If you are staying in Corfu and looking for a day trip then definitely consider a boat trip to Paxos and Antipaxos. Antipaxos is a tiny island with a small amount of residents. Paxos is a larger island but still off the tourist trail and far away from the cruise liners. Is Paxos worth visiting? We think so!
You will enjoy taking a boat trip to Paxos and Antipaxos with kids when you are on holiday in Corfu. Read on to find out all about it…..
Leaving Corfu
The boat trip to Paxos and Antipaxos is advertised throughout Corfu. You will be able to organise it directly with your hotel or from a local tour company. We were staying at the Louis Ionian Sun near Benitses who organised everything for us with Messonghi Travel Centre. We chose this trip as it took us to the blue caves as well as giving some time on the island. The bus took around 1 hour from our hotel to get to the southern tip of Corfu where we departed.
Blue Caves of Paxos
After departing from Corfu, the boat trip to Paxos and Antipaxos first sailed around the East Coast of Paxos. Erimitis Bay is postcard perfect with white powdery sand and the first landmark the boat passes. Shortly afterwards, the boat sails into the Blue Caves. The Blue Caves of Paxos have their name because of the brilliant blue sea surrounding it. Ypapanti Cave is a place where the boat actually sails right into the cave offering breathtaking views.
Poseidon’s Nest
During the boat trip to Paxos and Antipaxos islands the boat will stop at Poseidon’s Nest. The area that Poseidon created for Amphritrite after they were married (see History of Paxos Island below). Looking at the rocks you will see 3 holes in the cliffs which legend say is Poseidon’s trident.
History of Paxos Island
Paxos island is the smallest of the Ionian islands. According to legend, Poseidon, god of the sea, was in love with a sea-nymph called Amphitrite and asked her to marry him. Amphitrite refused so Poseidon sent a dolphin to convince her. She eventually agreed and Poseidon looked for somewhere to live with his new wife. Paxos was formed when Poseidon struck Corfu with his trident. A piece of the island broke away thus forming Paxos. So the legend goes….
Booking.comAntipaxos Island
Antipaxos has a population of only 50 people and apparently only has 1 hotel. It is not an island that you would go to for a holiday but great for a day trip. Or, of course, to be seen during a boat trip to Paxos and Antipaxos.
Our boat trip didn’t stop on the island but moored off-shore in the most beautiful turquoise water. We had dramatic cliff and beach views and were able to jump off the boat and go snorkeling and swimming. Luckily, we managed to see a few colourful fish and swim over towards the beach. The only drawback is that during summer months it is busy with a few boat loads of people.
Gaios, Paxos Island
Once the snorkelling is finished you will be taken to Gaios on Paxos island. What is Paxos like? Paxos is a delightful island full of Greek charm. Sail boats line the harbour with cute cafes and restaurants overlooking the water. A charming place to stop for lunch.
We had 2 hours free time in Gaois, Paxos which was more than enough to browse the shops, wander the backstreets and stop for lunch. It is popular with day trippers as well as holiday makers and yachtys! However, despite it being busy we were still able to get a feel for the place and soak it all in.
I adored the boutique shops, nautical themed bars and cafes, art galleries and general atmosphere. The front, sea-facing restaurants fill up quickly so if you are looking for lunch with a view grab a seat sharpish! We are always happy to wander around and hit the less popular places in the backstreets and we managed to find a little traditional taverna for some souvlaki! Perfect.
There isn’t a beach (that we saw) in this area so don’t expect to come for another swim when you come ashore. Take the time to soak up the traditional Greek town and fill up on some lovely sea-food and Greek dishes.
Back to Corfu
Once back on board the boat the journey back to Corfu took around 45 minutes. The boat with Messonghi Travel Centre had a bar where you can get cold drinks, coffees and alcoholic drinks. So we naturally enjoyed a cold beer on the way back. Buses were waiting when we got back to take us back to the Louis Ionian Sun hotel. We particularly enjoyed that this boat was not overpacked, some of the other boats we passed were FULL of people.
Overall, a lovely day out with incredible scenery, snorkeling and lunch in a pretty Greek town. So, is Paxos worth visiting? Yes, we would recommend it!
If you have enjoyed reading this post about A Boat Trip to Paxos and AntiPaxos then check out the Best Family All Inclusive Hotel in Corfu. Whilst you are in Corfu read Corfu Old Town is it Worth It? Also check out Bentises Corfu. When planning a holiday to Corfu think about jumping on the 30min ferry over to Albania and read our Guide to Albania or 5 Reasons to Visit Albania. A full guide to the Albanian Riviera. For other Greek island inspiration read our blog on 5 days driving around Kefalonia.
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