Best Boat Trips in Corfu: Sailing Cruises, Paxos, Antipaxos & Hidden Coves.
- Jul 21
- 8 min read
Updated: Jul 24
You cannot truly discover Corfu while staying only on land.
From the sea, the island looks completely different: green hills slope down almost to the water, small villages hide between secluded coves, and the fortresses of Corfu Old Town seem to rise directly above the Ionian Sea.
A boat trip in Corfu is not simply a way to see beautiful places. It becomes a full day of travel, with swimming in crystal-clear water, stops at small harbours, sea caves, islands, and beaches that are difficult to reach by road.
In this guide, I have gathered a variety of options — from an affordable sailing cruise lasting a few hours to a private trip by speedboat.
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A half-day sailing cruise is an excellent choice for travelers who want to experience the sea without dedicating an entire day to a boat trip.
The cruise departs from Gouvia Marina in the Kontokali area and lasts approximately four hours. During the journey, you'll have time for swimming, snorkeling, and relaxing on board while enjoying the beautiful coastline of Corfu.
One of the biggest advantages of this experience is the small group size. Depending on the yacht, there are usually between 6 and 12 guests, creating a much more peaceful and personal atmosphere than a large tourist boat.
Perfect for:
your first sailing experience;
families;
travelers with only half a day available;
those who prefer small-group excursions;
capturing beautiful photographs of Corfu from the sea.
Duration: Approximately 4 hoursDeparture: Gouvia Marina, Kontokali, CorfuSeason: Approximately May to OctoberPrice: From €100 per person
If you'd rather slow down and spend an entire day at sea, a full-day sailing cruise is the ideal choice.
With approximately eight hours on the water, you'll have plenty of time to swim in crystal-clear bays, relax on deck, and explore more of Corfu's beautiful coastline. This is far more than a short excursion—it's a complete sailing experience.
The cruise also departs from Gouvia Marina in the Kontokali area. It is particularly well suited to travelers who want to escape the crowded beaches and enjoy Corfu from a peaceful perspective out on the Ionian Sea.
Duration: Approximately 8 hoursDeparture: Gouvia Marina, Kontokali, CorfuSeason: Mainly from May to OctoberPrice: From €140 per person
If you prefer a slower pace and want to make the most of your day at sea, a full-day sailing cruise is the perfect choice.
With approximately eight hours on the water, you'll have plenty of time to swim in crystal-clear bays, relax on deck, and discover more of Corfu's beautiful coastline. This is much more than a short excursion—it's a complete sailing experience.
The cruise also departs from Gouvia Marina in the Kontokali area. It is ideal for travelers who want to escape the busy beaches, enjoy the peaceful atmosphere of the Ionian Sea, and experience Corfu from a completely different perspective.
Duration: Approximately 8 hoursDeparture: Gouvia Marina, Kontokali, CorfuSeason: Mainly from May to OctoberPrice: From €140 per person
Paxos and Antipaxos are among the most popular destinations for a boat trip from Corfu.
On this private cruise, you'll have the opportunity to visit the charming harbor of Lakka on Paxos, explore spectacular sea caves—including the famous Blue Caves—and stop for swimming in the crystal-clear waters of the Ionian Sea.
One of the featured itineraries departs from Corfu Old Port and lasts approximately eight hours. The trip takes place aboard a private speedboat with a limited number of guests, offering a much more exclusive experience than a large group excursion.
Please note that fuel is not included in the price for some tours. Be sure to check exactly what is included before making your reservation.
Perfect for:
first-time visitors to Corfu;
travelers who enjoy exploring sea caves;
couples, families, or small groups;
those who prefer private boat experiences;
an unforgettable full-day cruise.
Duration: Approximately 8 hoursDeparture: Corfu Old Port or another specified departure pointHighlights: Paxos, Antipaxos, Lakka & the Blue CavesSeason: Mainly from May to October
The northeast coast of Corfu is famous for its lush green hillsides, secluded coves, and charming seaside villages.
A boat trip along this coastline offers a completely different perspective of the island. Many of its hidden beaches and quiet bays are far easier to reach by sea than by road, making this one of the most rewarding ways to explore Corfu.
The tour available in the catalog is a private eight-hour speedboat experience departing from Gouvia Marina. The itinerary is designed for a relaxed journey along the northeast coast, with stops for swimming, sightseeing, and enjoying some of the island's most picturesque locations.
This experience is an excellent choice for travelers who have already visited Corfu Old Town and the island's famous beaches but would like to discover a quieter, more authentic side of Corfu.
Duration: Approximately 8 hoursDeparture: Gouvia Marina, Kontokali, CorfuSeason: Approximately May to OctoberFormat: Private speedboat trip
Corfu's northwest coast is known for its dramatic cliffs, rugged shoreline, and spectacular panoramic sea views.
This full-day private speedboat trip departs from Gouvia Marina and lasts approximately eight hours. It is designed for travelers who want to discover a different side of Corfu—wilder, more open, and shaped by impressive coastal landscapes.
The experience is all about enjoying the journey itself: cruising along the coastline, swimming in crystal-clear waters, and visiting secluded places that are difficult to reach from the island's main resort areas.
Duration: Approximately 8 hoursDeparture: Gouvia Marina, CorfuFormat: Private speedboat tripSeason: Mainly from May to October
Northwest of Corfu lie the peaceful Diapontia Islands—Erikousa, Othonoi, and Mathraki.
Far less visited than Paxos and Antipaxos, these islands are perfect for travelers who have already explored Corfu or are looking for a more unusual destination away from the typical tourist routes.
