From Poros:Ithaca Cruise From Kefalonia to Gidaki Beach and Vathy

Embarking on the Ithaca Cruise from Poros, Kefalonia, promises a delightful day of exploration and relaxation. Departing at 9 AM, this 5-hour boat journey accommodates up to 45 travelers, who’ll spend 3 hours discovering the stunning Gidaki Beach before visiting the charming village of Vathy. With an English-speaking host on board, this experience offers a memorable culture, though food and drinks aren’t included. Now, let’s dive deeper into what this cruise has to offer.

Key Points

• The Ithaca Cruise departs from Poros, Kefalonia at 9 AM and lasts 5 hours, with 3 hours spent on land.
• The cruise accommodates up to 45 travelers and includes an English-speaking host, but food and personal expenses are not covered.
• Participants must have a moderate level of physical fitness to navigate uneven terrain, climb in/out of the boat, and stand for extended periods.
• The cruise visits Gidaki Beach, known for its pristine sandy shores and clear turquoise waters, where visitors can swim, sunbathe, or stroll.
• The tour also includes a stop in Vathy, a picturesque harbor town with traditional Ionian architecture and the Archaeological Museum.

Overview of the Ithaca Cruise

The Ithaca Cruise from Poros, Kefalonia offers a unique opportunity to explore the picturesque island of Ithaca.

The Ithaca Cruise from Poros, Kefalonia offers a unique opportunity to explore the picturesque island of Ithaca.

Departing at 9 AM, the 5-hour boat ride takes travelers from Poros to Gidaki Beach and Vathy, where they’ll spend 3 hours on land.

Priced at $80.02 per person, the cruise accommodates up to 45 travelers with an English-speaking host.

While food, drinks, and personal expenses aren’t included, the boat tickets and host services are.

Travelers should have moderate fitness and avoid this cruise if they’ve heart problems or serious medical conditions.

Reviews mention mixed experiences, with some concerns about the lack of a dedicated beach stop.

Meeting and Pickup Details

When joining the Ithaca Cruise from Poros, Kefalonia, travelers should head to the Valsamis Cruises departure point at the Poros port.

The cruise departs promptly at 9:00 AM, so it’s recommended to arrive by 8:30 AM. The tour returns to the same meeting point at the end of the 5-hour boat trip.

• Arrive at the Poros port by 8:30 AM for on-time departure at 9:00 AM

• Depart and return to the Valsamis Cruises meeting point in Poros

• Cruise duration is 5 hours on the boat, plus 3 hours on land

• Maximum of 45 travelers per tour

What’s Included and What’s Not

Although the Ithaca Cruise from Poros, Kefalonia includes boat tickets and an English-speaking host, personal expenses, food, and drinks aren’t covered.

The cruise lasts 5 hours on the boat and 3 hours on land, with a maximum of 45 travelers.

This Ithaca Cruise from Poros, Kefalonia lasts 5 hours on the boat and 3 hours on land, with a maximum of 45 travelers.

Cancellation is free up to 24 hours before the experience. The tour isn’t wheelchair accessible but is near public transportation.

Infants must sit on laps, and a moderate level of physical fitness is required. This cruise may not be suitable for those with heart problems or serious medical conditions.

Physical Fitness and Accessibility Requirements

A moderate level of physical fitness is required for this Ithaca Cruise from Kefalonia.

The tour involves:

• Walking on uneven terrain at Gidaki Beach and Vathy

• Climbing in and out of the boat at the departure and return points

• Standing for extended periods on the boat during the 5-hour cruise

• Navigating narrow pathways and stairs on the boat

While the tour isn’t recommended for individuals with heart problems or serious medical conditions, it’s accessible to most travelers with a moderate level of mobility.

Infants can participate but must sit on laps.

Exploring Gidaki Beach

The Ithaca Cruise from Kefalonia includes a stop at Gidaki Beach, where participants can explore this picturesque and secluded stretch of coastline.

