Ithaca Cruise swim stops to beaches- With snacks & fruit

Experience the Greek Islands with the Ithaca Cruise: Beaches, Towns, and Hidden Coves

Planning a day trip to the Ionian Islands often feels like trying to solve a puzzle—there’s so much to see, and transportation can be a challenge. This 7-hour cruise from Sami, Kefalonia, to Ithaca offers a straightforward way to see some of the most beautiful parts of these islands without the hassle. For around $94.87 per person, you get a well-paced itinerary that includes relaxing swim stops at secluded beaches, a leisurely stroll in Vathy, and a quick photo op at Lazareto island.

What we love about this experience is how it balances active exploration with relaxation. The crew’s provision of snacks, bottled water, and traditional Kefalonian riganada makes the journey feel welcoming and authentic. Plus, the accessibility to beaches like Gidaki, only reachable by boat, offers a rare chance to enjoy untouched natural beauty.

A potential drawback? The group size can be up to 35 travelers, which might feel a little crowded if you prefer intimate adventures. Also, travelers should be prepared for moderate physical activity, especially if you plan to swim or explore on foot. This tour suits those who enjoy outdoor activities and want a comprehensive taste of Ithaca’s highlights without overcomplicating logistics. If you’re looking for a value-packed, scenic day with plenty of time for both sightseeing and relaxing in nature, this cruise is a solid pick.

Key Points

Secluded Beaches: You’ll visit Gidaki Beach, only accessible by boat, for pristine swimming.
Authentic Town Experience: Ample time in Vathy allows for strolling charming streets and soaking in local life.
Comfort & Convenience: Prebooked tickets, snacks, water, and a relaxed schedule make for stress-free planning.
Natural Beauty: The cruise showcases stunning sea views, clear waters, and iconic islets like Lazarétto.
Flexible & Transparent: The itinerary is clear, with free cancellation options if plans change unexpectedly.
Suitable for Active Travelers: Moderate physical activity is recommended for swimming and exploring.

A Detailed Look at the Ithaca Cruise Experience

Starting Point: Sami, Kefalonia

The day begins at EO Argostoliou Samis 18, Sami, where you board your vessel around 9:00 am. The online booking process means you skip the scramble of finding a boat on the day—something many travelers appreciate, especially during busy seasons. The boat is comfortable and well-equipped for a full day on the water, with enough space on deck to relax, chat, and enjoy the sun.

The Itinerary Breakdown

First Stop: Filiatro Beach

Your first swimming opportunity is at Filiatro Beach, known for its crystal-clear waters and scenic pebble shore. This is a perfect spot for a refreshing dip after the boat ride. With 40 minutes here, you have plenty of time to stretch, take photos, or just float lazily while enjoying the tranquility. Reviewers frequently praise this stop—Alexis_C calls it a “beautiful location” and notes the crew treated guests to local food and snacks during the cruise back, adding a personal touch to the day.

Second Stop: Vathy

Next, you’ll spend around 1 hour 30 minutes exploring the capital of Ithaca, Vathy. Wander through its inviting streets, admire the traditional architecture, and perhaps stop for a coffee or a quick browse in local shops. Several reviews mention this as a highlight—Krysten_S appreciated that, despite a canceled original tour, the alternative experience still allowed her to enjoy the town’s charm. This stop is all about soaking in local life and appreciating the island’s authentic atmosphere.

Third Stop: Lazareto Island

A quick 20-minute photo stop at Lazareto, an islet with a distinct history and striking views. It’s a brief but worthwhile chance for a picture with the sea and island backdrop. Travelers might find this a good photo op, especially if they want a visual memory of the trip.

Fourth Stop: Gidaki Beach

This is the showstopper—the secluded Gidaki Beach, only accessible by boat. Here, you’ll have 50 minutes to swim in crystal waters and enjoy the peaceful surroundings. It’s often described as the most memorable part of the trip. Alexis_C raves that this stop offers “beautiful locations” and highlights the quality of the experience, especially with the onboard snacks. Gidaki’s remoteness means fewer crowds, making it a perfect retreat for nature lovers.

