Corfu: Private Yacht Cruise with Swim Stops & Drinks

Summary

Corfu coastline by yacht swim stops old town views local snacks

You’ll sail Corfu’s coastline by private yacht with a local skipper, stopping to swim at Vido Island and Garitsa Bay, snack on sandwiches and fresh veggies, sip wine or beer, and take in Venetian fortress views from the water. Whether it’s laughter over airplane landings or quiet sunset moments, this cruise leaves you feeling like you’ve really touched Corfu.

What’s the experience like?

“You’re not going to try the tomato sticks?” That’s what our skipper, Nikos, asked as we drifted near Garitsa Bay. I was still drying off from my first swim—water so clear you could see every pebble below—and honestly, I was just soaking in the salt on my skin and the low hum of cicadas. The sandwiches (cheese and turkey) tasted way better than they should have after a dip. Maybe it’s the sea air. Or maybe it’s just Corfu. We’d started out from Gouvia marina with that kind of nervous excitement you get before you know if a day will be ordinary or…something else.

The yacht felt both relaxed and just a little bit fancy—Nikos had already set out wine and soft drinks for us, and someone found the Bluetooth speaker so we got a mix of Greek pop and whatever playlist Alex had on his phone. Sailing past the old town of Corfu was almost surreal; those Venetian fortresses look even more dramatic from the water, especially when sunlight hits the stone just right. At Mouse Island, we actually paused to watch planes coming in overhead—close enough to make you duck instinctively. I didn’t expect that part but it made us all laugh.

I’m not really a “snorkeling person” but I gave it a shot at Vido island anyway—turns out floating with noodle floats is more my speed. There’s something about being out there, away from crowds, where you can hear nothing but water lapping against the hull and someone opening another beer behind you. On the longer cruise (we did four hours), Nikos mentioned you can stop at seaside tavernas for lunch if you go for eight hours instead. Maybe next time. The sun started dipping as we sailed past Lazareto island heading back; I still think about that golden light on everyone’s faces. Funny how quiet everyone got then.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Private yacht cruise around Corfu

• Start cruise from Marina Gouvia
• Sail towards old town of Corfu
• View fortresses and Venetian architecture
• Sail around old fortress to Garitsa bay
• Stop at Mouse island for photos
• Swim at Royal Baths
• Swim and relax at Vido island
• Sail by Lazareto island back to marina

Top questions

How long does the Corfu private yacht cruise last?

You can choose between 2-3 hour sunset cruises, 3-4 hour morning or afternoon cruises, or an 8-hour full-day option.

Are drinks included on the private yacht cruise?

Yes, wine, beer, soft drinks, and bottled water are included during your cruise.

Where does the cruise start in Corfu?

The cruise departs from Marina Gouvia near Corfu Town.

Is food provided during the yacht tour?

Yes, sandwiches with cheese and turkey plus tomato and cucumber sticks and crisps are provided. You can bring your own food if needed for special diets.

Are there swimming stops during the cruise?

Yes, typical stops include Royal Baths and Vido Island for swimming in clear waters.

Can we use snorkeling equipment on board?

Snorkeling gear is available for guests to use during swim stops.

Is pickup included for this Corfu yacht cruise?

No hotel pickup is listed; guests meet at Marina Gouvia to board.

Are children allowed on this private boat tour?

The tour is suitable for all ages including children.

What’s included

Your day includes a friendly local skipper at the helm, all fuel costs covered, unlimited bottled water along with wine, beer and soft drinks ready onboard. You’ll get sandwiches (cheese & turkey), fresh veggie sticks and crisps for snacking between swims. Snorkeling equipment is available if you want to explore below the surface; beach towels are provided too—plus there’s a Bluetooth speaker for your music and noodle floats if you just want to drift awhile before heading back toward Corfu Town.