A day on the Ionian Sea starts with serious blue. This Makedonia Palace cruise strings together Lefkada’s best-looking beaches plus Kefalonia and Ithaca stops, then adds extra fun led by Captain Costa and his crew on the top deck. I especially like the mix of short picture stops and actual swim time, because you don’t waste the whole day doing just one thing. The main thing to weigh is that the boat runs big and can feel crowded, with longer boarding and lunch lines at peak moments.

Two things I like a lot: you get classic stops like Porto Katsiki and Egremni for beach time, and lunch is genuinely included (traditional gyros-style pork, Greek salad, and bread). I also appreciate the practical rhythm: you’re on and off the boat multiple times, so the day moves fast even though it runs about 8–9 hours. One drawback to keep in mind is that lunch quality and logistics can be hit-or-miss, so it helps to manage expectations and plan snacks/water for yourself.

If you want an all-in-one day tour that covers several islands with minimal effort, this can be a very good value. It’s offered in English, uses a mobile ticket, and includes a maximum boat capacity that can still feel like a lot when you’re searching for a seat. If you’re traveling with kids who need calm, shallow swimming, some stops may not be their easiest.

Key things to know before you go

• Big-boat energy on Makedonia Palace: lots of nationalities and ages, plus activities on the top deck.
• Beach time that alternates: quick photo stops mixed with longer swim breaks.
• Captain Costa’s personality: witty, interactive crew moments help the day feel lighter.
• Lunch is included, drinks are not: traditional pork gyros-style lunch plus Greek salad and bread.
• Skorpios has a condition for swimming: Jackie Kennedy beach swimming depends on the owner’s presence.
• Plan for crowds and queues: especially around food service and boarding beach areas.

Makedonia Palace in Lefkada: the 8–9 hour island-hopping format

This cruise is built for people who want the most “Ionian Sea greatest hits” in one day. You’ll depart at 9:15am, spend roughly 8 to 9 hours on the water, and return back to the meeting point at the end. The route is straightforward: you hit several high-profile places, then you move on before the day drags.

The boat is large, which matters because it’s a trade-off. You get more stability and room for a group of 500 max travelers, but you also have less control over where you sit once everyone is aboard. If you’re the type who needs a shaded seat and quiet views, go in with a strategy.

Also note the cruise is weather-dependent. If conditions are poor, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund, so don’t assume it’s purely fixed no matter what.

Timing and logistics: how the day really feels

The itinerary moves fast between stops, but the real experience is how long you’re waiting and how often you’re boarding. Some stops are brief (think 15–20 minutes), which is enough for quick photos and a little walking, but not enough to “settle in.” Longer beach stops give you more freedom, yet getting on/off can still take time—especially when the landing is busy.

Crowding also affects the flow of the day. On a boat that size, the announcements may not reach every seat equally, so it helps to keep an eye on what the crew is doing rather than relying only on audio. If you want a smoother day, arrive early, choose your spot wisely, and keep your beach gear ready so you’re not scrambling.

Stop 1: Porto Katsiki for quick photos and instant “wow”

Porto Katsiki is the type of Lefkada beach that people photograph because it looks unreal. Your stop is around 20 minutes, which is short, but it’s designed for that hit-and-run approach: get out, grab pictures, and enjoy the view without burning your day.

What you’ll love here is the classic coastal look—high cliffs and bright water that photographers chase. What you might not love is the “blink and you miss it” timing. If you’re hoping to really swim and lounge, Porto Katsiki may not be your longest break.

Tip for this stop: go early in the stop window, especially if you know you’ll want the iconic angles.

Stop 2: Egremni Beach with about an hour on sand and sea

Egremni is the longer swim stop on the Lefkada side, with about 1 hour to enjoy the water. You get off directly onto the beach via a safe land-and-sun setup, and you can swim, relax, or both.

This is usually the kind of stop that makes the cruise worth it. One hour is enough time to get past the first adrenaline moment, change into swim mode, and actually enjoy the water instead of just looking at it.

The possible drawback is that beach conditions can vary with wind and waves. If you’re traveling with kids or anyone who needs calm water, be ready to choose comfort over bravado. Also remember: the boat is big, and that can mean more people competing for the best spots close to shade.

Stop 3: Fiscardo Harbor on Kefalonia for a real wander

This is where the cruise slows down just enough to feel like a break. You’ll reach Fiscardo Harbor on Kefalonia and have about 1 hour free time to explore the area. Plan for an easy stroll—this stop is less about swimming and more about walking, looking, and soaking up the harbor feel.

Fiscardo is often described as the diamond of the Ionian Sea, and that reputation comes from the combination of pretty seafront views and a town layout that’s pleasant to wander. You’ll likely find photo angles everywhere because the harbor and coastline naturally frame your pictures.

One consideration: one hour goes quickly when you’re trying to see both the water and streets. If you care about specific spots (a viewpoint, a snack stop, or a particular corner), decide early where you want to spend your time.

Stop 4: Afales Beach on Ithaca for swimming and turquoise views

Your Ithaca stop is about 45 minutes at Afales Beach, with a focus on swimming and sunbathing. That window is a nice middle ground: longer than the quick photo stops, shorter than a full beach day. It’s enough time to rinse off, swim, and get one or two good sets of photos before you’re back on the boat.

The attraction here is the water color—people go for that turquoise look that makes you want to jump in right away. Still, remember that “swimming time” depends on actual sea conditions and your comfort level with wavy water or depth.

If you’re traveling with kids, this is one of those stops where you’ll want to judge the water quickly when you arrive. Some beaches aren’t naturally kid-friendly just because they look great from above.

