From Nydri: Boat to Kefalonia and Ithaki With Swim Stops

Set out on a captivating full-day boat cruise from Nydri to the stunning islands of Kefalonia and Ithaki. You’ll enjoy picturesque swim stops at Porto Katsiki and Egremni beaches, explore the charming fishing village of Fiskardo, and discover the historic Papanikolis cave. With a journey lasting around 9 hours, this adventure includes boat tickets, swim stops, and hotel transfers. What will you discover on this island-hopping excursion?

Key Points

• Full-day boat cruise from Nidri to Kefalonia and Ithaki, lasting approximately 9 hours.
• Highlights include swimming at Porto Katsiki and Egremni beaches, exploring Fiskardo, and visiting Papanikolis cave.
• Includes boat tickets, swim stops, free time in Fiskardo, and hotel transfers.
• Meeting point is at St. Maura Travel office next to Cafe Presto for ticket collection.
• Overall rating of 3.7 out of 5 based on 72 reviews, with common feedback on crowded conditions and limited time at stops.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Overview of the Cruise

The full-day boat cruise from Nidri takes passengers on a journey to the picturesque islands of Lefkada, Kefalonia, and Ithaki, lasting approximately 9 hours.

Priced from €52.00 per person, the cruise offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance and a reserve now & pay later option.

Highlights include swimming at Porto Katsiki and Egremni beaches, exploring the fishing village of Fiskardo on Kefalonia, and visiting Papanikolis cave, a WWII submarine hideout, on Ithaki.

The cruise includes boat tickets, swim stops, free time in Fiskardo, and hotel transfers, but excludes food, drinks, and gratuities.

Highlights of the Itinerary

As the cruise departs from Nidri, it sails past picturesque hillside villages like Vasiliki before reaching the first highlight – the stunning beaches of Porto Katsiki and Egremni in Lefkada, where passengers can enjoy a refreshing swim.

The journey then continues to the fishing village of Fiskardo on Kefalonia, known for surviving the 1953 earthquake. Passengers have free time to explore the charming town.

The fishing village of Fiskardo on Kefalonia, known for surviving the 1953 earthquake, offers passengers free time to explore its charming streets.

The final highlight is the island of Ithaki, where they can visit the Papanikolis cave, a former WWII submarine hideout.

On the return, they’ll catch glimpses of the private islands of Scorpios and Madouri.

Key highlights of the itinerary include:

• Swimming at Porto Katsiki and Egremni beaches in Lefkada

• Visiting the fishing village of Fiskardo on Kefalonia

• Exploring the Papanikolis cave on Ithaki

• Seeing the private islands of Scorpios and Madouri

Inclusions and Exclusions

The cruise includes the boat ticket, swim stops in Lefkada and Ithaki, free time in Fiskardo, as well as all applicable fees and taxes. Hotel transfers are also provided.

However, food, drinks, and gratuities/tips aren’t included in the price. The tour isn’t suitable for wheelchair users.

Passengers should bring sun hats, swimwear, towels, snacks, sunscreen, and water to make the most of the day.

While the overall itinerary and route receive positive feedback, some reviews note crowded conditions and limited time at the stops, so guests should manage their expectations accordingly.

Meeting Point and What to Bring

Passengers meet at the St. Maura Travel office on the main street next to Cafe Presto to collect their boat tickets.

The meeting point is conveniently located, allowing guests to easily find their departure point.

Once aboard, passengers should come prepared with the following items:

• Sun hat

• Swimwear

• Towel

• Snacks

• Water

These essentials will ensure a comfortable and enjoyable journey, allowing travelers to make the most of their stops and swim opportunities.

The cruise operates smoothly, with clear instructions provided to ensure a seamless experience.

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Customer Reviews and Ratings

Customers have provided a range of feedback on the boat cruise, with an overall rating of 3.7 out of 5 based on 72 reviews.

The guide rating is 3 out of 5, while the transportation and value for money received 3.6 and 3.7 respectively.

