Explore Ionian Sea with its 50 shades of blue on Makedonia Palace

The Explore the Ionian Sea with its 50 shades of blue on Makedonia Palace is a full-day cruise that offers an engaging mix of scenic views, famous beaches, and iconic locations around Lefkada, Greece. Priced at just $57.64 per person, this 8 to 9-hour tour departs from the Makedonia Palace at 9:15 am, making it a convenient choice for travelers seeking a comprehensive day on the water. The tour features stops at renowned beaches like Porto Katsiki and Egremni Beach, as well as visits to Fiscardo Harbor, Ithaca, and the Skorpios island owned by Ribilov. It includes lunch but excludes drinks, and the mobile ticket system ensures ease of access.

While the tour is praised for its beautiful scenery and variety of stops, it is important to consider some drawbacks noted in reviews, such as crowding and short stop durations. This tour is best suited for those eager to explore multiple locations in one day and who are comfortable with larger groups and busy spots.

Key Points

• Full-day cruise around Lefkada, Greece, with 8 to 9 hours of activities
• Stops at Porto Katsiki, Egremni Beach, Fiscardo Harbor, Ithaca, and Skorpios Island
• Includes lunch with barbecued souvlakia, Greek salad, tzatziki, and bread
• Price of $57.64 per person, with free admission at all stops
• Departure from Makedonia Palace at 9:15 am with a mobile ticket
• Notable for stunning views of the Ionian Sea and secluded beaches

Departing from Makedonia Palace in Lefkada

This cruise begins at the Makedonia Palace in Lefkada at 9:15 am. The meeting point is easily accessible, near public transportation, making it simple for most travelers to join. The tour concludes back at the same starting point, ensuring a straightforward day.

The group size is capped at 500 travelers, but reviews suggest that the boat can feel crowded, especially on the top deck. Arriving early is recommended to secure a comfortable spot, as some guests find the space limited and the deck crowded.

Scenic Stops: Porto Katsiki and Egremni Beach

The tour’s first stop at Porto Katsiki lasts about 20 minutes, offering enough time for quick photos at this iconic beach. Known for its stunning cliffs and clear waters, it’s a highlight for many visitors, though the brief duration might leave some wanting more time to soak in the scenery.

Following this, the boat pauses at Egremni Beach for approximately an hour. This famous beach allows guests to sunbathe or swim, with direct access from the boat. The admission is free, and the beach’s beautiful setting is often praised despite the short stop.

Exploring Fiscardo Harbor on Kefalonia

A highlight of the cruise is the visit to Fiscardo Harbor on Kefalonia, which gets about 1 hour of free time. Fiscardo is known for its charming harbor, colorful houses, and lively atmosphere. Guests have the chance to walk around, explore local shops, or simply enjoy the scenic views from the waterfront.

This stop is often appreciated for providing a break from the boat, giving an authentic taste of Kefalonia’s seaside charm. Since the stop is an hour and 15 minutes total, there’s ample time to explore without feeling rushed.

Swimming at Ithaca’s Afales Beach

The tour also visits Ithaca, with Afales Beach standing out for its turquoise waters. Guests enjoy 45 minutes here for swimming or sunbathing in a tranquil setting. The beautiful waters and peaceful atmosphere make this a relaxing part of the day.

All stops are free of admission charges, and the beach’s scenic beauty is a key attraction for guests seeking a quiet moment amidst the tour.

Visiting Papanikolis Cave: A WWII Landmark

A brief 15-minute stop at Papanikolis Cave offers guests a photo opportunity and historical insight. This cave is famous for its role during the Second World War when a submarine with Captain Papanicolis used it as a hiding spot. The stop is brief but provides a glimpse of history and spectacular photo moments.

Guests appreciate the informative aspect of this stop, which adds a historical dimension to the scenic voyage.

Skorpios Island: From Onasis to Ribilov

The 30-minute visit to Skorpios, the island once owned by Onasis, now owned by Ribilov, offers a chance to tour the island and learn about its past and present ownership. The tour includes information about the island’s history and allows guests to swim at Jackie Kennedy Beach, provided the owner Ribilov isn’t present.

Guests comment on the unspoiled beauty of Skorpios and enjoy the swimming opportunity at the famous beach, although accessibility depends on the owner’s presence.

Lunch on Board: Greek Flavors Included

The lunch included in the tour features two barbecued souvlakia, Greek salad, tzatziki, and bread. It’s a substantial meal suitable for refueling after a morning of stops. However, drinks are not included, and guests should plan accordingly if they wish to have beverages during the day.

The lunch is generally appreciated for offering authentic Greek flavors, making it a tasty complement to the day’s sightseeing.

The Experience on the Boat: Music, Sun, and Crowds

The cruise is described as a luxurious vessel with nice music onboard, providing a lively and fun atmosphere. Guests can jump into the sea, enjoy scenic views, and relax on the deck.

However, some reviews mention that the boat can be quite crowded, with little shade on the upper deck, especially during peak times. Smoking is permitted on the boat, which may be uncomfortable for some guests. Arriving early helps secure a better spot, but space remains limited during busy days.

Practical Tips and Considerations

Booking the tour around 32 days in advance helps secure a spot, as the tour tends to fill up. The free cancellation policy allows cancellations up to 24 hours before departure for a full refund, providing peace of mind.

Guests should consider bringing sunscreen and water, especially since drinks are not included. The short stop durations mean that visitors should plan accordingly if they want to maximize their time at each location.

Overall Impression and Suitability

This cruise offers a comprehensive day on the water, with visits to famous beaches, historic caves, and luxurious islands. The stunning views and diverse stops make it ideal for scenic lovers and those interested in exploring multiple destinations in a single day.

While the crowding and short stops are points to consider, the lunch included, easy logistics, and beautiful scenery make this tour a popular choice for travelers eager to experience the best of Lefkada and the Ionian Sea.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is lunch included in the tour?
Yes, lunch with barbecued souvlakia, Greek salad, tzatziki, and bread is included. Drinks are not included.

What are the main stops on this cruise?
The tour includes Porto Katsiki, Egremni Beach, Fiscardo Harbor, Ithaca (Afales Beach), Papanikolis Cave, and Skorpios Island.

How long is the cruise?
The total duration is approximately 8 to 9 hours, starting at 9:15 am and returning to the starting point.

Is there a limit on the number of travelers?
Yes, the tour has a maximum of 500 travelers, but some reviews note that the boat can feel crowded, especially on the top deck.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, full cancellation is available up to 24 hours before departure for a full refund.

This Ionian Sea cruise from Lefkada offers a lively, scenic, and historically interesting day on the water, perfect for those seeking to see multiple iconic spots with the convenience of a single tour.