Explore Ionian Sea with its 50 shades of blue on Makedonia Palace

Imagine cruising through the crystal-clear waters of the Ionian Sea on a spacious, luxurious boat, with the sun warming your skin and the sea’s 50 shades of blue stretching as far as the eye can see. That’s precisely what this day-long tour promises, offering a blend of stunning scenery, cultural stops, and fun onboard entertainment. While the experience has garnered a strong overall rating (4.5/5 from over 1,400 reviews), it’s important to understand both its highlights and potential drawbacks before booking.

One feature we particularly appreciate is how well the tour balances beautiful sightseeing with genuine leisure time — especially at beaches and charming villages. But, a word of caution: some travelers find the boat crowded and the stops a little too brief, which can limit your overall comfort. This cruise is best suited for those craving adventure and scenic beauty, and who are comfortable sharing space with many others.

Key Points

• Stunning Views: The tour offers access to some of the most beautiful beaches and coves in the Ionian, with plenty of opportunities to swim and relax.
• Well-Organized Itinerary: Multiple stops at iconic beaches and islands provide a rich experience, including Porto Katsiki and Fiscardo.
• Value for Money: With included lunch and free time at key locations, the trip offers good value, especially given the length and variety of sights.
• Crowd Considerations: Some reviews mention the boat feeling crowded, especially during peak season, which could impact comfort.
• Duration & Timing: The full day (8-9 hours) runs smoothly, but some stops are quite brief, so pace might feel rushed.
• Authentic Experiences: Stops like Papanikolis Cave and Skorpios introduce you to local history and famous personalities.

An In-Depth Look at the Tour Experience

Starting Point and Overall Logistics

The journey begins at the Makedonia Palace in Lefkada at 9:15 am. The boat itself is described as big and luxurious, which makes it ideal for the full-day adventure. The tour is designed to appeal to travelers of all ages and nationalities, with a maximum group size of 500. Most travelers book about a month in advance—an indication of its popularity.

The tour includes a mobile ticket, making check-in straightforward, and the entire experience lasts roughly 8 to 9 hours. While the price of approximately $57.64 per person is reasonable considering the length and inclusions, it’s worth noting that drinks are not included and you’ll want to bring your own or buy on board.

The Itinerary: What You’ll See and Do

Stop 1: Porto Katsiki (20 minutes)

Your first stop is Porto Katsiki, one of Lefkas’s most famous beaches. Known for its dramatic cliffs and turquoise waters, it’s ideal for quick photos and soaking in scenery. The brief 20-minute visit is enough to snap some shots without feeling rushed. Since the entry is free, most travelers spend the time simply admiring the view and capturing some memorable pictures.

Tip: Arrive early if you want to avoid the crowds, as it can get busy later in the day.

Stop 2: Egremni Beach (1 hour)

Next, the boat anchors at Egremni Beach, giving you about an hour to enjoy this sandy haven. You can disembark directly onto the beach via a safe landing, which many found convenient. The long stretch of sand with clear waters makes it perfect for sunbathing, swimming, or just relaxing with soundtracked by the gentle waves.

Review insight: Several travelers appreciated this stop for its seclusion and natural beauty, although some noted that the beach can be crowded during peak times.

Stop 3: Fiscardo Harbor (1 hour 15 minutes)

The third stop is Fiscardo, often described as the “diamond” of Kefalonia. This picturesque harbor town offers a nice mix of shops, cafes, and colorful houses. The free time allows for a leisurely exploration—some visitors enjoy wandering, and others sit down at a waterfront tavern for a coffee or snack.

Review insight: Travelers appreciated the personal interactions with the crew, who provided interesting insights about Fiscardo.

Stop 4: Ithaca (45 minutes)

The journey continues to Ithaca, famous for its mythological significance and stunning beaches. The highlight here is Afales Beach, with its inviting turquoise waters perfect for a quick swim or sunbathing session. With just 45 minutes, you’ll have ample time to dip in the sea and snap some photos of the dramatic coastline.

Review insight: Many remarked on how peaceful and beautiful this spot was, especially compared to busier beaches.

