Exploring Ithaki from Kefalonia: A Genuine Day Trip Experience
Imagine setting sail from the port of Poros on Kefalonia for a 7-hour adventure that takes you across the Ionian Sea to the legendary island of Ithaki. For a price of about $90 per person, this tour offers a balanced mix of scenic boat rides, relaxing swimming opportunities, and visits to authentic villages. The boat departs in the morning, around 9:00 AM, giving you ample time to soak up the day’s highlights without rushing.
What we really appreciate about this trip is the carefully curated stops—Vathi, Gidaki Beach, and Kioni—each offering a unique glimpse into island life and breathtaking views. The swim stop at Gidaki Beach is a highlight, notorious for being inaccessible by car, making it a true reward for those who love to dip into crystal-clear waters. Plus, exploring Vathi’s alleys and enjoying lunch or coffee in Kioni’s seaside taverns make this experience feel authentic rather than touristy.
That said, the trip isn’t perfect for everyone. Since food and drinks aren’t included, you’ll need to plan to bring your own or buy at the stops, which can add to the overall cost and planning. Also, if you’re looking for a deep dive into the island’s history or a more narrated experience, the tour’s focus on sightseeing and swimming might feel a bit light on storytelling.
This tour suits travelers who enjoy a relaxed pace, scenic boat rides, and spontaneous exploration. It’s particularly ideal if you value stunning vistas, fresh sea air, and authentic village atmospheres. From reviews, it’s clear that most find it a good value for money, especially considering the beautiful swim stops and charming towns.
This experience made our article of 3 Best Tours In Poros (With Prices).
Key Points
- Authentic Experience: Visit traditional villages and enjoy local seaside taverns.
- Stunning Swim Stops: Gidaki Beach is a highlight, accessible only by boat, with pristine waters.
- Flexible & Relaxed: You get free time to explore each stop at your own pace.
- Good Value: For around $90, you get a full day of sightseeing, swimming, and scenic cruising.
- Small Group Comfort: The boat size is manageable, making for a more intimate journey.
- Self-Provided Food: Remember to bring your own lunch to maximize your time.
The Journey in Detail: What to Expect
Planning more time in Poros? We've covered other experiences worth considering.
Starting Point and Early Departure
Your adventure begins at Valsamis Cruises in Poros, Kefalonia. Arriving 15 minutes early is wise to settle in and get familiar with your hosts. The boat departs promptly at 9:00 AM, so punctuality ensures you won’t miss anything.
First Leg: Crossing to Vathi
The initial 25-minute boat ride whisks you across the Ionian Sea to Vathi, the capital of Ithaki. This town is small but packed with charm—whitewashed buildings, narrow alleys, and a peaceful atmosphere. Here, you’ll have around 1.5 hours to walk, shop, or simply enjoy a coffee. Many reviews mention how memorable this stop is, with Annie noting, “I had a lovely boat trip to Ithaki Island,” appreciating the friendly staff and the comfortable boat size.
Swim at Gidaki Beach
After a short boat ride, you’ll arrive at Gidaki Beach, which is only accessible by boat. This is likely the trip’s magic moment—the clear waters and secluded setting make it well worth the visit. You’ll have about 1.5 hours for swimming, relaxing, or exploring the shoreline. Alison points out that “both swim stops were stunning—crystal blue waters,” emphasizing how much travelers love this part of the journey.
More Great Tours NearbyVisiting Kioni
The final stop is Kioni, a picturesque fishing village renowned for its seaside taverns and scenic views. Spending around 1.5 hours here gives you time to stroll, take photos, and perhaps enjoy a meal or drink. One reviewer suggested bringing lunch to make the most of your time, with a note that “tavernas are available if you don’t bring your own.”
Return Journey
The boat departs Kioni for a 30-minute ride back to Poros. The entire experience wraps up by late afternoon, leaving you with plenty of memories and photos of a day well spent.
