From Corfu: Day Cruise to Paxos, Antipaxos, and Blue Caves

A full-day cruise from Corfu to the Paxos and Antipaxos islands offers an engaging mix of stunning scenery, charming villages, and exciting activities, all for around $61 per person. This tour, operated by Ionian Cruises, lasts between 7 and 12 hours, depending on the chosen schedule, making it flexible for different travel plans.

You’ll explore notable stops like the Blue Caves, famed for their vibrant waters and natural beauty, along with Antipaxos, where crystal-clear waters invite swimming and snorkeling. The tour also includes a visit to Gaios, a picturesque village where you can walk, shop, and enjoy a seaside lunch. With multilingual guides and free time at key locations, the experience balances sightseeing with relaxation, though it’s worth noting that food and drinks are not included — they can be purchased on board.

While reviews highlight friendly guides, breathtaking scenery, and lively onboard entertainment, the trip can be quite long, especially for those sensitive to sea conditions. Still, for adventurers eager to see some of Greece’s most beautiful islands, this cruise offers a compelling and well-organized way to enjoy the Ionian Sea.

Key Points

• Full-day cruise from Corfu with stops at Paxos, Antipaxos, and the Blue Caves
• Price of $61 per person provides access to swimming, sightseeing, and local exploration
• Multiple stops including Gaios village and Antipaxos beaches
• Scenic visits inside Blue Caves with photo opportunities
• Guides speak English, French, German, Italian, and Russian; audio guides available in several languages
• Duration varies from 7 to 12 hours, with free time at key locations

You can check availability for your dates here:

Corfu Departure and Meeting Details

The tour begins at Corfu port with embarkation starting around 7:40am and departure at 08:25am. The exact pickup point may differ based on the package booked, with hotel pickup available from various locations in Corfu. After boarding, the boat immediately heads west along Corfu’s coast, providing beautiful views of the old town before sailing into the Ionian Sea.

Group sizes tend to be well-organized, and parking options are available at the port. Travelers should arrive at least 5 minutes early for pickup or boarding. The tour concludes back at the initial meeting point, with drop-off locations covering a broad area across Corfu and nearby regions.

Exploring Paxos’s Famous Blue Caves

The Blue Caves are a highlight of this cruise, offering stunning natural rock formations with deep blue waters that are ideal for photos. The boat enters these caves, giving passengers scenic views and the chance to take pictures within this unique setting. The caves are also known as a natural habitat for the Mediterranean monk seal, adding a touch of wildlife interest.

Visitors appreciate that the boat stops inside the caves for photos, offering a memorable experience of Greece’s scenic coastline. The caves’ vivid colors are often praised as more beautiful than pictures can capture, especially on days with good weather.

Swimming in Antipaxos’s Crystal Waters

Antipaxos island becomes a favorite stop for its white sand beaches and turquoise waters, perfect for swimming and snorkeling. The tour includes about 50 to 70 minutes of free time for swimming at Mesovrika Beach or Voutoumi Beach, depending on weather conditions.

Guests often mention that the water clarity is exceptional, making it a prime spot for relaxing in the sea. The calm, shallow waters are suitable for all ages, and the scenery provides fantastic photo opportunities. Remember to bring swimwear, towels, and sun protection for this segment.

Gaios Village: A Greek Seaside Town

The cruise offers about 120 minutes of free time in Gaios, a small but picturesque village on Paxos. The town charms visitors with its whitewashed buildings, narrow streets, and vibrant harbor. It’s an ideal place to walk around, shop for local crafts, or sit at a seaside restaurant for lunch with a view.

Guests enjoy the relaxed pace here, often taking advantage of the opportunity to explore shops, buy souvenirs, or simply sit and watch the boats. The scenic setting makes Gaios a worthwhile stop, especially for those wanting to experience local Greek island life.

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Onboard Entertainment and Local Flavors

The tour features live Greek dancing, music, and a DJ, especially during the return journey, which many reviews highlight as a lively and fun surprise. The onboard atmosphere is casual, with good music and friendly crew members ensuring everyone has a good time.

While food and drinks are not included in the price, there is a well-stocked bar and affordable on-board snacks and beverages available for purchase. Some reviews mention enjoying frozen mango dacquiris and Freddo espressos that complement the day’s adventures.

The Guides and Crew: Multilingual Support and Expertise

Guides lead the tour and provide commentary in English, French, German, Italian, and Russian. Specific guides have been praised for their friendly attitude, knowledge, and ability to explain the itinerary clearly. On certain days, guides speak multiple languages, making the trip accessible to a diverse group of travelers.

The captain is described as experienced and skillful, ensuring a smooth ride through the sometimes wavy waters. Crew members are noted for being helpful, especially when handling details like salvaging lost glasses.

Practical Tips for Enjoying the Tour

Given the long duration of the cruise, travelers should wear comfortable shoes and bring sunscreen, sun hats, and sunglasses. Swimwear and towels are essential for the swimming stops, and food and drinks can be purchased on board, so packing extra snacks is optional.

Weather conditions can affect the experience; dolphins and calm waters are sometimes seen, but windy days may lead to a bumpier ride. Sea-sick travelers should consider taking medication, especially given the duration of the trip.

Limitations and Considerations

While the cruise is praised for its scenic stops, lively atmosphere, and well-organized itinerary, it is not suitable for travelers with mobility impairments or wheelchair users. The tour involves walking in towns and swimming in open water, which might be challenging for some.

The length of the boat ride, especially on the return journey, may be tiring for some, and sea conditions could impact the experience. Travelers should plan accordingly and bring appropriate clothing, sun protection, and any personal medications.

Why This Tour Stands Out in Corfu

This full-day cruise combines scenic beauty, local culture, and fun onboard activities at an attractive price point. The stunning Blue Caves and crystal-clear waters of Antipaxos receive consistently high praise, and the walk through Gaios offers a taste of Greek island charm.

The multilingual guides and friendly crew enhance the experience, making it accessible and engaging for diverse groups. The addition of Greek dancing and lively music makes the day feel festive and memorable.

However, travelers seeking a quick, relaxing trip may find the length and boat ride a bit challenging. This cruise offers excellent value for money, especially for adventurous visitors eager to combine boat travel with island exploration.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is food included in the tour?
No, food and drinks are not included but are available for purchase on board at reasonable prices.

What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes, swimwear, towels, sunscreen, sun hat, sunglasses, and personal identification.

Are there options for hotel pickup?
Yes, pickup from your hotel or the nearest accessible point is available, with details provided via email 48 hours before departure.

How long is the cruise?
The tour lasts between 7 and 12 hours, depending on the schedule chosen at booking.

Can I swim at the stops?
Yes, swimming is offered at Mesovrika Beach and Voutoumi Beach, with about 50-70 minutes allocated for swimming.

Is the tour suitable for children?
Children must be accompanied by an adult; the tour may be lengthy for very young children or those sensitive to sea travel.

What languages are guides available in?
Guides speak English, French, German, Italian, and Russian, with audio guides in several other languages.

Are there any physical restrictions?
The tour is not suitable for people with mobility impairments or wheelchair users.

How do I find the meeting point?
Meeting points vary based on the booked option, with detailed instructions sent via email 48 hours prior.

What’s the best time to book?
Availability varies, but booking in advance is recommended to secure your preferred schedule and ensure smooth planning.

This Corfu day cruise delivers a memorable trip filled with stunning vistas, charming villages, and lively entertainment. It offers good value, especially for those eager to see Greece’s iconic Blue Caves and enjoy a relaxed yet lively day at sea.

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