Lefkada, with its dramatic cliffs, crystal-clear waters, and close proximity to several stunning islands, is a sailor’s paradise. The best way to explore this part of Greece is by boat, whether you want a laid-back day of swimming and lounging or an active adventure with snorkeling and sightseeing. We’ve tested out some of the top options, and what stands out is the variety—some tours focus on island-hopping, others on sailing, and there are even multi-day options for those who want to spend more time at sea. One thing’s clear: Lefkada’s waters are made for boat lovers. The Nydri Island-hopping Boat Cruise is a favorite for its balanced mix of beautiful scenery, history, and good food. Meanwhile, the Full-Day Sailing Cruise offers a relaxed, intimate experience with snorkeling and local cuisine. No matter what you’re after, there’s a Lefkada boat tour that will make the most of your time in this stunning part of Greece.
Quick Overview
This list covers a range of boat experiences: from full-day island-hopping cruises with lunch to sailing adventures with snorkeling and group excursions to famous beaches. For those wanting an extended voyage, there are 7-day sailing and scuba diving trips and even 7-day yoga and island-hopping tours. Whether you’re looking for a budget-friendly day at sea or a luxurious week exploring multiple islands, our picks include options for every interest. Now, let’s dive into each one and see what makes them special.
1. Nydri: Island-hopping Boat Cruise with Lunch and Drinks
Starting with a 7-hour full-day cruise out of Nidri, this trip is ideal for travelers wanting a classic Greek island experience. The boat departs from Nydri and takes you around Lefkada, stopping at secluded beaches perfect for swimming and relaxing. One of the highlights is visiting the Papanikolis cave, a historic site carved into the cliffs, offering a glimpse into Greece’s maritime past. You’ll also explore the traditional village of Spartachori on Meganisi Island, where the slow pace and authentic vibe make for a memorable stop.
Food is a standout feature—guests rave about the Greek BBQ buffet with vegetarian options, served with drinks that keep the day lively. The crew is known for being helpful and friendly, making for a comfortable and engaging experience. Reviewers love how “the stops were worth visiting,” and many mention the “crystal-clear waters” that make swimming unforgettable.
This tour is perfect for those who appreciate a mix of scenic beauty, cultural stops, and good food—all in a small-group setting. At a reasonable price of $77 per person, it offers excellent value, especially given the variety of highlights packed into a single day.
Bottom Line: A well-rounded, friendly cruise suitable for families, couples, or anyone who wants a taste of Lefkada’s natural and historical sights without breaking the bank.
2. Nydri: Full-Day Sailing Cruise with Swim Stops & Meal
For those looking to really unwind at sea, this 8-hour sailing cruise combines the thrill of sailing with plenty of swimming, snorkeling, and relaxing onboard. Starting from Nydri, the tour takes you past scenic views and allows ample time for exploring secluded bays around neighboring islands, including Skorpios.
What makes this experience stand out is the casual, intimate atmosphere—guests often mention how the relaxed vibe makes it feel like a day spent with friends. The boat is equipped for snorkeling and paddleboarding, so if you’re eager to explore marine life or just float in warm waters, this is a good choice. The onboard meal features local regional foods, which participants describe as delicious, and the crew is praised for their hospitality.
Highlights include a photo stop at Skorpios, dolphin watching, and visits to remote beaches. Reviewers say, “I’d book this again in a heartbeat,” because of the balance between activity and rest, plus the fresh, tasty onboard food.
This tour appeals to travelers wanting a luxurious, flexible day at sea—something that feels both adventurous and comfortable. At $124 per person, it’s more costly but offers a more personalized, all-inclusive experience that’s worth the splurge for marine lovers.
Bottom Line: Ideal for active travelers who want a relaxed sailing day with snorkeling, good food, and scenic island views.
3. Nydri: Boat Cruise to the famous beaches of Lefkada
This budget-friendly group tour takes you to the most famous beaches of Lefkada—Porto Katsiki, Egremni, and Agiofilli. For about $50, you get a 7.5-hour trip that’s perfect for travelers eager to see the iconic spots that adorn postcards and travel blogs alike.
What makes this cruise different is its focus on reaching secluded beaches that are inaccessible by car—so you get the thrill of a boat ride plus the chance to dip into crystal-clear waters. Porto Katsiki is a highlight for its dramatic cliffs, and the tour allows for swimming and photo opportunities there. Although some reviews mention that Egremni can be crowded, others praise the “beautiful” and “suggestive” views and the chance to enjoy the beach without the hassle of driving.
While the price is attractive, reviews note that the experience can be more crowded and less personalized than private or smaller-group options. Still, if your main goal is to see and swim at Lefkada’s most famous beaches without fuss, this tour delivers.
Bottom Line: An affordable way to visit Lefkada’s best-known beaches, especially suitable for travelers on a budget who don’t mind larger groups.
$49.69 per person
4. From Lefkada: 7-Day Island Hopping Sailing Boat Cruise
For travelers wanting a more extensive adventure, this 7-day sailing cruise offers a comprehensive exploration of the Ionian Islands. It’s perfect for those seeking a leisurely yet in-depth experience, sailing through Kefalonia, Ithaca, Meganisi, Kalamos, and more.
