Nestled in the Ionian Sea, the island of Ithaca beckons travelers with its captivating history and picturesque landscapes. The 7-hour Ithaca Cruise from Sami offers an ideal way to explore this enchanting destination. Passengers can expect a comprehensive sightseeing tour, including stops at stunning beaches, the charming Vathy village, and the historic Lazaretto site. Throughout the excursion, they’ll savor complimentary snacks and fruit, while seeing the island’s rich cultural heritage. Whether you’re a history buff, a nature enthusiast, or simply seeking a relaxing day at sea, this cruise promises an unforgettable experience.
This experience made our list of the 2 Best Cruises And Boat Tours In Vathy.
Key Points
- 7-hour cruise to Ithaca Island from Sami, Kefalonia, with sightseeing stops at Filiatro Beach, Gidaki Beach, Vathy village, and Lazaretto.
- Opportunities for swimming, photography, and guided tours during the cruise, with complimentary snacks and fruit provided.
- 1-hour stop at Filiatro Beach for swimming and photography in a peaceful, scenic setting.
- 1.5-hour stop at Gidaki Beach for relaxation, swimming, and capturing breathtaking vistas.
- 1-hour guided tour of the charming Vathy village, exploring its traditional architecture and cultural heritage.
Cruise Duration and Starting Location
The Ithaca Island Cruise from Sami lasts 7 hours, starting from the location EO Argostoliou Samis 20 in Sami.
Guests will embark on a comprehensive journey, exploring the picturesque island of Ithaca.
The cruise includes several stops, allowing travelers to experience the island’s stunning beaches, charming villages, and historical sites.
From the starting point, the cruise will take passengers on a sightseeing tour, followed by breaks at Filiatro Beach, Gidaki Beach, the village of Vathy, and the Lazaretto.
Throughout the excursion, guests will have the opportunity to swim, take photos, and enjoy guided tours, all while indulging in provided snacks and fruit.
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Sightseeing Cruise Itinerary
The sightseeing cruise itinerary comprises several captivating excursions, commencing with a 20-minute tour to provide an initial glimpse of Ithaca’s coastal landscapes.
Passengers will then disembark at Filiatro Beach for a 1-hour break, allowing time for swimming and photo opportunities.
The cruise continues for 20 minutes before reaching Gidaki Beach, where guests can spend 1.5 hours relaxing, swimming, and capturing scenic shots.
After a 10-minute cruise, the group will explore the picturesque village of Vathy, accompanied by a guided tour, for 1 hour.
The final leg of the journey includes a 50-minute stop at the historic Lazaretto site, followed by a 25-minute cruise back to the starting point in Sami.
Filiatro Beach Activities
After the initial sightseeing cruise, the tour heads to Filiatro Beach, where passengers can spend 1 hour swimming, taking photos, and enjoying the scenic natural setting.
This beautiful stretch of coastline features crystal-clear waters and a peaceful atmosphere, perfect for relaxation. Guests can cool off in the refreshing Mediterranean Sea, snap photos of the rugged cliffs and lush vegetation, and simply take in the breathtaking views.
The stop at Filiatro Beach provides a welcome respite from the boat, allowing travelers to rejuvenate before continuing their journey around Ithaca. With its idyllic setting and ample time for exploration, this beach stop is a highlight of the Ithaca cruise experience.
Gidaki Beach Activities
Following the sightseeing cruise, passengers disembark at the secluded Gidaki Beach, where they can spend 1.5 hours swimming, photographing the stunning scenery, and simply reveling in the tranquil atmosphere.
This picturesque beach, nestled between towering cliffs, offers a peaceful respite from the day’s activities. Travelers can cool off in the crystal-clear waters, explore the unique rock formations, and capture the breathtaking vistas.
The guide provides recommendations on the best spots for photographs and suggests areas for swimming, ensuring guests make the most of their time at this hidden gem.
After the break, passengers reboard the boat for the next leg of their Ithaca adventure.
