Visit Melissani Lake Cave by Boat with Myrtos View Point

Discover Kefalonia’s Natural Wonders with a Guided Tour

This 4-hour tour in Kefalonia offers an engaging way to see some of the island’s most notable sights, including the iconic Melissani Lake Cave and Myrtos Beach Viewpoint. Priced at $78.25 per person, the tour combines scenic stops, informative commentary, and comfortable transportation, making it a convenient choice for those seeking a well-rounded island experience. The tour departs from Argostoli’s cruise ship terminal, with pickup and drop-off included, and features an air-conditioned vehicle and a live guide who shares insights about Kefalonia’s highlights.

While some activities like visiting Melissani Lake Cave involve an admission fee of $10 per person, most of the experience focuses on visual beauty and memorable photography. The tour is ideal for travelers who want a timed, organized visit with minimal hassle, but may find the cave boat ride somewhat brief and the activities in the caves less engaging for those seeking adventure. This tour balances ease, scenic views, and informative narration to give visitors a taste of Kefalonia’s natural charm.

Key Points

• Price: $78.25 per person, with optional cave fees of $10 each for Melissani Lake and Drogarati Cave
• Duration: Approximate 4 hours, including transportation and stops
• Locations Covered: Melissani Lake Cave, Myrtos Beach Viewpoint, Argostoli Lagoon
• Transport: Air-conditioned bus with pickup at Argostoli cruise terminal
• Highlights: Scenic views, a boat ride inside Melissani Cave, and a photo stop at Myrtos Beach
• Customer feedback: Guides are friendly and helpful, but cave activities can be brief and waiting times vary

Starting Point and Transportation Details

This tour begins at the Argostoli cruise ship terminal located at Leof. Antoni Tritsi 26. The tour includes pickup and drop-off, ensuring easy access for cruise visitors. The vehicle used is air-conditioned, providing comfort during the approximately 4-hour adventure. Group sizes are limited to a maximum of 45 travelers, which helps maintain a relaxed atmosphere and allows the guide to offer better attention.

The tour’s transportation is primarily focused on smooth sightseeing, allowing visitors to relax and enjoy the views without worrying about navigation or logistics. The driver and guide work together to provide live commentary, making the journey both informative and engaging.

Visiting Melissani Lake Cave: A Natural Marvel

The Melissani Lake Cave is situated just outside Sami and is known as one of Greece’s most dramatic natural sites. Inside, visitors find a beautiful lake surrounded by trees and forests, creating a peaceful yet awe-inspiring atmosphere. The cave features a boat ride that lasts just a few minutes, during which visitors can admire the stunning interior and natural light filtering through the cave’s opening.

Admission to the cave costs $10 per person, which is payable on-site. The boat ride offers a quick but picturesque experience, making it suitable for those who want to see the interior without an extensive tour. It’s important to note that waiting times can vary, especially during high season, with some reports of about 30 minutes of waiting before the boat ride. While some may find the activity brief, the scenery inside the cave remains a highlight for many visitors.

Myrtos Beach Viewpoint: Iconic Photo Opportunity

The Myrtos Beach Viewpoint is located 29 km north of Argostoli and is renowned for its breathtaking panoramic views. The photo stop here offers a chance to capture the famous white sands and turquoise waters framed by scenic hills. The area surrounding Myrtos is characterized by beautiful rolling hills, making it a highly photogenic spot.

Visitors spend about 35 minutes at this viewpoint, ideal for snapping pictures and soaking in the scenery. The beach itself is free to visit, though the tour focuses on the viewpoint rather than a full beach visit. This stop appeals most to those who enjoy photography and scenic landscapes.

Passing by Koutavos Lagoon and Turtles

On the way back to Argostoli, the tour passes the Koutavos Lagoon, a popular spot next to the old bridge. This area is known as a favorite habitat for Caretta Caretta turtles, and the guide notes that if time permits, there might be an opportunity to stop and view this wildlife. The lagoon’s calm waters and natural surroundings make it a peaceful sight, particularly for nature enthusiasts, though it’s more of a pass-by experience during this tour.

