Corfu: Premium Boat Rental without Skipper

Corfu offers some of Greece’s most beautiful coastlines, and what better way to experience them than by taking the wheel yourself? This self-drive boat rental from Sidari Watersports puts you in control for a couple of hours of sun-soaked adventure. With options to add a skipper or extend your trip, it’s a flexible way to see Corfu’s highlights at your own pace.

What we love most about this experience is the freedom it offers — no rigid schedules, just you, your crew, and the calming waves. You can stop whenever you want, snorkel vibrant coral reefs, and even try to spot sea turtles. That said, it’s worth noting that petrol isn’t included in the price, so keeping some euros handy for fuel is a good idea.

This tour is ideal for travelers who prefer independence, small groups, and a more intimate day on the water. Whether you’re a confident swimmer or a first-time boater, this experience provides both excitement and comfort. Perfect for families, friends, or couples wanting a personalized day on the sea without the hefty price tag of larger boat trips.

Key Points

• Self-Drive Freedom: You get behind the wheel of a 40hp boat, guiding your own adventure.
• Authentic Corfu Views: Cruise past yachts, beaches, and scenic coastlines at your own pace.
• Snorkeling & Wildlife: Stop to snorkel colorful reefs and keep an eye out for sea turtles.
• Inclusive Safety Briefing: A 15-minute safety overview ensures you feel confident.
• All-Inclusive Safety Gear: Safety equipment, GPS tracking, and a cooler are provided.
• Flexible Options: Extend your trip or add a skipper for extra comfort (at extra cost).

What to Expect from Your Corfu Boat Experience

Starting Point and Safety Briefing

Your journey begins at Sidari Watersports Jet Skis & Boats HQ, where friendly staff will welcome you. Before hitting the water, you’ll receive a concise 15-minute safety briefing. This session covers essential tips and safety measures, making it suitable even if you’re a first-timer. The safety gear and GPS tracking systems add an extra layer of reassurance, ensuring you feel secure throughout your cruise.

The Boat and How It Operates

The boat itself is a 40 horsepower power start engine, which strikes a good balance — powerful enough to explore the coastline comfortably but manageable for most drivers. Reviewers like Adele appreciated the ease of maneuvering, noting that “it was just myself and my two girls, and we couldn’t really afford a big boat trip, but this was perfect.” The boat’s straightforward operation means you can focus on the enjoyment rather than wrestling with complicated controls.

The Itinerary and Key Stops

Your cruise is roughly two hours long, giving you enough time to visit several scenic spots and enjoy some downtime. The planned stops include:

• Canal D’amour: Famous for its naturally formed tunnel, this is an ideal spot for a swim and some fun photos. Reviewer Beáta mentioned how her husband felt confident driving, and they enjoyed stopping here to snorkel and explore from the sea. The calm waters make it perfect for relaxing dips.

• Cape Drastis: Known for its striking cliffs and vibrant coral reefs, this area offers some of the best snorkeling in Corfu. According to Zulkiful, the waters are “crystal clear,” making it an ideal place for underwater exploration. Keep an eye out for sea turtles, as they are often spotted in this region.

• Mermaid Island: Though less described, this small island adds to the fun and offers a scenic backdrop for photos and swimming. The freedom to stop wherever you like means you can linger or move on quickly depending on your mood.

Onboard Experience

While cruising, you can simply relax and enjoy the beautiful coastal views. The boat’s size and simplicity mean you can take it slow or pick up speed, depending on your vibe. You’re encouraged to bring your own food and drinks — the cooler is included, so snacks are easy to pack along. Many reviews, like Adele’s, mention how relaxing the experience was, especially with the freedom to swim and snorkel when you want.

Extra Options and Considerations

If you’re looking to make the day even more comfortable, you can arrange a skipper before your trip for an additional fee. This could be useful if you prefer not to navigate or want someone to handle the tricky bits while you relax. Also, extending your rental beyond the initial two hours is possible — just coordinate with the provider ahead of time.

One important consideration is that petrol costs are not included in the rental price. Although the boat is fuel-efficient, it’s wise to have some cash on hand for refueling if you plan to explore longer or visit more locations.

