NYDRI: Cruise to Egremni, Porto Katsiki, Agiofili of Lefkada

Imagine sailing along the coast of Lefkada, Greek island of striking beauty, with turquoise waters stretching around every bend. That’s the promise of the NDRI boat cruise—a day spent visiting some of the most famous, yet often tough-to-reach beaches in Greece. Whether you’re seeking crystal-clear waters to swim in, stunning cliffside vistas, or just a chance to relax on a boat with fellow travelers, this tour offers a storybook day on the Ionian Sea.

What we love most about this experience is the opportunity to see Egremni and Porto Katsiki beaches, which are renowned for their natural beauty, and to enjoy a swim at Agiofili or Lakka—beaches that are either tricky to access by land or best approached by sea. Plus, the chance of spotting dolphins adds a sprinkle of magic to the trip. The only thing to keep in mind is that, based on reviews, the experience can sometimes not meet expectations if the beaches are crowded or if the stops don’t align with the advertised itinerary. Still, for those who love being on the water and discovering lesser-visited spots, this cruise is a tempting choice.

This tour suits travelers looking for a relaxed, scenic day out that combines swimming, beautiful views, and a taste of Lefkada’s coastal charm. It’s especially appealing to those who prefer small-group trips and appreciate authentic, unorganized beaches away from crowded tourist spots. If your idea of a perfect Greek island day involves a boat, some swims, and a bit of adventure, this could be just right.

Key Points

• Visiting iconic beaches inaccessible by car, like Egremni and Porto Katsiki
• Swimming opportunities in crystal-clear waters with no organized amenities
• Sightings of dolphins are a possibility, adding a special touch
• Flexible options for Agiofili or Lakka Beaches, depending on crowds and season
• Weather-dependent — cancellations are possible if conditions are poor
• No included food or drinks, so plan accordingly

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Genuine Look at the Lefkada Coastal Cruise

Embarking on this boat trip from Nidri, the journey begins with an early morning departure—around 9:30 AM—so arriving at the harbor 40 minutes early is a good idea. The boat, named “NIKOLAOS”, is easy to spot, parked directly opposite Borsalino Travel. The cruise runs for about 8 hours, wrapping up around 5:30 PM, giving you ample time to enjoy each stop.

The experience is a swimming-focused tour; there’s no land exploration, no organized beach facilities, and no guided walking tours. Instead, it’s about the joy of being on the water, the incredible scenery, and the privilege of visiting beaches that are difficult to reach otherwise. The boat provides umbrellas and all fees and taxes are included, but you’ll need to bring your own food, drinks, and cash—since there are no on-beach cafes or restaurants.

Itinerary Breakdown: What Makes Each Stop Special?

The day begins with a cruise through the Meganisi channel, a narrow stretch of water that offers views of Lefkada’s rugged coastline. The first major stop is Egremni Beach, famous for its breathtaking cliffs and turquoise waters. You’ll have about 2 hours here for swimming, relaxing, or just soaking in the scenery. The beach’s remote access means fewer crowds, though some reviews suggest that during peak season, it can get busy despite the natural seclusion.

Next, the boat anchors at Porto Katsiki, one of Greece’s most photogenic beaches. The highlight isn’t just the stunning white cliffs or the clear waters but the fact that you can swim directly from the boat—stairs make entry into the sea straightforward. You’ll spend about an hour here, making the most of the tranquil bay.

The final stop depends on weather and crowds: either Agiofili or Lakka Beach. Agiofili offers a quaint, medium-sized beach that, interestingly, is now accessible by car, but it remains peaceful from the sea. If it’s crowded, the boat might head to Lakka, a pristine, only-sea-accessible beach with crystal-clear waters—ideal for a relaxing afternoon swim. Many travelers find Lakka especially charming, though it’s not organized, so bring everything you need for the beach.

Authentic Experiences and Honest Observations

Our favorite aspect of this tour is the stunning scenery. The Ionian Sea views are postcard-worthy, with azure waters, dramatic cliffs, and the occasional dolphin sighting—adding a touch of wonder to an already beautiful day. The small boat size makes for a cozy experience, allowing for better interaction and a more intimate atmosphere.

However, some reviews highlight potential drawbacks. For example, “I did not visit any of the beaches specified, 2 stops were made at other beaches,” reports a traveler, indicating that sometimes the stops don’t strictly follow the advertised itinerary. Others mention that during high season, beaches can be quite crowded, which might diminish the sense of tranquility you’re after. Cancellations due to weather are possible, but the provider offers full refunds or alternative dates if conditions turn unfavorable—something to keep in mind when planning.

