Northeast Corfu Coastal: Swim, Snorkel with lunch & drinks

Explore the Stunning Northeast Corfu Coast with a Guided Boat Tour

The Northeast Corfu Coastal tour offers a full-day adventure that takes you along the picturesque northeastern shoreline of Corfu Island. Starting from Corfu Port, this 6-hour cruise combines scenic views, exciting stops for swimming and snorkeling, and a delicious Greek lunch at Limnopoula. With opportunities to see dolphins, sea turtles, and seals, the tour promises memorable wildlife encounters and breathtaking landscapes.

This guided experience is perfect for those eager to explore Corfu’s iconic sites from the water, enjoy local cuisine, and unwind with onboard refreshments. While snorkeling equipment is not included, the tour’s highlights, including visits to the Blue Cave and the film-famous Kouloura Bay, make it a captivating half-day trip for nature lovers and culture seekers alike.

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Key Points

• Duration: 6 hours, with flexible starting times based on availability
• Starting Point: Corfu Port, across the Cabal club, from the vessel called Atlantis
• Main Highlights: Swim and snorkel at Blue Cave, visit Kouloura Bay (famous from James Bond), and enjoy a Greek lunch at Limnopoula
• Wildlife Spotting: Chances to see dolphins, sea turtles, and seals during the trip
• Included: Coffee, tea, juice, cake, biscuits, lunch, refreshments, and a guiding service in English, Italian, or Greek
• Not Included: Snorkeling gear and hotel transfers
• Additional Perks: onboard Greek music, refreshments bar, and live guide

Starting from Corfu Port to the Northeast Coast of Corfu

The tour begins at Corfu Port, where the wooden vessel called Atlantis awaits across the Cabal club. From here, the boat heads northward along the coastline, offering panoramic views of the Old City of Corfu and the nearby Vidos Island. The route then extends to the east coast, passing through Dassia, Barbati, and Nissaki, setting the scene for an immersive day on the water.

Travelers are treated to sights of Rothschilds and Durrells villas, famous for their literary connections. The boat’s route is designed to showcase the most scenic and culturally interesting parts of this part of the island, making it ideal for those interested in both natural beauty and local history.

Visiting the Blue Cave of Saint Arsenios

A major highlight is the stop at the Blue Cave of Saint Arsenios, where guests have approximately 30 to 45 minutes to swim and take photos of the vibrant, exotic waters. The cave entrance is not visible from the boat, so a crew member leads swimmers inside — an experience that adds an element of adventure. The water here is notably clear, making it perfect for capturing stunning photos.

While the Blue Cave has received mixed reviews about its size, the sea views and the chance to swim in such a unique setting continue to attract visitors. The guide’s explanations enhance the visit, providing context and safety tips for enjoying this natural wonder.

Scenic Passes: Agnie Bay, Kalami, and Kouloura

After the Blue Cave, the tour continues along the coast, passing Agnie Bay, Kalami Bay, and Kouloura Bay. The latter is famous from the James Bond film “For Your Eyes Only,” offering a glimpse into Corfu’s cinematic history. These bays are characterized by their lush surroundings, luxury villas, and inviting waters.

As the boat cruises past these spots, guests enjoy the remarkable landscape and often spot wildlife or luxury residences. The route provides ample opportunities for photos and provides context about the island’s celebrity and literary connections.

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Visiting the Rothschild and Durrell Villas

Further north, the boat passes by two notable villas: the Rothschild family villa and the Durrells villa. The latter is well known from “My Family and Other Animals,” adding a literary charm to the journey. Observing these stately homes from the water gives a sense of the island’s aristocratic and artistic history.

While the tour doesn’t stop at these villas, their visible presence from the boat creates a sense of connection to Corfu’s storied past, enriching the sightseeing experience.

The Bay of Saint Stefanos and Limnopoula Beach

At Saint Stefanos Bay, the closest point between Corfu and Albania—just 1 mile apart—the boat halts at the beautiful Limnopoula Beach for the main stop of 1 hour and 30 minutes. Known as “Little Lake”, this spot offers a perfect setting for swimming, snorkeling, and taking photos.

The beach features a small island called Kapareli, home to Greece’s first official lighthouse on its northwest border. This stop provides a relaxing environment with calm waters and scenic surroundings, ideal for unwinding and enjoying the Greek cuisine and music onboard.

Lunch and Onboard Entertainment at Limnopoula

During the main stop, guests are treated to a Greek-style lunch featuring local dishes and live music. The lunch is served at the Limnopoula spot, giving visitors the chance to savor authentic Greek cuisine in a relaxed atmosphere. The boat also offers onboard refreshments, including cocktails, beers, and snacks, alongside fresh fruit during the return journey.

