Full-Day Ithaca Cruise from Agia Efimia: Swim Gidaki, Explore Vathy & Kioni

THE ADVENTURE COLLECTIVE® · Independent discovery and booking for outdoor travel

Read the full experience

You step onto the quay at Agia Efimia as the boat yawns awake, engines warming beneath a bright Ionian sky. Salt spray and the faint thrum of an outboard set the tempo; the sea pulls you away from Kefalonia and dares you toward cliffs, coves, and small harbors that reveal themselves only from the water.

Trip highlights

Difficulty

moderate.

Duration

8 hours.

Fitness level

Moderate fitness — able to board a small boat, walk short cobbled streets, and swim in open water.

Frequently asked questions

Where does the cruise depart from and does it include transfers?

The tour departs from Agia Efimia Port and includes an air-conditioned bus transfer from designated pickup points to the port.

Are there restroom facilities on the boat?

Yes, the vessel is equipped with onboard restrooms for passenger use during the cruise.

Can I swim at every stop and is snorkeling gear provided?

The itinerary includes scheduled swim stops (Gidaki, Ammoudi); snorkeling gear is typically not provided so bring your own if you want to snorkel.

Is the tour suitable for children and people with mobility issues?

Children can join but infants must sit on laps; travelers with serious spinal, heart, or pregnancy concerns are not recommended for this tour and limited mobility may make boarding difficult.

Local insights

Wildlife

Loggerhead sea turtles (Caretta caretta)
Coastal dolphins often sighted in the Ionian waters

History

Ithaca is classically associated with Odysseus from Homer’s Odyssey; Vathy grew as a sheltered maritime hub and preserves Ottoman and Venetian influences in its architecture.

Conservation

Boat operators are encouraged to avoid anchoring on Posidonia seagrass meadows and to minimize single-use plastics; visitors should use reef-safe sunscreen and pack out trash.

About Kefalonia Sightseeing & Tours

Kefalonia Sightseeing & Tours operates guided outdoor trips and adventures with an emphasis on safety, stewardship, and memorable experiences.

Base locationAgia Efimia, Kefalonia

Tours offered4+

Specialtyboat-charters

StewardshipLeave No Trace

Adventure tips

Bring reef-safe sunscreenProtect marine life and your skin—apply a water-resistant, reef-safe sunscreen before boarding and reapply after swims.

Wear water shoesBeaches are often pebbly; light water shoes make entering and exiting the boat and shore swims far more comfortable.

Carry small cashSome tavernas and shops in Vathy and Kioni are cash-preferred—bring euros for snacks, souvenirs, and small purchases.

Plan for motionIf you get seasick, take preventative medication before departure; the trip is eight hours with open-sea stretches.

Recommended gear

Swimsuit & quick-dry towel: For the multiple swim stops and easy drying between outings.
Water shoes: Protect feet on pebbly beaches and when boarding tenders or small boats.
Reef-safe sunscreen: Protects your skin and the Ionian marine ecosystem.
Light wind jacket: Even in summer mornings or late afternoons there can be a cool sea breeze.