The lack of on-beach amenities means you’ll need to bring your own snacks, water, and cash. The boat has a snack bar, but be prepared for limited options and the possibility that card payments may not work due to signal issues. It’s worthwhile to come prepared to avoid missing out.

An In-Depth Look at the Price and Value

While the package price covers your boat ticket, swim stops, umbrellas, and taxes, it doesn’t include food or drinks, which you’ll need to bring or purchase beforehand. Considering the cost, what you’re really paying for is access to some of Lefkada’s most beautiful beaches without the hassle of land transportation or crowded public spots.

Compared to other guided excursions that include meals or organized activities, this tour emphasizes authentic, unstructured beach time. If you’re comfortable with a simple, swim-focused experience and value the chance to see wild, pristine beaches from the sea, the price offers reasonable value.

The duration of the trip—8 hours—means you get a full day on the water, which many travelers find worth the expense. Plus, the chance to potentially spot dolphins adds an extra layer of delight, making it more than just a standard boat ride.

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Practical Tips for Travelers

• Arrive early at Nidri harbor to locate the boat easily.
• Bring sun protection—hat, sunscreen, and sunglasses.
• Pack swimwear, towels, and cash for snacks or souvenirs.
• Prepare for no organized facilities at beaches—bring everything you might need.
• Keep in mind that weather plays a critical role; if conditions aren’t good, the trip may be canceled or altered.
• Be aware that signal reception can be limited in the area, so plan accordingly.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This cruise is perfect for those looking for a relaxed day of swimming and scenic views rather than land-based sightseeing or guided tours. It suits travelers who appreciate the freedom of unorganized beaches and want to avoid crowds that often gather on popular land-accessible spots. It’s also a good option for small groups or couples seeking a more intimate experience on the water.

If you’re comfortable with roughly timed stops and don’t mind bringing your own supplies, you’ll find this a good value. However, it may not be ideal for travelers with mobility issues or those expecting guided commentary at each stop—this is very much a swimming and scenery trip.

Final Thoughts: Is It Worth It?

For anyone dreaming of crystal waters and dramatic cliff views, this Lefkada boat tour offers a memorable way to discover some of Greece’s most celebrated beaches. The chance to swim in Egremni, Porto Katsiki, and Lakka or Agiofili—each with unique charms—is a major draw. The tour’s relaxed pace, scenic setting, and dolphin sightings make it a standout for lovers of the sea and outdoor adventures.

However, travelers should be prepared for crowds at certain beaches during peak season and ensure they’re comfortable with a swimming-only experience without organized facilities. The experience is most suited for those who value authentic, natural beach environments and want to enjoy the freedom of the sea.

If you’re looking for a day that combines spectacular views, a bit of adventure, and the chance to relax in pristine waters, this Lefkada cruise fits the bill beautifully—so long as weather cooperates.

FAQ

What is included in the tour?
Your ticket covers the boat ride, swim stops, umbrellas, and all fees and taxes. Food, drinks, and extra snacks are not included, so bring your own or purchase on the boat.

How long is the cruise?
The cruise lasts approximately 8 hours, starting around 9:30 AM and ending at 5:30 PM, giving plenty of time for swimming and relaxing.

Can I swim at Porto Katsiki?
You can swim from the boat at Porto Katsiki, but the boat does not reach the actual beach shore. You’ll have a chance to enjoy the water in the bay.

Are the beaches organized with amenities?
No. The beaches visited are pristine and not organized, meaning no umbrellas, sunbeds, or facilities—bring your own supplies.

What should I bring?
Bring a sun hat, swimwear, towel, sunscreen, cash, and any snacks or drinks you might want. The area can have limited signal, so plan accordingly.

Is this experience suitable for everyone?
It’s not ideal for wheelchair users and involves swimming, so travelers comfortable with water and walking on boat stairs will enjoy it most. The experience is tailored more for those who enjoy natural beaches and scenic boat rides.

In the end, this Lefkada cruise offers an authentic taste of Greece’s stunning coastline, perfect for those who love a day on the water, swimming in pristine waters, and experiencing beaches that few land travelers ever see. Just remember to check the weather forecast and come prepared for a day of natural beauty and gentle adventure.

You can check availability for your dates here: