Explore Paxos & Antipaxos with Fiori boat – Private Tour

If you’re dreaming of a day on crystal-clear waters amid Greece’s spectacular islands, this private boat tour from Corfu offers just that. Covering Paxos, Antipaxos, and the famous Blue Caves, the trip promises picturesque scenery, opportunities to swim and snorkel, and a flexible itinerary tailored to your preferences. It’s a good choice for travelers seeking an intimate, personalized day away from crowded tours.

What really catches the eye is the chance to navigate at your own pace aboard a modern, well-equipped boat with a professional skipper. However, potential travelers should be aware of the mixed reviews regarding boat size and onboard amenities. Whether you’re into relaxing on white sandy beaches or exploring hidden coves, this experience is best suited for those who value exclusivity and scenic beauty over luxury or a tightly scheduled tour.

Key Points

• Private Experience: Perfect for those wanting a custom, intimate day on the water, with your own group of up to 10.
• Scenic Highlights: Visit iconic spots like the Blue Caves, Paxos, and Antipaxos, with plenty of photo-worthy moments.
• Active & Relaxed Options: Swim, snorkel, paddleboard, or simply lounge on the boat or beaches for a balanced day.
• Flexible & Personalized: Duration is about 8 hours, with opportunities to customize stops and add a meal in Gaios.
• Cost & Value: At $1,355 for up to 10 guests, it offers good value for a private day on the water, but be aware of extra costs like fuel surcharge and lunch.
• Mixed Reviews: While some praise the organization and guides, others found the boat small and the amenities limited.

Setting the Scene: What to Expect on This Private Island Adventure

Imagine stepping onto a sleek, modern boat built in 2014 and recently refitted in 2024, ready to whisk you away from the busy streets of Corfu to Greece’s famed island gems. Your skipper, a seasoned professional, will navigate the waters while sharing insights into the area’s mythology and natural beauty. You’ll be cruising along at a comfortable 25 knots, so expect a smooth ride with plenty of opportunities to snap photos of the coastline and shimmering waters.

Itinerary Breakdown

Departure from Corfu: The tour typically starts with a pickup from Corfu, with departure times varying based on availability. The boat can comfortably hold up to 10 people, making it ideal for families, friends, or small groups seeking exclusivity.

The Blue Caves: One of the tour’s standout features is the visit to the Blue Caves, where sunlight hits the sea and rocks to create an otherworldly glow. It’s a perfect spot for photos, and you’ll likely paddle close to the caves in your snorkel gear or SUP board, both included in the package.

Paxos & Antipaxos: The main stops are Paxos and Antipaxos, tiny islands famed for their white sandy beaches and turquoise waters. You’ll have the opportunity to explore Antipaxos on foot, walk along its beaches, and relax in peaceful surroundings. The clear waters beckon for swimming and snorkeling, with equipment provided.

Swimming & Water Activities: Expect plenty of time for swimming inside captivating coves, with some reviewers mentioning the quality of snorkeling gear as sufficient. Paddleboarding is also available, adding an active element to your day. If you’re looking for relaxation, you can simply float or lounge on the boat’s sun canopy.

Optional Gaios Lunch: While the tour doesn’t include a meal, travelers can choose to end their day with a delicious lunch in Gaios, a charming fishing village with waterfront tavernas—an excellent way to complete your island experience.

The Boat & Facilities

The Fiori boat is a sleek, 8-meter vessel with a cruising speed of 25 knots, equipped with modern features like GPS, an electric anchor lift, freshwater shower, USB outlets, Bluetooth sound system, and snorkeling gear. Inside, the boat offers a sun canopy for shade, a ladder for easy water access, and a water supply to keep you comfortable during the day.

Some reviews highlight that the boat’s size may feel cramped if the group is larger or if you’re expecting a luxury experience. Others appreciated the boat’s modern refit and the convenience of onboard amenities, which allow for a comfortable and flexible day.

