Setting Sail from Corfu

The sun was just beginning to rise over the horizon as I boarded the boat for the Paxos and Antipaxos Adventure. The air was filled with a sense of anticipation, and the gentle lapping of the waves against the hull was music to my ears. As a former professional surfer, the ocean has always been my playground, and today promised to be a day of exploration and discovery.

Our guide, Eleanna, greeted us with a warm smile, and I could tell right away that this was going to be a special journey. The boat was spacious, with comfortable seating, and I quickly made my way to the upper deck, eager to soak in the views. As we set sail, the Old Town of Corfu slowly faded into the distance, replaced by the rugged beauty of the Paxos coastline.

The journey south along the west coast of Paxos was nothing short of spectacular. The rocky cliffs and white sandy beaches were a sight to behold, and I found myself lost in the moment, the wind in my hair and the sun on my face. It was a reminder of why I love the ocean so much, and why I feel so at home on the water.

Exploring the Blue Caves

As we approached the Blue Caves of Paxos, the excitement on board was palpable. The boat slowed to a crawl as we entered the caves, and the water turned a brilliant shade of blue, unlike anything I had ever seen before. It was as if we had entered another world, a hidden paradise beneath the waves.

The caves are a natural habitat for the Mediterranean monk seal, and while we didn’t spot any on this trip, the knowledge that they were nearby added to the magic of the experience. The crew, including our DJ Pantelis, kept the energy high with nostalgic tunes that perfectly complemented the stunning scenery.

Swimming in the crystal-clear waters of Antipaxos was a dream come true. As someone who spends a lot of time in the ocean, I was thrilled to dive into the deep blue, surrounded by the vibrant marine life. For those less confident in the water, life jackets were provided, ensuring everyone could enjoy the experience safely.

A Taste of Greek Culture

Our stop in Gaios, the charming port village on Paxos, was a delightful interlude. I took a short hike to a nearby viewpoint, rewarded with breathtaking views of the surrounding islands. The village itself was a maze of narrow streets, filled with quaint shops and inviting tavernas.

Lunch at a local taverna was a feast for the senses, with fresh seafood and traditional Greek dishes that left me wanting more. And of course, no visit to Greece would be complete without a taste of the local ice cream, a sweet treat that perfectly capped off the meal.

Back on board, the journey continued with traditional Greek dancing, a lively celebration of culture that brought everyone together. As the sun began to set, the upper deck transformed into a dance floor, the music and laughter echoing across the water as we made our way back to Corfu.

This trip was more than just a boat ride; it was a celebration of life, a reminder to embrace the moment and savor the beauty of the world around us. I left with a heart full of memories and a promise to return, next time with friends and family to share in the magic of the Mediterranean.