Kefalonia isn’t just about stunning landscapes and quiet villages—it’s also a prime spot for memorable boat tours and cruises. With its crystal-clear waters, dramatic coastlines, and nearby islands like Ithaca and Zakynthos, the island offers a wide variety of nautical adventures. We especially love the full-day traditional boat cruise from Argostoli for its blend of swimming, sightseeing, and authentic Greek cuisine, or the day trip to Ithaca aboard a sailing yacht, which offers an intimate feel and chances to spot dolphins. Whether you’re after a relaxing day on the water or an active snorkeling trip, Kefalonia’s boat tours have something for every traveler.
If you’re curious about exploring nearby islands, the Blue Cave boat cruise from Kefalonia provides stunning views of sea caves and the famous Shipwreck Beach, with enough time for photos and swimming. For those who prefer a more leisurely experience with a bit of history and mythology, the Ithaca Island Tour with Bus & Cruise offers a gentle mix of sightseeing and swimming stops. And if your goal is to see Zakynthos, the cruise to Shipwreck Beach and Blue Caves delivers iconic sights with a taste of local culinary delights. Here’s a detailed look at the best options, so you can find the perfect match for your Kefalonian adventure.
1. Argostoli: Full-Day Traditional Boat Cruise with Lunch
This 7-hour full-day trip on a traditional Greek boat from Argostoli** is a classic way to enjoy Kefalonia’s waters.** The cruise combines scenic stops at beaches and islands with opportunities to swim, snorkel, and soak in the sun. What makes this tour stand out is the homemade Greek lunch served on board, complete with fresh salad, fruit, and local wine, making it a true taste of Greece. The itinerary includes visits to White Rocks Beach, the small island of Vardiani, and Xi Beach, famous for its mineral-rich clay used for a natural spa treatment.
The boat is well-rated, with a 4.8/5 from over 410 reviews, and guests frequently praise the friendly crew and the variety of activities. Many reviewers mention how they loved jumping into the water, paddleboarding, and the chance to spot marine life like dolphins, sea turtles, and monk seals. The stops are well spaced, offering enough time to relax or explore. The price of $68 per person offers good value considering the full day of fun, food, and scenery.
Bottom line: This cruise is perfect for those wanting a comprehensive, fun-filled day on the water with authentic Greek cuisine and plenty of swimming. It’s especially suited for small groups, families, or anyone eager to experience Kefalonia’s marine beauty firsthand.
2. From Agia Efimia: Day Cruise to Ithaki Island with Lunch
For a more intimate experience, the Day Cruise to Ithaki from Agia Efimia aboard a modern sailing yacht offers an unhurried exploration of this legendary island. This 8.5-hour trip includes swimming at popular beaches like Gidaki, where the water is so clear you’ll think you’ve entered a postcard. The tour combines swimming, snorkeling, and stand-up paddleboarding, giving you active options between relaxing on deck.
The highlight is of course visiting Ithaca’s bays and secluded spots, plus the chance to see dolphins and sea turtles. The captain, Vangelis, is often praised for his attentiveness and stories, making the experience feel personal and authentic. The onboard food and drinks are described as delicious, featuring local snacks and a hearty lunch. The reviews are glowing, with a 4.8/5 average, and guests love the limited group size for a more personal atmosphere.
At $169 per person, this trip leans toward the premium side but offers exceptional value for a full day of sailing, swimming, and exploring. It’s ideal for travelers who want a relaxed, scenic experience with a touch of adventure and a knowledgeable crew to guide the way.
Bottom line: This tour fits those seeking an elegant, small-group sailing trip with plenty of time for swimming and enjoying Ithaca’s stunning bays.
3. From Kefalonia: Blue Cave Boat Cruise & Shipwreck Photo Stop
This 7-hour cruise from Kefalonia to Zakynthos takes you along the coast to see the iconic Blue Caves and the famous Shipwreck Beach. The highlight is the photo stops at Navagio Beach, where the wreck of the Panayiotis rests in rugged beauty, and the Blue Caves, which are illuminated by sunlight filtering through underwater openings. The tour offers several water stops for swimming and snorkeling, with a chance to explore secluded coves and enjoy the Ionian Sea’s clarity.