Snacks and Refreshments

Throughout the day, the crew provides snacks, bottled water, and local treats like Riganada—a traditional Kefalonian snack. These small touches add a sense of local flavor, making the experience feel authentic rather than commercial. The review from Alexis emphasizes the enjoyment of local food and snacks, which enhances the leisurely vibe of the cruise.

Ending the Day

As the boat heads back to Sami, you’ll enjoy more snacks and a scenic cruise filled with views of the islands’ coastline and sea life. The return trip is a great time to unwind and soak in the surroundings. The cruise concludes back at the starting point, making logistics straightforward.

The Real Value in the Experience

When evaluating the cost of $94.87 per person, consider what’s included: multiple swim stops, a guided itinerary, snacks, water, and timed visits to key locations. For travelers seeking a cost-effective way to explore parts of Ithaca that are otherwise hard to reach independently, this cruise offers excellent value. It combines active exploration with relaxation, making it suitable for a range of travelers—from active swimmers to those who just want to enjoy beautiful scenery from the deck.

What the Reviews Say

The overwhelming positive feedback highlights the stunning scenery and the friendly crew. Alexis_C notes that the crew “couldn’t do enough to make the journey an amazing day,” and Marco_D appreciated the “four stops between swimming and sightseeing”. Even in reviews mentioning cancellations or minor frustrations, travelers still found value in the experience.

Practical Considerations

Keep in mind that moderate physical fitness is recommended, especially for swimming and walking around Vathy. Be prepared for possible weather changes—the tour is weather-dependent, and cancellations due to poor weather are possible, with options for rescheduling or refunds. The group size, up to 35 travelers, offers a balance between social atmosphere and space, but if you prefer small groups, this might be a consideration.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This cruise is ideal for adventurous travelers who appreciate natural beauty and enjoy beach swimming. It’s perfect if you want a balanced day combining water activities, cultural exploration, and scenic views without the hassle of planning each detail yourself. It also suits those who enjoy authentic local touches like snacks and friendly crew service.

If you’re a family or a group looking for an accessible, scenic day out, this cruise offers a straightforward, enjoyable way to see the best of Ithaca’s coastline and charming town.

The Sum Up

The Ithaca Cruise with swim stops offers a well-rounded, value-packed experience that highlights the best of what the island has to offer—secluded beaches, charming towns, and breathtaking scenery. It’s especially suitable for those who like a mix of active and relaxing moments, with the convenience of prearranged logistics.

While the group size and weather dependency are factors to consider, the positive reviews and thoughtful itinerary suggest this is a reliable, memorable way to explore Ithaca without the stress of self-organizing. Whether you’re there for the secluded beaches, the local snacks, or simply to enjoy a day on the water, this cruise delivers an authentic taste of the Ionian’s natural beauty.

FAQ

What is included in the tour?
You’ll receive snacks, bottled water, water/juice, and a traditional Kefalonian snack called Riganada. All fees and taxes are covered, making this a hassle-free experience.

How long is the cruise?
The tour lasts approximately 7 hours, starting at 9:00 am and concluding back at Sami later in the day.

Are there swimming stops?
Yes, there are four swim stops at Filiatro Beach, Gidaki Beach, and others, with ample time to enjoy the water and relax on the beaches.

Is the tour suitable for children or less mobile travelers?
It’s best for travelers with moderate physical fitness, especially if swimming or walking around Vathy. The boat itself is comfortable, but some walking or swimming is expected.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, the tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours before the start time, with a full refund.

What should I bring?
Bring your swimsuit, towel, sun protection, and comfortable shoes for walking around Vathy. Sunscreen and a camera are also recommended.

What happens if the weather is bad?
The tour requires good weather. In case of cancellation due to poor weather, you’ll be offered an alternative date or a full refund.

Whether you’re seeking unforgettable beaches, charming local towns, or just a relaxing day on the water, this Ithaca cruise balances scenic beauty with authentic Greek charm. It’s a dependable choice for travelers wanting a well-organized, enjoyable day out exploring the Ionian Islands.