Stop 5: Papanikolis Cave (15 minutes)

A brief but fascinating stop is Papanikolis Cave, known historically as a hideout for submarines during WWII. The crew typically provides some interesting commentary, and the scenery makes for fantastic photos.

Note: Since this stop is only 15 minutes, it’s mostly a quick photo opportunity. Don’t expect to explore inside.

Stop 6: Skorpios Island (30 minutes)

Finally, the boat approaches Skorpios, the famous island once owned by Aristotle Onassis. Passengers can enjoy a tour around the island and learn about its history. If the owner, Ribilov, isn’t on the island, swimmers can take a quick dip at Jackie Kennedy Beach—another highlight for many.

Review insight: Visitors loved the chance to see the private island, with some noting the informative commentary about Onassis and Ribilov added an interesting touch.

Lunch and Onboard Experience

Lunch is included in the tour — a simple but satisfying meal of barbecued souvlakia, Greek salad, tzatziki, and bread. It’s a good value considering the price, though drinks are not included, so you might want to bring some water or purchase beverages onboard.

On the boat: Music, fun, and the chance to jump into the water make the experience lively. However, some found the boat crowded, especially on the upper deck, and noted that smoking was allowed in certain areas. One reviewer commented that the announcements weren’t always clear, which could be frustrating during the stops.

The Real Experience: Pros and Cons

The positives: The tour offers stunning vistas, access to some of the most beautiful beaches in Greece, and engaging commentary from the crew. Many reviewers appreciated the personal touches and the well-organized stops, which allow for both exploration and relaxation.

The negatives: The main concern is crowding. Several reviews mention the boat feeling full and noisy, which might detract from the experience for some. The short duration of stops can also leave those wanting more feeling a bit rushed.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This tour is ideal for adventurers who love scenic beauty and vibrant social atmospheres. If you’re comfortable sharing space and enjoy a full day of sightseeing with some fun thrown in, you’ll likely love it. It’s particularly suitable for those who want to visit multiple iconic sites in one day, especially if you’re keen on swimming in famous beaches like Egremni and Afales.

However, travelers seeking peace and solitude might find the crowds overwhelming, and those who prefer longer, more leisurely stops could feel a bit rushed. It’s also a great choice if you’re interested in a quick but rundown of the islands around Lefkada.

Final Thoughts: Is It Worth It?

Considering the value for money, the variety of stops, and the stunning scenery, this cruise provides a memorable day out at a reasonable price. The included lunch and the chance to explore multiple islands make it a practical choice for those wanting a well-rounded experience.

If you’re prepared for a crowded but lively atmosphere, this tour can be a highlight of your Lefkada holiday. The focus on beautiful beaches and scenic views truly makes it a day to remember, especially for first-time visitors eager to see the best of the Ionian Sea.

FAQs

How long is the tour?
It lasts approximately 8 to 9 hours, giving you plenty of time to enjoy the stops and onboard activities.

What is included in the price?
Your ticket includes the cruise, guided commentary at various stops, lunch (souvlaki, salad, tzatziki, bread), and transportation between sites.

Are drinks included?
No, drinks are not included, so plan to bring your own or purchase beverages onboard.

Where does the tour start and end?
It departs from Makedonia Palace in Lefkada at 9:15 am and returns to the same location at the end of the day.

Is the boat wheelchair accessible?
The reviews don’t specify accessibility features, but since most stops involve disembarking onto beaches, it’s best to check directly with the operator if you have mobility concerns.

Can children participate?
Absolutely, the tour is suitable for all ages and nationalities, making it a family-friendly experience.

What should I bring?
Bring water, sun protection, swimwear, and perhaps a towel. Remember that space can be limited, so arrive early if you want a good spot.

How crowded does it get?
During peak season, the boat can feel quite full, especially on the upper deck. Arriving early helps secure a seat.

This cruise offers a great snapshot of the Ionian’s best beaches and islands, wrapped up in a lively, scenic day. While it’s not perfect for those seeking serene solitude, it’s perfect for travelers eager to experience Greece’s iconic coastal beauty with a fun, social twist.