All Day Cruise – Paxos and Antipaxos Islands with Blue Caves

A Full-Day Water Adventure from Corfu to Paxos and Antipaxos

Imagine a day spent cruising across shimmering waters, exploring sea caves, wandering through charming villages, and swimming in some of the clearest waters Greece has to offer. That’s exactly what this All Day Cruise promises. Starting early from Corfu port, you’ll journey roughly 10 hours with a friendly guide—an experience ideal for those eager to see Greece’s lesser-known islands without breaking the bank. At around $65 per person, it packs in a lot of memorable sights and fun.

What we particularly love about this trip is the chance to see the famous Blue Caves, known for their striking blue hues and historical intrigue, and to enjoy free time in Gaios, a picturesque village with shops, cafes, and a lively yet relaxed atmosphere. Plus, the swim stop at Voutoumi Beach offers a refreshing dip in turquoise waters—an absolute highlight for water lovers.

A potential consideration is the crowd size and duration; some reviews mention that the boat can get quite busy, and the day feels long with limited time at each stop. This trip suits travelers who enjoy social atmospheres and don’t mind a lively, bustling environment. If you’re looking for a peaceful, private experience, you might find this tour a bit hectic. It’s best for those who want a rundown of Paxos and Antipaxos but are comfortable with a busy schedule.

This cruise is perfect for adventurous travelers who prioritize scenic views, lively guides, and a full day of activity. It’s also a solid choice for first-timers to Greece, eager to tick off some of the most admired spots in the Ionian Sea.

Key Points

• Affordable and Well-Organized: For around $65, you’ll get a full day of sightseeing, swimming, and exploring.
• Highlights Include: The Blue Caves, Gaios village, and Voutoumi Beach.
• Transport Options: Optional hotel pickup and drop-off make the day more convenient.
• Crowd and Duration: The tour can be busy and long, so patience and sun protection are advised.
• Authentic Experience: Authentic Greek villages and crystal water swimming contribute to a genuine experience.
• Best For: Active travelers, water enthusiasts, and those wanting a taste of local island life.

In-Depth Review of the Paxos and Antipaxos Day Cruise

Setting the Scene

For travelers based in Corfu, this day-long cruise is an accessible, budget-friendly way to experience some of Greece’s most captivating islands and coastlines. Departing early at 8:00 am, the tour begins with a sense of anticipation. The boat, operated by Travelco, can hold up to 150 passengers, but many reviews mention it’s operating at about 80% capacity—meaning plenty of space, but during busy times, it can feel crowded.

What’s Included and Not

The price covers local taxes, a tour escort, and hotel pickup and drop-off if you choose the upgrade. However, food and drinks are not included, so bringing your own snacks or planning to buy in Gaios is wise. If you opt for the hotel transfer, it removes some logistical hassle, especially if you prefer a relaxing start.

The Itinerary Breakdown

Stop 1: Paxos and the Blue Caves (2 hours)

The day kicks off with a visit to Paxos, a small island renowned for its sea caves that hide stories from World War II, where submarines once found refuge. As you approach, you’ll likely be fascinated by how the Blue Caves glow in the sunlight—an undeniably striking sight. The caves are a favorite for many, with some reviews mentioning the “beautiful sea caves” as a highlight, and others noting the cave’s historical significance.

You’ll have a chance to walk through Gaios, the island’s small capital. This town is a charming spot with narrow streets, boutique shops, cafes, and a lively yet relaxed vibe. One reviewer mentioned, “This was a wonderful trip. The highlight was swimming in the crystal clear waters at Antipaxos,” capturing how many feel about the water here.

Stop 2: Voutoumi Beach for Swimming (30 minutes)

The boat will anchor close to Voutoumi Beach, famous for its emerald waters. This is the prime swimming spot, and you’ll love how crystal-clear the water is—perfect for a quick dip or just relaxing on the boat. It’s a brief stop, but many reviews rave about the beautiful waters and the joy of jumping in from the boat, with some even quoting, “Swimming in the waters here was a highlight.”

Gaios Village (free time)

The tour provides about 2 hours in Gaios, giving you time to explore, shop for souvenirs, or grab a bite. Many travelers appreciate the scenic charm of this tiny town, with some grateful for the chance to wander freely and soak in local atmosphere.