Inclusions and Optional Fees

The tour package includes bottled water, air-conditioned transportation, port pickup and drop-off, live commentary, and the driver/guide‘s assistance. These elements contribute to a comfortable and informative experience. However, admission fees for Melissani Lake and Drogarati Cave are not included, each costing $10 per person if you decide to visit these sites.

Guests should be prepared for additional expenses if they wish to enter these attractions. The guided commentary is helpful in understanding the significance of each location, especially at Melissani Cave, where the guide shares insights about the site.

Tour Ratings and Guest Feedback

This tour holds a rating of 4.0 out of 5 based on 3 reviews, reflecting generally positive feedback but also some constructive criticism. One review mentions that the activities in the caves can feel short and somewhat boring, with waiting times of around 30 minutes, and the boat ride inside the cave lasting no more than 5 minutes.

Another guest praises the guide Giorgio for being friendly, professional, and helpful, with good suggestions for lunch and coffee spots. Overall, guiding quality and scenic views are appreciated, but some visitors note that the activities may be brief and less engaging for those seeking more adventure.

Cancellation Policy and Flexibility

The tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, providing flexibility if plans change. To receive a full refund, cancellations must occur at least 24 hours before the scheduled start. Cancellations made within 24 hours are non-refundable, so travelers should plan accordingly, especially considering weather conditions which can affect the tour.

Comparing Similar Kefalonia Tours

This tour is part of a broader selection of Kefalonia excursions, including private half-day tours, wine tastings, and boat trips. Links to similar experiences show options for those wanting more personalized or extended visits or focused activities like wine tasting or day cruises. This tour’s main appeal lies in its structured sightseeing and scenic stops, ideal for those who prefer organized travel over independent exploration.

The Sum Up: A Scenic Snapshot of Kefalonia

The Visit Melissani Lake Cave by Boat with Myrtos View Point tour offers a convenient, scenic introduction to the island’s natural beauty. Its key highlights—the spectacular Melissani Cave interior and stunning Myrtos Viewpoint—are accessible within a manageable time frame, making it suitable for cruise passengers or those with limited time on the island.

While activities inside the caves may feel brief and waiting times can vary, the overall experience provides beautiful views and informative commentary, especially if you enjoy photography and nature. The inclusion of port pickup and air-conditioned transport adds comfort to the trip, and the guided narration enhances understanding of Kefalonia’s highlights.

This tour is best suited for travelers who want a well-organized, scenic overview with moderate activity levels. Those seeking adventure or longer cave explorations should consider other options, but for a tidy, scenic snapshot of Kefalonia’s natural wonders, this tour delivers.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is transportation included in the tour?
Yes, pickup and drop-off at the Argostoli cruise ship terminal are included with an air-conditioned vehicle.

How long is the boat ride inside Melissani Cave?
The boat ride lasts about 5 minutes, giving a quick but picturesque view of the cave’s interior.

Are there additional costs for visiting the caves?
Yes, admission fees for Melissani Lake and Drogarati Cave are $10 each and payable on-site if you choose to visit those locations.

Can I cancel the tour if my plans change?
Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

What should I bring for the tour?
Bring comfortable clothing, a camera for photos, and cash or card for any optional entrance fees.

Is this tour suitable for children?
Most travelers can participate, and the tour’s pace is suitable for families, though the brief activities and waiting times should be considered.

How much does the tour cost?
The standard price is $78.25 per person, excluding optional cave admission fees.

What is the overall rating of this tour?
The tour has a rating of 4.0 out of 5, based on three reviews, indicating generally positive feedback with room for improvement.

Are there similar tours available?
Yes, there are other options like private tours, wine tastings, and full-day excursions, which can be found through the provided links.