With its pristine sandy shores and clear turquoise waters, Gidaki Beach offers a tranquil escape from the bustling port of Poros. Visitors can swim, sunbathe, or stroll along the beach, taking in the stunning views of the surrounding cliffs and lush vegetation.

Gidaki Beach offers a tranquil escape with its pristine sandy shores, clear turquoise waters, and stunning views of cliffs and lush vegetation.

While there’s no designated bar or music on-site, guests can enjoy their own snacks and drinks during the beach break.

The peaceful atmosphere and natural beauty of Gidaki Beach make it a highlight of the Ithaca Cruise experience.

Discovering the Town of Vathy

After exploring the tranquil Gidaki Beach, the Ithaca Cruise takes passengers to the charming town of Vathy, located on the island of Ithaca.

Vathy is known for its picturesque harbor, quaint streets, and rich history.

Visitors can:

• Stroll through the town’s pedestrian-friendly streets, admiring the traditional Ionian architecture

• Visit the Archaeological Museum to learn about Ithaca’s ancient past

• Dine on fresh seafood and local specialties at one of the harbor-side tavernas

• Shop for handmade crafts and souvenirs from local artisans

With its laid-back atmosphere and scenic beauty, Vathy offers a delightful end to the Ithaca Cruise experience.

Customer Feedback and Concerns

Though the Ithaca Cruise from Kefalonia received mostly positive reviews, some customers expressed concerns about certain aspects of the tour.

Several guests were disappointed that the tour didn’t include a stop at the beach, with one reviewer noting the lack of swimming opportunities.

Customers were disappointed that the Ithaca Cruise tour did not include a stop at the beach for swimming opportunities.

Others felt the boat lacked music or a bar, detracting from the overall experience.

Plus, a few customers mentioned communication issues with the tour host.

However, the host responded to these concerns, clarifying the tour details and inclusions.

Preparing for Your Ithaca Cruise Adventure

As you prepare for your Ithaca Cruise adventure, it’s essential to plan ahead and ensure you have everything you need for a comfortable and enjoyable experience.

Consider the following recommendations:

• Pack appropriate clothing and footwear. Wear comfortable, weather-appropriate attire and bring a light jacket or sweater for the boat ride.

• Bring sun protection. Don’t forget your sunhat, sunglasses, and sunscreen to protect yourself from the Mediterranean sun.

• Stay hydrated. Bring a reusable water bottle to stay hydrated throughout the day.

• Pack snacks and small meals. While some refreshments may be available on board, it’s a good idea to bring your own sustenance.

Ask Away

Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks on the Cruise?

You can bring your own food and drinks on the cruise. The tour inclusions do not mention any provided food or beverages, so you’re free to bring your own to enjoy during the 5-hour boat ride.

Is There a Limit on the Amount of Luggage I Can Bring?

There’s no specified limit on the amount of luggage passengers can bring on the cruise. However, it’s recommended to pack lightly as there may not be much storage space on the boat. Travelers should bring only what they need for the 5-hour excursion.

Are There Any Age Restrictions for Children on the Cruise?

There are no age restrictions for children on the cruise. Infants must sit on laps, but the tour is open to all ages. The maximum capacity is 45 travelers.

Can I Extend My Time at Gidaki Beach or Vathy?

The tour doesn’t offer the option to extend time at Gidaki Beach or Vathy. The 3-hour stop at each location is fixed. Travelers can’t stay longer unless they make their own arrangements separately from the cruise.

Is There an Option to Book a Private Tour Instead of a Group Tour?

Yes, there’s an option to book a private tour instead of the group tour. Travelers can contact the tour operator directly to inquire about customized private tours with more flexibility on the itinerary and time spent at each location.

Final Words

The Ithaca Cruise offers a delightful 5-hour boat journey, allowing travelers to explore the stunning Gidaki Beach and the charming village of Vathy. With an English-speaking host on board, this experience promises a memorable day of relaxation and cultural discovery, though food and drinks are not included. Whether you’re seeking a peaceful escape or a glimpse into Ionian history, this cruise is sure to leave a lasting impression.