Paxos and Antipaxos are two of the most beautiful islands in the Ionian Sea, and one of the best ways to reach them is by private boat from Sivota. The crossing takes about an hour depending on your vessel and the conditions, and it opens up a full day of sea caves, turquoise bays, and whitewashed villages that feel like stepping into a postcard. This guide covers everything you need to know to make the trip in 2026.
The Route: Sivota to Paxos
The distance from Sivota to the southern tip of Paxos is approximately 12 nautical miles. Most renters head first to the west coast of Paxos, where the famous Blue Caves (Ypapanti, Ortholithos, and Kastanida) are carved into towering limestone cliffs. The sea here is deep and intensely blue — almost black in the cave shadows — and the geological formations are genuinely impressive.
From the caves, the typical route continues north along the coast to Lakka, a small harbor village at the northern end of Paxos. Alternatively, you can head to Gaios, the main port, which has more tavernas, shops, and a lively waterfront. Both villages are worth visiting, but if you only have time for one, Lakka offers a quieter, more intimate experience.
After exploring Paxos, most boaters head south to Antipaxos, which lies just 2 nautical miles from the southern tip of Paxos.
Antipaxos: The Caribbean of Greece
Antipaxos is tiny — fewer than 50 permanent residents — but it has two beaches that regularly appear on lists of the best in Europe. Voutoumi and Vrika both feature fine white sand and water so clear and turquoise that first-time visitors genuinely struggle to believe it is real.
Voutoumi is the more famous of the two and can get busy by midday in July and August. Vrika, just around the headland, offers more space and a slightly more relaxed atmosphere. Both beaches have basic tavernas serving fresh fish and local wine — Antipaxos is actually known for its vineyards, and the island wine is surprisingly good.
Anchoring off Antipaxos is straightforward. The bays are well-sheltered, the water is calm, and the sandy bottom provides good holding. Spend an hour or two swimming and snorkeling here before heading back to Sivota.
Timing and Duration
A Sivota-to-Paxos day trip works best as a full-day rental (8 to 10 hours). Here is a suggested timeline:
- 08:00 — 09:00: Depart Sivota. Early departure means calmer seas and fewer boats at the caves.
- 09:00 — 10:30: Explore the Blue Caves on the west coast of Paxos. Take your time here — the light in the morning is exceptional.
- 10:30 — 12:00: Head to Lakka or Gaios for a coffee and a walk through the village.
- 12:00 — 13:00: Motor south to Antipaxos.
- 13:00 — 15:30: Swim and lunch at Voutoumi or Vrika.
- 15:30 — 17:00: Return crossing to Sivota, with an optional stop at the Blue Lagoon near Sivota on the way back.
This schedule gives you plenty of time at each stop without feeling rushed. Adjust based on weather conditions and your own pace.
Fuel and Costs
The round trip from Sivota to Paxos and Antipaxos and back covers roughly 50 to 60 nautical miles, depending on your exact route. Fuel consumption depends heavily on the boat type and speed:
- Small RIB (30-40 HP): Expect to use about 40 to 60 liters of fuel, costing approximately 80 to 120 euros.
- Larger RIB or speedboat (100+ HP): Fuel consumption rises to 80 to 120 liters, costing 160 to 240 euros.
Fuel is typically not included in the boat rental price, so factor this into your budget. You will refuel at the Sivota harbor before returning the boat.
What You Need to Know Before You Go
A few practical considerations for the Sivota-to-Paxos trip:
- Weather matters. The crossing involves open sea, and conditions can change. Check the forecast the evening before and again in the morning. If winds exceed 4 to 5 Beaufort, the trip becomes uncomfortable in smaller boats and some operators may advise against it.
- License requirements. For boats over a certain horsepower, a boating license is required in Greece. If you do not have one, you can hire a skipper through most Sivota rental companies, or choose a boat that falls below the license threshold.
- Bring supplies. Pack sunscreen, water, snacks, towels, and snorkeling gear. While you can buy food on Paxos and Antipaxos, having provisions on board gives you flexibility.
- Respect the caves. When visiting the Blue Caves, keep a safe distance from the cliff walls and be mindful of other boats. The caves are narrow, and courtesy goes a long way.
- Port fees. If you dock at Gaios or Lakka, there may be a small mooring fee. Anchoring in the bays of Antipaxos is free.
Why This Trip Is Worth It
The Sivota-to-Paxos day trip is, without exaggeration, one of the finest single-day boating experiences in the Mediterranean. You get dramatic sea caves, charming island villages, and two world-class beaches — all in one day, all at your own pace, all from the comfort of your own rented boat.
It is the kind of day that redefines your expectations of what a Greek holiday can be. And it starts right here in Sivota.
Find the right boat for your Paxos day trip at boatinsivota.com and book early to secure availability for 2026.
