Paxos and Antipaxos are two small Ionian islands south of Corfu, and a day cruise to them is one of the most popular excursions in the area. Paxos is green and gentle, with olive groves, fishing villages and the pretty harbour of Gaios. Antipaxos is tiny and covered in vineyards, with beaches of white pebbles that look tropical in the sun, such as Voutoumi. Many cruises also take in the sea caves on the Paxos coast, where the water glows deep blue. The trip is a semi-private cruise, with a smaller group than the big-boat day trips, so it feels more relaxed and gives more time for swimming. Boats leave from Corfu and return in the evening, making it a long day, but the scenery makes it worthwhile. This is a summer-season excursion, and the cruises are not operating in November.
How it works
The cruise is booked as a day trip, with departure from the Corfu coast and a full day at sea. Operators run these trips seasonally, roughly from May to October, and Paxos cruises currently show no winter availability. For that reason the page treats it as a summer plan: if you are in Corfu in November, note it for a spring or summer return rather than planning around it. The linked semi-private option costs more than the large-boat day trips, in return for a smaller group and a more relaxed pace.
What to expect
Crossings can be rough in windy weather, and operators change the programme or cancel when the sea is unsafe. Bring a swimsuit, a towel, sun protection and a light jacket for the boat. Lunch is usually at your own expense in a taverna in Gaios or Lakka. Swimming stops are the highlight, with clear water and little current in calm conditions.
Making the most of it
Take seasickness tablets if you are prone, book a spot early in high summer, and pack a waterproof bag for your phone. Choose the semi-private option if you prefer a quieter boat. After the trip, enjoy a late dinner back in the old town.
What to expect
The experience
A full-day semi-private cruise to Paxos and Antipaxos with swimming stops, in the summer season only.
Best time
June to September, when the sea is calm and warm for swimming.
How long
A full day, usually around ten hours door to door.
Tips
Treat this as a spring to autumn plan: cruises are not operating in November, so confirm dates before booking.
Quick picks
- Best for
- Beach and swimming lovers who want to see more of the Ionian than Corfu itself.
- Families
- Good for children who like boats and swimming, but a long day for the very young.
- Couples
- The semi-private format makes for a calmer, more intimate day on the water.
- Pair with
- Paleokastritsa and its sea caves, which are also a summer outing.
- Time needed
- A full day.
Good questions
Do Paxos and Antipaxos cruises run in November?+
No, day cruises to Paxos and Antipaxos are a summer-season trip, running roughly from May to October. In November the excursion is not available.
What do you see on the cruise?+
Paxos and Antipaxos are small Ionian islands with clear water, pebble beaches such as Voutoumi and the harbour village of Gaios. Many cruises also visit sea caves along the coast.
Is lunch included?+
Lunch is usually not included and is taken at your own expense in a taverna on Paxos. Check the details of your chosen cruise.
What if the weather is bad?+
Operators change the route or cancel trips in rough seas for safety. You would normally be offered another date or a refund.
Is this trip suitable for young children?+
It is, but the day is long and the crossings can be rough. Bring snacks, sun protection and seasickness remedies if needed.