Common feedback includes the crowded conditions and limited time at stops, though reviewers positively remarked on the route and itinerary.

Despite some drawbacks, the cruise seems to offer a scenic and varied experience exploring the islands of Lefkada, Kefalonia, and Ithaki, with the opportunity to swim at picturesque beaches along the way.

Exploring Lefkada: Porto Katsiki and Egremni Beaches

As the boat sails along the picturesque coastline of Lefkada, passengers eagerly anticipate their first swim stop at Porto Katsiki – a stunning beach renowned for its dramatic limestone cliffs and turquoise waters.

After anchoring, guests have the opportunity to:

Explore the iconic beach and its towering white cliffs, swim in the refreshing crystal-clear waters, and relax on the soft golden sand.

• Explore the iconic beach and its towering white cliffs

• Swim in the refreshing crystal-clear waters

• Relax on the soft golden sand

• Hike along the scenic trails for breathtaking views

• Capture stunning photographs of the natural wonder

Next, the cruise continues to Egremni beach, another picturesque Lefkada destination, where passengers can enjoy a second swim in the Ionian Sea.

Discovering Kefalonia: The Fishing Village of Fiskardo

After exploring the stunning beaches of Lefkada, the boat cruise continues its journey to the fishing village of Fiskardo on the island of Kefalonia.

Fiskardo is known for its colorful Venetian-style houses and picturesque harbor, which miraculously survived the devastating 1953 earthquake that destroyed much of the island.

Visitors have ample time to wander the charming streets, browse local shops, and enjoy fresh seafood at the seaside tavernas.

The tranquil atmosphere and unique architecture make Fiskardo a delightful stop on this comprehensive cruise, offering a glimpse into traditional Greek island life.

Uncovering Ithaki: Papanikolis Cave and Scenic Sights

Next, the boat cruise sets sail for the island of Ithaki, the mythical home of Odysseus from Homer’s Odyssey.

On arrival, visitors can explore:

• Papanikolis Cave, a former WWII submarine hideout with an impressive natural rock formation.

• The picturesque harbor town of Vathy, the capital of Ithaki, with its charming seaside cafés.

• The ruins of the ancient city of Ithaki, said to be the palace of Odysseus.

• Stunning coastal vistas along the island’s northeastern shores.

• The private island of Madouri, also known as the "Poet’s Island" for its literary connections.

Since You Asked

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

According to the information provided, passengers can bring their own food and drinks on the cruise. The inclusions specifically state that food and drinks are excluded, indicating that guests are free to bring their own.

Are There Any Age Restrictions for This Boat Tour?

There are no age restrictions for this boat tour. Passengers of all ages are welcome to join, though it’s not suitable for wheelchair users. Children must be accompanied by an adult.

Can I Extend My Stay on Any of the Islands?

Unfortunately, the cruise is a full-day excursion with limited time at each island. Passengers can’t extend their stay on Lefkada, Kefalonia, or Ithaki. The itinerary is set, and the cruise doesn’t offer the option to stay behind on the islands.

Is There an Option to Customize the Itinerary?

The cruise itinerary cannot be customized, but customers can extend their stay on Kefalonia or Ithaki by booking additional accommodations. The cruise itself is a fixed, full-day excursion with limited time at each stop.

Can I Book This Tour in a Language Other Than English?

Yes, the boat tour can be booked in languages besides English. The tour operator offers multilingual options, allowing customers to experience the cruise in their preferred language. This provides a more personalized and accessible experience for non-English speakers.

Final Words

This full-day boat cruise from Nidri provides a captivating opportunity to explore the stunning islands of Kefalonia and Ithaki. Highlights include refreshing swim stops at Porto Katsiki and Egremni beaches, a visit to the charming fishing village of Fiskardo, and discovering the historic Papanikolis cave. Priced at €52.00, this adventure includes boat tickets, swim stops, and hotel transfers, making it an affordable and memorable way to experience the natural beauty of the Ionian Islands.

You can check availability for your dates here: