Best Boat Trips in Kefalonia 2026 — Ithaca, Fteri, Fiskardo & Hidden Coves

The most popular and most rewarding boat trip from Kefalonia. Ithaca is just a short crossing away but feels like a completely different world — quieter, more intimate, with almost no mass tourism. Odysseus's legendary homeland has a deep harbour at Vathy, the pretty village of Kioni clinging to a hillside, and the bay of Dexa where the hero was said to have finally come ashore. Most day cruises include swimming stops in bays that are accessible only by boat, and a few hours to walk around Vathy or Kioni. Practical tips: - Full-day cruises typically depart from Sami or Skala around 9:00–9:30 - Bring cash for lunch in Vathy — the waterfront tavernas are excellent and often card-free - The Ithaca crossing can be choppy if the afternoon wind picks up — morning departures are calmer - If you want more time on Ithaca, take the regular ferry from Sami and spend a night Best for: History and mythology lovers, couples, anyone who wants more than beaches

Fteri is widely considered one of the most beautiful beaches in Kefalonia — a wild, white pebble cove with impossibly blue water surrounded by vertical cliffs. There is no road to it. The only way in is by sea. Amidi, nearby, is similarly dramatic and even more deserted. Local boat operators from the small port of Zola (near Agia Kyriaki, northern Kefalonia) run daily trips to both, often combining them in a half-day or full-day itinerary. Rolling Into The Blue, operating from Zola, offers exactly this — private cruises with skipper and no-license boat rentals for those who want to explore at their own pace. One of the most recommended local experiences in northern Kefalonia. 👉 Rolling Into The Blue — boat rentals & private cruises Practical tips: - Zola is a 40-minute drive from Argostoli — plan accordingly - Fteri gets direct afternoon sun; Amidi is better earlier in the day - These beaches have no facilities — bring food, water and shade Best for: Nature lovers, photographers, couples, anyone who wants genuine seclusion

Fiskardo is the most picturesque village in Kefalonia — a Venetian harbour with pastel-coloured buildings that miraculously survived the 1953 earthquake. Hiring a small motorboat here (typically 15–25hp, no license required) is one of the best value, most flexible experiences on the island. You set your own route. Most people head south along the dramatic north coast to deserted coves, or cross the narrow strait to northern Ithaca for a swim and a lunch stop. The water between the two islands is extraordinarily clear — you can see the bottom at 8–10 metres. Practical tips: - Boats typically rent for €60–120 for a half day depending on size - Fuel is usually included up to a limit — check before you leave - The strait between Kefalonia and Ithaca has occasional ferry traffic — give way and stay to the right - Return before 14:00 if the Meltemi wind is forecast — it arrives quickly in the afternoon Best for: Independent travelers, couples, small groups of friends

Argostoli harbour is one of the few places in Greece where Loggerhead sea turtles (Caretta-Caretta) swim regularly and in close proximity to people. Glass-bottom boat tours depart from the town harbour and offer almost guaranteed sightings in summer, as the turtles follow the fishing boats returning with their catch. This is a short trip (1–2 hours) rather than a full-day experience, and works perfectly as a morning or late afternoon activity alongside other plans in Argostoli. Practical tips: - Best sightings are early morning when fishing boats return - Tours run from late May through September - The harbour lighthouse road is also a good free spot to see turtles from land - Keep noise low on the boat — turtles are easily disturbed Best for: Families with children, wildlife lovers, short trip from Argostoli

The west coast of Kefalonia — from Assos down past Myrtos to Paliki — faces directly west and offers some of the most dramatic sunset views in the Ionian. Seeing Myrtos from the sea, with the white pebbles turning gold and the cliffs going orange, is a completely different perspective from the famous viewpoint above. Small-group sunset sailing trips typically depart from Agia Efimia or Sami and follow the coast north, anchoring for a swim before returning at dusk. Practical tips: - Trips last 3–4 hours and typically include drinks and snacks - Book 2–3 days in advance in July–August - Bring a light layer — it cools quickly on the water after sunset Best for: Couples, special occasions, photographers

For those staying in southern Kefalonia (Skala, Katelios area), a full-day trip down to Zakynthos is possible by seasonal boat service. The combination of Navagio Shipwreck and Blue Caves — Zakynthos's two iconic sea experiences — makes for an impressive day out that contrasts beautifully with Kefalonia's quieter vibe. Practical tips: - Seasonal service — check current availability as it varies year to year - A long day (10–12 hours) — better suited for younger or more active travelers - Alternatively, take the ferry to Zakynthos independently and spend a night Best for: Island hoppers, those already planning to visit Zakynthos

Large group party boats from Lassi: These operate on the south coast and are more focused on music and alcohol than on the island itself. Fine if that's what you're after — but not the Kefalonia experience. Overpriced "private yacht" packages from Argostoli harbour touts: A simple motorboat hire from Fiskardo gives you more freedom for a fraction of the price.

May–June: Calm seas, uncrowded, ideal conditions. Best months for boat trips overall. July–August: Great weather but afternoon winds (Meltemi) can be strong. Always depart in the morning. September–October: Warm sea, much calmer winds than August, far fewer tourists. Arguably the best boat trip season.

Browse our full Kefalonia tours & experiences page for featured local operators including Rolling Into The Blue and more. Not sure if Kefalonia is the right island for you? Compare Kefalonia with other Greek islands