Votsalakia Samos : West Coast Boat Cruise with Lunch

Exploring the Votsalakia Samos West Coast Boat Cruise with Lunch

If you’re looking to experience the stunning coastline of Samos from a different perspective, this boat cruise from Votsalakia offers a taste of the island’s natural beauty without breaking the bank. While we haven’t personally taken this exact trip, reviews and detailed descriptions paint a picture of a leisurely, picturesque day spent exploring secret beaches, caves, and breathtaking scenery.

What makes this tour stand out? First, the crystal-clear waters at swimming stops like Limnionas are perfect for a refreshing dip or snorkeling. Second, the expert captain Vaggelis and friendly crew seem to make the journey smooth and enjoyable, with insights into the area’s best spots. Lastly, the inclusion of a sandwich lunch and free WiFi onboard adds comfort and convenience to the experience. However, a potential consideration is that the lunch portions might be a bit light for some travelers, as one reviewer pointed out. This tour is ideal for those wanting a relaxed, scenic day on the water and who are okay with basic amenities.

Who would this trip suit best? If you enjoy short, guided boat trips with opportunities for swimming and sightseeing and prefer a budget-friendly option, you’ll likely find this tour a good fit. It’s especially suited for travelers who value authentic coastal views and friendly crew service over luxury extras.

Good To Know

• Stunning natural scenery with impressive peaks and secluded bays
• Swimming stops in crystal-clear waters, great for snorkeling and relaxing
• Informative guides and friendly crew enhance the overall experience
• Affordable price with included lunch and WiFi offers good value
• Limited lunch portions might leave some wanting more
• Weather-dependent activity, so check conditions beforehand

You can check if your dates are available here:

An In-Depth Look at the Votsalakia West Coast Boat Cruise

This four-hour adventure offers a chance to soak up the scenic beauty of Samos’ north coast, blending relaxing beach stops with stunning vistas of Mount Kerkis. For many, the highlight is the opportunity to jump into clear, inviting waters at Limnionas, a location that travelers consistently praise for its transparency and natural beauty.

The Itinerary Breakdown

The tour begins at Votsalakia pier, where you’ll hop onto the boat named Cleopatra around 10:00 am. It’s important to arrive at least 10 minutes early to settle in and make sure you’re ready for departure. The captain, Vaggelis, and his crew seem to be well-liked for their approachable nature and local knowledge — many reviews mention how friendly and helpful they are, making the trip feel more like a friendly outing than a commercial tour.

The first stop is a deep sea cave near Limnionas, which is a photographer’s dream. Expect to disembark for a quick photo opportunity before heading toward Klima around 11:00 am. Klima, a tiny fishing village, offers that quintessential Greek coastal charm, with colorful houses and serene views.

Approximately 40 minutes are spent at the limestone bays of Limnionas, where you’re encouraged to take a swim or snorkel in the calm, turquoise waters. Reviewers often highlight how crystal clear the water is, making it ideal for both relaxing floats and underwater exploration. One mentions the great swim stop as a major highlight, noting that the water is perfect for snorkeling.

The boat then begins its journey back around 12:15 pm, with a final chance to enjoy the scenery or chat with fellow travelers. The cruise concludes at Votsalakia pier around 2:00 pm, leaving plenty of time afterward to explore local beaches or grab a meal.

What’s Included and What’s Not

For just $44 per person, the tour provides a boat ticket, a sandwich lunch, and free WiFi onboard. The sandwich, while not lavish, appears to be enough to keep you going during the trip, especially given the short duration. Some reviews mention that the lunch might be a bit skimpy, but it’s generally considered decent value for the price.

Drinks are not included, so if you want anything other than water, you should bring cash along. The lack of hotel pickup and drop-off means that travelers need to arrive at the pier independently—so planning your transport is essential. The pier is conveniently located in front of Hotel Votsalakia, making it easy to find.

The Experience and Atmosphere

The trip is described as relaxed and friendly, with many reviewers appreciating the knowledgeable guides and the stunning scenery. The boat, Cleopatra, is modest but comfortable enough for a small group, enhancing the feeling of a personalized adventure. The free WiFi onboard is a nice touch, allowing for quick photos or sharing moments during the cruise.

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Authentic Insights From Reviewers

Multiple travelers praise the friendly crew and captain Vaggelis for their attentiveness and local knowledge. One reviewer notes, “Really nice trip for this amount,” highlighting that the overall value is quite good. Others mention the crystal waters and the swimming stops as the main reasons they’d recommend this cruise.

However, some found that weather conditions affected their experience — on windy days, fewer people took the chance to swim, which is understandable given the open nature of the boat. So, if you’re planning this trip, it’s worth checking the forecast.

Why You Might Choose This Tour

This cruise is best suited for travelers who want to enjoy a short, scenic boat ride with the chance to cool off in beautiful waters. It’s ideal for those who appreciate a relaxed pace, friendly crew, and picturesque coastal views. The included lunch and WiFi are practical extras that add to the comfort, especially for budget-conscious travelers.

If you’re the type who prefers more luxurious amenities or longer excursions, you might want to explore other options. But for a lighthearted day on the water, with a focus on natural beauty and easy swimming, this cruise hits the mark.

Practical Tips for Your Trip

• Arrive early: Be at the pier at least 10 minutes before departure.
• Bring cash: For drinks, souvenirs, or any additional snacks.
• Pack essentials: Sunglasses, sun hat, swimwear, sunscreen, and water.
• Check weather: Tour depends on sea and weather conditions.
• Transportation: Since no transfers are included, plan your transport to the pier accordingly.
• Duration: Expect to be back around 2:00 pm, leaving plenty of time for the rest of your day.

FAQs

Is there a hotel pickup or drop-off?
No, this tour does not include transport from your hotel; you’ll need to reach the pier in front of Hotel Votsalakia independently.

How long does the cruise last?
The entire trip lasts approximately four hours, starting at 10:00 am and returning around 2:00 pm.

Are drinks included?
No, drinks are not included, so bring cash if you want to purchase beverages or additional snacks onboard.

What should I bring?
Bring sunglasses, a sun hat, swimwear, sunscreen, water, and cash for extras.

Is this trip suitable for non-swimmers?
It’s not recommended for non-swimmers since swimming stops are part of the experience.

What is the main highlight of this tour?
Expect stunning scenery, especially at Limnionas, with opportunities for swimming in clear waters and exploring caves.

How is the lunch?
The included sandwich is generally considered simple but sufficient for a short trip. Some reviews mention it being a bit skimpy.

What should I do if the weather is windy?
Check the forecast beforehand; windy days may limit swimming options, but the scenery is still worth the trip.

Final Thoughts

This West Coast Boat Cruise from Votsalakia offers a straightforward, enjoyable way to explore Samos’ northern coastline without fuss. It’s a solid choice for travelers seeking a relaxed day filled with beautiful views, swimming, and friendly service. While it may not satisfy those craving luxury or extensive sightseeing, the combination of affordability, scenic stops, and a good crew makes it a worthwhile addition to your island adventures.

Perfect for families, solo travelers, or couples wanting a compact, scenic escape, this tour balances fun and relaxation with authentic Greek coastal charm. Just remember to arrive prepared, check the weather, and enjoy the natural beauty that makes Samos such a special place.

Note: The experience is subject to sea and weather conditions, so flexibility and a positive mindset will ensure you make the most of your day on the water.

You can check if your dates are available here: