Paxos Antipaxos Blue Caves (Lakka Village) from Corfu

Travel from Corfu to the nearby Ionian Islands on a 10-hour boat tour that explores the picturesque Paxos and Antipaxos islands, including their famous Blue Caves and charming Lakka Village. Priced at $66.04 per person, this cruise offers a relaxing day filled with scenic views, swimming opportunities, and free time to explore local villages. The tour is highly recommended, with an impressive 90% of bookings made 16 days in advance, ideal for travelers seeking a blend of adventure and leisure.

This tour features live guiding in multiple languages, including English, French, German, Italian, and Russian, to cater to international visitors. Pickup options are available, making logistics easier, and the entire experience is designed for comfort and enjoyment. While it offers plenty of highlights, travelers should be aware of some limitations, such as the potential for crowded seating and the need for punctuality to avoid missing the departure.

Key Points

• Duration: About 10 hours with flexible free time for exploring the villages and beaches.
• Main stops: Lakka Village on Paxos, Blue Caves of Paxos, Antipaxos‘ Paradise Beach, and Erimitis cliffs.
• Included features: Live multilingual guides, swimming and snorkeling, and scenic views of Corfu Old Town and the fortress.
• Not included: Food, drinks, and onboard bar items; lunch is available at seaside restaurants during the stop in Lakka.
• Tips: Arrive early for check-in, especially if you use the coach transfer, and bring swim gear, sun protection, and a camera for photos.

Scenic Views of Corfu Old Town and Fortress from the Boat

The cruise begins with views of Corfu Old Town and the Old Fortress, seen from the water, giving a stunning perspective on historic landmarks. As the boat departs, you enjoy a relaxing ride past the city’s shoreline, providing picture-perfect moments before heading toward Paxos and Antipaxos. This opening segment sets a tranquil tone, emphasizing the beauty of the Ionian coastlines.

The boat’s vantage point makes it easy to appreciate Corfu’s architecture, especially the fortress walls and old town rooftops, creating a memorable backdrop for the journey. The overall scenery is praised for its clarity and vibrancy, making it a highlight for photography enthusiasts.

Exploring Lakka Village on Paxos

Lakka Village offers a two-hour stop where travelers can stroll through its quaint streets, browse local shops, and enjoy sea-view restaurants. The village’s colorful harbor and picturesque scenery make it a favorite for many. There is ample time to relax, grab a quick bite, or simply soak in the peaceful atmosphere before returning to the boat.

The lunch options at Lakka’s seaside eateries provide an opportunity to enjoy fresh Greek cuisine with views of the water. Many reviews emphasize how charming and authentic Lakka feels, making this stop worthwhile for those wanting a taste of local life.

Visiting the Enchanting Blue Caves of Paxos

One of the main highlights of the tour is entering two of Paxos’ Blue Caves, known as Caves Ipapanti and Ahai. The boat navigates carefully through these caves, with the pilot’s skill often praised for safely negotiating tight spaces. Inside, you get a chance to take photos of stunning rock formations and crystal-clear waters.

The Blue Caves are celebrated for their natural beauty, with playful light effects and serene surroundings that captivate visitors. They are a must-see for anyone interested in geological wonders and photography opportunities.

Marveling at the White Cliffs of Erimitis

While cruising along the coast, travelers witness the imposing white cliffs of Erimitis Bay, which provide a dramatic contrast to the turquoise waters. The cliffs’ sheer faces and stunning white coloration are frequently mentioned as visually impressive. The boat passes Ortolithos Island and the remarkable Tripitos rock formations, adding to the scenic diversity.

This part of the tour offers plenty of photo moments and a sense of the remote beauty of the area. Many reviews commend the smooth navigation and expertise of the crew in handling the boat around these natural landmarks.

Swimming and Snorkeling at Paradise Beach in Antipaxos

The stop at Paradise Beach on Antipaxos is a highlight for swimming enthusiasts. The exotic turquoise waters and calm, shallow conditions make it ideal for snorkeling and relaxing on the beach. Travelers have an hour to swim, sunbathe, or explore the surrounding coves.

Many visitors note that Antipaxos‘ beaches are among the bluest waters they have seen, offering a refreshing break from the boat ride. The option to ask the crew for a safety jacket is available for less confident swimmers, ensuring everyone can enjoy the water.

Navigating the Blue Caves with a Talented Pilot

The boat’s pilot is frequently praised for their skillful navigation through the Blue Caves, ensuring safe passage in tight spaces. The spectacular caves feature smooth rock walls, which provide excellent opportunities for photos and video footage.

Passengers appreciate the ample time for photos inside the caves, capturing the bright blue waters and unique rock formations. The talent and experience of the crew help create a smooth, enjoyable exploration of this natural marvel.

The Leisurely Pace and Group Size

This tour accommodates up to 240 travelers, which can lead to crowded seating during the boat ride. While most reviews mention the well-organized nature of the trip, some note that seating arrangements can cause disputes, especially at the front of the boat.

The pacing balances sightseeing, swimming, and free time, making it suitable for families and groups. Travelers should consider arriving early for check-in to secure their preferred spot and avoid missing the departure.

Additional Services and Languages

Live guiding is available in English, French, German, and Italian on most days, with Russian guiding on Saturdays and Romanian audio guides on Wednesdays and Sundays. These multilingual guides add value for international guests, enriching the experience with interesting facts about each stop.

The pickup service is offered as an option, simplifying transportation to the departure point. This is especially helpful for those staying outside the immediate port area.

Practical Tips and Considerations

While the tour is praised for its value and scenery, some reviews mention logistical challenges such as difficulty finding the port or timing issues. It’s important to arrive early and verify the meeting point, especially if using the coach transfer.

Food and drinks are not included, but there are sea-view restaurants during the stop at Lakka. Bringing swim gear, sunscreen, and a camera ensures a more enjoyable experience. The weather can impact the tour; cancellations are possible if conditions are poor, with options for a full refund or rescheduling.

Final Thoughts: An Enjoyable Day with Minor Hiccups

This Paxos and Antipaxos tour offers a beautiful mix of scenic cruising, village exploration, and swimming at some of the Ionian’s most famous sights. Its affordable price and variety of highlights make it a popular choice, especially for those wanting to see hidden coves and caves without strenuous hiking.

While seating disputes and logistical hiccups have been noted, most reviews emphasize the stunning scenery and friendly crew. The lunch in Lakka and time for swimming are considered especially enjoyable. This tour suits families, couples, and groups seeking a relaxing yet scenic day out.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the price of the tour?
The tour costs $66.04 per person.

How long does the tour last?
It lasts approximately 10 hours.

What are the main stops during the cruise?
Stops include Lakka Village on Paxos, the Blue Caves, Erimitis cliffs, and Paradise Beach on Antipaxos.

Is food included?
No, food and drinks are not included, but lunch options are available at seaside restaurants during the Lakka stop.

What languages are guides available in?
Guides operate in English, French, German, Italian, and Russian (Saturday), with Romanian audio guides on Wednesdays and Sundays.

Is transportation to the port included?
Pickup services can be added for convenience, but travelers should verify meeting points and arrive early.

Are there age or physical restrictions?
Most travelers can participate, but swimming and walking on uneven surfaces are involved; bring appropriate gear.

What should I bring on the tour?
Bring swim gear, sun protection, camera, and any personal needs for a full day of activities.

Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before the tour start.

What if weather conditions are poor?
The tour is weather-dependent; poor conditions may lead to cancellations with full refunds or rescheduling options.

Where does the tour depart from?
Most departures are from Corfu Port, with pickup options available to ease access.