Boat Tour in Egremni, Porto Katsikia and Agiofili in Lefkada

If you’re dreaming of crystal-clear waters, dramatic cliffs, and secluded beaches, Lefkada offers plenty of those postcard-perfect moments. This boat tour, departing from Nidri harbor, promises a day packed with swimming, spectacular scenery, and the chance to visit some of the island’s most famous yet hard-to-reach beaches. While it’s not a luxury cruise, it’s a practical way to tick off Lefkada’s top beaches in one go—especially if exploring by water appeals more than navigating rugged paths yourself.

What we love about this experience are the close-up views of Egremni and Porto Katsiki, the opportunity to swim in pristine waters, and the chance to relax on Agiofili or Lakka Beach—both beaches with limited access by car. The price point makes it quite accessible for a day trip, and the inclusion of snorkeling gear and umbrellas adds a nice touch of convenience.

One possible drawback noted by some travelers is that the overall experience can feel a bit average—particularly if weather conditions aren’t ideal or if the beach crowds fill up quickly. Still, given the limited access to these beaches by land, this tour is likely your best bet for a hassle-free day at some of Greece’s most stunning shores.

This experience tends to suit adventurous travelers, beach lovers, and those eager to see Lefkada’s iconic coast without the hassle of driving or boat rentals on their own. If you’re after a straightforward, scenic itinerary with plenty of swimming, it’s a solid choice.

Good To Know

• Stunning beaches accessible only by sea—Egremni, Porto Katsiki, Agiofili or Lakka
• Inclusive snorkeling equipment and umbrellas for added comfort
• Limited organized facilities, so bring snacks and water
• Duration offers ample time for swimming and relaxation but includes transfers between stops
• Good value for the price considering the three major beaches visited
• Weather-dependent; poor conditions may lead to cancellations or adjustments

An In-Depth Look at the Itinerary

Starting Point: Nidri Harbour

The tour kicks off at Borsalino Travel Lefkada Cruises in Nidri, a lively harbor town that’s a popular jumping-off point for many boat trips. The departure time is 9:30 am, giving you a full day to enjoy the beaches. The group size is capped at 130 travelers, so you’ll likely be part of a lively but manageable crowd.

First Stop: Egremni Beach

The highlight for many is Egremni Beach, renowned for its dramatic cliffs and turquoise waters. You’ll spend approximately 2 hours swimming from the boat and exploring this stunning stretch of sand. The boat, named Nikolaos, is described as comfortable and clean, with helpful staff making the journey more pleasant.

Reviewers like Irene praised the ease of access via the boat and found the steps into the water manageable, making this stop accessible for most. However, the long boat ride may be tiring for some, especially in the sun, but most agree it’s worth it for the picture-perfect scenery.

Second Stop: Porto Katsiki

Next, the boat anchors at Porto Katsiki, often cited as one of Europe’s most beautiful beaches. This stop lasts about an hour, where swimmers can jump into the water via a ladder into the sea. Some reviews mention waves and rougher waters, which prevented some from swimming comfortably. Zoe pointed out that “we were unable to swim at Porto Katsiki due to waves,” emphasizing that conditions can vary.

This beach’s spectacular cliffs and clear waters make it worth the visit, even if you can only admire it from the boat. Because of its popularity, it’s advisable to visit early or be prepared for possible crowds.

Final Stop: Agiofili or Lakka Beach

The last stop is either Agiofili or Lakka Beach—both with their unique charms. Agiofili is described as a medium-sized beach that is easily accessible by boat. If it’s full, the tour switches to Lakka Beach, reachable only by sea, known for its crystal water.

The one-hour swim here offers a relaxed end to the day, with reviewers noting the beautiful, unspoiled waters. Irene mentioned the ease of climbing the steps to Agiofili and found the beach’s tranquility a nice contrast to more crowded spots.

Return to Nidri

The tour wraps up with the return to Nidri, giving you a chance to reflect on the day’s highlights—spectacular landscapes, refreshing swims, and some well-earned relaxation.

What to Expect During Your Day on the Water

Comfort and Convenience: The boat is equipped with umbrellas and shareable snorkeling gear, allowing you to stay protected from the sun and explore underwater life. Since food and drinks aren’t included, many travelers bring snacks or purchase them nearby before departure.

