Discovering Corfu’s Coast on a Full-Day Boat Trip with BBQ
Taking a boat trip around Corfu’s east coast is a fantastic way to see some of the island’s lesser-visited spots while enjoying a day of sun, swimming, and good food. This particular tour offers roughly six and a half hours of scenic cruising, swimming at caves and bays, and finishing with a delicious BBQ — all set against the backdrop of Corfu’s dramatic coastline.
What makes this experience particularly appealing? First, it provides a hassle-free way to explore parts of the island that are tricky to reach on your own. Second, the chance to relax on Limnopoula Beach or swim near the caves of Agios Andreas means you get a refreshing break from sightseeing. Lastly, the included BBQ lunch on a rocky island promises a genuine taste of local flavors in an idyllic setting.
However, a potential consideration is the size of the group—while most reviews praise the crew and atmosphere, some mention overcrowding on the boat, which could impact comfort if you prefer a more private experience. This tour is best suited for travelers who love a mix of scenic cruising, informal social vibes, and good eats, especially if you’re happy to be part of a lively group.
Key Points
- Scenic coastlines and less crowded spots make for a peaceful day out.
- Convenient online booking saves time at busy ports.
- Included BBQ lunch on Kaparelli offers authentic Greek flavors in a stunning setting.
- Swimming by caves and bays provides great photo opportunities and refreshment.
- Group size can be quite large, so be prepared for a lively, crowded boat.
- Authentic experience with friendly crew and soft drinks included.
Here are more experiences we've reviewed in Corfu
A Detailed Look at the Corfu Boat Trip Experience
The Start: Gouvia as a Launchpad
The tour begins in Gouvia, a popular seaside village close to Corfu Town. Meeting around 9:30 am, travelers are encouraged to arrive early to avoid missing the boat’s departure at 10:15 am. The check-in process is straightforward, especially if you’ve booked online — a real time-saver during busy travel seasons.
The boat departs with a maximum of 180 travelers, so expect a lively group. While some reviews mention overcrowding leading to long waits for food and limited space, others found the crew to be friendly and accommodating, creating a cheerful atmosphere from the start.
Once underway, you’ll cruise along Corfu’s beautiful eastern shoreline, passing by notable spots like Nissaki, Kalami, Kouloura, and Agios Stefanos. The scenery here is truly captivating, with rugged cliffs, lush greenery, and traditional Greek houses lining the coast.
One traveler appreciated how the boat stays close to the shoreline, giving a chance to enjoy the view without the crowds typical of land-based tours. Another noted that the Albanian coast appears on the right side of the boat, adding a bit of international flair to your cruise.
First Stop: Limnopoula Beach
After about two hours of sailing, the boat pulls into Limnopoula, offering a generous window of free time to relax on the beach or take a dip. The beach itself is perfect for unwinding, with clear waters ideal for swimming. Reviewers mention that the beach is less crowded, providing a peaceful retreat.
Some travelers, like Aruna_V, enjoyed this stop as part of a family picnic, emphasizing that the crew’s friendly service and the relaxed vibe made it a memorable moment. The calm, shallow waters at Limnopoula make it suitable for children and less confident swimmers.
Here are more experiences we've reviewed in Corfu
- Full-Day Boat Tour of Paxos Antipaxos Blue Caves From Corfu
- Private and Customizable Half-Day or Full-Day Corfu Tour
- Full Day Cruise on Sailing Yacht in Corfu Island
- Full Day Private Cruise on Speed Boat in Corfu Island
- All Day Cruise – Paxos and Antipaxos Islands With Blue Caves
- Corfu Beaches & Corfu Town: Full Day Private Tour
The Highlight: Kaparelli and the BBQ
The boat then moves on to Kaparelli, a small rocky island serving as the setting for the lunch. The BBQ here isn’t just a meal; it’s an event. Served right on the rocks, the grilled meats, salads, and local flavors are praised for their quality and generous portions. The setting—surrounded by rocky cliffs and the sea—is hard to beat for a casual, authentic lunch.
A review by Przemyslaw_K described it as a “very good BBQ,” and many appreciated that the meal is included in the price, saving time and effort on reservations. The relaxed atmosphere and the scenic backdrop make it a highlight.
Swim by the Caves of Agios Andreas
On the return leg, the boat makes a brief stop at the caves of Agios Andreas. Here, swimmers can enjoy a safe, accessible spot to cool off and explore. Reviewers like Melanie_D found it to be “so fun” and a perfect way to end the day — a refreshing swim in a protected setting.
The caves themselves are a unique feature, and many guests appreciated the opportunity to plunge into clear waters near rocky formations, adding a bit of adventure to the relaxing day.
