From Agia Efimia: All Inclusive Sailing Day Tour to Ithaca

A Day of Sailing and Serenity in the Ionian: All-Inclusive Trip from Agia Efimia to Ithaca

When you think about Greece’s Ionian Islands, it’s the crystal-clear waters, lush landscapes, and small, charming villages that come to mind. This particular tour takes you from Agia Efimia to Ithaca, a journey that captures the essence of the region’s beauty—all aboard a cozy, all-inclusive sailing boat. Priced at about $172 per person, this 8-hour adventure promises a mix of scenic sailing, water activities, and delicious local food. Led by friendly crew members like Menios, the trip ensures an intimate experience with a maximum of 8 travelers, making it a perfect choice if you’re after a relaxed, personalized day on the water.

What makes this trip stand out? We love how the small group size fosters a laid-back atmosphere—no crowded decks here—and the way the local cuisine, fresh snacks, and homemade-style lunch elevate the experience. Plus, the stops at Gidaki Beach and Lygia offer perfect opportunities for swimming, snorkeling, paddleboarding, or simply soaking up the sun in a tranquil setting.

A potential consideration? Since hotel pickups are not included, you’ll need to arrive at the meeting point in Agia Efimia, which could be a minor hassle if you’re staying elsewhere on Kefalonia. Still, this is a small trade-off for the privacy and special attention you get on this tour. This cruise is best suited for travelers who cherish authentic moments, stunning scenery, and a relaxed pace—perfect for couples, small groups, or anyone wanting a taste of Greek island life without the crowds.

Key Points

• Intimate Experience: Small group size (max 8 travelers) allows for personalized service and relaxed vibes.
• Beautiful Stops: Gidaki Beach and Lygia showcase some of Ithaca’s most stunning and less crowded beaches.
• All-Inclusive: Lunch, snacks, drinks, and local wine included — making it easy to unwind.
• Water Activities Galore: Snorkeling, paddleboarding, swimming, and sunbathing options throughout the day.
• Flexible and Easy: WiFi on board and all fees included simplify your planning.
• Authentic Food: The homemade recipes and fresh lunch are highly praised, often described as delicious and thoughtfully prepared.

A Relaxing Day on the Water: What to Expect

This tour begins early at 9:00 am in Agia Efimia, a picturesque seaside village known for its tranquil atmosphere and charming harbor. From the get-go, you’ll notice how the small group setting ensures a peaceful and friendly environment—no crowded boat parties here. Led by a crew that’s described as both friendly and attentive, you’ll quickly feel comfortable whether you’re an experienced sailor or a first-timer.

The boat itself is described as beautiful and cozy, perfect for a relaxed day under the Greek sun. The journey to Ithaca is leisurely, giving you ample time to enjoy the scenery, chat with fellow travelers, or simply lounge and enjoy the refreshing sea breeze. The crew offers snorkeling gear and a paddleboard, so if you’re eager to get into the water, you’ll find plenty of opportunities to explore beneath the waves or paddle along the shoreline.

Gidaki Beach: A Nature Lover’s Dream

The first stop at Gidaki Beach is a highlight. This pristine stretch of sand in Ithaca features turquoise waters and soft sand, making it ideal for swimming and sunbathing. Many reviews rave about its vibrant marine life, perfect for snorkeling, and describe it as a stunning and peaceful spot. You might find yourself agreeing with one traveler who called it “the perfect destination for beach lovers,” noting the vivid sea life and crystal-clear water.

While an hour and fifteen minutes might seem brief, it’s enough time to swim, snorkel, or just relax with a good book. The soft sand and tranquil waters make it a picture-perfect spot for unwinding. Plus, the vibe of the Ionian Sea here truly elevates the experience—especially when you’re floating in such a calm, beautiful setting.

Lygia: A Hidden Gem for Lunch and Snorkeling

Next, the boat heads to Lygia, a small island at the southeastern tip of Ithaca. Here, lunch is served by the crew—fresh, homemade recipes that many guests describe as delicious and generous. The setting at the port of Lygia is equally charming, with shallow waters that are perfect for snorkeling without the deep-water jitters.

One guest described this part of the trip as “an experience to do,” highlighting the relaxed pace and friendly hospitality of the crew. The two-hour stop allows plenty of time to enjoy the food, explore the shallow waters, or simply soak in the scenery.

Water-Based Fun and Relaxation

What truly sets this tour apart is the blend of water activities and relaxing leisure. Many reviewers mention how plenty of beverages and snacks keep everyone comfortable, and the local wine is a definite plus for those wanting to toast the day.

The snorkeling gear is praised for being easy to use and effective in discovering vibrant sea life, while paddleboarding provides a bit of active fun. Several guests mention the peaceful and serene atmosphere that allows them to truly relax, watch the fish, and let the sea vibe wash over them.

The Food: A Highlight for Many

One of the most frequently praised aspects of this trip is the lunch. Described as homemade, freshly prepared, and delicious, the meal often becomes a highlight that guests remember long after the trip ends. Reviewers note that the local recipes and generous portions add a genuine touch of Greek hospitality, transforming a simple meal into an experience of its own.

Who Will Love This Experience?

This sailing tour suits travelers looking for a quiet, intimate day away from the crowds. If you appreciate authentic local food, stunning water views, and the chance to swim and snorkel in peaceful spots, this trip will hit the spot. It’s particularly ideal for couples, small groups, or anyone wanting to unplug and enjoy the natural beauty of the Ionian Sea in comfort.

However, if you’re after a more active or longer adventure, or prefer large group tours with multiple stops, this might not be your best fit. The hotel pickup is not included, so you’ll need to coordinate your own transportation to Agia Efimia, which is worth considering if you’re staying farther afield.

The Sum Up: Is This Tour Worth It?

For those seeking a relaxed, authentic experience on the water with stunning scenery and delicious food, this sailing trip from Agia Efimia to Ithaca offers excellent value. The small group size and personalized service promise a memorable day without the chaos of larger tours. You’ll get a perfect combination of water activities, peaceful beaches, and genuine Greek hospitality—a true taste of island life.

This tour is particularly well-suited for those who value quality over quantity and want to enjoy unspoiled spots with a crew that’s genuinely friendly and attentive. If your idea of a Greece trip includes beautiful beaches, tasty local cuisine, and calm, scenic sailing, then this experience will likely be a highlight of your vacation.

FAQ

What time does the tour start?
The tour begins at 9:00 am in Agia Efimia, giving you a full day to explore Ithaca’s waters and beaches.

Is transportation from my hotel included?
No, pick-up and drop-off are not included. You’ll need to arrive at the meeting point in Agia Efimia on your own.

How long is the total tour?
The 8-hour experience includes sailing, stops, swimming, and lunch. It’s designed for a relaxed, full-day outing.

What’s included in the price?
All snacks, lunch, alcoholic beverages, soda, and the use of snorkeling equipment and paddleboard are included, along with WiFi on board.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel free of charge up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. Cancellations within 24 hours are non-refundable.

How many people will be on the boat?
The maximum group size is 8 travelers, ensuring a personalized and intimate experience.

What should I bring?
Bring swimwear, a towel, sun protection, and perhaps a light jacket for the boat ride. No mention of specific gear is made, but the crew supplies snorkeling and paddleboarding equipment.

Is this experience suitable for children?
Most travelers can participate, but the small group size and water activities suggest it’s best suited for older children or teenagers comfortable with swimming and water sports.

This tour offers a peaceful, authentic day on the Ionian Sea—perfect for those who want to see the beauty of Ithaca without the hassle of large crowds, and to enjoy some genuine Greek hospitality along the way.