From Agia Efimia: Day Cruise to Ithaki Island with Lunch
Imagine gliding across the calm waters of the Ionian Sea on a sleek sailing yacht, with the sun warming your face and the breeze carrying you toward some of Greece’s most beautiful beaches. For around $169, you can join a full-day cruise starting from Agia Efimia, exploring the island of Ithaca, famed for its crystal-clear waters, lush landscapes, and legendary tales of Odysseus. This tour lasts about 8.5 hours, includes a delicious onboard lunch, snacks, drinks, snorkeling gear, and even a paddleboard if you’re feeling adventurous.
We love the personal touch that comes with a small group—limiting the experience to just 10 passengers—which means plenty of space to relax and a more intimate, family-like atmosphere. Equally appealing is the expert captain who shares stories about Ithaca’s most beautiful spots while ensuring your safety and comfort. A potential downside? Since the route can change depending on weather conditions, you might not visit all the stops listed—flexibility is key here. This trip suits travelers who enjoy a relaxed, scenic day with plenty of swimming and snorkeling, and who appreciate good food and authentic, quiet moments on the water.
Key Points
- Small group experience ensures personalized attention and a relaxed atmosphere.
- Expert skipper guides you through stunning bays and beaches, sharing local insights.
- Multiple swimming and snorkeling stops mean you’ll get a true taste of Ithaca’s turquoise waters.
- Delicious onboard lunch includes local wine, soft drinks, and snacks, making the day both tasty and refreshing.
- Flexible route based on weather conditions guarantees the most pleasant experience possible.
- Ideal for those seeking a calm, scenic day on the water, away from crowded tours or large group boats.
A Day on the Water: What to Expect
This cruise begins early morning, with your crew ready to welcome you just outside the moored yacht, S/Y Venus, at Agia Efimia harbor—just a short walk from the charming town. The relaxed start at 8:50 am allows you to settle in comfortably before the sailing begins.
The captain, a seasoned sailor, takes charge of the vessel, setting a gentle pace as you cruise toward Ithaca’s eastern coast. The first major stop is Gidaki Beach, often hailed as one of Greece’s best beaches, renowned for its crystal-clear waters, pebbled scenery, and natural wild beauty. Here, we loved the opportunity to snorkel in the turquoise waters, which are perfect for observing marine life and just soaking in the scenery. One guest raved, “It was a lovely day out, helped by glorious weather,” highlighting how important good conditions are for maximum enjoyment.
From Gidaki, the boat moves on to Skinos Bay, a favorite spot for lunch. The crew prepares a generous onboard meal, served against the backdrop of pine trees and dramatic cliffs. Expect a delicious meal, often described as plentiful and satisfying, with local wine, beers, and soft drinks to wash it down. The reviews emphasize the quality and abundance of snacks and drinks, making the experience feel like a day at a private Mediterranean picnic.
Post-lunch, the boat heads toward Talaros Beach (Pera Pigadia Bay) for the final swimming stop. Its calm, warm waters are perfect for relaxing after a busy morning of swimming and snorkeling. We especially appreciated the flexibility in route: if weather conditions shift, the captain will adapt, prioritizing safety and comfort—something many reviews mention positively.
The return journey offers about an hour and a half of scenic sailing along the south coast of Ithaca, giving you a different perspective of the island’s lush landscape. As you head back to Agia Efimia, you might catch glimpses of dolphins or sea turtles, enhancing the sense that this is a special, almost magical day on the sea.
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In-Depth: The Itinerary and Stops
Start at Agia Efimia
The adventure kicks off at the quaint harbor of Agia Efimia. The atmosphere is relaxed, and the boat, S/Y Venus, is modern, comfortable, and well-equipped. The limited group size ensures you’re not just another ticket number but part of a small, friendly crew.
Gidaki Beach
This spot is often highlighted as “paradise on earth” by visitors, and it’s easy to see why. The pebble shoreline and transparent waters make it an ideal spot for snorkeling and swimming. Many reviews mention it as the highlight of the trip, with one describing it as “the best beach in Ithaca,” ranked among Greece’s top beaches. Visitors often spend about 40 minutes here, enjoying the natural beauty, with options for stand-up paddleboarding if you want to add some fun to your water time.