The Experience on the Water

The boat itself is described as comfortable and clean, with plastic patio chairs serving as the main seating—some reviews mention that this makes for a less luxurious but practical experience. The onboard entertainment varies, with reports of lively music, Greek dancers, and a DJ, making the day feel festive.

The crew is often praised for being friendly and informative, with tour guides like Elena providing lots of details about the sights. However, some reviews mention facing crowding, especially during peak times, with people sitting on the floor or in tight spaces. If you prefer a more relaxed environment, arriving early or choosing a less busy day might help.

Swimming and Water Quality

Many travelers highlight the quality of the water—so clear and inviting that even those wary of swimming found it hard to resist. Some reviews say they only had about 50 minutes for swimming, which felt a bit rushed, especially if you’re looking to linger longer in the water.

The Pros and Cons Based on Reviews

What travelers love:

• The knowledgeable guides and lively atmosphere make the trip engaging.
• The spectacular Blue Caves and crystal waters are genuinely breathtaking.
• The free time in Gaios offers a taste of authentic Greek island life.
• The swimming stop is often described as a “highlight”.

What travelers find challenging:

• The crowd levels can be high, sometimes making the boat feel cramped.
• The long duration (around 10 hours) might be tiring, especially if the sea is choppy.
• Some mention that time on the islands is limited, with only a short window to explore or swim.
• The length of travel and limited shade on deck can be tough in hot weather.

How to Make the Most of Your Day

Bring sunscreen, a hat, and a towel—the sun can be intense, and shade is limited. If you’re sensitive to motion sickness, consider taking precautions, as some reviews mention rough seas or waves. The hotel pickup option can be a lifesaver, especially if you’re staying outside Corfu’s city center.

If you’re after a lively, social atmosphere and don’t mind being part of a crowd, this tour delivers. For those seeking tranquility or a more leisurely pace, it might feel rushed, but you’ll still enjoy the breathtaking scenery and fun.

Final Thoughts: Who Is This Tour Best For?

This all-day cruise is well-suited for active, water-loving travelers eager to see Paxos and Antipaxos without fuss. If you’re excited by the idea of swimming in turquoise waters, exploring charming villages, and visiting famous sea caves, you’ll find plenty to love here. The entertainment aboard and the guided narration add to the enjoyment—especially if you’re traveling with friends or family who enjoy a lively vibe.

However, if you prefer peaceful, solitary exploration, or if you’re sensitive to crowds and long days in the sun, you might want to consider alternative options or go on a less busy day. Keep in mind that time is limited at each stop, so if your priority is more in-depth exploration, this might not be the best fit.

All in all, if you’re looking for a value-packed adventure with plenty of spectacular sights and a friendly crew, this cruise offers an authentic taste of Greece’s Ionian Islands that you won’t forget.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does the tour include hotel pickup and drop-off?
Yes, if you select the upgrade, you’ll get hotel pickup and drop-off, making your day more seamless. Without this, you’ll need to meet at the designated starting point in Corfu.

How long is the entire tour?
The total duration is approximately 10 hours, starting at 8:00 am and returning around 6:00 pm, making it a full day of sightseeing and water fun.

What should I bring?
Bring a swimsuit, towel, sunscreen, hat, and camera. The water is beautiful, and you’ll want to capture the moments and stay protected from the sun.

Are food and drinks included?
No, food and drinks are not included. You might want to bring snacks or plan to buy in Gaios, where options are available.

Is the boat crowded?
Many reviews mention that the boat can get quite busy, especially during peak season. You’ll want to arrive early or be prepared for a lively, bustling environment.

Are there options for those with mobility issues?
The reviews do not specify accessibility details, but given the nature of the boat and limited shaded areas, it might not be ideal for travelers with mobility concerns.

Can I snorkel at the swimming stop?
While the reviews highlight swimming in crystal waters, specific snorkeling opportunities are not mentioned, but the water’s clarity suggests it would be enjoyable.

What is the best time of year to go?
The tour is weather-dependent; clear, calm days are best for a comfortable experience. The tour is operated under health protocols, so check current conditions when booking.

This detailed review aims to give you an honest, practical picture of what to expect from this popular Corfu Island cruise. Whether you’re after stunning scenery, fun water activities, or a taste of local island charm, this trip offers a lively, scenic day on the Greek seas.