Return to Gouvia
The trip concludes with the journey back to Gouvia, arriving in the late afternoon. From there, most travelers head back to their accommodations, often commenting on how the day exceeded their expectations for a laid-back yet scenic adventure.
What Travelers Really Think
The reviews reveal a mostly positive consensus, with an average rating of 4.7 out of 5. Many guests praised the crew for being friendly and helpful, while others highlighted the good quality of the BBQ and the gorgeous views.
One guest, TONY_P, described the boat as “clean” and the experience as “parfect,” recommending it wholeheartedly. Conversely, Jenna_V pointed out that the boat can feel crowded and the drinks below quality; this highlights the importance of expectations—if you’re looking for a more private, upscale experience, this might not be the tour for you.
Multiple reviewers mentioned that the trip was a perfect last-day activity—an ideal way to unwind after sightseeing or exploring the island.
Practical Details That Matter
Transportation and Timing
The tour departs promptly at 10:15 am from Gouvia, with a recommendation to arrive by 09:30 am. The trip lasts approximately 6.5 hours, offering enough time to enjoy each stop without feeling rushed.
Group Size and Atmosphere
With a maximum of 180 travelers, expect a lively, social environment. Some reviews recount crowded moments, particularly during the BBQ and swimming stops, so if you prefer quieter experiences, consider this when booking.
Cost and Value
Priced at $74.77 per person, the tour includes soft drinks and a hearty BBQ lunch, which adds significant value. It’s a cost-effective way to see scenic parts of Corfu while enjoying good food and swimming spots—an easy choice for budget-conscious travelers seeking a memorable day.
What’s Not Included
Personal expenses, alcohol, and private transportation are additional. The bar on board only accepts cash, so come prepared with small bills. Alcohol isn’t included, but you’re free to bring your own or buy from the bar.
Who Will Love This Tour?
This boat trip caters well to those who enjoy relaxed cruising, scenic views, and social atmospheres. It’s particularly suited for families, couples, or groups wanting a hassle-free way to explore Corfu’s coastline without the stress of renting boats or planning logistics.
Travelers who appreciate authentic experiences—like a good BBQ in a scenic setting—will find this tour rewarding. However, if you prefer a more exclusive or quiet experience, you might want to consider smaller boat options or private tours.
Final Thoughts
This full-day boat trip in Corfu offers a well-rounded blend of sightseeing, swimming, and authentic dining. The scenic routes along the east coast reveal parts of the island that are difficult to access independently, and the inclusion of a barbecue lunch in such a stunning setting is a definite plus.
The experience wins points for its friendly crew, beautiful stops, and the chance to relax without the fuss of planning. Be prepared for a lively atmosphere and some crowded moments, especially during lunch and swimming, but overall, it delivers excellent value for the cost.
If you’re after a fun, scenic, and tasty day out that captures the essence of Corfu’s coast, this tour fits the bill.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, with shallow waters at Limnopoula Beach and safe swimming near the caves, it’s a family-friendly option, though supervision is advised during swimming stops.
What should I bring on the trip?
Bring sunscreen, a hat, swimwear, a towel, cash for extras, and any personal items you might need for comfort during the day.
How crowded does it get?
The boat can hold up to 180 people, so expect a lively, social atmosphere. Some reviews mention overcrowding, particularly during the BBQ and swimming stops.
Does the tour run rain or shine?
The experience requires good weather; if canceled due to bad weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.
Is the BBQ lunch included in the price?
Yes, a generous BBQ lunch is included, and many guests found it to be delicious and plentiful.
Can I book this tour last-minute?
Availability depends on the season and demand, but booking online in advance is recommended to secure your spot and save time.
This Corfu boat trip offers a practical, authentic, and relaxing way to enjoy the island’s coastline. With scenic views, friendly service, and a tasty BBQ, it’s a day that many travelers cherish and recommend.
More Boat Tours & Cruises in Corfu
More Tour Reviews in Corfu
Still browsing? Here are more Corfu experiences we've covered recently
- Visit Corfu Private Tour – The Best Way to Discover Corfu
- Stories of Food and Culture in the Old Town of Corfu
- Small Group Corfu Walking City Tour
- Small Group Corfu Gastronomy Tour
- Leisurely Tour of Corfu
- Rock Climbing Experience in Corfu for Beginners
- (CFU) Corfu Airport To Sidari Private Transfer
- Winery tour with Wine and Olive tasting in Corfu
- 4-Hour Private Boat Tour in Corfu
- Private Corfu Custom Day Tour
- Paramotor Trike Flight at Corfu
- Magical Meteora from Parga