As one of the most picturesque Ionian islands in Greece Kefalonia is an ideal destination for boat trips, offering travelers stunning coastlines, hidden coves, turquoise waters, and the chance to explore nearby islands and marine life.
The daily boat trips and small boat excursions in Kefalonia Island are popular, especially in the villages which has own port, such as Argostoli, Poros, Sami or Fiskardo. Now here’s a guide to boat trips in Kefalonia, covering everything from popular routes to travel tips!
Why Take a Boat Trip in Kefalonia?
It’s not really a question, just take a look to the the amazing beaches and coastline of Kefalonia Island! But not just the beautiful and untouched coastline is interesting when visiting Kefalonia to discovering by boat, the nearby islands are also recommended for a visit by boat or by local ferries.

- Unique Scenery: Kefalonia has diverse landscapes, including sandy and rocky beaches, rugged cliffs, and lush scenery almost everywhere. The island is quite big and its coastline is also very long.
- Crystal-clear Waters: the Ionian Sea is known for its deep blue and emerald waters, perfect for snorkeling and swimming. Due to its size the Island of Kefalonia has a lot of parts, which are unharmed.
- Hidden Beaches and Coves: some of the most beautiful spots are only accessible by boat, offering privacy and tranquility. These hidden gem places can be find everywhere around the island, from the north areas to the southern bays.
- Nearby Islands: proximity to Ithaca, Zakynthos, and other small islands provides additional destinations for exploration. Ithaca is not just a beautiful island, but also has great historical heritage, and of course charming traditional fishing villages.

Kefalonia Boat Trips & Routes
Boat Trip From Sami to Ithaca
A boat trip from Kefalonia to Ithaca, home of Homer’s Odysseus, offers a rich historical experience, along with pristine beaches and charming villages. Most of the Kefalonian boat trips to Ithaca depart from the port of Sami village, which lies on the east coast of the island.
From Sami ferries run to Ithaca also, not just daily boat excursions, so if your car rental office allows driving a car in Ithaka, it is possible to discover this small, but great island discover by car (ask car rental office about this). Some organized boat trips include bus transfers, depending on your travel agency.

- Common stops: Vathy (Ithaca’s capital), Gidaki Beach, and Filiatro Beach.
- Trip Duration: approximately 6–8 hours.
- Best For: history enthusiasts, beach lovers, and those wanting a tranquil, scenic journey.
- Tours Available: many local operators offer day trips, with options for guided tours or private boat charters.
- Ports of departure: Sami, Fiskardo
Ferry from Fiscardo to Lefkada
The amazing Lefkada Island is one of the most beautiful islands in Greece, very famous for its extreme blue beaches. It’s worth to know that ferries connect Kefalonia with Lefkada, the ferries depart from port of Fiskardo to Vasiliki village in Lefkada. This trip is self-organized primarily, which depend of the actual ferry schedules between the islands. In this way you can organize with the ferries a mini holiday, spending 2-3 days in Lefkada.

- Highlights: The route offers views of the western coast of Kefalonia and the chance to visit Lefkada, another Ionian gem with fantastic beaches.
- Best For: Those looking for a blend of nature, quaint villages, and beach time.
- Port of departure: Fiskardo
Boat Trip from Argostoli to Zakynthos (Shipwreck Beach and Blue Caves)
Zakynthos’ Navagio (Shipwreck) beach is one of the most photographed locations in Greece, and the Blue Caves offer stunning light reflections in the water. Because Kefalonia Island is just a few kilometers away from Zakynthos Island, you can catch a boat trip from Kefalonia to Zakynthos, departuring primarily from the port of Poros, near Skala village. On the routes the boats usually stop at one of the traditional fishing villages of Zakynthos for a lunch or for a pleasant walk, depending on boat.

- Stops: Navagio beach, Blue Caves of Zakynthos, one of the fishing villages of Zakynthos
- Trip Duration: 8–10 hours.
- Best For: Iconic sightseeing and photography, swimming, and exploring famous landmarks.
- Port of departure: Sami
Trip from Argostoli to Lixouri by a local ferry
The port of Argostoli is well connected with the port of Lixouri by a local ferry, which runs frequently between these towns. The ferry company is called as Ioniansea Ferries, and their ferries can transport to Lixouri passengers and cars both. One of the best feautures of this ferry route that the trip is shorter than driving in the mountains. There are many tourists, who discover the area of Lixouri quite cheap by this Kefalonian ferry.

The ferries between Argostoli and Lixouri run very often, practically every hour in daytime during summer months from the ports of these towns. The actual schedules are
Sunset Cruise Boat Trip from Argostoli
In the port of Argostoli there are some boats, which run to the sea in late afternoons to catch a sunset. These boat excursions of Kefalonia take just a few hours, but the magical views of the sunsets are amazing. The boat cruise alongside the interesting coastline of Argostoli and Lassi, and visit White Rocks beach, which can be accessed only by boat and amous for its high white cliffs.