More Great Tours NearbySkinos Bay and Lunch
Next, the boat moves to Skinos Bay, a quiet cove surrounded by pine trees, offering a scenic backdrop for your onboard lunch. The crew’s meals are frequently praised—plentiful, tasty, and paired with local wine and drinks that enhance the experience. You’ll get around 70 minutes here, giving you plenty of time to relax, eat, and maybe squeeze in a paddleboard session. Several reviews highlight the quality of the onboard food and the friendly service, with one guest mentioning, “the meal and snacks were good and plentiful.”
Pera Pigadia Bay
As the afternoon progresses, your boat drifts southward toward Talaros Beach, a calm, warm haven perfect for a last swim. The waters here are described as smooth and inviting, ideal for those who want a peaceful end to their water adventures.
Scenic Sailing & Wildlife
The final sailing segment offers stunning views of Ithaca’s rugged coastline. Keep your eyes peeled—you might spot dolphins or sea turtles, which several reviews mention as a delight. The captain may also point out migratory birds, adding an element of natural discovery.
The Value of a Small-Group Sailing Experience
Compared to large, crowded tours, this cruise offers a more personalized and relaxed environment. With just ten guests, you get more space, better interaction with the crew, and a chance to truly unwind in a tranquil setting. Many reviewers have commented on the friendly and attentive crew, with some describing the captain, Evangelus, as courteous and knowledgeable.
The onboard WiFi is a nice perk, helping you stay connected or share your photos in real-time. The snorkeling equipment and paddleboards are included, offering added fun without extra cost. The delicious lunch and snacks make the trip feel worth every penny, especially considering the quality and the scenic settings.
Who Will Love This Trip?
This cruise is perfect for travelers who value comfort, small groups, and authentic experiences. If you’re looking for a leisurely day, with plenty of swimming and snorkeling in beautiful bays, this trip fits the bill. It’s also great for those who want an informative yet relaxed day on the water, with a friendly crew sharing stories and tips.
However, it’s not suitable for people with mobility issues or seasickness, as the boat is a traditional sailing yacht that moves with the waves. Families with children who are comfortable in the water will enjoy the stops, water activities, and the chance to explore in a peaceful setting.
The Sum Up
This Day Cruise from Agia Efimia to Ithaca offers a perfect blend of scenic sailing, water fun, and delicious food in a small-group setting. The boat’s relaxed pace, expert guidance, and stunning stops make it a standout choice for travelers seeking a genuine, enjoyable taste of the Ionian Sea. The opportunity to explore secret beaches, snorkel in crystalline waters, and savor local flavors makes this trip not just a sightseeing tour but a memorable experience.
If you cherish quiet, scenic days at sea, and you love the idea of discovering lesser-visited beaches accessible only by boat, this cruise is an excellent pick. It’s especially suited for those who value quality over quantity, with a focus on comfort, natural beauty, and genuine hospitality.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the starting point of the cruise?
The cruise departs from Agia Efimia harbor, moored in front of the “Dodoni-divine ice-cream cafe,” which is easy to find in the town’s harbor area.
How long is the cruise?
The tour lasts about 8.5 hours, starting around 8:50 am. You’ll spend a relaxing day sailing, swimming, snorkeling, and enjoying onboard meals.
Is the route flexible?
Yes, the captain can adjust the route based on weather conditions and sea state to ensure the most pleasant experience. This means some stops may change if necessary.
What is included in the price?
The price covers the cruise, skipper, onboard WiFi, lunch, snacks, fruit, wine, beer, soft drinks, snorkeling gear, paddleboards, and a GoPro camera for capturing memories.
Are there any restrictions I should know?
Yes, the tour isn’t suitable for travelers with mobility issues, wheelchairs, baby strollers, or those prone to seasickness. Large bags, pets, and shoes indoors are also not allowed.
Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours before the cruise for a full refund, providing flexibility if your plans shift.
This sailing adventure embodies the best of Greece’s natural beauty, good company, and relaxed pace. Whether you’re after a peaceful day, a taste of the local waters, or simply a break from busy sightseeing, this trip offers a memorable way to experience Ithaca’s unspoiled beaches and welcoming seas.
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