What sets this apart is its focus on multiple islands, giving you time to explore seaside towns, beaches, and local villages at a relaxed pace. The itinerary includes stops at Vathi and Spartachori, with opportunities for swimming, snorkeling, and enjoying regional cuisine. The boat crew is rated for their experience and safety, and the curated destinations reflect years of local knowledge.
This tour is clearly aimed at travelers who don’t want just a day trip but a week-long immersive experience. It offers excellent value considering the price of nearly $1,700 per person, especially given the diverse destinations and included activities like marine exploration. Reviewers describe it as “unforgettable” and say the crew’s expertise makes the trip smooth.
Bottom Line: Best suited for seasoned travelers or couples wanting to fully enjoy the Ionian’s islands over a week, combining sailing, sightseeing, and relaxation.
$1,693.85 per person
5. Lefkada: Sunset Cruise with Swimming & Local Wine in Meganisi
If you love ending your day with a beautiful view, this 4-hour sunset cruise provides a romantic way to experience Lefkada’s coastline. The trip sails around Meganisi and Skorpios, with time for swimming in calm waters and sharing local wine with friends or loved ones.
This tour is relaxed, intimate, and perfect for those who want to enjoy Greece’s evening atmosphere. The light finger foods complement the experience, making it feel like a special occasion. Reviewers particularly enjoy the “warm evening breeze” and the chance to unwind while taking in spectacular views.
It’s ideal for couples or small groups wanting a romantic escape. The price, about $591 per group, makes it a very good value for a private or semi-private experience. The only caveat is that the trip is shorter, so it’s less suited for travelers seeking a full day on the water.
Bottom Line: Perfect for couples celebrating a special occasion or anyone wanting a serene, scenic evening cruise in Greece.
$591 per group up to 10
6. Lefkada to Lefkada 7 Day Scuba Diving Sailing Tour
This 7-day adventure is for those who want more than just a boat trip—it combines sailing and scuba diving across the Ionian Islands. It promises dives on reefs, caves, and wrecks, making it ideal for certified divers or those eager to get their certification.
What makes this tour stand out is its expertly curated destinations and the experienced skippers who prioritize safety and diving quality. Destinations include Kefalonia, Ithaca, and Kalamos, with plenty of time to explore each spot’s underwater highlights. Guests mention that the itinerary is based on years of local knowledge, ensuring the best diving and sailing experiences possible.
While the price of around $2,363 is steep, it reflects the all-inclusive nature of the trip, with accommodations, equipment, and guided dives included. Reviewers emphasize the professionalism of the crew and the thrill of exploring Greece’s underwater world.
Bottom Line: Designed for serious divers or adventurous sailors wanting an all-encompassing week of underwater exploration and island discovery.
$2,363 per person
7. Lefkada to Lefkada Yoga Sailing Ionian Island Hopping 7 Days
Combining yoga with sailing, this 7-day tour offers a unique way to relax and reconnect. It takes you from Lefkada through six other Ionian islands, with daily yoga sessions onboard and time to explore.
What makes this tour special is its focus on well-being and mindfulness, balanced with the excitement of island-hopping. The curated destinations include Kefalonia, Ithaca, Kastos, and Kalamos, all while providing a peaceful environment to practice yoga and enjoy Greece’s natural beauty. The expertise of the skippers ensures a safe and smooth journey, while the wellness activities make it suitable for travelers looking to unwind and recharge.
At approximately $2,363, this is a more niche experience but offers excellent value if wellness is a priority. Reviewers describe it as “a truly relaxing experience” with “beautiful scenery and thoughtful hosts.”
Bottom Line: Ideal for health-conscious travelers, yoga enthusiasts, or those seeking a peaceful, restorative voyage through Greece’s Ionian Islands.
$2,363 per person
How to Choose the Right Boat Tour in Lefkada
When selecting your ideal boat tour, consider your budget, interests, and the type of experience you want. If you’re after a day of sightseeing and swimming, the Island-hopping Boat Cruise offers a good mix of history, beaches, and food. For a more relaxed sailing day with snorkeling, the Full-Day Sailing Cruise is perfect.
If your focus is famous beaches, the Lefkada Beaches Tour delivers iconic sights at an affordable price. For those looking to spend a week exploring multiple islands, the 7-Day Island Hopping Sail or the Yoga Adventure offer immersive experiences.
Consider the group size, price, and specific interests—like scuba diving or wellness—to find your best fit. Booking early is wise, especially for the longer tours, since they fill up quickly.
Final Thoughts
Lefkada’s boat tours are as diverse as the islands they visit. For a quick, scenic day, the island-hopping cruise offers great value and variety. Sailing fans will appreciate the full-day sailing trip, especially if snorkeling and local cuisine appeal to you. Adventurers with more time should consider the 7-day sailing or scuba trips for a deeper dive into Greece’s maritime treasures.
Whatever your style, booking early ensures you won’t miss out on these memorable experiences. Lefkada’s waters are waiting—time to set sail.