accustomed to early mornings or long days.

First Stop: Saint Gerassimos Monastery

Our journey begins with a visit to the monastery of Saint Gerassimos, the island’s patron saint. Nestled beneath Mount Ainos, this sacred site offers a glimpse into local religious devotion. The 30-minute stop allows enough time for a quick look around, some photos, and appreciating the serene atmosphere. The monastery’s significance adds depth to the trip—it’s not just a tourist stop but a place of true cultural importance.

Drogarati Cave: Ancient and Imposing

Next up is the Drogarati Cave, outside Sami. Experts estimate this cave to be around 150 million years old, making it a fascinating natural monument. The 30-minute visit lets you walk through and marvel at the stalactites and stalagmites, which have been forming over millions of years. The cave’s cool interior offers relief from the outdoor heat, especially in summer months. Entrance fees (€5 adults, €3 children) are paid on-site, so be prepared for that small extra expense.

Melissani Lake and Cave: A Natural Wonder

The highlight for many visitors is the Melissani Lake, often called the “Cave of the Sun.” Here, you’ll board a boat to explore the underground lake, where strawberry-colored light filters through a hole in the ceiling, illuminating the crystal-clear waters. The cave’s stalactites over 20,000 years old create a surreal, almost otherworldly scene. The 40-minute stop feels just right to soak in the beauty and snap some photos, though some travelers may wish for a bit more time to fully appreciate the surroundings.

Lunch and Leisure at Agia Efimia

Your free time at Agia Efimia — around an hour — is perfect for grabbing lunch, wandering the charming streets, or relaxing at a café. It’s a small town with a laid-back vibe, making it an ideal spot to enjoy local flavors and watch boats bobbing in the harbor.

Scenic Stop: Myrtos Bay

No trip to Kefalonia is complete without a photo stop at Myrtos Bay, one of Greece’s most famous beaches. Its dramatic cliffs and shimmering waters make for breathtaking views — perfect for a quick snap, though the tour doesn’t include swimming here. It’s a brief stop, so don’t expect hours of beach time, but the photo opportunities are priceless.

Final Stop: Argostoli

The island’s capital, Argostoli, offers about an hour for exploring, relaxing, or grabbing refreshments. It’s a lively spot with shops, cafes, and a central square — a good chance to stretch your legs and soak in local everyday life before heading back.

Return Journey and Reflections

By late afternoon, you’ll head back on the coach to Zakynthos, reflecting on a day packed with diverse sights. The entire experience is designed to be efficient but can feel rushed, especially with long transportation stretches.

Insights from Travelers’ Reviews

One traveler, MariaRita, noted that while the tour was well-organized, the long hours on transport—up to eleven hours—made her wish for more efficient logistics. She pointed out that the trip felt like a “waste of time” for her, emphasizing that the time spent traveling could be better allocated to exploring.

Meanwhile, Hannah commented on the heat and logistics, suggesting that August’s high temperatures and the long duration might not suit everyone, especially those sensitive to heat or preferring more relaxed pace.

On the positive side, Toshie called it “the real highlight of Kefalonia,” praising its efficiency, and Yuania raved about her experience, highlighting the fun stories, scenic caves, and turtles she encountered, calling it “maravillosa” (wonderful).

Practical Tips for Travelers

• Bring sunscreen, water, and a hat — especially important in summer, given the long hours outdoors.
• Prepare for extra costs with cave entrance fees (€5 and €8) in addition to the ticket price.
• Manage expectations regarding the amount of free time; some stops are brief.
• Consider your comfort with long days—if you dislike being on a bus or boat for hours, this might be less appealing.

Is This Tour Right for You?

If you’re eager to see multiple highlights of Kefalonia without the hassle of planning, and don’t mind spending a good chunk of the day on transportation, this trip offers excellent value. It’s particularly suited for travelers who want a guided experience that hits the main natural and cultural points, with the convenience of hotel pickup and a structured itinerary.

However, if you prefer more relaxed pacing or deep exploration at each site, you might find the short stops and long transit times a bit frustrating. Also, those traveling in hot weather or with limited mobility should consider whether a full-day trip suits their comfort level.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is included in the tour price?
The price covers hotel pickup and drop-off, roundtrip boat tickets, and a tour escort. Entrance fees to caves are extra and paid on-site (€5 for Drogarati Cave and €8 for Melissani Lake).

How long is the total trip?
The entire day lasts around 10 hours, with most of that time spent traveling between sites and on the coach, with several brief sightseeing stops.

Are food and drinks included?
No, meals and beverages are not included. You’ll have time at Agia Efimia for lunch, so bringing some snacks or planning to buy local food is recommended.

What should I bring for the trip?
Bring essentials like water, sunscreen, a hat, comfortable shoes, and perhaps a light jacket or raincoat if the weather is unpredictable.

Are there any age or mobility restrictions?
Most travelers can participate, but those with mobility issues should consider the long hours and walking involved. Service animals are allowed.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, cancellations made at least 24 hours in advance are fully refundable. Cancellations within 24 hours are non-refundable.

Final Thoughts

This Kefalonia full-day cruise offers an efficient way to see some of the island’s most celebrated sights, from spectacular caves to picturesque beaches and cultural landmarks. While it demands a good amount of time on the road and boat, it packs value through guided convenience and diverse attractions.

We recommend it for those who enjoy organized day trips and want to maximize their time on the islands, especially if you’re curious about Kefalonia’s natural wonders and cultural sites but prefer not to self-plan. Travelers seeking a more leisurely pace or deep exploration might prefer to skip or customize this busy itinerary.

Happy island hopping!