Swims and Photos: You’ll spend most of your day swimming or lounging on the boat. The stops at the beaches are timed—about 2 hours at Egremni, 1 hour at Porto Katsiki, and 1 hour at the final beach—giving enough time to dip into the water, relax, or take photos.

Group Dynamics: With up to 130 passengers, the experience is lively but not overly crowded. Reviewers mention helpful staff, and Irene highlights that the steps to the beach are manageable. If you’re someone who prefers secluded moments, be aware that these beaches can get busy, especially in peak season.

Weather Considerations: As with all outdoor activities, weather is a significant factor. Poor weather can cause cancellations or changes in the itinerary, with the provider offering refunds or alternative dates.

Diving Deeper into Each Stop

Egremni Beach: The Must-See

This beach’s striking high cliffs and clear waters make it a favorite. The longer swim time means more chances to relax and soak in the scenery. Irene remarked that “the journey to the first beach is quite long but the place is beautiful and worth it,” emphasizing the value of the trip despite the travel time.

Porto Katsiki: A Natural Wonder

While famous for its postcard-perfect views, some travelers, like Zoe, experienced less ideal swimming conditions due to waves. Still, the aesthetic appeal and spectacular cliffs are undeniable. The slippery stairs for entry require caution, especially if you’re not comfortable with heights or wet surfaces.

Agiofili and Lakka: Relaxed Endpoints

These beaches provide a peaceful retreat at the end of the day. Reviewers appreciate the crystal-clear water and the relaxed atmosphere. AnaMaria called it “highly recommended,” highlighting the difficult-to-walk-to beaches that are only accessible by sea, making the boat tour the best way to visit.

Practical Tips for Your Trip

• Bring your own snacks and water—the tour doesn’t include food, and the beaches are not organized.
• Apply sunscreen liberally and consider bringing a hat or cap for protection during long sun exposure.
• Wear comfortable shoes or sandals for the steps up at Porto Katsiki.
• Arrive early at the meeting point to avoid last-minute stress.
• Check the weather forecast before booking, as poor weather might affect the experience.

Overall Value and Who It Suits Best

This boat tour offers a cost-effective way to visit Lefkada’s most celebrated beaches without the hassle of self-driving or renting a boat. The 8-hour duration provides a good balance of sightseeing and swimming, with enough time to enjoy each site. The inclusion of snorkeling gear and umbrellas adds value, especially on hot days.

While some travelers found the experience average and noted that waves at Porto Katsiki can sometimes prevent swimming, most agree that the spectacular scenery and access to otherwise hard-to-reach beaches outweigh these concerns. It’s particularly suitable for adventurous souls eager to explore the coastline, those who prefer organized tours with logistical ease, or families wanting a safe and straightforward day at the beach.

If you love spending your days in the water, enjoy stunning cliff-backed beaches, and prefer guided comfort over navigating yourself, this tour is a solid choice. Just remember to manage expectations on weather and crowd levels, and bring your own provisions for a truly relaxed experience.

FAQ

How long does the tour last?
The tour lasts approximately 8 hours, including travel time between beaches and swimming stops.

Where does the tour depart from and end?
It departs from Borsalino Travel Lefkada Cruises at Nidri harbor and returns to the same spot.

What beaches are visited on this tour?
The stops include Egremni Beach, Porto Katsiki, and either Agiofili or Lakka Beach, depending on availability and conditions.

Is food included?
No, food and drinks are not included. Travelers should bring their own or buy at nearby spots before departure.

Are the beaches organized or crowded?
The beaches are generally pristine and not organized; they can get crowded during peak season. The tour’s timing helps maximize the experience while avoiding some crowds.

Is snorkeling equipment provided?
Yes, shareable snorkeling gear and umbrellas are included to enhance your comfort during swimming stops.

What should I bring for the trip?
Bring sunscreen, water, snacks, a hat, and comfortable shoes for the stairs. A towel or swimwear is essential for swimming.

What if the weather is bad?
The tour requires good weather to proceed. Poor conditions can lead to cancellations or schedule adjustments, with refunds or rescheduling options available.

In summary, this boat trip in Lefkada offers a practical and scenic way to explore its most iconic beaches, especially if you’re after a day of swimming and breathtaking views. It’s best suited for those who don’t mind group tours, variable weather, and a bit of sea travel to enjoy Greece’s crystalline waters.