East coast cruise – Sightseeing and BBQ Lunch

A Day on the Water Around Corfu: Sightseeing and a Barbecue Lunch

Exploring Corfu by boat offers a different perspective on this lush Greek island. The East coast cruise by Mitsouli Cruises is a 7-hour adventure designed for travelers seeking a relaxing day of scenic views, swimming, and good food. The boat “Aeolos” departs from Corfu’s Old Port, providing a comfortable and intimate way to see some of the most picturesque spots along the coast.

What I particularly like about this experience is how it combines a gentle cruise with opportunities to swim in crystal-clear waters — perfect for anyone wanting a break from land-based sightseeing. The BBQ lunch prepared on board, made from fresh ingredients and grilled right on charcoal, adds a delicious touch to the day. Plus, visiting iconic sites like Durell’s House in Kalami or passing by the Rothschild tower makes it more than just a boat trip; it’s a mini history tour on water.

A small possible drawback could be that the schedule is somewhat flexible—the captain can change the itinerary if weather conditions or other unexpected factors arise. This is typical for sea excursions, but it’s worth keeping in mind if you’re tightly scheduled. Also, the boat lacks the facilities of a regular restaurant, so don’t expect formal dining; instead, the picnic-style BBQ offers a casual, tasty meal with a view.

This cruise feels like a well-balanced way to experience Corfu’s coast, especially if you enjoy scenic sailing, swimming, and a laid-back atmosphere. Whether you’re traveling solo, with a partner, or family, it offers a chance to relax, explore, and soak up some of the island’s natural beauty.

Key Points / Takeaways

• Scenic Coastal Views: From Corfu Town to the highest mountain Pantocrator, the route offers stunning scenery and photo opportunities.
• Unique Stops for Swimming: Nissaki cave and Limnopoula Bay are highlights for swimming in clear waters, ideal for cooling off and enjoying nature.
• Rich Landmarks: Pass by Durell’s White House in Kalami, the Rothschild tower, and Villa Anielli, adding a touch of historical intrigue.
• Relaxed Atmosphere: The cruise is described as “relaxing,” perfect for unwinding while enjoying the sea breeze and views.
• Authentic Food: The BBQ lunch, grilled on charcoal with fresh products, stands out as a memorable meal that emphasizes quality over fancy restaurant fare.
• Authentic Experience: Guided in several languages (English, French, German, Italian), the crew focuses on making sure everyone enjoys the journey with local insights.

Exploring the Corfu Coastline: What to Expect

When I picture the perfect Greek island day, I see a boat gently gliding along shimmering waters, a breeze in my hair, and the sun warming my skin. That’s exactly what this cruise promises. Starting from the Old Port of Corfu Town, just under the New Fortress, you’re immediately greeted with iconic views of Vido Island, the Old Town, the Royal Palace, and the Venetian Fortress. It’s an excellent introduction to Corfu’s historical architecture and seaside charm.

The actual sailing kicks off with a view of colorful seaside villages like Barbati, Nissaki, and Kaminaki. The boat heads towards the coast, passing under the highest mountain, Pantocrator—an impressive sight for those who love a bit of geography with their sightseeing. The first highlight is the Nissaki cave, a popular swimming spot. You’ll get about 20-30 minutes here to snorkel and enjoy the clear waters, which feels like a refreshing reward for the scenic journey.

From there, the cruise continues along the coast, offering scenic views of Kalami (famous for Durell’s White House), Kouloura, and Villa Anielli—built by the Italian family and still an eye-catching sight. Passing by the Rothschild tower, you can imagine the glamorous summer visits of top models and British royalty, which is a fun detail that adds a touch of glamour to the trip.

In the middle of the day, the cruise arrives at Limnopoula Bay. Here, guests are encouraged to relax on the beach for about an hour, enjoying the crystal-clear waters and the stunning backdrop of Erimitis forest. It’s the perfect spot for a swim or just lounging in the sun. Meanwhile, the staff prepares the BBQ—think grilled meats and fresh vegetables, all selected for quality and flavor. The casual, picnic-style meal is a real highlight, especially if you appreciate a good, honest grilled lunch with a view.

The afternoon includes a visit to Kaparelli, a tiny island with one of Greece’s oldest lighthouses. It’s a picture-perfect spot to take photos and imagine the lives of sailors long ago. As the tour wraps up, the boat makes a final swim stop in a beautiful bay before returning to Corfu’s port.

