Full-Day Boat Tour of Paxos Antipaxos Blue Caves from Corfu

A full-day boat tour of Paxos and Antipaxos from Corfu offers a vibrant mix of scenic sailing, spectacular natural formations, and leisure at charming locations. Priced at $65.71 per person, this 10-hour cruise is designed for those eager to discover the Gulf of Corfu’s hidden beauties. With recommendation by 91% of over 1,350 reviews, it clearly appeals to visitors seeking both sightseeing and swimming opportunities. The tour includes pickup options, making the day even more convenient.

While the trip involves a long day on the water, it delivers impressive sights like the Blue Caves, white cliffs of Erimitis, and the picturesque Gaios village. The combination of beautiful landscapes, engaging guides, and lively atmosphere makes this tour a popular choice for travelers wanting an authentic island-hopping experience. However, the long duration may require a good level of comfort and patience, especially given the crowded boat environment noted in some reviews.

Key Points

• Price and Duration: At $65.71 per person for approximately 10 hours, this tour offers good value for a full-day adventure.
• Locations Visited: You’ll explore Paxos and Antipaxos islands, enjoy sea cave visits, and stop at the charming Gaios village.
• Highlights: Swimming at Paradise Beach, cruising through Blue Caves, and exploring Gaios are core parts of the experience.
• Guided Commentary: Multilingual guides ensure informative commentary, with options including live guides in English, German, French, Italian, and Russian.
• Additional Options: Pickup service and onboard bar for snacks and drinks are available.
• Crowd Consideration: The boat can be crowded, and the long trip might be tiring for some travelers.

Departure from Corfu: Starting Your Island-Hopping Journey

The tour departs from Corfu, with the option for pickup to make logistics easier. The journey begins with a sightseeing cruise around Corfu Old Town, offering glimpses of the Old Fortress, Saint George Temple, and the Palace of Mon Repos. Passengers get a chance to admire the coastal cliffs and sail into Paxos’ famous Blue Caves early in the voyage.

This initial sightseeing segment sets the tone for the day, combining city views with seascape panoramas. The boat’s comfortable environment, along with live guiding in multiple languages, ensures everyone is well-informed about the sights passing by.

Navigating the West Coast of Paxos and the Blue Caves

As the boat sails south along Paxos’ rugged coastline, it showcases impressive white cliffs, rock formations, and the white sandy beaches of the island. The highlight of this part of the cruise is entering two of Paxos’ Blue Caves—Caves Ipapanti and Ahai. These caves are known for their striking blue waters and natural formations, making for memorable photo opportunities.

Travelers should be prepared for some standing or sitting in a busy environment since the boat can host up to 240 people, and the seating arrangement may be tight. The guides provide context about the caves and cliffs, adding depth to the visual experience.

Swimming and Snorkeling at Paradise Beach in Antipaxos

One of the most praised features of this tour is the hour spent at Mesovrika Beach in Antipaxos. This spot is renowned for its turquoise waters and exotic scenery, making it ideal for swimming and snorkeling. The admission is free, and visitors enjoy clear waters that many describe as magical.

The beach stop is considered the best part of the trip by many, providing a refreshing break from the boat ride. It’s an opportunity to relax on white sands and take in the stunning sea vistas. Keep in mind that the sea can be crowded during peak times, which some found a slight drawback.

Exploring Gaios at Your Own Pace

Following the swim, the boat anchors in Gaios, a picturesque seaside village. Passengers are given about two hours to explore this charming location, with ample time for shopping, lunch, and strolling among cobbled streets and seaside cafes.

Many reviews highlight Gaios’ beauty and authentic vibe, making it a perfect spot for a leisurely lunch with sea views. The guide leads travelers into the village, but guests are generally free to wander independently, soaking up the laid-back Greek island atmosphere.

The Adventure of Visiting the Blue Caves

Entering the Blue Caves of Paxos is often described as a magical experience. The crystal-clear waters and natural rock formations create an almost surreal environment. The guide explains the geology and history behind the caves, which adds an educational element to the visual spectacle.

