BBQ Boat Trip in the Ionian Sea — Corfu by Local Crew
Anchor in hidden bays, feast on a local barbecue, and sail the waters that only insiders know.
A BBQ boat trip in Corfu crafted by locals gives travellers a genuine taste of the Ionian Sea, from sea caves and crystal-clear bays to a freshly grilled meal served onboard with an uninterrupted view of the horizon. Three distinct routes let you choose between the rugged northeast coast of Corfu, a crossing to mainland Greece, or a shorter sunset cruise toward the iconic Mouse Island. Each option departs from Mayor's Steps in Garitsa Bay, right where the old town meets the water.
The boat ride itself is part of the experience. Leaving the harbour, passengers take in a natural panorama that includes Vido Island, the Royal Palace, and the Old Venetian Fortress — landmarks that take on a different character when viewed from the sea. The wooden traditional vessel adds a sense of place that larger tourist ferries simply cannot replicate.
Once underway, the crew handles navigation and preparation so guests can focus on the scenery, the swimming stops, and the meal. Local ingredients go onto the grill while the boat sits at anchor in whichever sheltered bay the chosen route reveals. It is a straightforward, unhurried day with the Ionian as a backdrop.
The difficulty rating is easy, making this suitable for most ages and fitness levels. Flat-water sailing in protected Ionian bays keeps conditions comfortable, and the pace is relaxed throughout.
Tour Highlights
Swimming stop in Nissaki cave with clear, sheltered waters on the northeast Corfu route.
Scenic anchorage at Limnopoula bay with views across the Erimitis forest coastline.
Fresh barbecue prepared onboard by the local crew using regional ingredients.
Optional crossing to mainland Greece with a stop at Kalamas sandy beach and the Lagoon bay near Igoumenitsa.
Sunset route past Pontikonisi (Mouse Island), the windmill of Anemomylos, and the Mon Repos palace shore.
Views of both Venetian fortresses, the Mouragia city walls, and the Kampiello district from the water.
Three distinct itinerary options to suit different interests and available time.
Itinerary Overview
The boat departs from Mayor's Steps in Garitsa Bay. As it clears the harbour, passengers have clear sightlines to Vido Island, the Old Town skyline, the Royal Palace, and the Old Venetian Fortress.
On the northeast Corfu route, the first stop is Nissaki cave for roughly 20 to 30 minutes of swimming in calm, sheltered waters. On the mainland Greece route, the boat crosses to Kalamas sandy beach where the crew begins barbecue preparations.
Around midday the boat anchors — at Limnopoula bay on the northeast route, or at Kalamas on the mainland route — and the crew serves a grilled meal with local food. The setting is open sea or a quiet bay, depending on the chosen option.
The northeast route continues with time in Limnopoula's crystal-clear waters and views of Erimitis forest. The mainland route heads southeast past Igoumenitsa and into the Lagoon bay for approximately 40 minutes of swimming in green-blue water.
The 2.5-hour sunset cruise sails toward Mouse Island (Pontikonisi), passing Anemomylos windmill, the Palace of Mon Repos, Kanoni peninsula, and the two Venetian fortresses. This shorter option is a self-contained romantic evening excursion.
All routes conclude with a return sail to the departure point in Garitsa Bay, Corfu Town.
What Is Included
Included
- Boat trip with local crew
- BBQ lunch with local food
- Swimming stops at selected bays
- Scenic coastal sailing
- Pick-up from Corfu Town, Dassia Beach, or Ipsos Beach (northeast route)
Not Included
- Personal travel insurance
- Additional food and beverages beyond the BBQ lunch
- Transport to the departure point
- Gratuities
Important Information
Reserve Your Spot on the Water
Three routes, one local crew, and a barbecue served under open Ionian skies — choose the itinerary that fits your day and secure your place before availability closes.
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