This full-day private speedboat excursion departs from Gouvia Marina and lasts approximately eight hours. The itinerary allows you to discover remote islands, swim in crystal-clear waters, and enjoy some of the most untouched landscapes in the Ionian Sea.
It is one of the most exclusive experiences in this collection. As it is a private charter, the price is higher, making it an excellent option for families or groups who wish to hire an entire boat for the day.
Duration: Approximately 8 hoursDeparture: Gouvia Marina, CorfuRoute: Erikousa, Othonoi & MathrakiFormat: Private speedboat trip
From Corfu, you can sail not only to nearby islands but also to the beautiful coastline of mainland Greece.
One of the most popular routes takes you to Sivota, the famous Blue Lagoon, and Bella Vraka Beach. This area is renowned for its crystal-clear turquoise waters, picturesque islets, and secluded coves that create some of the most stunning coastal scenery in northwestern Greece.
The catalog includes both full-day cruises and shorter sunset boat trips. Depending on the experience you choose, departures are available either from Gouvia Marina or from Lefkimmi Port in southern Corfu.
Before booking, be sure to check the departure port carefully. Traveling from northern or central Corfu to Lefkimmi can take a considerable amount of time.
Perfect for:
swimming in crystal-clear turquoise waters;
a relaxing full-day boat trip;
travelers wishing to visit mainland Greece;
families and small groups;
a memorable sunset cruise.
A sunset cruise is the perfect choice for travelers who want to enjoy a memorable evening at sea without spending the entire day on the water.
The catalog includes a two-hour private boat trip departing from the Kontokali area, as well as a three-hour sunset cruise from Lefkimmi Port towards the Blue Lagoon, Bella Vraka Beach, and Sivota.
Private cruises are naturally more expensive than group excursions, but the entire boat is reserved exclusively for you and your companions. It's an excellent option for celebrating a special occasion, an anniversary, a family gathering, or simply ending a day in Corfu with an unforgettable sunset over the Ionian Sea.
Duration: Approximately 2–3 hoursFormat: Private boat charterDeparture: Kontokali or Lefkimmi, depending on the tourSeason: Mainly from May to October or November
For first-time visitors to the island, a cruise along Corfu Old Town is one of the most rewarding experiences.
From the sea, you'll enjoy unique views of the Old Fortress, the historic skyline of Corfu Town (Kerkyra), Pontikonisi (Mouse Island), and the coastline stretching towards Benitses. This itinerary combines a relaxing boat trip with the opportunity to admire some of Corfu's most iconic landmarks from a completely different perspective.
It is an excellent choice for travelers who want to discover not only Corfu's beaches and secluded bays but also its rich history, architecture, and cultural heritage.
Duration: Approximately 8 hoursHighlights: Corfu Old Town, Old Fortress, Pontikonisi (Mouse Island), BenitsesFormat: Private boat cruise
Which Boat Trip Should You Choose?
The best choice depends on your available time, budget, and the places you would most like to discover.
For Your First Boat Experience
Choose the half-day sailing cruise from Gouvia Marina. Lasting around four hours, it offers an excellent introduction to sailing and is more affordable than a private boat charter.
For a Full Day at Sea
A full-day sailing cruise is an excellent balance of sailing time, a small group atmosphere, and reasonable value.
To Visit Corfu's Most Famous Islands
Choose a cruise to Paxos, Antipaxos, and the Blue Caves.
For a More Secluded Experience
Consider exploring Corfu's northeast coast or the Diapontia Islands.
For a Memorable Evening
A private sunset cruise is the perfect way to end your day.
For Families or Groups
A private speedboat charter can be surprisingly good value when the cost is shared among several passengers. Before booking, always check the maximum number of guests allowed on board.
What to Check Before Booking
Before confirming your boat trip, it's worth checking a few important details:
the exact departure port and departure time;
the total duration of the trip;
whether the price is for the entire boat or per person;
whether fuel is included;
whether drinks, meals, and snorkeling equipment are provided;
the maximum number of passengers;
the cancellation or rescheduling policy in case of bad weather;
which stops are guaranteed and which depend on sea conditions;
whether you need to arrange your own transportation to the marina.
Boat trips are always weather-dependent. Routes, departure times, and swimming stops may be adjusted by the captain to ensure everyone's safety.
What to Bring
Even on a short cruise, it's a good idea to bring:
swimwear;
a towel;
a hat or cap;
sunscreen;
drinking water;
a lightweight shirt or cover-up for sun protection;
non-slip footwear;
a waterproof case for your phone and documents;
a light jacket for the return trip in the evening.
Try not to overpack—space on smaller yachts and speedboats is usually limited.
When Is the Best Time to Take a Boat Trip?
The main boating season in Corfu generally runs from May to October. During the beginning and end of the season, the sea may be a little cooler, but the island is usually much quieter.
If you're visiting in July or August, it's highly recommended to book popular cruises in advance. Morning departures are often the most comfortable, and it's always wise to check the weather forecast before your trip.
Corfu from the Sea
Some places can only truly be appreciated from the water.
Corfu is one of them.
Its lush green coastline, historic fortresses, hidden coves, and neighboring islands come together into one unforgettable landscape when viewed from the sea.
Whether you choose a few relaxing hours under sail, a full day on a yacht, a cruise to Paxos and Antipaxos, or an adventure to the remote Diapontia Islands, each journey reveals a different side of Corfu—historic, peaceful, wild, and filled with the bright light of the Ionian summer.
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