Why This Tour Works for Travelers
The combination of scenic views, authentic villages, and swim stops makes this experience stand out. The boat’s manageable size ensures a comfortable atmosphere, and the schedule provides enough free time at each stop to appreciate the surroundings without feeling rushed. Plus, the reviews highlight how friendly and helpful the crew is, making the day smoother and more enjoyable.
However, keep in mind that food and drinks are not included, so packing snacks or a homemade lunch is a smart move. The lack of detailed historical narration might be a drawback for those hungry for insights into Ithaki’s legendary ties to Odysseus, but the stunning scenery and relaxed pace more than compensate.
Is This Tour Right for You?
This day trip is ideal for travelers who value peaceful scenery, charming villages, and swimming in secluded beaches. If you enjoy spontaneous exploration and relaxed schedules, you’ll find this cruise a perfect fit. It’s also well-suited for those who prefer small group trips over crowded tours, as the boat’s size promotes intimacy.
If you’re a budget-conscious traveler, you’ll appreciate the overall value—considering the boat tickets, swim stops, and scenic stops, it offers a well-rounded experience. However, if you’re looking for a detailed historical tour or gourmet dining, this might not be the right choice. Instead, it’s about enjoying the natural beauty and laid-back island lifestyle.
Final Thoughts: The Value of a Scenic Island Escape
For about $90, this day cruise offers a wonderful mix of stunning scenery, authentic villages, and refreshing swims. The boat trip itself, combined with time in Vathi and Kioni, provides enough variety for a memorable day—without the feeling of being over-scheduled. The secluded Gidaki Beach is a true highlight, especially for those who love swimming in unspoiled waters.
Most travelers find it to be excellent value for money, especially given the beautiful locations visited and the convenience of a well-organized itinerary. The friendly crew and manageable group size make for a comfortable, friendly atmosphere that encourages spontaneous interaction and relaxed exploration.
This tour is best suited for adventurous spirits, scenery lovers, and those seeking a taste of authentic Greek island life. If you’re looking for a leisurely, scenic day with the chance to swim in crystal waters and walk through traditional villages, this trip will deliver.
FAQ: Practical Questions About the Ithaki Day Trip
What time does the tour start?
The boat departs at 9:00 AM from Poros, Kefalonia. Arrive at least 15 minutes early to ensure a smooth start.
How long is each stop?
Vathi gets about 1.5 hours, Gidaki Beach offers 1.5 hours for swimming, and Kioni is also around 1.5 hours. The return trip from Kioni to Poros takes approximately 30 minutes.
Is food included?
No, food and drinks are not included. It’s recommended to bring your own lunch or snacks, especially if you want to maximize your time swimming and exploring.
Are there any additional costs?
Besides your ticket, any personal expenses, such as souvenirs or meals in villages, are extra. Taverna meals are available if you choose to dine out.
What should I bring?
Bring beachwear, a towel, sun protection (hat, sunscreen), and perhaps a cover-up for the boat. Water shoes might be handy for rocky beaches.
Is the boat comfortable?
Reviews mention that the boat is small but comfortable, with enough space for everyone and a friendly crew. It feels intimate rather than crowded.
Can I book last minute?
You can check availability online. Since the tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, booking early is sensible.
Is there a guide explaining the island’s history?
The focus is more on sightseeing and swimming. Reviews mention a desire for more historical commentary, so if that’s important, you might need to do some reading afterward.
What’s the weather forecast I should consider?
Sea trips are weather-dependent. Check local conditions before booking, especially in windy or stormy seasons.
Can I bring children?
Yes, children who enjoy boat rides and swimming will find it a fun day. Just ensure they are comfortable with boat travel and bring necessary supplies.
To sum it up, this tour offers an authentic taste of Ithaki’s beauty and charm with a flexible, relaxed schedule. It’s a perfect choice for travelers seeking scenic views, quiet villages, and refreshing swims, all within a well-organized day. Whether you’re a solo explorer, a couple, or a small family, you’ll find this trip a worthwhile way to experience one of Greece’s most legendary islands.
You can check availability for your dates here: