Best Boats for a Day Trip in Corfu — The Complete Guide
A day trip by boat in Corfu is one of the most magical experiences the Green Island has to offer — just the sea, the blue sky, and hidden coves you simply can't reach on foot. In this guide, you'll discover which boats are right for you, which sailing routes are worth it most, and how to make the right choice.
Why a Day Trip by Boat in Corfu Is an Absolute Must
Corfu is one of the most beautiful islands in the Ionian Sea — but anyone who experiences it only from the shore is missing its very heart. A day trip by boat in Corfu isn't just another tourist attraction — it's the only way to reach the places the island keeps hidden from most visitors: coves in shades of transparent turquoise, sea caves where light filters through in shimmering beams, and beaches with nothing but white pebbles and perfectly still water.
If you're planning a visit to Corfu — at least one day out on the water isn't optional. It's an essential part of the experience.
What You Can See from the Sea That You Simply Can't See from Land
Corfu's coastline stretches roughly 217 kilometers — and most of it is only accessible by boat. Hidden coves with no road leading to them, sea caves carved into white rock, and cliffs reflected in the deep blue water — all of it is waiting on the seaward side of the island.
From the water, you also see a different side of Corfu entirely: fishing villages forgotten by time, monasteries perched on hillsides with sweeping views of the sea, and the silhouettes of green mountains descending straight into the water. It's a picture you simply can't get from the main road.
When Is the Best Time to Go Sailing in Corfu
Corfu's sailing season runs from May through October. The ideal months are June through September — long days with sunset around 8:30–9:00 PM, sea temperatures between 24 and 28°C (75–82°F), and light easterly breezes that make for comfortable sailing.
Worth knowing: at the height of summer (July–August), the wind can pick up in the afternoon — so setting out early in the morning, between 9:00 and 10:00 AM, is always the best advice. The water is calmer, the sea is less crowded, and you have the whole day ahead of you.
Types of Boats Commonly Used for Day Trips in Corfu
Not every boat is right for every person. Choosing the right vessel will have a direct impact on the quality of your experience — and your comfort throughout the day.
Small Motorboat — For Couples and Small Families
Small motorboats (between 15 and 40 horsepower) are the most popular choice among couples and families of 2–5 people. They're easy to handle, widely available for self-hire at most marinas, and give you complete freedom of movement — stop wherever you want, whenever you want.
Pros: Affordable pricing (€70–120 per day), full flexibility, easy to anchor even in narrow coves. Cons: Less suitable for rougher seas, limited capacity.
Sailboat — For a Romantic, Leisurely Experience
A day's sailing in Corfu aboard a sailboat is an entirely different kind of experience — slow, quiet, with the sound of the wind rather than an engine. Sailboats typically come with a skipper who handles the boat and knows the area in depth.
It's an excellent choice for couples looking for a romantic day out, and for families who want a full day at sea without the pressure of managing the boat themselves.
Catamaran — Stability and Space for Groups
The catamaran is the most popular choice for groups — friends, large families, and celebrations. Its twin hulls provide excellent stability, there's far more space to sit on deck, and the rate of seasickness is significantly lower.
For groups of 8–12 people, a catamaran with a skipper is the ideal solution — the cost is shared and nobody has to worry about navigating.
Group Tour Boat — The Budget-Friendly Option
Group sailing tours depart from Corfu's port nearly every morning — boats carrying 30–60 passengers, with a fixed route, set stops, and sometimes a meal included. This is the most affordable way to spend a day on the water in Corfu — starting from around €30–50 per person.
Less intimate, but excellent for solo travelers or couples who want the experience without having to organize everything themselves.
The Best Sailing Routes in Corfu
Northern Corfu Route — Sea Caves and Hidden Coves
The north is one of the wildest parts of the island. This route passes through Antinioti Bay (one of the most beautiful in Greece), drops anchor near natural sea caves with deep blue-violet hues inside, and offers swimming at beaches where there's nothing but white cliffs and crystal-clear water.
Estimated sailing time: 5–7 hours Especially suited for: Travelers seeking unspoiled nature, snorkelers, photographers
Southern Corfu Route — Paleokastritsa and the Whale Islands
Paleokastritsa is a stop you absolutely cannot skip — turquoise bays, a centuries-old monastery on a clifftop, and water so clear you can see several meters down. Click in Corfu's private tour to Paleokastritsa includes stops at several of its hidden coves that you simply won't see on a standard group tour.
The "Whale Islands" — a cluster of rocks along the southwest coast — are another picturesque stop that looks like something out of a fantasy film.
Estimated sailing time: 4–6 hours Especially suited for: Couples, families with children, anyone who wants sailing combined with swimming
Mouse Island — A Magical Stop Along the Way
Mouse Island (Pontikonisi) is one of Corfu's most iconic landmarks — a tiny green islet with a white church standing right at its center. According to legend, it's a Phoenician ship turned to stone by Poseidon. What's certain is that the photos you'll take here will be absolutely stunning.
A stop at Mouse Island can be incorporated into almost any sailing route — it's located close to Corfu's port and makes a wonderful starting point for any day on the water.
How Much Does a Day Boat Trip in Corfu Cost — and What's Included?
Before you head out, it's worth understanding the pricing landscape — because there are significant differences between the options. For more detail, see our complete guide to boat rental prices in Corfu.
