Ithaca looks better from a boat. From Sami Port, this full-day trip on the traditional wooden Christina III takes you to secluded swim bays, then gives you a real slice of island life in Vathi. It’s the kind of day that mixes big views with simple pleasures: jump in, dry off, eat something local, repeat.

Two things I really like: the onboard riganada snacks (rustic bread with tomato, olive oil, oregano, and stouba), plus the chance to wander Vathi at your own pace. The main drawback to keep in mind is that you’re mostly sitting during the cruising time, and wind can make the ride back a bit choppy, so plan for that.

Key reasons this trip earns its place on your Ithaca day

• Christina III wooden-boat feel: a classic Ionian setup, not a plastic-chair speed run
• Three swim stops that actually matter: Pera Pigadi, Filiatro, and Gidaki give you multiple chances for clear-water breaks
• Included local food and drinks: riganada snacks, seasonal fruit, plus juice and water throughout
• Vathi time that’s built in: enough time to browse, take photos, and grab a coffee near the harbor
• Sea-cave viewing from the water: Lazaretto and nearby caves add drama without turning the day into a hike
• Weather is real on the Ionian: strong winds can affect comfort, especially on the return leg

Leaving Sami at 9:00 a.m.: the day moves fast, in a good way

The day starts from Sami Port at 9:00 a.m. You’ll want to arrive early—at least 20 minutes before—because the boat leaves on time. Once you’re aboard, you can settle in and let the schedule do the work for you. This matters because full-day island trips can turn into chaos when you’re trying to plan transfers, parking, and meals.

On this one, your time is pre-spaced: short sight-seeing cruises between stops, then longer blocks where you can actually swim. That rhythm is a big part of why it feels worth the money.

Christina III: what the boat experience is really like

You’ll be on the boat named Christina III, a traditional handcrafted wooden vessel. That kind of boat often feels more “Ionian” than modern ferries—less like transportation, more like being part of the coastline for the day.

Space is practical rather than luxury. You’ll find seating for the cruising parts, but you shouldn’t expect a ton of places to sprawl out and lounge like you’re on a resort daybed. If you’re the type who likes to lie down between swim stops, bring a realistic mindset: this is a sea-day with movement, not a floating sun deck.

The crew runs things smoothly and keeps an eye on comfort and safety, even when conditions get tougher. One thing I’d call out: the Ionian can pick up wind, and then the boat ride back can feel noticeably more rolling.

Stop 1: Pera Pigadi for swimming and snorkeling calm (or not so calm)

Your first real water time is at Πέρα Πηγάδι (Pera Pigadi). Plan for about 1 hour in the water here. This is where you get that classic “I’m in Greece” feeling fast—clear water, a chance to snorkel if you brought gear, and an easy onboard-to-water rhythm.

Two ways to enjoy this stop:

• If you brought snorkeling equipment, you’ll likely want to use the full hour.
• If not, you can still have a great time just swimming and relaxing by the boat.

Either way, this is a good moment to set up your day’s pacing. Eat a snack after you swim, not before. That simple move helps you feel better if the boat gets a little bouncy later.

Also, this stop comes with included refreshments onboard: riganada, watermelon, and unlimited juice and water. You don’t need to hunt for lunch at stop one—and that’s a real convenience when you’re traveling in the summer.

Stop 2: Filiatro Beach for a longer swim break

Next is Filiatro Beach, with about 1.5 hours to swim and hang out. This is one of those stops where the coastline looks dramatic—rocks framing the water and that turquoise color that makes you want to look twice.

This long swim time is one of the most practical choices of the day. With only a short stop, you’d feel rushed. With 90 minutes, you can do the full cycle: dip in, float around, snorkel a bit, then take a breather and let your body cool down.

If you’re traveling with people who want different things, this stop often works well. The water-focused folks get their swim time. The non-snorkel crowd gets a scenic break that doesn’t require a hike.

Quick sightseeing cruising: the day stays visual between swims

Between stops, there are short sightseeing cruises—think 10 to 15 minutes at a time. They’re not meant to be dramatic presentations with a formal lecture. Instead, you’re simply moving along Ithaca’s coastline so you can look, photograph, and reset.

This is when you’ll feel the scale of the island from the water. It’s also when you’ll notice how the boat itself affects your comfort. If you’re prone to motion sickness, this is the moment to focus on hydration and consider sitting where you feel most stable.

Lazaretto and sea caves: photos without the walking

Later in the day, you’ll get a look around Lazaretto and nearby sea caves. You’re not spending hours there—expect a photo stop and sightseeing for about 10 minutes.

