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Planning a day on the water in Kefalonia? This all-inclusive sailing trip to Ithaca offers a relaxed, intimate experience with stunning scenery, delicious food, and plenty of time to unwind. Think of it as a blend of adventure and relaxation, where you can swim, snorkel, paddleboard, or simply soak up the sun—all while enjoying the comfort of a private boat.
What we really love about this tour is its personalized vibe—it’s limited to just eight travelers, so you get plenty of space and less of that crowded feeling. Plus, the food and drinks are genuinely noteworthy, with fresh, homemade recipes and local wine that elevate the experience. A potential consideration is the lack of hotel pickups, so you’ll need to make your way to the meeting point. But overall, this tour fits best for those seeking a relaxing, authentic day at sea with excellent value and memorable stops.
Key Points
- Small group intimacy ensures a relaxed and personalized experience.
- Stunning stops at Gidaki Beach and Lygia showcase Ithaca’s natural beauty.
- Delicious homemade lunch with local wine adds authentic flavor.
- Versatile activities like snorkeling, paddleboarding, and sunbathing cater to all interests.
- Excellent reviews highlight friendly guides and unforgettable scenery.
- Price offers good value for an all-day, inclusive experience on the water.
A Detailed Look at the Experience
This sailing tour, operated by Sail The Day Kefalonia, is designed to offer a seamless blend of adventure, relaxation, and authentic Greek hospitality. Starting at Agia Efimia around 9:00 am, you’ll set off aboard a cozy, small boat limited to just eight guests. This smaller size means you’ll avoid the hustle of larger groups, gaining a more personal connection with the crew and fellow travelers.
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The Itinerary Explained
Stop 1: Gidaki Beach in Ithaca
The first stop is Gidaki Beach, renowned for its turquoise waters and soft sand. Our reviews frequently mention this as a favorite spot, where you can take a refreshing dip, snorkel among vibrant fish, or paddleboard in calm, shallow waters. It’s the perfect place to unwind and enjoy the natural beauty of the Ionian. With about an hour and fifteen minutes here, you’ll have plenty of time to relax or explore. Reviewers like Saskia and Deborah appreciated how peaceful and stunning this spot is, with Deborah noting, “Swim, watch fish, and let the vibe of the sea transcend us.”
Stop 2: Lygia – a charming island and port
Next, the boat moves to Lygia, a small island off Ithaca’s southeast coast. Here, the crew serves a homemade lunch, which reviews consistently praise—freshly prepared, authentic, and generous. Lygia’s shallow waters make it an excellent spot for snorkeling, and many reviews state the food here is a highlight, with Mabel calling it “nothing short of extraordinary,” and others noting the careful attention to homemade recipes.
Additional Activities and Free Time
Throughout the day, guests are encouraged to snorkel, swim, paddleboard, or simply relax on the boat with drinks or WiFi onboard. The inclusion of snorkeling gear and paddleboards means you can enjoy different ways of exploring the clear waters, while the optional sunbathing keeps things flexible. The crew, especially guides like Menios, are praised for their friendly, attentive service, making sure guests are comfortable and engaged.
The Food and Drinks
One of this trip’s standout features is its culinary aspect. The lunch, served at Lygia, is homemade and generous—an authentic Greek meal that’s both hearty and flavorful. Reviewers have raved about the freshness of the ingredients and the skill of the crew in preparing the dishes. Snacks, drinks, and local wine are all included, which makes this feel like a true all-day feast, rather than a rushed tour.
The Crew and Atmosphere
Guests consistently comment on the friendly attitude and professionalism of the crew, particularly Menios and Thasso, who are praised for their hospitality and knowledge of the islands. Saskia describes the crew as “really highlight[ing] the trip,” and many reviewers mention how they made the experience fun, relaxing, and memorable. The small group size encourages genuine conversations and a laid-back vibe, perfect for couples or small groups seeking a cozy escape.
Practicalities and Booking Insights
At roughly $172 per person, this tour is a good deal considering the inclusion of lunch, drinks, and activities. Booking well in advance—about 35 days on average—shows that this experience is popular. The tour lasts around 8 hours, with travel time included, making it a full day of escapism without feeling rushed.
It’s worth noting that no hotel pickup or drop-off is included, so you’ll need to arrange your own transportation to the meeting point in Agia Efimia. The meeting spot is accessible by public transportation, and the experience is suitable for most travelers, including service animals.
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Why This Tour Works
This sailing trip shines because of its intimate setting and authentic touches. The stops at Gidaki and Lygia offer genuine glimpses of Ithaca’s untouched beauty, away from the crowds. The inclusion of homemade Greek food and local wine elevates the experience beyond just sightseeing, giving it a true flavor of the islands.
The reviews repeatedly mention the welcoming crew, flexible activities, and stunning scenery. It’s clear that this tour isn’t just about ticking off landmarks—it’s about experiencing the islands in a relaxed, personal way. Whether you’re a swimmer, a sunbather, or someone eager to learn about the islands, you’ll find this trip adaptable and enriching.
Who Is This Tour Best For?
This experience is perfect for travelers who value small-group intimacy and authentic local experiences. It’s ideal if you want a day of leisure on the water, combined with excellent food and scenic stops. The flexible activities mean it suits families, couples, or friends who enjoy a mix of adventure and relaxation.
However, since there’s no hotel pickup, it’s best suited for those staying nearby or comfortable with a short transit to the meeting point. The tour’s timing and limited group size make it an excellent choice for those who want to avoid large, crowded boat trips and prefer a more personalized, cozy setting.
FAQ
Do I need to bring my own snorkeling equipment?
No, snorkeling gear is included in the tour, so you can just enjoy exploring the waters without extra hassle.
Is this tour suitable for children?
Most travelers can participate, and the calm waters and relaxed pace make it family-friendly, but consider your child’s swimming ability.
How long do stops last?
Gidaki Beach is about an hour and fifteen minutes, while Lygia allows for around two hours, including lunch and free time.
Is the lunch served onboard or ashore?
Lunch is served at the port of Lygia, prepared by the crew with homemade recipes and local ingredients.
Are drinks included?
Yes, snacks, soft drinks, alcohol, and local wine are all included and served throughout the day.
Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before the tour, with a full refund offered.
Is WiFi available onboard?
Yes, WiFi is provided on the boat, so you can share your stunning views or stay connected during the trip.
This all-inclusive sailing tour from Agia Efimia to Ithaca combines scenic beauty, authentic cuisine, and a relaxed atmosphere—making it a standout choice for travelers seeking a genuine Ionian experience. With its small group size, friendly guides, and memorable stops, it promises a day full of highlights that will stay with you long after you’ve left the water.