Why This Experience Stands Out

The thing that sets this boat rental apart is the authentic sense of independence it offers. Instead of joining a large group tour, you’re in control of where to go and how long to stay. As Adele pointed out, it’s perfect for a small family or a couple wanting a flexible, private adventure.

The guides and staff are knowledgeable but low-key, providing clear instructions without overwhelming. The safety briefing, safety gear, and GPS tracking give peace of mind, especially for first-time boaters.

The reviews highlight this as a highlight of many visitors’ trips, with Zulkiful calling it the “highlight of our holiday” and noting the “crystal clear waters.” Many appreciate how straightforward and manageable the boat is, making it accessible even for those without prior boating experience.

Practical Details and Tips

• Price: $136 per group (up to 7 people) for two hours. This offers excellent value, considering you’re essentially renting a private boat.
• Duration: 2 hours, with possible extensions available. Check availability for starting times.
• Inclusions: Safety gear, cooler, GPS safety tracking. You only need to bring your passport or ID.
• Not Included: Food, drinks, and petrol. Plan to bring snacks, water, and some euros for fuel.
• Group Size: Up to 7 people, making it a cozy and manageable experience.
• Language: Staff speak Greek and English, ensuring clear communication.

Is This Tour Right for You?

This experience is best suited for travelers who love a sense of adventure and independence. It’s perfect if you’re comfortable on the water and want to craft your own itinerary rather than follow a set group tour. Families, couples, or small groups will all appreciate the flexibility, especially since it offers a personalized day on the water.

If you’re after the thrill of driving your own boat, along with the chance to snorkel in vibrant reefs and chill on stunning beaches, then this rental ticks all the boxes. It’s also a good pick for those on a budget, considering the private nature of the trip and included gear.

However, if you’re not comfortable operating a boat or prefer a guided experience, adding a skipper could be worthwhile, though it will increase the cost slightly.

The Sum Up

For those wanting to explore Corfu’s coastline at their own pace, this self-drive boat rental from Sidari Watersports offers a fantastic combination of affordability, flexibility, and scenic beauty. You’ll love the ability to stop wherever you want, snorkel in lively reefs, and enjoy the views without being confined to a large tour group.

It’s especially suited for travelers craving independence and a more intimate experience — perfect for families, couples, or friends looking for a memorable day on the water. The safety features and straightforward operation make it accessible even for beginners, while the inclusion of safety gear and GPS tracking ensures peace of mind.

While petrol costs are extra, the overall value for such a personalized adventure makes this a worthwhile addition to your Corfu trip. Just remember to bring some snacks and fuel cash, and you’re all set for a relaxing, fun-filled day on the Aegean Sea.

FAQ

Do I need a license to operate the boat?
No license is required, making this experience accessible even if you’ve never driven a boat before.

Can I extend my rental?
Yes, you can arrange to extend your rental with the activity provider before your trip, likely for an additional fee.

Is safety equipment provided?
Yes, safety gear is included, along with GPS safety tracking to ensure a secure experience.

What should I bring onboard?
Bring your passport or ID, food, drinks, and any personal items. A cooler is provided for your refreshments.

How long is the cruise?
The standard rental lasts two hours, but extensions are possible if arranged in advance.

Can I add a skipper?
Yes, you can opt to include a skipper for a more relaxed experience, but this is an extra cost.

Is petrol included?
No, petrol isn’t included in the price, so plan to bring extra euros for refueling.

What is the group size?
The boat can accommodate up to 7 people, making it ideal for small groups and families.

Are there any age restrictions?
While not explicitly stated, the safety briefing and equipment suggest it’s suitable for most age groups, but always check with the provider if you have very young children.

Is the experience suitable for beginners?
Absolutely — the straightforward operation and safety instructions make it accessible for first-timers, and many reviews emphasize how easy it is to handle.

This Corfu boat rental offers a wonderful way to see the island from the sea with complete freedom. It’s a chance to create your own adventure, swim in vibrant spots, and enjoy the water at your own pace — all while staying within a reasonable budget.