What To Know About Renting A Boat In Corfu

Photo ↑ by @lukas.burget

There are many things Corfu is famous for. Apart from the old town, you also have the olive trees, the lagoons and if you like sunbathing, the amazing secluded beaches that can only be accessed by water. Fortunately, there are ways to get there even if you do not have a license.

Your Options To Rent A Boat In Corfu

There are two options if you want to explore Corfu by water. It makes no difference if you are trying to find some secluded beaches and isolated locations or you simply love being on water. Maybe you are interested in seeing the Durrell house from the recent television series too.

Either way, the easy option implies hiring a boat with a skipper. This is like a boat taxi. You get on the boat with your group and you are taken on a predefined route or by request.

For example, there are boat taxis taking you to the secluded beaches of Paleokastritsa or perhaps Porto Timoni. They are accessible from nearby ports.

If you go from Paleokastritsa, most tours take around an hour, while boats go every 15 minutes during the summertime. You do not need to make any reservations. The main beach in Paleokastritsa is excellent if you are interested in the bays around the west coast.

When you hire a boat for your own route, the skipper will take you wherever you want. You are normally charged per hour or per day. This option gives you more privacy because you are alone with the skipper, without any strangers.

There is also a third option if you want more control. This means you can rent a boat yourself, without having a skipper.

Renting A Boat In Corfu Without A License Or Skipper

Some boats in Greece can be used without a license. Others require a license. Large boats usually require a license, but the small ones available for tourists do not require anything at all.

To be within the law, you can rent a boat up to 30HP in power. These boats vary in size and may take a few people or even up to eight people. They have a sunroof for protection, but you can take it on or off.

Some companies do check your license and only supply boats suitable for it. If you do not have one, they only supply small boats. Other companies do not, so make sure you check yourself.

It may be tempting to get a more powerful boat, but it is illegal and risky. After all, you are not there to race, but to enjoy the natural beauty of Corfu.

Now, where do you normally rent a boat in Corfu?

Exploring Paleokastritsa’s Hidden Coves

Paleokastritsa has a bunch of official beaches, as well as isolated and secluded beaches that often require boat access. Most people who choose to rent a boat will do it for the isolated beaches and their heavenly appearance.

Paleokastritsa goes hand in hand with Liapades. Both located on the west coast of the island, they provide access to unique beaches, crystal clear waters and rocky cliffs. You can find caves and empty beaches within half an hour only.

The Corfu Hops blog includes posts on both secluded beaches and easily accessible beaches, so finding a place to explore is fairly simple. Places like the Stelari or Paradise beach will impress you with their turquoise appearance, while La Grotta also has a bar for entertainment.

While you can normally rent a boat from anywhere in the area, going for the Gefyra beach (or better known as the official Liapades beach) is easier because it is located right in the middle.

Discovering The Unique Ecosystem Of Erimitis

Located in the north east side of Corfu, Erimitis stands out with its unique ecosystem. If you love nature, this place is a must on your vacation plan.

Waters in Erimitis are different from Paleokastritsa. Instead of a clear turquoise appearance, get ready for an emerald aspect that will impress. Places like Tzoufaka, Sinies, Akoli or Vouvalomantria are mainly accessed by boat for convenience.

These bays are covered in white pebbles, while the green trees around them work wonders with the emerald waters.

Erimitis is also suitable for those who like walking, jogging or trekking.

Companies To Rent A Boat in Corfu

A simple search over the Internet will give you plenty of options. If you are not sure what to pick, simply go where you want and check out local companies.

If you are planning to explore Paleokastritsa, here are a few names to consider, but chances are you will find even more kiosks around the local beaches:

Interested in the natural ecosystem of Eremitis? Again, a simple search will give you lots of options. Here are a few of them:

Keep in mind that once the boat is returned, you will usually have to pay for the fuel you use too.

Exploring the coast is not everything. You can find similar services in the old town too.