Parga & Sivota Islands Blue Lagoon Cruise from Corfu

Discovering Parga & Sivota Islands: A Day of Mediterranean Charm from Corfu

If you’re craving an escape from the busy streets of Corfu Town and want to explore mainland Greece without the fuss of self-driving, this Parga & Sivota Islands Blue Lagoon Cruise offers a fantastic blend of scenic sailing, cultural sights, and relaxing swims. For around $66 per person, you’ll spend approximately 10 hours soaking up the sun, exploring charming villages, and enjoying the clear waters of the Blue Lagoon. The tour includes pickup and transfers, which makes the logistics smooth—something we appreciate when traveling in a foreign country.

What we love most about this trip is the opportunity to admire Corfu from the water before heading to the mainland, giving a different perspective of the island’s coast. The ample time in Parga to explore the Venetian castle, browse shops, and enjoy waterfront cafes hits the sweet spot for those wanting authentic, unhurried experiences. The swim stop at Sivota Islands’ Blue Lagoon is another highlight, perfect for cooling off in turquoise waters.

A possible drawback is the crowded nature of the boat, as some reviews mention overcapacity and limited shade, which could be uncomfortable if the weather turns very hot and sunny. Also, the lack of lunch included, despite the tour’s name, might catch some travelers off guard if expecting a meal. This trip suits those who enjoy guided tours, don’t mind a busy boat, and want a well-organized day without worrying about transport or planning.

This tour is best suited for those who value guided insights, beautiful scenery, and a chance to see Parga without a rental car—ideal if you’re looking for a hassle-free day with lots of local character.

Key Points

• All-Inclusive Transfers: No need to figure out transportation logistics; everything is included.
• Authentic Experience: Ample time in Parga to explore its narrow streets and Venetian castle.
• Great Value: For just over $66, you get a full day of sightseeing, swimming, and cultural insight.
• Potential Crowds: Expect a lively, possibly crowded boat, so packing light and early arrival are wise.
• Swim & Snorkel: The Blue Lagoon offers a refreshing stop, perfect for swimming in clear, calm waters.
• Multilingual Guides: Guides conduct parts of the tour in various languages, making it accessible for many.

A Detailed Look at the Tour Experience: From Corfu to Parga and Sivota

Starting Point and Early Morning

The adventure begins bright and early at Corfu Port at 8:25 am. This is ideal because it maximizes your time in Parga and Sivota. We liked that the tour offers pickup, removing the hassle of self-arranging transport, especially if you’re not keen on renting a car or navigating unfamiliar roads.

The meeting point can be busy, and some reviewers noted initial confusion with boarding procedures, especially when two cruises depart simultaneously. A little extra signage or clearer instructions would have been helpful, but overall, the process was straightforward once underway.

Sailing Along Corfu’s Coast

Once aboard, the first highlight is seeing Corfu from the water. The boat takes you past the Old Town and Mon Repos Palace—birthplace of Prince Philip—giving you a scenic preview of the island’s history and architecture. The guides offer background stories, making this part both educational and picturesque. Several travelers, including YoonJeong, appreciated the interesting stories shared by guides, which added depth to the trip.

The boat’s size can vary, but some reviews mention large groups, sometimes over 180 people, which can lead to crowded conditions. If you’re sensitive to noise or crowds, consider arriving early or bringing earplugs, as the atmosphere can get lively with music, Greek dancing, and cheers.

The Journey to Mainland Greece and Parga

After about an hour or so of sailing, the boat arrives at Parga, a small town that feels like a Mediterranean gem. The two-hour visit offers ample time to walk the narrow streets, check out the Venetian castle, and enjoy the lively waterfront. Many reviews praise Parga’s visual charm and the opportunity to climb to the fortress for sweeping views—a must-do if you enjoy a bit of history and photo ops.

One reviewer, Carmen, suggested that the castle’s vistas are unforgettable. The town’s atmosphere combines colorful buildings, shops, and cafes, making it an ideal place for a relaxed lunch or coffee break before heading back to the boat.

Blue Lagoon and Sivota Islands

The highlight for many is the swimming stop at the Blue Lagoon in Sivota Islands. The crew anchors in turquoise waters, and you’re free to snorkel or just float in the calm sea. The five-minute visit to Bella Vraka Beach to explore a stunning cave is a quick but memorable stop, giving you a taste of Greece’s rugged coastline.

Reviewers like Hoda and YoonJeong raved about the beauty of the Blue Lagoon and the fun Greek dances performed during the cruise. The bar on board offers snacks and drinks, enhancing the relaxing vibe.

Return and Reflection

The trip back features lively music, dancing, and a barbecue or snacks available for purchase. While some expected a lunch to be included, Lara noted that no meal was offered despite the tour’s name. The value remains solid considering the sightseeing and swimming options.

The tour concludes back at Corfu Port, typically around 6:30 pm, giving you a full day of exploration without the need for extra planning.

The Real Value of the Tour

At $66, this experience offers a lot—scenic cruising, cultural insights, and time in Parga. The guided commentary is helpful for understanding the sites and history, enriching your experience. The swim stop at Blue Lagoon is striking and offers an authentic chance to cool off in pristine waters.

However, the crowd factor is worth considering. Some reviews mention overcapacity and limited shade, which could be uncomfortable in peak summer heat. Booking early and bringing sun protection can mitigate this issue.

To travelers who enjoy guided group tours, scenic boat rides, and exploring charming towns without the hassle of driving, this cruise strikes a good balance of comfort, value, and authentic Greek coastal scenery.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This trip is best for those wanting to see Parga without renting a car and enjoy a full day of scenic sailing and swimming. It suits travelers who appreciate guides sharing stories and background, and don’t mind being part of a larger group. If you’re looking for a relaxing day with opportunities to explore, swim, and take photos, this tour ticks those boxes nicely.

It’s less ideal if you prefer private, quieter experiences or more organized meal options, as lunch is not included, and the boat can get crowded. For travelers with mobility concerns, the short walk up to Parga’s fortress might be a consideration, but overall, it’s a well-rounded day out.

FAQs

Is pickup offered for this tour?
Yes, pickup is included, making it easy to start your day without worrying about transportation.

How long is the trip from Corfu to Parga?
The entire experience lasts around 10 hours, starting at 8:25 am from Corfu Port and returning in the late afternoon or early evening.

Is lunch included during the tour?
No, lunch is not included, but there are options to purchase snacks and drinks on board or enjoy lunch in Parga.

What are the main stops during the tour?
You’ll sail past Corfu’s Old Town and Mon Repos Palace, visit Parga for about two hours, and stop at Sivota Islands’ Blue Lagoon for swimming and snorkeling.

Are there any restrictions or considerations for swimming?
The Blue Lagoon has calm, turquoise waters perfect for swimming, but the boat stops there for about an hour—so you’ll need to manage your own time if you want to explore or snorkel.

What languages are guides available in?
Guides conduct parts of the tour in several languages, including English, German, French, Italian, and Russian.

Is this tour suitable for children or older travelers?
Generally, yes, but consider the crowded boat environment and walking up to Parga’s castle if mobility is an issue. The swim stops and sightseeing are family-friendly.

This cruise from Corfu to Parga and Sivota islands combines scenic views, cultural exploration, and refreshing swims. While it can get lively and crowded, it offers a straightforward way to experience some of Greece’s most beautiful coastal spots without the hassle of transportation. Perfect for travelers eager to see a charming town and enjoy the Mediterranean waters in a friendly, guided setting.