Stop 5: Papanikolis Cave for World War II stories and quick stops

This is a short stop—about 15 minutes—at Papanikolis Cave, connected to the submarine hiding story from World War II. The idea here is that you’re getting a quick sense of place and a visual connection to the past, rather than a full history lesson.

What makes it worthwhile is how the story adds meaning to the scenery. You’re not only looking at a dramatic coastline; you’re seeing a place tied to real wartime strategy. In a short stop, you’ll likely just catch the essential info and take a few photos.

The drawback is obvious: 15 minutes is not enough for deep reading or exploring beyond the immediate viewpoint. Come with curiosity, not expectations of a museum visit.

Stop 6: Skorpios and Jackie Kennedy beach—fun with one real condition

Skorpios Island is next, with about 30 minutes total. You’ll tour around and get information on the island, including its connections to Onassis and its current ownership by Ribilovlev. There’s also a swim option at what people call Jackie Kennedy beach.

Here’s the important part: the tour mentions swimming at Jackie Kennedy beach if the owner Ribilovlev is not at the island. That means your “swim certainty” depends on circumstances, not just timing. If you’re hoping for that specific beach, go with flexibility—if it doesn’t happen, you still get the island stop.

This is also typically a highlight for people who like seeing a well-known island rather than only random coastlines. Even if your swim time changes, the island’s reputation gives the stop extra pull.

Lunch on the cruise: included gyros style, but manage the line

Lunch is included in your price, but drinks are not. The lunch is traditional gyros pork, Greek salad, and two pieces of bread. That’s a clear, simple menu, and it’s meant to be quick and filling rather than fancy.

Now the practical part: lunch service can get messy. People report long queues with multiple lines funneling into one, and it can feel like a scramble. If you’re hungry at lunch time, expect the wait and don’t plan to stretch your day by eating at the last second.

Also, there’s a reality check on food quality. Some people felt the lunch—especially the veggie option—wasn’t great, while others were fine with it. So I’d treat it as a “get fed” meal, not a food highlight.

Smart move: bring a small snack you like (or at least water) just in case lunch pacing doesn’t match your hunger level.

The value question: is $60.46 worth it?

At around $60.46 per person for a full day with multiple island stops, this cruise can be good value—mainly because the price bundles the boat ride, several high-demand stops, and lunch. Without a single “all day” package, you’d likely spend more piecing together transport, separate tours, and beach transfers.

That said, value depends on how you like to travel. If you want calm, uncrowded beaches and long stays in one place, the big-boat format can feel less efficient. If you’re happy with a “see a lot” style and you’re prepared for crowds, you’ll probably feel like you got your money’s worth.

Think of it this way: you’re paying for variety and convenience. You’re not paying for a private boat, reserved seating, or long, unhurried time at each stop.

Who this cruise fits best (and who should skip it)

This tour suits you if you want:

• a high-impact day with famous beaches and multiple stops
• a fun group atmosphere with an entertaining captain and crew
• included lunch and an easy itinerary that doesn’t require planning every transfer

It may not be your best match if you need:

• lots of shaded seating for hours (the top deck can be a sun situation)
• a quiet ride without crowd stress
• kid-friendly, shallow swimming at every beach stop

If you’re sensitive to heat, crowd noise, or long lines, you can still go—but you’ll enjoy it more with a strategy.

Practical tips to make the day smoother

Here are the things that will help the most, based on how the day plays out.

Arrive with beach-ready essentials

Bring sunscreen, a hat, and a towel. If you have it, a pair of water-friendly sandals helps for getting onto and off the boat and walking on beach surfaces.

Plan for queues

Don’t treat lunch like a sit-down meal with quick service. If you can eat a little earlier or accept the wait, you’ll stay happier.

Pick your seat with intention

The boat can be very full, and some areas won’t have shade for long stretches. Choose where you can tolerate sun and where you can still hear important announcements.

Know that boarding can take time

At some beach stops, getting off can feel slower than you expect. Keep your valuables simple and reachable so you’re not digging through bags while everyone waits.

Should you book the Makedonia Palace Ionian Sea cruise?

Yes, if you want a classic Ionian Sea “greatest hits” day from Lefkada and you’re comfortable with a large, busy boat. You’ll likely love the beach variety and the fact that Captain Costa and the crew bring a lively tone to the day. The included lunch adds real value, especially when you factor in a full day of transport and stops.

Maybe not, if your top priority is quiet, uncrowded lounging or you’re traveling with kids who need consistently calm, shallow water. In that case, you might prefer a smaller boat or a beach-focused day plan.

If you book, do it with the right expectations: this is a fun, efficient route with stunning views—but you should go prepared for crowds, sun, and lunch logistics.

FAQ

FAQ

What time does the cruise start?

The cruise starts at 9:15am.

How long is the Makedonia Palace cruise?

The duration is about 8 to 9 hours.

Where does the tour end?

It ends back at the meeting point.

What’s included in the price?

Lunch is included (gyros pork, Greek salad, and 2 pieces of bread). The boat tour itself is included.

Are drinks included with lunch?

No. Alcoholic beverages and cold/hot drinks are not included.

Is the tour offered in English?

Yes, it’s offered in English.

Is there an admission ticket for the stops?

The stops listed are shown as free admission tickets, while the lunch is included in the price.

Does the cruise require good weather?

Yes. The experience requires good weather, and if it’s canceled due to poor weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

Can I get a mobile ticket?

Yes, you’ll receive a mobile ticket.

How many people can be on board?

The tour has a maximum of 500 travelers.