Discover Ithaka (Ithaca) Cruise & Tour [From Kefalonia]

Ithaka, the fabled home of Odysseus, beckons travelers with its timeless allure. A captivating cruise and tour from Kefalonia promises to whisk you away to this enchanting island, unveiling its stunning landscapes and charming locales. Set out on a scenic ferry ride across the Ionian Sea, learn about the neoclassical splendor of Vathy, and unwind on the pristine Gidaki beach. Savor the flavors of traditional Greek cuisine in the charming village of Kioni, as you experience the island’s captivating essence. This tour offers an intimate exploration, ensuring an unforgettable journey through Ithaka‘s captivating wonders.

This experience made our list of the 25 Best Tours In Cephalonia.

Key Points

• Explore the scenic landscapes, charming villages, and historical sites of Ithaka (Ithaca) on a comprehensive day tour from Kefalonia.
• Visit the capital Vathy to admire its neoclassical architecture and discover the island’s connection to Odysseus at the Archaeological Museum.
• Swim in the crystal-clear waters of the secluded Gidaki Beach and enjoy a traditional Greek lunch in the picturesque village of Kioni.
• Set out on a scenic boat cruise along Ithaka’s stunning coastline, offering breathtaking views.
• Convenient round-trip transportation from Kefalonia and personalized experience with a maximum group size of 50 travelers.

Tour Highlights

On the Ithaka Cruise & Tour, visitors can expect an immersive exploration of the island’s picturesque landscapes and charming villages.

The tour includes a visit to Vathy, the island’s capital, where you’ll wander through its quaint streets and admire the neoclassical architecture.

Next, you’ll enjoy a swim at the secluded Gidaki beach, a hidden gem with crystal-clear waters.

The tour also takes you to the charming village of Kioni, where you’ll savor a traditional Greek lunch and discover the local culture.

Throughout the day, you’ll be treated to stunning coastal views during a scenic boat cruise, making this an unforgettable experience.

Visiting Vathy

The tour begins with a visit to Vathy, the charming capital of Ithaka. This picturesque town nestled in a natural harbor is steeped in history and culture.

Wander through the narrow streets, admiring the neoclassical buildings and the lively central square. Stop for a coffee at a cozy café and soak in the relaxed island vibe.

Visit the Archaeological Museum to learn about Ithaka’s rich past, including its connection to the legendary Odysseus.

Afterward, take a leisurely stroll along the waterfront promenade, where you can browse local shops and galleries showcasing traditional crafts.

With its stunning natural setting and laid-back atmosphere, Vathy offers a glimpse into the authentic charm of the island.

Exploring Gidaki Beach

After the visit to Vathy, the tour then heads to the serene Gidaki beach. This secluded cove boasts crystal-clear turquoise waters and a picturesque pebble beach, perfect for a refreshing swim. Travelers can while away the afternoon, soaking up the sun and admiring the stunning natural scenery.

Key Features	Description
Location	Secluded cove on the island of Ithaka
Beach Type	Pebble beach with crystal-clear turquoise waters
Activities	Swimming, sunbathing, relaxation
Accessibility	Accessible by boat or a short hike
Amenities	Limited, but stunning natural setting

This tranquil spot offers a chance to truly take in the natural beauty of Ithaka, away from the crowds.

Charming Kioni Village

Leaving the tranquil Gidaki beach behind, the tour makes its way to the charming village of Kioni.

Nestled along the coast, Kioni is a picturesque haven with its traditional Greek architecture, vibrant fishing harbor, and friendly locals. Visitors can stroll through the winding streets, popping into the quaint shops and cafes that line the waterfront.

The tour group will enjoy a traditional Greek lunch in one of the seaside tavernas, savoring the fresh seafood and local specialties.

With its laid-back atmosphere and stunning views, Kioni offers a glimpse into the authentic island life that makes Ithaka so captivating.

It’s a delightful stop on the day’s adventure, providing a chance to take in the island’s rich cultural heritage.