Price Comparison: Private Boat vs. Group Tour
| Experience Type | Estimated Price | Best For |
|---|---|---|
| Small motorboat rental (self-drive) | €70–130 / day | 2–4 people |
| Group sailing tour | €30–55 / person | Solo travelers, couples |
| Sailboat with skipper | €350–600 / day | 4–8 people |
| Private catamaran with skipper | €500–900 / day | 8–12 people |
| Organized tour with Click in Corfu | Custom pricing | Any group size |
Prices are estimates for the 2024–2025 season and are subject to change depending on the provider and time of year.
What's Typically Included — and What Costs Extra
Usually included:
- Fuel (for small motorboats — not always)
- Life jackets
- Basic map and navigation aids
- Snorkel gear on select tours
Usually costs extra:
- Advanced diving equipment
- Food and beverages (unless stated otherwise)
- Extended insurance coverage
- Skipper services (for self-hire bookings)
Important Tips Before You Head Out to Sea
What to Bring on a Day Boat Trip
A basic packing list you'll be glad you followed:
- High-SPF sunscreen (SPF 50+) — out on the water, the sun is far more intense than on the beach
- Hat and sunglasses — both are essential, not interchangeable
- Plenty of water — at least 2 liters per person
- An extra swimsuit — so you feel comfortable even after you've been in the water
- Water shoes — the deck can be hot and slippery
- A waterproof bag — for your phone and credit cards
- Seasickness medication — even if you've never suffered before, it's worth being prepared
Safety, Insurance, and Basic Rules of the Sea
Greece requires life jackets on all motorized vessels, and most rental companies will provide them. That said, there are a few things to keep in mind:
- Don't head out in the late afternoon when winds tend to pick up
- Let someone know your planned route and expected return time
- Check the weather forecast at least 24 hours in advance (Windy.com is an excellent app for anyone on the water)
- Travel insurance that includes water sports is an investment well worth making
Traveling with Children or Older Adults — What to Check in Advance
With children: Choose a catamaran over a small motorboat — it offers greater stability and more room to move around. Life jackets for children must fit their bodies properly — an adult vest pulled tighter won't do. Opt for a route with frequent swimming stops rather than extended stretches of sailing.
With older adults: Check that the boat has easy access from the dock, that there are shaded seating areas, and that the route doesn't involve rough water or high waves. The organized tours to Paleokastritsa are designed to be comfortable for older travelers as well. For more on visiting Corfu with family, read our practical family travel guide to Corfu.
Organized Sailing Tours with Click in Corfu — Why It's Worth It
Planning a day on the water independently can be overwhelming — boat rental, route planning, gear, food, parking. Click in Corfu takes all of that off your hands.
Our tours are designed by local guides who know Corfu inside and out — including the spots that don't appear in any travel guide.
Tasting & Sailing Tour — Food and Sea in a Single Day
The Tasting + Sailing Tour is one of the most beloved experiences among our visitors — a combination of a day on the water in Corfu with stops at fishing harbors, tastings of authentic local food, and local Greek wine enjoyed right on deck. It's not a food tour, and it's not a sailing tour — it's both, in a single unforgettable day.
Private Tour to Paleokastritsa — A Personalized Experience
The private tour to Paleokastritsa is designed for couples, families, and small groups who want a personal experience rather than a crowded boat full of strangers. Your guide knows every cove and will steer you toward the very best spots — including bays that most tourists never reach.
Frequently Asked Questions About Day Boat Trips in Corfu
How many hours does a day boat trip in Corfu last?
Most day boat trips in Corfu last between 4 and 8 hours, depending on the route and the type of boat. Organized tours typically include stops for swimming, a light meal, and sightseeing, while renting a private boat gives you complete flexibility to set your own schedule.
Do you need a boating license to rent a boat in Corfu?
For small boats up to 15 horsepower, a license is generally not required, and many marinas in Corfu offer these after a brief on-the-water demonstration. Larger boats require a recognized maritime license. It's always a good idea to confirm the requirements with the rental company in advance.
What is the most popular route for a day boat trip in Corfu?
The Mouse Island (Pontikonisi) and Paleokastritsa route is among the most popular with visitors. The northern route with its blue caves and Antinioti Bay is a favorite for those seeking wild, untouched nature, while the southern route offers open Ionian Sea views and stops at traditional fishing villages.
When is the best sailing season in Corfu?
Corfu's sailing season runs from May through October, with June through September being the ideal months. Summer seas are relatively calm, temperatures are comfortable, and the long days of sunlight allow you to make the most of every hour on the water.
Is a day boat trip in Corfu suitable for children?
Absolutely — Corfu is known for its relatively calm seas and crystal-clear, shallow water that's perfect for swimming with kids. The key is to choose a stable vessel like a catamaran, make sure life jackets fit properly, and select routes that include swimming stops rather than long, uninterrupted stretches of sailing.
What's the difference between renting a boat independently and joining an organized sailing tour in Corfu?
Renting a boat independently gives you complete freedom but requires basic boating experience, route knowledge, and confidence at sea. An organized sailing tour includes a local guide who knows the area, recommended stop locations, and often food and drinks — making it ideal for anyone who wants a hassle-free, fully taken-care-of experience.
Final Thoughts — The Sea Is Waiting for You
Boat trips in Corfu are the kind of experience people talk about for years after coming home. The deep blue sea, the hidden coves, the quiet of being in the middle of the water — none of it can be felt from dry land.
Whether you're a couple looking for a romantic day out, a family ready for an adventure with the kids, or a group of friends after a day you'll never forget — there's a tour made exactly for you.
👉 Explore all of Click in Corfu's sailing tours and choose the one that will make your trip truly unforgettable.