Rated 4.5/5 from nearly 100 reviews, this trip appeals to travelers eager to see Zakynthos’ most famous sights in a manageable half-day trip. The boat often visits Alykanas village and Mounda Beach, giving a glimpse of local life. Guests note the stunning views and the opportunity to take memorable photos. The price of $85 makes it a good value for a full day of sightseeing, especially considering the spectacular scenery.
Potential downsides include the length of time spent on water transport—some may prefer shorter or longer excursions—but overall, this cruise offers a great balance of sightseeing, swimming, and photo opportunities.
Bottom line: Perfect for travelers who want to see Zakynthos’ signature sights without dedicating an entire day, and who love taking pictures of dramatic coastlines and shipwrecks.
4. Ithaca Island Tour with Bus & Cruise with Swim Stops
This 9-hour guided tour combines bus travel and boat cruising to explore Ithaca’s legendary sites. It starts in Vathi, then includes scenic stops at Kioni, Frikes, and Stavros, with plenty of time to explore each village. The boat cruise portion offers swimming and snorkeling in clear waters, as well as a chance to admire the rugged coastline and mythical landscapes connected to Odysseus.
Rated 4.2/5 from 15 reviews, the tour is praised for its well-organized itinerary and local insights. The mix of land and sea gives a well-rounded experience, ideal for those interested in both history and scenic beauty. The price of $51 is quite accessible, especially if you prefer combining bus transport with a boat trip.
Some guests mention the long day and variable timing, but overall, the trip’s balance of sightseeing and swimming makes it suitable for travelers who enjoy a comprehensive day without rushing.
Bottom line: This is a good pick for those who want a blend of mythology, culture, and swimming, especially if you prefer a guided experience with some history.
5. From Kefalonia: Zakynthos cruise with Shipwreck Beach
This 6.5-hour cruise to Zakynthos focuses on visiting the famed Shipwreck Beach and Blue Caves. Starting from Kefalonia, the tour takes you to see the Panayiotis shipwreck, which is one of the most recognizable sights in Greece. You’ll also explore the Blue Caves and enjoy swimming in crystal-clear waters. The boat stops at St. Nicholas Harbour for a lunch break at a traditional tavern, giving you a taste of local cuisine.
Rated 4/5 from four reviews, this tour is ideal for travelers short on time but eager to see Zakynthos’ most photogenic locations. The route offers opportunities for swimming and sightseeing in a condensed timeframe, making it a good choice for families or those with limited schedule flexibility.
A potential downside is the shorter duration, which may limit the time at each stop. Still, for a half-day trip, it packs in the essentials, with the added benefit of tasting Greek food locally.
Bottom line: Best suited for travelers who want a quick, scenic taste of Zakynthos’ famous sights, with the bonus of a traditional meal and the chance to see dolphins and turtles.
How to Choose
When deciding between these boat tours, think about your interests, budget, and how much time you want on the water. If a full day of swimming, snorkeling, and Greek food appeals to you, the Argostoli day cruise is hard to beat. For a more relaxed, intimate sailing experience, the Ithaca yacht trip offers personalized service and scenic beauty. Want to see Zakynthos’ most iconic sights quickly? The Shipwreck Beach and Blue Caves cruise delivers the essentials in half a day.
Other factors include fitness level—some tours involve lots of swimming or walking, while others are more leisurely—and whether you prefer guided commentary or independent exploring. Booking early is recommended, especially in high season, to secure your spot on these popular trips.
In summary, Kefalonia’s boat tours cover a wide spectrum from lively full-day cruises to intimate yacht trips and quick scenic excursions. For families or groups seeking value and fun, the full-day Argostoli cruise stands out. For those wanting a combination of mythology, scenic bays, and swimming, the Ithaca tour is ideal. If iconic sights like Navagio Beach are your priority, the Zakynthos day cruise is a straightforward choice. Whichever you pick, these trips are an excellent way to see the Ionian’s best from the water—so don’t forget to book early for the best experience.