Agia Effimia, a charming port village on Kefalonia’s northeast coast, is a fantastic starting point for exploring the surrounding seas and countryside. Its small harbor offers easy access to boat trips and sailing adventures, making it ideal for travelers eager to see the Ionian Sea from a different perspective. We especially love the full-day sailing trip to Ithaca because it combines stunning scenery, relaxing swimming stops, and authentic Greek cuisine. This trip captures the essence of Ionian travel—laid-back, scenic, and packed with memorable moments. Plus, the chance to discover unspoiled beaches accessible only by sea makes it a standout experience.
While sailing gets most of the attention, Agia Effimia also offers other engaging options, such as exploring the island of Ithaca on a cruise, trying beginner scuba diving to see vibrant marine life, or hopping on an e-bike to explore Kefalonia’s caves and mountains. Whether you’re after a day on the water or a sporty adventure on land, each of these tours delivers a unique way to experience the region’s natural beauty.
Quick Overview of the Best Tours in Agia Effimia
Our list features sailing trips, cruise excursions, scuba diving, and e-bike adventures—each with its own appeal. The full-day All Inclusive Sailing Day Trip to Ithaca stands out for its relaxed pace and authentic Greek food, while the Ithaca Cruise offers a more affordable, shorter option for exploring the island’s highlights. For those curious about the underwater world, the Beginner Scuba Diving provides a safe intro to diving. Lastly, the Guided E-Bike Tour allows travelers to combine scenic views with a bit of physical activity. Read on for detailed descriptions to help you pick the perfect adventure.
1. From Agia Efimia: All Inclusive Sailing Day Trip to Ithaca
This full-day sailing trip offers a relaxed way to explore Ithaca, with a focus on swimming, snorkeling, and enjoying Greek food. For around $169, you’ll spend about 8 hours on the water, visiting two beautiful beaches—Gidaki and Lygia-Pera Pigadi—accessible only by boat. The trip includes traditional recipes and products from small Kefalonian and Ithacan producers, giving you a taste of authentic local flavors.
What makes this tour stand out is its combination of stunning scenery, exclusivity, and personalized service. The itinerary includes multiple swimming stops, like the popular Gidaki beach, where you can snorkel in clear waters, and a relaxed lunch setup under a shaded gazebo. The boat’s small size ensures a cozy atmosphere, and reviews repeatedly praise the friendly hosts and delicious homemade Greek dishes. One traveler called it “the best day of the holiday,” highlighting the attentive care from the crew. The main drawback? The sails weren’t used on our last trip, but the smooth motoring didn’t detract from the overall experience.
Bottom line: Perfect for travelers seeking a laid-back, scenic day at sea with authentic food and quiet beaches.
2. From Agia Effimia: Ithaca Cruise, Gidaki Beach, & Kioni Tour
For a more budget-friendly day of exploration, this Ithaca cruise costs only about $73 and lasts around 7 hours. It’s ideal if you want to see the island’s highlights without a full-day commitment. The cruise offers several swimming stops, including at Gidaki Beach, Amoudi Beach, and Kioni village, making it perfect for those who want to combine sightseeing with multiple dips in the sea.
While reviews note the trip can feel somewhat impersonal and the commentary less polished, the itinerary covers key spots like Vathy, the island’s capital, and the charming Kioni village. The stops are timed well for swimming and wandering around. The trip is suited for travelers on a tighter schedule or those who prefer a shorter, more economical option. The main trade-off is the less intimate experience, but the variety of sights and swimming makes up for it.
Bottom line: Best suited for budget-conscious travelers who want a straightforward, scenic cruise with plenty of swimming.
3. Kefalonia: Beginner Scuba Diving at Agia Efimia Village
If you’ve ever wondered what lies beneath the surface, this scuba diving course is a great introduction for about $147. Over three hours, you’ll learn the basics of safe diving, then explore the vibrant underwater world teeming with marine life. The small, friendly instructor-to-student ratio ensures personalized attention, and the experience is suitable for complete beginners.
What makes this tour special is the chance to see Kefalonia’s marine biodiversity up close, including colorful fish and interesting formations. The instructor shares tips on how to breathe and move underwater, making you comfortable before your first swim. Parts of the trip are outside your comfort zone, but the safety procedures and calm guidance make it accessible. One review calls it “an incredible experience,” emphasizing the instructors’ kindness and professionalism.
Bottom line: A top pick for adventurous travelers wanting a safe and fun intro to diving, with an emphasis on marine life.
4. Kefalonia: Ithaca Cruise with Vathy and Swim Stops
This Ithaca cruise is a well-rounded 8-hour day, perfect for travelers interested in exploring both the sea and the land. The trip includes stops at the secluded Gidaki and Ammoudi beaches for swimming, plus visits to Vathy, Kioni, and beautiful coastal scenery. The cruise navigates around the whole island, giving you a comprehensive view of Ithaca’s landscapes and villages.
The highlight is the chance to swim in crystal-clear waters at two stunning beaches and stroll through lively villages. The itinerary balances sightseeing and leisure, and the price offers good value considering the length and scope. One review notes the cruise’s detailed itinerary and friendly crew, which makes the experience relaxing and enjoyable.
Bottom line: Ideal for travelers who want a full day of island exploration, with plenty of swimming and cultural stops, at a reasonable price.
$73 per person
5. Kefalonia: Guided E-Bike Tour with Caves Visit
For those who prefer a land-based adventure, this guided e-bike tour offers a full day of exploring Kefalonia’s caves, lakes, and villages. You’ll pedal through olive groves, oak forests, and mountain terrain, riding on gravel, dirt, and asphalt—so some fitness is needed but the e-bike makes it manageable. The tour includes visits to Melissani Lake, Drogarati Cave, and the traditional village of Palia Vlahata.
The route provides spectacular views of the Ionian Sea from mountain vantage points, and the caves are fascinating for their geological formations. The guide shares stories and insights about local history and nature, making it more than just a ride. This tour is perfect for active travelers who want a hands-on experience of Kefalonia’s natural attractions. Since the bike handles different terrains, it’s best suited for those comfortable with moderate activity.
Bottom line: A top choice for active travelers seeking a full-day, scenic, and physically engaging tour with cultural highlights.
$154 per person
How to Choose the Best Tour in Agia Effimia
When deciding between these options, consider your interests and travel style. If a relaxed day on the water with excellent Greek food appeals, the All Inclusive Sailing Day Trip to Ithaca is ideal. For those on a budget who still want to see Ithaca, the shorter cruise offers a good overview. Want underwater adventure? The scuba course is perfect. For active explorers, the guided e-bike tour combines exercise with sightseeing, while the full-day cruise covers more ground with multiple swimming spots.
Think about your fitness level, time constraints, and what kind of experience you want—relaxing or active, land or sea. Booking early is wise, especially in peak summer months, to secure your preferred date.
Final Thoughts
Agia Effimia offers a variety of ways to see Kefalonia and Ithaca, whether by sailboat, cruise, snorkel mask, or e-bike. Two standout choices are the All Inclusive Sailing Day Trip for a luxurious, laid-back day on the water and the Guided E-Bike Tour for active travelers who want to explore more deeply. For a quick, affordable glimpse of Ithaca’s highlights, the cruise hits the mark.
Whichever you choose, early booking and considering your personal interests will ensure an unforgettable experience in this beautiful corner of Greece.