What I like about this kind of stop: it adds character without turning the day into a strenuous plan. You get the rugged feel of Ithaca’s coast, plus that “from the water” perspective you can’t easily replicate from shore.

Bring your phone, of course, but also remember this: boats throw in constant tiny motion changes. If you’re photographing, brace yourself and shoot in bursts. It’s not about skill. It’s about the sea doing its sea thing.

Vathi, Ithaca’s capital: 70 minutes to wander at your own pace

Then comes Vathy (Vathi), the capital of Ithaca. You’ll have about 70 minutes here, which is enough time to do something meaningful without feeling stuck in a long bus loop.

This is your free-time window. Use it for:

• browsing in small shops
• grabbing a coffee near the harbor
• wandering quiet alleyways and getting your bearings

This stop matters because it balances the day. Earlier parts are pure water and coastline views. Vathi adds texture: buildings close to the sea, village streets, and that slower pace that makes the Ionian feel human-sized.

A practical note on meals: the tour includes snacks, fruit, juice, and water. It does not include a full meal. So if you want a proper lunch, plan to buy it during this Vathi window.

Stop 3: Gidaki Beach for your final swim and famous-water payoff

Your last swimming stop is Gidaki Beach, one of Ithaca’s best-known beaches. Expect around 50 minutes in the water. This is the payoff stop: soft pebbles, calm room to settle, and that emerald look that makes people remember this day later.

Because it’s your final swim, I suggest timing your energy. Don’t burn your whole water time sprinting through the nicest spot and then feel rushed. Swim, snorkel if you want, then leave a bit of time to relax and actually enjoy the scene.

When you’re done, the boat heads back toward Sami, with more sailing time built in for the return.

Price and value: is $76 worth it?

At $76 per person for a 7-hour day, the value mostly comes from what you don’t have to plan yourself.

Here’s what’s included:

• Boat tickets
• Traditional riganada snack
• Juice and water (unlimited)
• Seasonal fruit

And what you get on top of that:

• multiple swim stops (with real time at each)
• scenic cruising and a sea-cave photo moment
• free time in Vathi (no extra transport needed)

Where the value can feel thin for some is lunch. The included food is snacks and fruit, not a full meal. One person felt the snack portion was small for the price and also noted there weren’t places designed for relaxing more comfortably. That’s a fair consideration: you’re paying for the boat day and the swim experience, not a full catered lunch.

My advice: if you’re a bigger eater or you want a proper Greek meal, budget for food during Vathi. If you’re happy with snacks and fruit plus a later meal back on the mainland or at your next stop, this can feel like a very efficient day.

What to pack (and what to avoid forgetting)

This is a swim-and-sun day, so pack like you mean it:

• Swimwear and a towel
• Sunscreen and a hat
• Comfortable shoes for Vathi time on shore
• Snorkeling gear (equipment is not provided)

Also, if you’re sensitive to boat motion, I’d bring your usual motion-sickness plan. Wind can rise, and the return ride can feel rougher than the morning.

Who should book this Sami–Ithaca boat trip

This trip is a strong match if you want:

• secluded swimming rather than crowded beach-hopping
• a day where food and drinks are handled for you onboard
• a mix of nature and a real village break in Vathi

It’s less ideal if:

• you need mobility support on boats and uneven shore areas
• you’re pregnant (not suitable for pregnant women)
• you want lots of lounging space or long shore walks

Should you book it? My straight call

I’d book this if your priority is water time with minimal logistics. The combination of included drinks and local snacks, plus several timed swim stops and a proper chunk of Vathi, is exactly how to turn one day into a memorable Ithaca day.

I would hesitate if your ideal boat day includes lots of reclining space, or if you’re very sensitive to wind and bumpy seas. In that case, you might prefer a day plan that’s more shore-based and less dependent on boat comfort.

FAQ

What time does the boat depart from Sami Port?

The boat departs at 9:00 a.m. You should be at the meeting point at least 20 minutes early.

How long is the Ithaca Island boat trip?

The duration is a full day of about 7 hours.

Where is the meeting point?

The starting location is Zaharatos cruises.

What’s included in the price?

Included are the boat tickets, riganada snack, seasonal fruit, and unlimited juice and water.

Is snorkeling equipment provided?

No. Snorkelling equipment is not included, so you should bring your own snorkeling gear.

Do you get time to explore Vathy?

Yes. You’ll have about 70 minutes in Vathy for free time, photos, shopping, and sightseeing.

Is this tour suitable for everyone?

No. It is not suitable for pregnant women or people with mobility impairments.

If you tell me your travel month and whether you plan to snorkel, I can help you decide if this is the right day (and what to focus on during each swim stop).