Snorkeling from Agia Efimia to Ithaca: All-inclusive sailing day

Lunch is cooked and served aboard at Lygia, a small island with shallow waters built for snorkeling.

An eight-hour sailing day from Agia Efimia visits Gidaki beach and Pera Pigadi in Ithaca, where you snorkel, swim, paddle board or sunbathe. The boat carries snorkeling gear and paddle boards. Lunch, local wine, snacks and soft drinks are prepared by the crew and included. A live guide speaks English and Greek. The shared boat keeps groups small and intimate compared to larger tour operators.

Step-by-step itinerary

Sailing and activities around Ithaca

• Sail from Agia Efimia
• Stop at Gidaki beach for swimming and snorkeling
• Try paddle boarding or sunbathe
• Sail to Lygia island
• Enjoy lunch prepared by the crew at Lygia port
• Snorkel in shallow waters at Lygia
• Relax and enjoy views of the Ionian Sea

The experience

Eight hours on the water means you leave early and return late, but the day splits into distinct stops rather than a single long sail. The boat departs Agia Efimia and heads to Gidaki beach in Ithaca, where turquoise water and soft sand meet a backdrop of the Ionian Sea. You can swim in the shallows, snorkel to see the sea life, or try paddle boarding if you want to move further out. Sunbathing on the beach is just as valid. The crew does not push a schedule once you arrive at a stop.

Lunch happens at Lygia, a small island southeast of Ithaca with its own shallow waters. The crew prepares and serves the meal at the port, so you eat without leaving the boat area. After eating, the same shallow waters are ideal for another snorkel session if you want one. Local wine, soda and snacks are available throughout the day, not just at lunch.

Snorkeling gear and paddle boards come with the booking. You do not rent them separately or bring your own. The guide is present throughout and speaks both English and Greek, so language is not a barrier to understanding what you are seeing or what the stops offer. WiFi is available on board if you need to stay connected between swims.

What’s included

• Snorkeling gear and paddle boards.
• lunch prepared by the crew.
• local wine, soft drinks and snacks throughout the day.
• WiFi on board.
• all fees and taxes.

Before you book

Days and timesThursday to SaturdayDeparts at 09:00Last departure this season: 31 Oct

Book up to4h before

AgesAdult (18 and older) · Child (3 to 17 years) · Infant (under 3): free

GroupUp to 8

Live guideEnglish and Greek

Meeting point and pickupNo hotel pickup: you go to the meeting point. Ends back at the starting point.

Cancellation and refundsFree cancellation up to 24 h before the start. After that, no refund.It may be canceled due to bad weather or if the minimum number of travelers isn't reached. If that happens, you're offered another date or a refund.

Prices and times updated 8 days ago

Good to know

Low physical effortPets welcomePublic transport nearbyNot recommended with heart problemsInfants must sit on laps

Operated by Sail The Day Kefalonia

Is this one for you?The eight-hour duration includes sailing time to and from Agia Efimia, so you are in the water or at a beach for most of the middle hours. Choose this if you want a full day on the water with multiple stops and activities built in, rather than a quick half-day excursion.

Traveler reviews

4.96★★★★★★★★★★

45 verified traveler reviews

5 ★44

4 ★0

3 ★1

2 ★0

1 ★0

Read all the reviews ›

Top questions

What languages is the tour guided in?

Live guide in English and Greek.

Can children come?

Yes. Ticket types: Child (3 to 17 years); Infant (under 3): free.

What happens if it rains?

It may be canceled due to bad weather. If that happens, you're offered another date or a refund. Free cancellation up to 24 h before the start.

What is Gidaki beach like for snorkeling?

Gidaki beach in Ithaca has turquoise water and soft sand, with vibrant sea life visible when you snorkel. The water is shallow enough for comfortable entry and swimming, and the beach itself is wide enough to sunbathe or rest between water activities.

Can I paddle board on this day, or is it just snorkeling?

Paddle boards are included and available throughout the day. You can paddle board at Gidaki beach or at Pera Pigadi, or stick to snorkeling and swimming if you prefer. The crew provides the boards. You choose how to use your time at each stop.

Is lunch included, and what kind of food is served?

Lunch is included and prepared by the crew, served at Lygia. The description mentions homemade recipes, local wine, snacks and soft drinks throughout the day. You eat at the port of Lygia without leaving the boat area.

Do I need to bring my own snorkeling gear?

Snorkeling equipment is included with the tour. You do not need to bring your own or pay extra for rental. Paddle boards are also provided.

What time does the day start and end?

The tour lasts eight hours total, including travel time. Specific departure and return times are not listed. Check with the operator for the exact schedule on your chosen date.