- Highlights: sunset tour on a boat!
- Stops: White Rocks beach, Vardiani island
- Trip Duration: 3–4 hours.
- Port of departure: Argostoli, capital of Kefalonia Island
Types of Boat Tours in Kefalonia Island
Guided Group Tours
Details: These tours are organized by local operators and usually take place on larger boats or yachts, with a guide explaining the sights and history along the way.
- Pros: affordable, social, and often include extras like snorkeling gear or meals. These are the cheapest options for boat trips in Kefalonia island. You can find these daily excursions in the port of Argostoli, Sami, Fiskardo, Poros, just check the billboards in the ports for actual schedules of excursions.
- Cons: Less flexible and may be crowded during peak season.

Private Boat Charters
- Details: Private charters allow you to rent a boat with a skipper or, if you have the necessary license, to sail yourself.
- Pros: Fully customizable itinerary, more privacy, and ideal for families or groups.
- Cons: Generally more expensive than group tours.
Self-Drive Boat Rentals
For those with boating experience, self-drive rentals allow you to explore independently. Boat rental can be find several ports in Kefalonia Island, such as in Fiskardo, Agia Efimia, Argostoli, Sami, Poros and Lixouri. Discovering the beautiful coastline of Kefalonia is amazing experience with the small boats, and you can visit hidden gems and small bays, which are secluded and untouched!

- Pros: Freedom to explore hidden spots at your own pace.
- Cons: Requires some knowledge of boating; additional safety precautions are necessary.
The west coast of the island, where Myrtos beach is located and the coastline is facing the open Ionian Sea, the small rental boats are usually not allowed to sail due sea currents. The most scenic small bays are located on the west coastline of Kefalonia Island which can be reached by the small boats, because the west areas are filled by steep high cliffs.
Seasonal Considerations
- Best Time for Boat Trips in Kefalonia Island: The prime season is from May to September, with July and August being the warmest and busiest months. It’s worth to check the predictable weather for the days of boat rental.
- Weather Considerations: be cautious of stronger winds and waves which can sometimes impact sea conditions. The east coast is usually calmer and slightly better for a for boat rental.
- Booking in Advance: for peak season, it’s advisable to book boat tours and rentals ahead of time to secure availability.
Top Beaches and Coves Accessible Only by Boat
- Koutsoupia beach: a secluded beach with clear water, ideal for snorkeling. Koutsoupia beach is located on the east coast of Kefalonia island, just a few kilometers from Antisamos beach.
- White Rocks beach: famous for its limestone cliffs and white sand in the area of Lassi. It’s not to far away from Makris Gialos and Platis Gialos beaches, but the cliffs are high and there is no hiking route to this place.
- Fteri beach: a hidden gem surrounded by lush green cliffs and white sand. Fteri beach is listed as one of the most beautiful beaches of Kefalonia island, in the area of Zola village. Taxi boats are also available from the port of Zola to Fteri, which take passengers to Fteri. There is a small hiking trail to Fteri beach, but walking on this path is easy to get lost, the wild bushes are prickly.
Marine Life and Snorkeling Spots
Kefalonia Island is a shelter for loggerhead sea turtles (Caretta Caretta), one of the most relevant nesting places are located here. You can spot these beautiful turtles, especially near Argostoli Bay and Mounda Beach. The Caretta Caretta turtles can be find also in Koutavos lagoon, where often swim near to the coastal promenade.

The best snorkeling spots in Kefalonia are on the beaches which have rocks and pebbles on seabed. The recommended beaches for snorkeling in Kefalonia Island are Antisamos beach, Petani beach, Emblisi beach, the beaches in the are of Fiskardo, and some of the southern beaches. These beaches are excellent for snorkeling, with vibrant fish and underwater landscapes.
Diving Excursions: some tours offer diving packages for certified divers, exploring reefs and underwater caves.
Packing Essentials for Boat Trips in Kefalonia
- Sun Protection: Always bring sunscreen, a hat, sunglasses, and a light cover-up to protect against the strong Greek sun!
- Swim Gear: swimsuits, towels, snorkeling equipment (some tours provide this), and water shoes for rocky beaches.
- Refreshments: while many tours include snacks and water, bringing extra water and light snacks is always wise.
- Camera or smartphone: a waterproof camera or GoPro is ideal for capturing underwater moments.
- Waste Management: Always bring back any waste from your trip, as many coves don’t have disposal facilities.
- Respect Marine Life: Avoid disturbing turtles or fish; watch from a respectful distance.
- Sunscreen Choice: Opt for reef-safe sunscreen to minimize impact on marine ecosystems.
Final Thoughts about Kefalonia Boat Trips and excursions
A boat trip around Kefalonia Island in Greece offers a unique perspective on the island’s natural beauty, combining relaxation with adventure. From charming coastal villages and iconic beaches to hidden coves and nearby islands, there’s a boat trip suited to every traveler’s taste.
By planning ahead and choosing the right type of tour, you can make the most of your time exploring this stunning Greek island by sea!