Sami: Ithaca Island Boat Trip with Swimming and Snacks

A day on Ithaca feels like a secret route. You get a traditional wooden boat ride, then real time in the water at secluded bays with big, scenic stops along the way. My only caution is that it is a full day with mostly fixed seating (not a lounging boat), and wind can make the return a bit bouncy.

I like how the tour mixes swim time with short sightseeing that actually helps you understand the shoreline. You also get a practical food setup onboard, including local riganada, watermelon, and unlimited juices and water, plus about 70 minutes in Vathi to wander at your own pace.

Key things I’d plan around

• Christina III is a handcrafted wooden boat, giving the trip a more old-school Ionian feel than speedboats.
• You’re not stuck at one crowded beach, you get multiple swim stops including Pera Pigadi, Filiatro Beach, and Gidaki.
• The Vathi break is the right size, around 70 minutes for harbor views, a coffee, and browsing.
• There’s a sea-caves stop at Lazaretto in Vathi Bay, mostly for photos and coastline watching.
• Snorkel gear is not included, so bring it if you want to make the most of the clear water.
• The snack plan is simple but steady, and people who expect a full lunch may want to add extra food.

Traditional wooden boat from Sami, and why it sets the tone

Starting in Sami makes sense. You avoid the hassle of crossing to Ithaca by ferry first, and you begin your day with motion and sea views from the start. The boat is Christina III, a traditional handcrafted wooden vessel, and that matters because it changes the feel of the day. It’s calmer and more travel-story shaped than a quick, stop-and-go ride.

Western Greece and the Ionian islands are at their best from the water. Ithaca’s coastline is all cutouts, coves, and cliffs, and a boat lets you see the island the way locals would. You also get short sightseeing cruises between swim stops, which helps the day feel connected, not random.

Getting to Zaharatos cruises and the 9:00 a.m. departure

You meet at Sami Port, and you should be at the Zaharatos cruises meeting point at least 20 minutes early. The departure is 9:00 a.m., and since you’re on a boat for a full day, being late can mess up your whole rhythm.

Wear something you can move in. Even if the boat is comfortable, you’ll be stepping down and back up for swimming, and you’ll want quick-drying clothes. If you’re prone to sunburn, plan like you’re going to be outside all day, because you are.

Pera Pigadi swim stop: your first hit of clear water

The morning kicks off with Pera Pigadi, about an hour of swimming time at a lesser-known spot. This is the kind of place where you can either jump in and swim, or just float with the water doing the relaxing for you. Bring your snorkel gear if you have it, because the day is built for being in the water.

What makes Pera Pigadi valuable is that it sets expectations early. You’re not waiting until the end for the good swimming. You also get complimentary local snacks and refreshments onboard, so you’re not stressed about breakfast or a mid-morning snack.

If you want to use this stop well, go in with a towel ready and sunscreen already applied. Reapplying later can be tricky during stops, especially if you’re excited and jumping back in right away.

Filiatro Beach: rocks, turquoise water, and a slower swim

Next up is Filiatro Beach, with about 1.5 hours to enjoy the water. The setting is dramatic, with rocky framing and turquoise tones that make even a quick swim feel special. This is a good stop if you want to take your time, swim at an easy pace, or just readjust your body after the first swim.

This part of the itinerary is also a nice buffer. After the first swim, you’re not rushing straight into sightseeing land drills. You have time to settle in, take a slow circuit of the waterline, and get photos without feeling like you’re sprinting.

Lazaretto Island and Vathi Bay sea caves for photos and coastline views

Lazaretto Island is in the center of Vathi Bay, and this segment is more about the shoreline than long hiking. You get a photo stop and sightseeing for about 10 minutes, plus short sailing around the bay. Even if you do minimal photography, this stop helps you “place” Ithaca in your head.

Why I like this kind of stop: it adds context. Ithaca’s character is in its coastline, and these sea caves and rugged cliffs explain why Odysseus legends travel so well on the water. If the weather is a bit rough, this is also a moment where you’re not constantly getting wet, which can help.

Vathi (the capital) break: 70 minutes for real island pacing

The Vathi break is around 70 minutes, and it’s the only proper town time in the day. This is enough to wander the harbor area, browse small shops, and grab a coffee if you want one. You can also just slow down and watch boats come and go.

I like that the tour gives you freedom here rather than a forced schedule. Vathi is charming in a low-key way, and the best experience is usually doing small, simple things like looking around side streets and taking a break from saltwater for a bit.

Practical note: it is still a boat tour day, so don’t over-commit. If you find a snack or drink you love, just buy what you need, because you’ll be back on the boat later.