Many travelers mention the opportunity to get inside the caves and take photos of the fantastical shapes. The water’s vibrant blue color is a highlight, making this part of the trip particularly memorable.

Optional Water Activities and Swimming in Antipaxos

The swimming stop at Paradise Beach in Antipaxos is frequently praised for its beautiful waters. Visitors love to jump from the top of the boat or float in the calm, inviting sea. The adventure of swimming in such pristine waters is often described as the best part of the day.

Since the admission is free, it’s a highlight for those looking to cool off, with many reviews emphasizing the exotic scenery and crystal clarity of the water.

Gaios Village: Shopping and Dining Experience

Once in Gaios, guests have two hours to enjoy the local shops, cafes, and seafood restaurants. The village is well-known for its picturesque harbor, narrow streets, and seaside tavernas.

Many reviews recommend sampling the local cuisine and taking time for shopping for souvenirs. It’s a relaxed stop that balances sightseeing with leisure.

The Atmosphere and Entertainment on Board

Throughout the day, the crew and guides are praised for being knowledgeable and friendly. Notably, the DJ onboard gets many guests dancing and singing during the return journey, creating a lively and fun atmosphere.

Some travelers mention Greek traditional dancing, which adds a cultural touch to the cruise. The music and dance turn the trip into a festive celebration, making the overall experience highly enjoyable.

Practicalities and Tips

The long trip can be tiring, especially considering crowded conditions and the hot sun during summer months. It’s advisable to bring a jacket or layers for the return journey if the weather is cool or windy. The boat’s environment means that seating is limited, so arriving early is recommended for better comfort.

The onboard bar offers snacks and drinks, but food and drinks are not included in the price. The guided commentary is available in multiple languages, including English, German, French, Italian, and Russian, ensuring diverse groups are well-informed.

Cost and Booking Notice

At $65.71 per person, the tour is regarded as good value given the extensive itinerary and the scenic highlights. The tour is usually booked about 3 weeks in advance, reflecting its popularity.

Cancellation is free up to 24 hours before the scheduled start, providing flexibility for travelers uncertain about weather or schedules.

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Paxos and Antipaxos: A Day of Natural Beauty and Leisure

This full-day boat tour from Corfu offers an immersive experience of the Ionian Sea’s stunning landscapes. The Blue Caves, Gaios village, and Antipaxos beaches deliver a visual feast that satisfies both nature lovers and leisure seekers.

While some may find the long travel times and crowded environment challenging, the quality of the locations visited and the friendly guides often outweigh these considerations. The lively onboard atmosphere with music and dancing helps to keep spirits high, turning the trip into a lively Greek celebration.

This tour suits those who appreciate scenic sailing, photo opportunities, and relaxed exploration of small island villages. It’s a cost-effective and well-organized option to discover the beauties of Paxos and Antipaxos all in one day.

Frequently Asked Questions

How early should I book this tour?
Most travelers book about 21 days in advance, as the tour is quite popular and fills quickly.

Is the trip suitable for children or elderly travelers?
The tour is accessible to most, but the long duration and crowded boat environment might be tiring for very young children or older adults.

Are meals included?
No, snacks and drinks are available for purchase onboard, but no meals are included in the price.

What should I bring for the day?
Bring sun protection, a jacket or layers for the boat’s return, and swimwear for swimming at Antipaxos.

Can I explore Gaios independently?
Yes, you have about two hours to wander Gaios freely, enjoy local shops and seafood restaurants.

What is the main highlight of the tour?
The Blue Caves and swimming at Paradise Beach are often praised as the most breathtaking moments.

Is the tour suitable for solo travelers?
Absolutely, the lively atmosphere and communal boat environment make it friendly for solo travelers.

How flexible is the cancellation policy?
You can cancel free of charge up to 24 hours before the trip for a full refund.