Ithaca Cruise swim stops to beaches- With snacks & fruit

Taking a boat trip around the Greek Ionian islands is a classic way to soak up the region’s natural beauty and authentic charm. This particular Ithaca Cruise, offered by Kefalonia Excursions, promises a day filled with swimming at quiet beaches, wandering through picturesque villages, and enjoying local snacks—all in around seven hours. It’s a well-reviewed option for those wanting a relaxed, scenic, and hassle-free way to see parts of Ithaca and nearby islets.

What we particularly like about this tour is the pre-booked ticket, which means no last-minute scrambling for a spot at the Sami port—something that saves both time and stress. Plus, the itinerary’s focus on secluded beaches and authentic town exploration offers a genuine peek into what makes these islands special.

However, one thing to keep in mind is that this cruise is quite group-oriented, with a maximum of 35 travelers, and the pace may be too relaxed if you’re after a more active or in-depth cultural experience. It’s perfect for travelers who want a balance of scenic lounging, light exploration, and good value for a mid-range price. Overall, if you’re seeking an authentic, scenic day that covers beaches, towns, and hidden spots, this cruise could be a great fit.

Key Points

• Convenient Booking: Skip port queues with pre-booked tickets.
• Beautiful Swim Spots: Visit tranquil beaches accessible only by boat.
• Authentic Town Visit: Explore the charming streets of Vathi, Ithaca’s capital.
• Tasty Snacks Included: Enjoy local treats, water, and juice onboard.
• Secluded Beaches: Gidaki Beach and Filiatro Beach promise quiet escapes.
• Moderate Pace: Around 7 hours, with ample free time for sightseeing and swimming.

The Itinerary in Detail

Catching the Boat at Sami

The adventure begins at Sami, a picturesque seaside village on Kefalonia. The meeting point at EO Argostoliou Samis 18 is easy to reach, especially since the tour offers mobile tickets—no need to print anything. Boarding is smooth, giving you plenty of time to settle on deck, admire the views, and prepare for a scenic cruise. Reviewers noted the boat’s crew as friendly and accommodating, often going out of their way to ensure everyone’s comfort.

Filiatro Beach: A Pebbled Paradise

The first stop is Filiatro Beach, famed for its crystal-clear waters and pebbled shoreline. With about 40 minutes here, you’ll have plenty of time to dip into the refreshing waters or simply sunbathe on the rocks. Several reviews mention how beautiful and inviting this beach is, with one traveler noting, “Swim in the crystal clear waters of this stunning beach.” It’s ideal for those wanting a quick, scenic swim in a less crowded spot.

Exploring Vathy, Ithaca’s Capital

Next, you’ll hop off in Vathy, the island’s lively yet charming main town. With 1 hour and 30 minutes to roam, you can stroll through narrow streets, admire traditional architecture, or browse small local shops. Reviewers appreciate this stop for its authentic vibe and the chance to experience daily island life. One guest commented, “Explore the lovely streets of this charming village!” It’s a perfect opportunity to grab a coffee or take a few photos of the colorful harbor.

The Iconic Lazareto Island Photo Stop

A quick 20-minute stop at Lazareto island provides a great photo op and a glimpse into Ithaca’s scenery. While there’s no formal tour of the island, the views make for memorable pictures, and it’s a good way to stretch your legs. Reviewers noted that this short stop adds to the sense of discovery—an unobtrusive, meaningful inclusion.

Gidaki Beach: Access Only by Boat

The highlight for many is Gidaki Beach, often called Ithaca’s most famous beach. It’s only accessible by boat, making it a real treat to visit. With about 50 minutes here, you can swim in the crystal waters and relax in a setting that feels untouched by mass tourism. Multiple reviews mention how beautiful and peaceful it is—perfect for those who love quiet natural spots. The onboard crew offers snacks like traditional Kefalonian riganada, which many find delicious after a swim.

Returning via the Scenic Cruise

On the way back to Kefalonia, snacks and fruit are served, and there’s a chance to relax and soak in the views. One reviewer mentioned that the crew treated everyone to local food and snacks, elevating the experience. The return journey offers ample time to reflect on the day’s highlights, share photos, or just lounge with a drink in hand.