The Skipper & Service

The skipper is described as professional and knowledgeable, with some travelers specifically mentioning “Great Pascal” as their guide. The reviews suggest that guides can make a real difference in the experience, offering insights about the area’s mythology and geography, which enhances the trip’s authenticity.

However, one review pointed out an unprofessional captain and issues with communication, highlighting that the quality of service can vary. The majority of guests praised punctuality, organization, and their friendly skipper.

Practical Details & Cost Analysis

At $1,355 for a group of up to 10, this private tour can be cost-effective for groups wanting an exclusive experience, averaging around $135 per person. The price includes snacks, bottled water, beer, soft drinks, snorkeling equipment, SUP board, and the use of the boat. Extras like fuel costs (roughly €350) and lunch are additional expenses, which travelers should budget for.

The tour runs for about 8 hours, with flexibility on start times—just check availability. Since it’s private, you can decide how long to spend at each stop, whether to swim more, paddleboard, or relax.

Reviews & Authentic Insights

One reviewer shared that their experience was “wonderful and luxurious” despite a last-minute change in their group, emphasizing the intimacy and personalized nature of the trip. Conversely, another mentioned feeling it was overpriced for what was offered, citing a small boat and limited snacks, which is a reminder that expectations should be set with the reality of a more modest setup.

Key takeaway from reviews: The guides and the scenery are generally praised, but some travelers felt the boat’s size and amenities didn’t match the high price tag. This underscores the importance of knowing what you want from a boat trip—whether it’s exclusivity and scenic beauty or luxury and extensive onboard facilities.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

Adventure seekers and water lovers will enjoy the swimming, snorkeling, and paddleboarding opportunities. Those who value personalized service and a private setting will appreciate the exclusivity offered here. If you’re interested in exploring Greece’s famed caves and islands without the crowd, this trip could be a highlight of your Greek itinerary.

However, travelers expecting a luxury yacht experience or a large, fully equipped boat might find this tour somewhat limited. It’s best suited for small groups seeking an authentic, flexible day on the water, especially if they come prepared for a more modest setup.

Final Thoughts

This private boat tour from Corfu to Paxos and Antipaxos offers a wonderful way to see some of Greece’s most beautiful islands without the hassle of crowded tours. The focus on personalization, scenic stops, and water-based activities makes it a strong pick for those looking for an authentic, relaxed experience in a stunning setting.

While the boat size and amenities may not satisfy everyone, the knowledgeable skipper, flexible itinerary, and gorgeous scenery do make this a memorable day. It’s particularly suitable for small groups, couples, or families wanting a private escape with opportunities for swimming, snorkeling, and exploring.

If you’re seeking a more exclusive, customizable day on the water in Greece, this tour could be worth its price. Just remember to clarify expectations about onboard facilities and consider adding a meal in Gaios to round out your island adventure.

FAQs

What’s included in the tour?
The tour includes a professional skipper, snacks, bottled water, beer, soft drinks, snorkeling equipment, and a stand-up paddleboard.

How long does the trip last?
The experience runs for approximately 8 hours, with flexible start times depending on availability.

Can I customize the stops?
Yes, since it’s a private tour, you can decide how much time to spend at each location and whether to include activities like swimming or paddleboarding.

What boat will I be on?
A modern, well-equipped boat built in 2014 and recently refitted in 2024, designed to comfortably accommodate up to 10 guests.

Is lunch included?
No, lunch is not included, but you can plan to have a meal in Gaios afterward.

Are there any additional costs?
Yes, a fuel surcharge (~€350 per group) is not included, and meals or extra activities like additional drinks are extra.

What should I bring?
Bring swimwear, sun protection, camera, and a towel. Towels are not specifically listed but are recommended for swimming.

Is the tour suitable for children?
While not explicitly stated, the private setting and water activities suggest it’s suitable for children comfortable with boats and swimming, but check with the provider for age restrictions.

What’s the cancellation policy?
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Would I recommend this tour?
If you want a private, flexible day exploring Greece’s stunning islands with scenic views and water activities, this is a solid choice. Just be prepared for a modest boat setup and plan for extra costs if you want a full meal.