Traditional Greek Lunch

Amidst the charming coastal setting of Kioni, the tour group settles into a seaside taverna for a traditional Greek lunch. Surrounded by whitewashed buildings and lapping waves, they savor an authentic taste of Ithaka’s culinary heritage.

The meal begins with a selection of meze, or small shared plates, showcasing local specialties like dolmades (stuffed grape leaves), tzatziki (cucumber-yogurt dip), and crisp spanakopita (spinach and feta pastries).

For the main course, the group indulges in dishes like tender moussaka (eggplant casserole) or fresh grilled fish, all accompanied by fluffy piles of herbed rice and roasted potatoes.

As they sip on chilled local wine, the travelers bask in the relaxed, convivial atmosphere, seeing the rich flavors and traditions of this idyllic island.

Meeting Point and Pickup

The tour begins at the KCG Travel office in Lassi, Argostoli, where travelers gather at 7:00 am.

From there, the air-conditioned vehicle departs for the ferry terminal to catch the boat to Ithaka. The scenic ferry ride across the Ionian Sea sets the tone for the day’s adventures.

Some key details about the meeting and pickup:

1. The tour ends back at the original meeting point in Lassi.
2. Confirmation of the booking is received within 48 hours.
3. The tour isn’t wheelchair accessible and may not be suitable for certain medical conditions.
4. The maximum group size is 50 travelers, ensuring an intimate and personalized experience.

Tour Inclusions and Exclusions

The tour package includes a range of amenities to ensure a comfortable and enjoyable experience.

Travelers will be transported in an air-conditioned vehicle throughout the day. Ferry tickets to Ithaka are also included, allowing for a scenic boat cruise across the sparkling waters.

During the tour, a traditional Greek lunch will be served in the charming village of Kioni, providing an authentic culinary experience. All food and drinks are covered as part of the tour.

With these inclusions, the tour offers a well-rounded exploration of Ithaka, from its picturesque capital to its secluded beaches, without any additional costs to worry about.

Booking and Cancellation Policy

Travelers can conveniently book the Ithaka Cruise & Tour through the KCG Travel office in Lassi, Argostoli.

The tour has a free cancellation policy up to 24 hours before the experience. This flexibility allows guests to adjust their plans if needed.

The tour can accommodate up to 50 travelers, ensuring an intimate and personalized experience. Plus, the tour isn’t suitable for those with certain medical conditions, so it’s essential to consider individual needs before booking.

The key booking and cancellation details are:

1. Free cancellation up to 24 hours before the tour
2. Maximum of 50 travelers per tour
3. Confirmation received within 48 hours of booking
4. Not suitable for travelers with certain medical conditions

Since You Asked

Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks on the Tour?

The tour includes food and drinks, so bringing your own is not necessary. However, you’re welcome to bring additional snacks or water if you’d like. The tour give you a complete and convenient experience for travelers.

Is There a Minimum or Maximum Group Size for This Tour?

The tour has a maximum group size of 50 travelers, but there is no minimum. The tour can accommodate both small and large groups, allowing for a personalized experience regardless of group size.

Can I Book This Tour for a Private Group?

Yes, you can book this tour for a private group. The tour has a maximum of 50 travelers, so you can arrange for a private group of up to 50 people to enjoy the full-day tour together.

Do I Need to Bring My Own Snorkeling Gear for the Beach Visit?

The tour likely provides the necessary snorkeling gear for the beach visit. However, guests are welcome to bring their own equipment if they prefer. The tour staff will be able to assist with any gear needs during the excursion.

Is There an Option to Extend the Tour Duration?

Unfortunately, the tour does not offer an option to extend the duration. The itinerary and inclusions are fixed, so travelers need to adhere to the scheduled start and end times. However, they can always book additional tours or activities independently.

The Sum Up

The Discover Ithaka (Ithaca) Cruise & Tour from Kefalonia offers an immersive day of exploration. Travelers can marvel at Ithaka’s stunning landscapes, visit the charming capital of Vathy, relax at Gidaki beach, and savor a delightful traditional Greek lunch in Kioni. With a maximum group size of 50, this tour promises an intimate experience on the enchanting island.