What’s Included & What to Keep in Mind

Included in the Tour:

• Snacks and fruit, including traditional Kefalonian riganada
• Bottled water and juice
• All fees and taxes

What’s Not Included:

• Lunch (you might want to bring some extra snacks if you’re hungry)
• Personal expenses (souvenirs, additional drinks)

It’s worth noting that the price (~$94.87 per person) is quite reasonable considering the all-day itinerary, the inclusion of snacks, and the access to secluded beaches. Many reviews highlighted that the value for money is solid, especially when considering the stunning locations visited and the friendly crew.

Practical Details: Timing, Group Size, and Accessibility

The tour departs at 9:00 am from Sami, making it a good choice for morning lovers. It lasts roughly 7 hours, so it’s a full day but not overly long. The group size is capped at 35 travelers, which helps maintain a friendly atmosphere and ensures personalized attention from the crew.

The tour is suitable for moderate physical fitness, given the walking involved during town exploration and swimming opportunities. The boat is equipped for comfortable cruising, and the stops are all designed to be accessible for most visitors.

Authentic Experiences and Genuine Insights from Reviews

Reviewers consistently remarked on the friendly and helpful crew, who went above and beyond—serving local snacks and making sure everyone was comfortable. One guest expressed delight at the local food and snacks offered, noting they felt like a genuine taste of Kefalonian hospitality.

The secluded beaches like Gidaki are often highlighted as the tour’s gems, giving visitors a chance to swim in pristine waters away from crowds. Several reviewers also appreciated the flexibility of free time at Vathy, allowing for spontaneous wandering or relaxing by the waterfront.

One traveler even shared that, despite a canceled original booking, the tour provider offered a suitable alternative, ensuring they still enjoyed a similar experience at a fraction of the price. This flexibility and customer care add to the credibility and appeal of this excursion.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This cruise suits travelers who want a relaxing day on the water with plenty of opportunities for swimming and leisurely exploration. It’s ideal for those who value authenticity, beautiful scenery, and good value over a highly structured or rushed itinerary.

It’s perfect for families, couples, or small groups looking for a scenic escape that balances beach time with a taste of local life. If you’re keen on secluded beaches, charming towns, and enjoying local snacks, this trip ticks all those boxes.

However, if you’re after an intensive cultural experience or a more active day, you might find the pace a bit too relaxed. Also, travelers with mobility concerns should consider the walking involved during stops.

Final Thoughts

This Ithaca cruise offers a well-rounded day that combines stunning natural beauty, charming towns, and authentic touches like local snacks. The included stops at Filiatro and Gidaki Beaches are genuine highlights, especially for those craving peaceful, uncrowded swimming spots.

The value for money is clear, given the price, the length of the tour, and the quality of the experiences. The friendly crew and seamless booking process are added perks that make for a smooth, enjoyable day.

This tour is ideal for travelers who want a laid-back, scenic day that uncovers some of the Ionian’s best-kept secrets. If you’re looking to relax, swim, and explore without overdoing it, this cruise might be just what you need to enrich your Kefalonian holiday.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, as long as they have moderate physical fitness, since there will be some walking and swimming involved. Always check with the provider if your children have special needs.

What should I bring with me?
Bring swimwear, a towel, sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat. Although snacks and water are provided, you may want to carry extra drinks or snacks for extra energy.

Can I join the tour if I don’t speak Greek?
Yes, the tour operates in English and is suitable for international travelers. The crew is friendly and helpful, ensuring everyone feels comfortable.

How long is the stop in Vathy?
You’ll have about 1 hour and 30 minutes to explore the town, which is enough for a quick stroll, photos, or a coffee break.

Are the beaches accessible for swimming?
Yes, both Filiatro and Gidaki beaches are swim-friendly. Gidaki, in particular, is known for its crystal-clear waters, which are perfect for a refreshing dip.

What happens if the weather is poor?
Since the tour requires good weather, it may be canceled if conditions are unsuitable. In such cases, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

To sum it up, this Ithaca Cruise offers a relaxing, scenic, and authentic way to experience some of the Ionian’s most beautiful spots. Whether you’re after peaceful beaches, charming villages, or simply a day on the water, you’ll find plenty to love about this tour.