From Argostoli: Vardiani Island Sunset Cruise & Greek Meze

If you’re visiting Kefalonia and looking for a relaxing yet memorable way to enjoy the island’s natural beauty, this sunset cruise from Argostoli might just be your best bet. It combines scenic boat rides, snorkeling in crystal-clear waters, a taste of authentic Greek cuisine, and the awe-inspiring spectacle of a sunset over the Ionian Sea—all wrapped up in around four hours.

What caught our eye initially is the balanced mix of leisurely activities and cultural highlights—from peaceful island stops to delicious homemade meze, all onboard a comfortably sized boat. However, for those who aren’t fans of boat trips or prefer a more structured schedule, this experience might feel a little relaxed or unpredictable due to changing sunset times in summer.

This cruise suits travelers who want a taste of Kefalonia’s natural beauty with a laid-back vibe—perfect for couples, families, or solo travelers chasing that iconic sunset with a side of Greek hospitality.

Key Points

• Stunning Sunset Views: Offers prime sunset scenery over the Ionian Sea, with plenty of photo opportunities.
• Snorkeling & Swimming: Vardiani Island and Xi Beach provide crystal waters perfect for a dip, with options for those who prefer gentle snorkeling.
• Authentic Greek Flavors: Enjoy freshly made Greek meze, with a variety of salads, fruits, and traditional dishes, plus fresh cocktails.
• Family-Friendly & Social: The relaxed atmosphere makes it suitable for all ages and for making new friends from different parts of the world.
• Flexible & Value-Focused: Duration of about 4 hours at a competitive $51 per person, including food, drinks, and snorkeling gear.
• Expert Guides & Crew: Friendly, knowledgeable staff ensure a smooth, enjoyable experience, with reviews highlighting their helpfulness and warmth.

The Vardiani Island Sunset Cruise from Argostoli offers a glimpse into Kefalonia’s coastline from a different perspective—on the water, under the sky. It’s a great way to wind down after days of exploring, or to start an evening with a touch of magic. The boat departs from a central location right across Eurobank at Argostoli Harbor, making it easy to find and convenient to access.

We loved the way the cruise delivers a balance of sightseeing, relaxation, and indulgence. The boat itself is described as a comfortable size—not too large—so you don’t feel like just another face in a crowd. Instead, it fosters a friendly, intimate atmosphere, ideal for chatting with fellow travelers or simply soaking in the views.

Stop 1: Departure from Argostoli
The cruise sets sail from Dreamy Cruises Kefalonia, immediately pulling you into a peaceful, nautical vibe. The staff, including guides like Giorgos, are noted for their friendliness and professionalism, making sure everyone feels welcomed.

Stop 2: Exploring Kefalonia
The first cruise segment offers a guided boat tour around the island, lasting approximately an hour. This is your chance to get oriented, take photos of the coastline, and enjoy the gentle motion of the sea.

Stop 3: Vardiani Island
The highlight for many is the stop at Vardiani, a small, unspoiled island. Here, you can snorkel in waters renowned for their clarity or just relax on deck. Reviewers mention that the snorkeling gear is plentiful, and the boat provides floats and lilo for floating and lounging. Guests typically stay around 45 minutes, enough to cool off and snap some photos of the vibrant marine life and rugged scenery.

Stop 4: Sunset Viewing
As the boat drifts toward the horizon, you’ll get a prime 20-minute window to witness the sunset. The changing colors of the sky—fiery oranges and pinks—are stunning, and many guests find it the perfect moment for photos. One reviewer called it “spectacular,” emphasizing how the crew’s timing made the sunset even more special.

Stop 5: Xi Beach Night Swim
After sunset, the boat moves to Xi Beach, famous for its distinctive red sand and smooth, warm waters. The 40-minute stop lets you go for a swim under the stars or relax on the sand. Reviewers appreciate the safety measures, like small inflatables for those who aren’t confident swimmers. Many mention how unique it felt swimming at night with the moonlight overhead—an experience they won’t forget.

Final Cruise & Return
The last hour on board is about unwinding. With music, drinks, and the calm sea, it’s a great way to end the evening. The boat returns to Argostoli around 10:30 pm, just in time for a nightcap or a stroll through the harbor.

The Greek buffet included in the ticket price is a highlight. It features freshly made salads, fruits, and traditional recipes, all served buffet-style. Reviewers often commend the quality and authenticity of the food, with some mentioning the homemade meze as a standout.

The bar offers a selection of freshly made cocktails and unlimited water, making it easy to stay refreshed. The crew is known for their friendliness and willingness to accommodate dietary needs if informed in advance.