The onboard guide shares interesting facts in English, Italian, or Greek, ensuring all guests stay informed and engaged. This lively atmosphere, combined with the scenic views, makes for a well-rounded experience.

Wildlife Encounters and Extra Surprises

One of the tour’s appealing aspects is the frequent appearance of wildlife, with chances to see dolphins, sea turtles, and seals. These encounters are unplanned but common, adding an element of excitement and spontaneity to the cruise. Photographers and wildlife enthusiasts find these moments especially rewarding.

Occasionally, the trip features surprises like dolphins swimming nearby or seals playing in the water, making each cruise unique. These natural spectacles elevate the experience beyond mere sightseeing.

Return to Corfu Port with Greek Dancing and Refreshments

After the main stop, the boat begins its return journey southward, with Greek dancing and lively music to entertain guests. The atmosphere onboard is cheerful, with snacks and refreshments available as the scenery slips by.

Most trips conclude back at Corfu Port, typically within an hour of departure from Limnopoula. The full experience balances relaxation, sightseeing, and cultural enjoyment, leaving visitors with lasting memories of Corfu’s stunning coastline and seafaring culture.

Logistics: Meeting Point and Group Size

The tour departs from Corfu Port, specifically across from the Cabal club, where the Atlantis vessel is moored. The vessel’s name and meeting point are clearly marked, making it easy to locate. As a guided tour, the group size tends to be manageable, with onboard guides speaking English, Italian, and Greek.

Since snorkeling equipment is not included, guests interested in snorkeling should bring their own gear. The tour does not include hotel pickup or drop-off, so travelers need to arrange their own transportation to the meeting point.

Value and Booking Flexibility

Priced as a 6-hour guided cruise, this tour offers good value for those wanting an authentic experience of Corfu’s coastline, with included refreshments, lunch, and a professional guide. Guests can reserve and pay later, providing flexibility in planning.

The tour is also cancellable up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, adding peace of mind when booking.

Why This Tour Stands Out

What makes the Northeast Corfu Coastal tour particularly appealing is its combination of scenic stops, wildlife sightings, and cultural highlights like the Villas and film-famous bays. The opportunity to swim in crystal-clear waters, visit the Blue Cave, and enjoy a Greek meal with music ensures a memorable day on the water.

While the Blue Cave may not impress everyone due to its small size, the overall experience, with its friendly crew and lively onboard atmosphere, keeps guests engaged and satisfied throughout the day.

Who Will Appreciate This Tour Most

This trip suits visitors looking for a relaxed yet active day, with plenty of swimming, snorkeling, and scenic sightseeing. It’s ideal for those interested in Corfu’s history and celebrity villas or simply wanting to enjoy the Mediterranean sea in a convivial setting.

It’s less suitable for travelers seeking extensive snorkeling gear or those with limited mobility, given the focus on boat-based exploration and natural stops.

Summing Up the Northeast Corfu Coastal Experience

The 6-hour guided cruise from Corfu Port offers a well-rounded glimpse into the island’s northeastern coast, combining natural beauty, wildlife encounters, and cultural sights. The Blue Cave, Kouloura Bay, and Limnopoula Beach stand out as memorable highlights, complemented by authentic Greek cuisine and lively onboard entertainment.

While the Blue Cave may not fully meet expectations for some, the overall friendly crew, delicious food, and opportunities to see dolphins and sea turtles make this tour a compelling choice for families, couples, and nature lovers.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is snorkeling equipment included in the tour?
No, snorkeling equipment is not included. Guests should bring their own gear if they wish to snorkel.

What is the duration of the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 6 hours, starting and ending at Corfu Port.

Where does the tour begin and end?
It begins across from the Cabal club at Corfu Port on the vessel called Atlantis and returns to the same location.

What is the main stop for swimming and lunch?
The main stop is at Limnopoula Beach, where guests have 1 hour and 30 minutes for swimming, photos, and enjoying Greek cuisine.

Can I see wildlife during the tour?
Yes, there are regular sightings of dolphins, sea turtles, and seals during the cruise.

Is there onboard entertainment?
Yes, there is Greek music and Greek dancing onboard after the main stop.

Are drinks and snacks included?
Yes, refreshments such as cocktails, beers, juice, and fresh fruit are available throughout the trip.

Is hotel pickup available?
No, the tour does not include hotel pickup or drop-off; guests need to meet at the designated port location.

How do I reserve my spot?
Guests can reserve now and pay later, with the option to cancel up to 24 hours before the tour for a full refund.

What languages are available for guides?
Guides speak English, Italian, and Greek.

This Northeast Corfu Coastal cruise provides a lively, scenic, and culturally enriching day at sea, perfect for those eager to see Corfu from the water while enjoying good food and lively company.

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