The Odysseia is a unique wooden boat moored on the main quay in Nidri that offers a day trip filled with local history, swimming, sight seeing islands, wonderful Greek hospitality and a BBQ lunch.
All you will need with you is your swimwear/towel, money and a camera, as everything else is provided. There are toilet and shower facilities onboard. A selection of snacks and drinks are available to purchase throughout the journey. Snorkeling masks, games and umbrellas are available to use free of charge.
We arrived early for our boat trip on the Odysseia, so we sat relaxing, having coffee and a croissant on one of the many quayside café bars before departure.
The Odysseia departs at 9.30am prompt, with the sound of the Captain blowing the shell horn. Heading for our first activity of the day we were welcomed in many languages and having fun was encouraged. The jolly Captain is passionate about his boat and Greek culture and its clear he enjoys what he does. The crew/guides are polite and helpful.
Many steps lead you up to the village.... this may be difficult for some but the panoramic views of the bay and beyond are spectacular and well worth he climb.
We visited the village Greek Orthodox church which was preparing for an afternoon Christening. The interiors are always stunningly ornate, the distinctive smell of incense and the coolness of the church gives a serene ambience. The guide explained the beautiful hand paintings around the interior and the history of the church. The solemn single slow chime of the church bell rang, which depicts the death of a villager.
The steps returning to the boat were obviously much easier. There is an option to stay for refreshment at the taverna in the bay or swim from the beach should you not wish to go up into Spartohori village.
Off on our way again we were offered ouzo and local olives by the Captain and crew. An opportunity to take in the beautiful surroundings of the islands coastlines and crystal clear waters, letting the breeze brush through your hair or chat with other tourists.
Next stop, Klimaki beach - a deserted bay with no other tourists. This is were there is plenty of time to relax and unwind, swim, sunbath, play games, snorkel and enjoy the bbq lunch provided. A plate full of local produce, souvlaki, salad, bread, feta cheese and tzatziki with a choice for more. Plenty of local wine or soft drinks. Umbrellas are provided free for shade.
A recently married couple took the opportunity to have a photo shoot on board. The Captain of the Odysseia is very accommodating. The boat can also be hired for private parties and functions.
The Captain is very passionate about safeguarding marine life, not polluting the waters or leaving rubbish on the beautiful beaches. Bags are provided for all the waste disposed of at the bbq. The crew clean the serving trays in the water using the sand as an abrasive and not using chemical detergents.
The seagulls are gifted with any remaining foods once the boat has sailed.
Our next sail was around the private island of Skorpios. Probably the most famous of all the islands in the Ionian, once belonging to Aristotle Onassis and Jackie Kennedy. The new owner being a Russian billionaire was in residence (arriving by helicopter) so although there was an opportunity to swim we were unable to access the private beach. But we were able to see her new private super yacht and the area currently under construction, of which there will be a spa retreat for the elite, jet setters and multi millionaires of this world.
Back on Nidri harbour, wearing an Odysseia t shirt, we were able to end our perfect day with an ice-cream, watching the world go by. We thoroughly recommend this boat trip and feel its well worth the 50€ per adult price. But we must say we went home exhausted....its hard work being a tourist and enjoying yourself !!
https://www.odysseia-lefkada.eu/
Comments
Post a Comment