Gidaki Beach finale: emerald water and the soft-pebble feel

Gidaki Beach is the big-name stop, and it delivers with about 50 minutes of swimming time. You get emerald-toned water and soft pebbles, plus the calm feeling that comes from a pristine, well-known beach. This is a great last swim because it feels like a finish line.

If you’re the type who wants one perfect beach photo, aim for the early part of this stop. Light and water color are often best before the sun shifts and people start piling in. Also remember you’ll be leaving soon after, so don’t plan a full beach-lunch marathon unless you’ve brought extra food.

Snacks, juice, water, and the value check on lunch expectations

The included onboard food is a highlight for practical reasons. You get riganada, seasonal fruit like watermelon, and unlimited juices and water. Riganada is rustic bread with tomato, olive oil, oregano, and stouba (a local spirit), which gives it a real taste of the Ionian kitchen rather than generic chips-and-soda.

Here’s the value reality check. The snack portion is meant for light eating, not replacing a full sit-down lunch. Some people feel the snacks are simple for the price, especially if they were expecting a bigger meal. If you’re a big eater, consider bringing a small extra snack from town or planning to buy something in Vathi if you need a proper lunch.

For balance: the tour does offer enough so you usually don’t go hungry during the boat day, and the included drinks help you keep energy steady for swimming.

Comfort on Christina III: seating is fine, lounging is not

The boat has enough space for most people, even when it is nearly full. The crew and captain are professional, and they focus on comfort and safety, including when weather turns less cooperative.

One drawback to know upfront is that there are mostly seats. This is not a boat where you spread out and totally relax for hours. Also, strong wind can affect the return ride, so if you get seasick easily, plan accordingly.

If you want a smoother experience, pack for comfort: sunglasses, hat, sunscreen, a towel you can dry with quickly, and water-friendly sandals or shoes you trust. Comfortable shoes also matter if you need to move around at stops.

Weather and sea conditions: what you can control

You can’t control wind, but you can control how ready you are. A tour like this depends on sea conditions, and when winds pick up, the ride back can feel more choppy. The good news is that the crew handles conditions and keeps things organized.

I recommend you bring a light layer or cover-up if you get cold on the ride back. Sun and water burn hot, but the air moving over the sea can feel cooler once you’re wet and tired.

Who this Sami to Ithaca boat trip is best for

This tour fits best if you want a day focused on water time and coastline views, not museum-style sightseeing. You should enjoy it if you like swimming in scenic places and you don’t mind that stops are time-limited.

It is not suitable for pregnant women or people with mobility impairments, so if that applies, you’ll want another option. If you’re traveling with a group and you want everyone to agree on one plan, this works well because the day has structured swim breaks plus shared photo moments.

Price and value at about $76 per person

At $76 per person, you’re paying for a full day on the water with multiple swim stops, onboard refreshments, and time in Ithaca’s capital. The included snacks and unlimited juices and water help keep the day from turning into constant extra spending.

Is it the cheapest way to see Ithaca? No. But it’s also not just a quick sightseeing cruise. You’re buying boat access to the best swimming areas, plus a town break in Vathi, which is hard to replicate with casual planning if you don’t have your own transport.

The overall rating is strong at 4.6 out of 5 from 43 bookings, and the most praised parts tend to be the swim locations and the crew’s friendly, professional care.

Should you book this Ithaca boat trip?

Book it if you want a classic Ionian day: a traditional wooden boat, multiple swims in pretty bays, and a real chunk of time in Vathi. Bring snorkel gear if you can, and treat the included snacks as a swim-day fuel, not a full lunch replacement.

Skip it if you need easy lounging on board for long periods or if you’re highly sensitive to wind and choppy water. Also, if mobility needs are part of your plan, know this one isn’t designed for that.

If you want one clean decision rule: this is a swimming-forward tour. If you’re excited about getting in the water, you’ll likely love how the itinerary is built.

FAQ

What time does the tour depart from Sami Port?

The boat departs at 9:00 a.m. from Sami Port, so plan to arrive at least 20 minutes early at the Zaharatos cruises meeting point.

How long is the Ithaca Island boat trip?

The duration is listed as about 7 hours for a full day experience.

What is included in the price?

Included are the boat tickets, local riganada snacks, seasonal fruit, and unlimited juice and water while onboard.

Is snorkeling equipment provided?

No. Snorkelling equipment is not included, so you’ll want to bring your own if you plan to snorkel.

What should I bring for the stops?

Bring swimwear, a towel, sunscreen, a hat, snorkeling gear (if you have it), and comfortable shoes.

Is the tour suitable for everyone?

It is not suitable for pregnant women or people with mobility impairments.

Is free cancellation available?

Yes. You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.