Planning a day on the water in Greece? This private cruise from Corfu exploring Paxos, Antipaxos, and the Blue Caves promises a blend of natural beauty, charming villages, and memorable swimming spots. It’s a tailored experience perfect for travelers craving authenticity with a touch of luxury.
What makes this tour stand out? First, the flexibility offered by a private boat means you can customize your day. Second, the chance to discover less crowded spots like the Blue Caves and Tripitos Arch, away from typical tourist crowds. Third, the inclusion of local snacks, drinks, and snorkeling gear adds real value, making the day both indulgent and adventurous.
However, for those who prefer a more structured or group-oriented tour, the private aspect may feel a bit pricier. Also, if you’re not comfortable on boats or prone to seasickness, this might require some thoughtful planning.
This experience is best suited for travelers who love personalized excursions, enjoy swimming in crystal-clear waters, and want an authentic taste of the Ionian’s natural charm. Whether celebrating a special occasion or simply seeking a scenic day out, most will find this cruise appealing.
Key Points
- Customizable private experience for a truly personal day on the water
- Includes swimming, snorkeling, and photo stops at iconic sites like Blue Caves and Tripitos Arch
- Charming villages such as Lakka and Gaios offer relaxing breaks and local flavor
- Luxury boats and skilled skippers ensure comfort, safety, and flexible itineraries
- All-inclusive amenities including food, drinks, snorkeling gear, and a self-guided walking map in Lakka
- Ideal for travelers seeking an exclusive, scenic, and well-rounded day in the Ionian
An In-Depth Look at the Itinerary
This private cruise spans approximately 8 hours, taking you around the highlights of Paxos and Antipaxos—both islands famed for their stunning waters and authentic charm. From the start, your journey is flexible, customized by your skipper based on your interests and weather conditions.
Looking for more options in Perdika? We've reviewed plenty of other experiences.
Starting Point and Early Departure
The cruise begins at Benitses Marina, a convenient location for guests staying in central Corfu. The experience kicks off with a speedboat transfer lasting about an hour, giving you your first taste of Ionian views as you leave behind Corfu’s coast. Many reviews mentioned how smooth and comfortable this transfer is, often describing the boat as a sleek Axopar 37 XC with a Bluetooth sound system, so you can start relaxing right away.
Paxos: The Heart of the Day
Once on Paxos, the boat cruises along the west coast, offering spectacular vantage points of cliffs and lush greenery. The first real highlight here is the Blue Caves. Travelers describe swimming and snorkeling in these glowing caves as a must-do, with the waters being described as “amazing, teeming with life, and perfect for selfies.” The caves’ name comes from the intense blue hue of the water, visible both from the boat and underwater, making for unforgettable photos.
Next, your skipper might point out the Tripitos Arch, a natural rock formation that’s a favorite for photos. The stop here lasts about 30 minutes, enough for capturing the stunning natural arch with the sea as a backdrop, and perhaps marveling at how nature carved such an impressive portal.
Lakka Village: Relax and Refresh
After exploring the caves, you’ll head to Lakka, a peaceful village with a charming harbor and narrow alleys. It’s a perfect spot for a coffee break or simply strolling along the waterfront. The tour includes about 45 minutes here, which many reviewers find to be a delightful pause away from the busier tourist spots. A self-guided map is provided so you can explore hidden paths, adding an element of discovery to your visit.
More Great Tours NearbyAntipaxos: Caribbean Waters
The next highlight is Voutoumi Beach on Antipaxos. Many describe the waters here as “like a Caribbean postcard,” crystal-clear and warm enough for long swims or snorkeling. The stop lasts approximately 45 minutes, giving plenty of time to relax on the pebbly beach or plunge into the inviting waters.
Another stop is Vrika Beach, known for its calm, turquoise waters. Travelers often mention how serene this spot feels and how snorkeling here reveals vibrant marine life. The boat’s snorkeling gear is provided, which many guests appreciate as it’s high-quality and easy to use.