The Itinerary Breakdown: What You’re Actually Doing

The trip is carefully planned to balance sightseeing, swimming, and relaxing. It begins at the Old Port, giving you a chance to take in Corfu Town’s historic charm before heading out to sea. The sightseeing portion covers about 20 minutes near the Venetian Fortress, offering a quick but scenic view of Corfu’s old defenses.

Next, it’s a leisurely sail to Nissaki, lasting about 75 minutes—this stretch is when you can sit back, enjoy the views, and maybe snap some photos of seaside homes and the rugged coast. The swim stop at Agios Arsenios lasts around 30 minutes, giving everyone time to cool off and snorkel if they wish.

Returning to Nissaki for more scenic sailing and sightseeing, the boat reaches Erimitis Bay around noon. For an hour or more, you’re free to relax on the beach or dip into the water. While you unwind, the crew prepares a BBQ feast, making the most of the beautiful setting. The lunch is served picnic-style, passed around as everyone gathers to enjoy grilled offerings and fresh salads.

Post-lunch, the cruise continues to Kaparelli, a tiny island featuring one of Greece’s oldest lighthouses, offering another photo opportunity. The final swim stop takes place later in the afternoon—another chance to enjoy the water before heading back to port.

Who This Tour Is Best For

This cruise is ideal for travelers who:

• Want a relaxed, scenic day out on the water with minimal hassle
• Love swimming in clear, calm waters and enjoying beach time
• Appreciate stunning coastal views and photo-worthy spots
• Enjoy casual, flavorful meals in a picnic atmosphere
• Seek a family-friendly activity that isn’t overly structured but offers plenty of natural beauty

It’s less suited for those with mobility issues, as the boat isn’t equipped with accessibility features. Also, if you’re a strict foodie craving a full sit-down restaurant experience, the picnic-style BBQ might not satisfy you. However, for anyone who values authenticity, great views, and a taste of local life, this cruise offers genuine value.

Price and Logistics: Is It Worth It?

At $52 per person, the price is reasonable for a seven-hour boat trip that includes a BBQ lunch, scenic stops, and swimming opportunities. You’re paying for a well-organized experience, guided in multiple languages, and access to beautiful spots that would be hard to reach alone. The casual style of the picnic lunch could be a plus or minus depending on your expectations—the emphasis is on fresh, delicious grilled products rather than haute cuisine.

The departure point is easy to find, right in Corfu’s Old Port, and the tour website mentions flexible cancellation—up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. This makes booking less stressful if your plans are still up in the air. Plus, the cruise is available with options for coach transfers from your hotel, which simplifies logistics if you prefer door-to-door service.

Who Should Consider This Experience?

If you’re looking for a laid-back, scenic, and interactive way to see Corfu’s coast, this cruise hits the mark. It’s perfect if you want a taste of island life, with the added bonus of swimming and a tasty meal. The guided commentary in several languages enriches the experience, especially if you enjoy learning about local sights while relaxing.

This adventure is best suited for couples, families, or solo travelers wanting an authentic, affordable day at sea. It’s not ideal for those needing special accommodations or with limited mobility, but for most others, it’s a delightful way to sample Corfu’s natural beauty.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long is the cruise?
The entire experience lasts approximately 7 hours, with departure and return from Corfu’s Old Port.

Where does the cruise depart from?
It departs from the Old Port of Corfu Town, just opposite the Cabal nightclub, under the New Fortress.

Is food included?
Yes, a BBQ lunch is included, made from fresh ingredients and grilled right on the boat.

Are drinks available on board?
While the cruise includes the BBQ meal, beverages are available at the onboard bar, which offers drinks, snacks, ice cream, and more.

Can I swim during the trip?
Absolutely. The stops at Nissaki cave, Agios Arsenios, Erimitis Bay, and the final bay provide ample swimming and snorkeling opportunities.

Is the schedule flexible?
The captain can change stops or timing depending on weather or other factors, so your experience might vary slightly from the planned itinerary.

Is this suitable for children?
Yes, children are welcome but must be accompanied by an adult. Be mindful that facilities are basic and the boat may sway in rough weather.

Do I need to bring anything?
Bring essentials like your passport or ID, sun protection, swimwear, towel, and weather-appropriate clothing.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours before the trip for a full refund, offering some flexibility if needed.

In essence, this Corfu cruise offers a blend of scenic beauty, relaxed swimming, and casual dining—perfect for those wanting a memorable, authentic day on the water without over-complication.