More Great Thing To Do NearbyVathy Village Tour
Next, the cruise makes its way to the picturesque Vathy village, where passengers have an hour to explore the quaint streets, visit local shops, and learn about the island’s rich history during a guided tour.
The guided tour provides insight into:
- The village’s traditional architecture and its evolution over time
- The significance of the central square and its role in the community
- The legend of Odysseus and his connection to Vathy
- The importance of the local fishing industry and its impact on the village’s economy
With its charming ambiance and fascinating history, Vathy offers a glimpse into the authentic Ithaca experience, allowing visitors to enjoy the island’s cultural heritage.
Lazaretto Photo Stop
The cruise then makes a brief stop at the Lazaretto, allowing passengers to disembark and capture photos of this historic site.
The Lazaretto is an old quarantine station that was used to isolate those with infectious diseases. Passengers will have around 50 minutes to explore the area, taking in the scenic views and learning about the site’s fascinating history.
They’ll be able to wander the grounds, snap photos of the picturesque buildings, and soak up the serene atmosphere.
After the photo stop, it’s back on the boat for the final leg of the cruise, returning to the starting point in Sami.
Cruise Inclusions
In an article titled ‘From Kefalonia: Ithaca Cruise From Sami With Fruit & Snacks’, the Ithaca Island Cruise from Sami includes boat tickets, a host/greeter to guide passengers, and complimentary snacks and fruit throughout the day’s adventures.
The cruise offers several notable inclusions:
- Boat Tickets: Entrance to the cruise is covered, allowing passengers to enjoy the journey without additional fees.
- Host/Greeter: A dedicated host/greeter accompanies the group, providing information and guidance throughout the excursion.
- Snacks & Fruit: Complimentary snacks and fresh fruit are provided, ensuring passengers stay energized and refreshed during the 7-hour cruise.
The cruise features several stops for sightseeing, photo opportunities, and swimming at Filiatro Beach and Gidaki Beach.
What to Bring
Travelers are advised to bring a towel, camera, comfortable clothes, and beachwear for the Ithaca Island Cruise from Sami.
These items will ensure they can fully enjoy the various activities and sights featured throughout the 7-hour excursion.
A towel is essential for drying off after swimming at the beautiful beaches of Filiatro and Gidaki.
A camera is a must-have to capture the stunning scenery, including the picturesque village of Vathy.
Comfortable clothing is recommended for the sightseeing cruises and walking tours, while beachwear is ideal for the swim stops.
With these essentials, travelers can make the most of the cruise’s highlights and create lasting memories of their Ithaca adventure.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is This Cruise Suitable for Families With Young Children?
This cruise appears suitable for families with young children. The itinerary includes beach breaks, photo stops, and guided tours, providing a balanced experience. The included snacks and fruit also cater to the needs of young travelers.
Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks on the Cruise?
You can bring your own food and drinks on the cruise. The cruise includes snacks and fruit, but you’re welcome to pack additional items if desired. However, it’s best to check with the tour operator for any specific policies.
Are There Any Age or Fitness Requirements for Participation?
The cruise doesn’t have any age or fitness requirements, but participants should be comfortable getting on and off the boat and walking short distances. The tour is suitable for most travelers, though families with young children may need to exercise additional caution.
Is the Boat Equipped With Life Jackets and Other Safety Equipment?
The boat is equipped with all necessary safety equipment, including life jackets, as required by maritime regulations. Passengers’ safety is a top priority throughout the cruise.
Can I Customize the Itinerary to Fit My Preferences?
Yes, the cruise allows some customization to fit guests’ preferences. The itinerary can be adjusted, with options to spend more or less time at certain stops or add/remove stops, depending on the group’s interests.
Recap
The Ithaca Cruise from Sami offers an exceptional opportunity to explore the island’s breathtaking coastal landscapes, charming villages, and rich cultural heritage.
With stops at Filiatro Beach, Gidaki Beach, Vathy village, and the historic Lazaretto site, the cruise provides ample time for swimming, photography, and guided tours.
Complemented by complimentary snacks and fruit, this 7-hour excursion is a must-do for those seeking to enjoy the beauty and history of Ithaca.
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