Monday, August 12, 2019

Kefalonia-The next hot Greek island?

Myrtos Beach
CruisingNow.com has been in Kefalonia, Greece for the last week, exploring the extraordinarly blue waters and beautiful beaches around the island, the picturesque villages and the lush mountainous landscape of this paradise.  Kefalonia is the largest island in the Ionian Islands, with frequent flight and ferry connections. 

Kefalonia may not be as popular with Americans as other Greek islands, such  as Corfu, Mykonos or Santorini, but it should be...This island has plenty to offer, and is becoming a very popular cruise port on Greek Isles and Southeren Mediterranean cruises.  In fact, during this last week there were visits from Silversea, Celebrity, MSC, Royal Caribbean, Norwegian and Costa.  Cruise ships dock in the capital of Argostoli, at the new cruise ship pier, which is just a short walk to the town center.  If there is more than 1 ship visiting on the same day the other ships must tender their passengers to shore.  

In Argostoli, there are many shops and services, including tavernas, supermarkets, coffee shops, seaside restaurants, and ATMs.  The earthquake in 1953 destroyed many of the houses and other unique architecture of the beautiful old city, so many of the buildings are newer but still have a typical venetian style.  There are several museums, monuments and historical squares throughout the city and region.  There are also cultural festivals and two tourist trains that tour around the city during high season.  Boat and yacht rentals and sailing tours are available in the port.  A popular attraction for tourists are the large, gentle sea turtles that swim around the local small fishing boats in the harbor in the mornings. Definitely worth a visit!

Norwegian Star at Argostoli Harbor
Church in Kefalonia















Argostoli is connected with the town of Lixouri, located opposite the bay by a car and passenger ferry that depart every half hour.  The journey takes about 20 minutes each way and is a pleasant experience in itself. 

If you want to explore more of the beauty of Kefalonia, you can take shore excursions, take an island tour, or rent a car. Driving your own car can be challenging with windy, steep, and crowded roads, but if you are prepared and adventurous, you will have the time of your life!  Some of the highlights of the island include Myrtos Beach, the island's (and perhaps the world's) most beautiful beach, Assos or Fiskardo, two picturesque fishing villages, Xi or Petani Beach, or maybe Drogarti Cave, a deep cavern (135 meters) with long stalactites and stalagmites!  You can also take day cruises to other islands, like Ithaca, or Zakynthos, or rent a motorboat in Agia Efima to explore the many private boat-access only beaches along the coast up to Fiskardo.
Whatever you choose, Kefalonia will amaze you!
Call or email CruisingNow.com at 800-603-1271 /info@cruisingnow.com for expert advice to plan and book either your Greek Isles cruise or a Greek island vacation!  We know the Greek Isles and can help you pick the right islands, hotels, activities, excursions to make the most of your visit to Greece!

Visit us at https://www.cruisingnow.com for more cruise and land package information and prices.


Royal Caribbean Rhapsody of  the Seas in Kefalonia

Assos village
Xi Beach











Drogarti Cave