Gaios: The Vibrant Capital
The final major stop is Gaios, the main town on Paxos. Here, you get about two hours of free time, enough for a leisurely lunch, exploring boutique shops, or just soaking in the lively harbor atmosphere. Many reviewers note that Gaios is the perfect place to unwind after a day of swimming and sightseeing, with options to dine by the water or browse local markets.
Return Journey
The day wraps up with about an hour back on the speedboat, allowing you to relax and reflect on the stunning scenery and memorable moments. The experience concludes at the original meeting point, with many guests feeling satisfied they’ve experienced the very best of the Ionian in a single day.
Practical Details and What to Expect
The tour is designed to give you both structure and flexibility. The boat, an Axopar 37 XC, is a premium vessel equipped with a Bluetooth sound system, ensuring your playlist accompanies the voyage. The crew—comprising an experienced skipper and hostess—takes care of navigation, safety, and providing local snacks, fresh fruits, soft drinks, and complimentary bubbly wine or beer.
Snorkeling gear is included, so you can explore underwater without lugging your own equipment. Life jackets and emergency assistance are standard, adding peace of mind, especially when swimming in open water.
The tour departs from Benitses Marina, with other departure points available on request. To ensure a smooth experience, travelers are advised to arrive at least 15 minutes before departure, bringing essentials like sunglasses, sun hats, swimsuits, towels, and sun protection.
Cost and Value
While the price reflects the private nature of this experience, many guests find it excellent value considering the exclusivity, the comfort of the boat, and the inclusion of food and drinks. The tour’s ability to be tailored means you can prioritize swimming, sightseeing, or relaxing, making each trip uniquely suited to your preferences.
Who Will Love This Tour?
This cruise is ideal for those looking for a personalized, scenic day out with a touch of luxury. It suits couples celebrating a special occasion, groups of friends, or families wanting a private adventure. If you enjoy swimming and exploring at your own pace, this experience offers both flexibility and access to some of Greece’s most beautiful waters and charming villages.
Likewise, travelers who prefer a curated day with all logistics handled—snacks, drinks, snorkeling gear, and a knowledgeable skipper—will appreciate the convenience and quality.
The Bottom Line
In essence, this private cruise from Corfu to Paxos, Antipaxos, and the Blue Caves is about experiencing Greece’s beauty on your terms. You’ll love the chance to swim in glowing caves, capture stunning photos at Tripitos Arch, and relax in tranquil villages like Lakka and Gaios without the crowds. The boat’s comfort, the personalized service, and the scenic stops combine to create a memorable day.
While it’s on the pricier side, the value lies in the flexibility, exclusivity, and authentic experience you get. It’s especially well-suited for travelers who want to combine adventure, relaxation, and a taste of Greek coastal life in one seamless package.
FAQ
How long is the cruise?
The entire experience lasts about 8 hours, including stops for swimming, sightseeing, and free time in Gaios.
Where does the tour start?
Starts at Benitses Marina, with other departure points available upon request. You’ll receive exact details after booking.
What should I bring?
Bring sun protection like hats and sunglasses, swimwear, towels, and any personal gear you prefer for swimming or relaxing on the boat.
Are drinks and snacks included?
Yes, soft drinks, local snacks, fresh fruits, and complimentary bubbly wine or beer are included. An optional wine tasting experience is available at an additional cost.
Can I customize the itinerary?
Since it’s a private tour, your skipper will tailor the day to your preferences, prioritizing your favorite spots or adjusting timing as needed.
Is snorkeling equipment provided?
Yes, snorkeling gear is included, making it easy to explore underwater at each swimming stop.
What happens if I need to cancel?
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering flexibility if your plans change.
To sum it up, this private cruise offers a thoughtfully curated way to explore Greece’s Ionian islands with comfort and customization. Whether you’re seeking scenic beauty, peaceful villages, or a fun day swimming in turquoise waters, this experience delivers authentic charm on a luxurious vessel.
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