Kefalonia: Argostoli Boat Cruise with Homemade Greek Lunch & Wine

Summary

Traditional boat cruise from Argostoli with swimming, fresh Greek lunch and unlimited wine at three Ionian beaches

You’ll board a traditional Greek boat in Argostoli for a relaxed cruise to White Rocks Beach, Vardiani Island, and Xi Beach—swimming, snorkeling or just floating along the way. Homemade Greek food is served with plenty of local wine on board. Expect laughter with your fellow travelers and quiet moments watching sunlight dance on Ionian waters.

What’s the experience like?

I almost missed the boat—literally. The taxi got stuck behind a wandering goat near Argostoli harbour, and by the time I arrived, the Konstantinos was already bobbing gently against the dock. The captain just grinned and waved me on, like this kind of thing happened every day. My shoes slipped a bit on the worn wooden deck (should’ve worn sandals), but the crew handed me coffee and that was that—the day had started.

We drifted out past fishing boats and into that unreal blue water you always see in photos of Kefalonia. First stop was White Rocks Beach. The pebbles really are white—almost blinding under the sun—and I could smell sunscreen mixing with salt air. Our guide, Eleni, pointed out a cormorant drying its wings and told us about her grandfather diving here as a boy. I tried snorkeling but mostly just floated, watching tiny silver fish dart between my toes. There’s a little dinghy if you don’t want to swim ashore (I used it after realizing I’m not as strong a swimmer as I thought… no shame).

Lunch was served somewhere between Vardiani Island and Xi Beach—homemade moussaka, olives straight from someone’s backyard, bread still warm in the basket. Someone spilled wine when the boat rocked; nobody cared. Eleni poured more for everyone anyway (“Kali orexi!” she said). At Xi Beach, I rubbed some of that famous red clay on my arms—apparently it’s good for your skin? It felt cool and gritty but oddly soothing. A few kids built sandcastles while their parents napped in the shade.

The sun started dipping as we headed back toward Argostoli. People were quieter then—maybe tired or maybe just content. There’s something about drifting back after a day like that, salty hair and all, that sticks with you longer than you expect.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Cruise to three Ionian destinations

• Depart from Argostoli Harbour
• Visit White Rocks Beach for swimming
• Explore Vardiani Island
• Relax at Xi Beach
• Enjoy homemade Greek cuisine and local wine

Top questions

How long does the Argostoli boat cruise last?

The cruise lasts most of the day with stops at three beaches; each stop is at least an hour.

Is lunch included on this Kefalonia boat tour?

Yes, freshly cooked homemade Greek cuisine is included in the price.

Are drinks provided during the cruise?

Yes, unlimited free wine is served throughout the activity; there is also a bar for other drinks.

Can non-swimmers reach the beaches?

Yes, there’s a small dinghy to help anyone who doesn’t want to swim reach shore safely.

Are restrooms available on board?

Yes, there are restroom facilities available on the boat.

Is this cruise suitable for families with young children?

Yes, infants can ride in prams or strollers and specialized infant seats are available.

What should I bring for this day trip from Argostoli?

A swimsuit, towel, sunscreen and maybe sandals for walking on deck or pebble beaches.

What’s included

Your day includes pickup from Argostoli harbour before setting off to White Rocks Beach, Vardiani Island and Xi Beach by traditional Greek boat. You’ll enjoy freshly cooked homemade Greek cuisine with unlimited local wine served onboard. Snorkeling equipment is provided if you want to explore underwater—or you can just float or paddleboard near shore before returning in the evening.