Guests appreciate that all snorkeling gear, floats, and paddleboards are available onboard, which adds to the feeling of value. Many reviewers praise the generous portions of food and drinks, noting that there’s plenty for everyone, including non-swimmers or those who simply prefer to relax on deck.

One guest, Nicola, described it as a “fantastic thing to do in Argostoli,” noting that “the boat was great and the people were so lovely.” She emphasized how special swimming in the sea was, especially at night. Georgina called it a “fun evening” with great music, lovely sunset views, and friendly crew, making it perfect for a relaxed but lively night out.

Karen mentioned that the cruise offered “very good food and plenty of drinks,” with loved stops for swimming, especially the night swim, which she found particularly memorable. Rebecca highlighted how the experience was suitable for all ages, praising the crew’s friendliness and the quality of the food and drinks.

Vince appreciated the boat’s size, saying it wasn’t crowded, and appreciated the paddleboards and snorkeling gear. Honor called the trip an “incredible” experience, citing the friendly staff and authentic Greek flavors as highlights.

At $51 per person, this cruise offers excellent value considering what it includes — a comfortable boat, guided tour, snorkeling gear, buffet, cocktails, and multiple swim stops. Compared to other similar experiences, the price feels reasonable, especially given the quality of the food, the beautiful scenery, and the friendly atmosphere.

Guests consistently mention that the experience exceeds expectations, especially for the price. The fact that you get a chance to see Kefalonia’s coastline, enjoy a superb sunset, and swim at night all within a few hours makes it a worthwhile investment for a laid-back, memorable evening.

Timing: The cruise duration is about four hours, but check availability for specific starting times, as sunset times vary during summer. It’s advisable to arrive a little early to find your way to the departure point.

Clothing: Bring swimwear, a towel, and perhaps a light jacket or cover-up for the evening. Sun protection is recommended earlier in the day, and some guests prefer a hat or sunglasses for the sunset.

Food & Dietary Restrictions: If you have specific dietary needs or allergies, notify the crew in advance—most reviews mention that they’re accommodating.

Group Size & Atmosphere: The boat’s size fosters a friendly environment, making it easy to meet fellow travelers. It’s suitable for couples, families, or solo explorers alike.

This sunset cruise from Argostoli stands out for its combination of breathtaking scenery, authentic Greek hospitality, and relaxed fun. You’ll enjoy the calm waters, the vibrant marine life, and a spectacular sunset that’s hard to beat. The opportunity to swim at night in Xi Beach under the stars adds a magical touch that many find truly special.

If you’re after a laid-back, scenic experience with great food, friendly guides, and memorable moments, this cruise offers excellent value for money. It’s perfect for those who want to see a different side of Kefalonia without the hassle of complicated tours or long schedules. Whether you’re a couple, a family, or traveling solo, it’s a solid choice for a genuine, enjoyable evening.

Is the cruise suitable for children?
Yes, the cruise is family-friendly, and children can enjoy swimming, the boat ride, and the relaxed atmosphere. Just keep in mind the boat’s safety equipment and that children will need adult supervision.

What’s included in the price?
The ticket covers the boat cruise, snorkeling gear, floats, lilo, a traditional Greek buffet, and unlimited water. Cocktails and drinks are also included in the onboard bar.

Are there any vegetarian or special diet options?
Most reviews highlight the authentic Greek buffet with a variety of salads and fruits. If you have dietary restrictions, it’s best to notify the crew in advance so they can accommodate your needs.

How long is each stop?
Vardiani Island snorkeling stop lasts about 45 minutes, while Xi Beach allows for a 40-minute swim. The sunset viewing is approximately 20 minutes.

What about the boat size and capacity?
The boat is described as a comfortable size—not too large, fostering a friendly environment. It can comfortably host the group without feeling crowded.

Do I need to bring my own snorkeling gear?
No, snorkeling gear and floats are provided on board, and you’re encouraged to use them during the stops.

Is the experience suitable for solo travelers?
Absolutely. The friendly atmosphere and shared activities make it easy to meet people and enjoy the trip alone.

What should I wear?
Swimwear, a towel, and comfortable clothing for the boat ride. An extra layer or jacket is recommended for the evening.

How do I find the meeting point?
Look for Dreamy Cruises Kefalonia across from Eurobank at Argostoli Harbor, next to the ILoveKefalonia sign.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, providing flexibility for unforeseen changes.

This sunset cruise from Argostoli offers a seamless blend of natural beauty, cultural flavor, and relaxed fun—an experience that’s well worth the modest price for memories that last.