Sami: Ithaca Island Boat Cruise with Swim Stops and Snacks

Discover the Ithaca Island Boat Cruise with Swim Stops and Snacks

The Sami: Ithaca Island Boat Cruise offers a relaxing day exploring Ithaca in Western Greece. Priced at $85 per person and lasting 7 hours, this cruise promises an engaging mix of swimming, sightseeing, and local flavor, making it ideal for those seeking a balanced day on the water. The tour departs from Zaharatos Cruises in Sami and includes multiple swim stops at stunning beaches, visits to Vathy village, and a photo stop at the islet of Lazaretto.

What makes this tour stand out is the focus on crystal-clear waters and secluded beaches, along with the opportunity to explore the charming Vathy and see the Lazaretto chapel. The boat is a classic motor vessel, and onboard, visitors are treated to seasonal fruit, light snacks, and drinks. While the tour offers a full day of activity, it does not include hotel transfers, so travelers should plan to arrange their transportation to the meeting point.

This cruise is perfect for those who want a comfortable, well-organized day of swimming and sightseeing without the hassle of planning multiple activities themselves. If you love being on the water, exploring quiet beaches, and enjoying authentic Greek snacks, this experience is a practical choice. However, travelers should be prepared for an active day with several swimming and sightseeing stops, and understand that the tour’s pace is lively, with many short cruise segments.

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Key Points

• 7-hour boat tour sailing around Ithaca with multiple swim stops
• Price of $85 per person, including snacks, fruits, and drinks
• Stops at Pera Pigadi, Filiatro, Gidaki Beach, and Lazaretto for swimming and photos
• Explore Vathy village for shopping, sightseeing, and local charm
• Visit secluded beaches with transparent waters and gentle turquoise hues
• No hotel transfer included; meet at Zaharatos Cruises in Sami

Starting Point at Sami Port with Clear Check-in Details

The tour begins at Zaharatos Cruises in Sami Port, where guests check in before setting sail. This central location makes it easy for travelers staying nearby to join the cruise without additional transportation. The departure times vary, so it’s recommended to check availability in advance. The cruise ends back at the same meeting point, ensuring a straightforward start and finish.

You should arrive prepared for a full day on the water and bring essentials like sunscreen, a hat, and swimwear. The tour’s English-speaking host ensures smooth communication and guides you through each stop with clear explanations. Since the experience lasts 7 hours, it balances active swimming with scenic cruising, making it suitable for most age groups comfortable with moderate activity.

Exploring the Secluded Beaches of Ithaca: Pera Pigadi, Filiatro & Gidaki

One of the major highlights is stopping at several beaches renowned for their pristine waters. Pera Pigadi provides a peaceful setting for a 30-minute sightseeing cruise, giving travelers a glimpse of the island’s natural beauty. Longer swimming sessions at Filiatro Beach and Gidaki Beach—each lasting about an hour—allow ample time for swimming, snorkeling, or simply relaxing on the pebble shores.

Filiatro is especially popular for its gentle waters and spacious shoreline, perfect for a leisurely dip or taking in the scenery. Gidaki Beach offers similarly clear waters and a quiet environment, ideal for snorkelers and those seeking a peaceful escape. The boat’s flexible stops let guests enjoy unmatched views and refreshing swims in the Ionian Sea, with plenty of time to soak up the sun.

The Charm of Vathy Village and Lazaretto Island

A highlight of the cruise is the visit to Vathy, the lively capital of Ithaca. This town features beautiful houses with tiled roofs, imposing mansions, and picturesque stone-paved alleys. During the 1.5-hour stay, visitors can explore local shops, enjoy some free time, and capture photos of the charming setting.

A short cruise leads to the Lazaretto islet, a small pine-covered island with a single chapel of Transfiguration of the Savior. This photo stop of about 20 minutes offers a chance to admire the scenic bay and learn about the island’s quiet history. The Lazaretto provides a tranquil backdrop for photos and a peaceful moment amid the tour’s busier stops.

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The Itinerary: Well-Structured Stops for Swimming and Sightseeing

The day’s itinerary includes multiple sightseeing cruises and short stops designed to maximize both scenic views and water activities. The cruise begins with an initial 30-minute sightseeing segment, followed by a 1-hour swim at Pera Pigadi. After a brief cruise, travelers enjoy 15 minutes of sightseeing, then head to Filiatro Beach for a 1-hour swim.

Additional stops include a 10-minute sightseeing cruise before visiting Vathy for 1.5 hours of free time. The boat then makes a 20-minute stop at Lazaretto for photos and sightseeing, followed by a 10-minute cruise to Gidaki Beach, where another hour of swimming takes place. The day concludes with a 40-minute cruise back to Sami, wrapping up the memorable journey.

This itinerary balances short cruise segments with ample swimming time, ensuring guests experience diverse scenery and water activities without feeling rushed.

The Value of Snacks and Beverages on Board

Throughout the day, the boat provides traditional Greek snacks and fresh seasonal fruits, complemented by drinks such as juice and water. These refreshments help keep guests energized during the busy schedule of swimming and sightseeing. The inclusion of snacks and fruits adds a thoughtful touch, making the experience comfortable and enjoyable without extra costs.

Guests should note that personal expenses, such as souvenirs or additional drinks, are not included. Still, the provided refreshments are sufficient to sustain most travelers through the full day on the water.

Practicalities: Meeting Point, Duration, and Language

The meeting point is at Zaharatos Cruises in Sami Port, a convenient location for travelers in the area. The 7-hour tour is paced to include multiple stops, so comfortable clothing, sun protection, and swim gear are recommended. The English-speaking host ensures clear communication, and the tour can be canceled up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

This activity suits people comfortable with active water days and those interested in a mix of beach time and sightseeing. Since no hotel transfers are included, travelers should plan their transportation to Sami Port accordingly.

Who Would Enjoy This Cruise Most?

This tour appeals to those who love being on the water and want to explore Ithaca’s beaches and villages without the hassle of organizing individual activities. It suits families, couples, or groups of friends looking for a relaxed day with swimming, sightseeing, and local snacks. Those seeking quiet beaches with transparent waters and charming villages will find this cruise especially appealing.

Final thoughts

The Sami: Ithaca Island Boat Cruise provides a well-organized, scenic, and enjoyable experience at a reasonable $85 price point. Its focus on crystal-clear swimming spots, charming village visits, and delicious snacks makes it a practical choice for travelers eager to enjoy the best of Ithaca’s coastline in one day. While it demands a full day of activity, the variety of stops and the friendly onboard service aim to make it a memorable outing for most visitors.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is included in the tour price?
The tour price of $85 covers the boat cruise, traditional snacks, fresh seasonal fruits, and drinks such as juice and water.

Are hotel transfers included?
No, the tour does not include hotel pickup or drop-off; guests are expected to meet at Zaharatos Cruises in Sami Port.

How long is the entire cruise?
The entire experience lasts approximately 7 hours, with a detailed itinerary of stops and swimming sessions.

What stops are part of the itinerary?
Stops include Pera Pigadi, Filiatro Beach, Gidaki Beach, Vathy village, and the Lazaretto islet.

Is there a recommended age limit or physical requirement?
While specific requirements are not detailed, the active nature of swimming and sightseeing suggests that guests should be comfortable with moderate activity.

Can I cancel this tour?
Yes, the tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

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