Why Preveza Is Perfect for Family Boating
The Ionian Sea around Preveza is one of the calmest stretches of water in Greece. Protected by the mainland and surrounding islands, the waves are gentle, the currents are mild, and the water is warm from June through September. This makes it an ideal starting point for a family boat trip with children of any age.
At Cruise Escape, we welcome families every week. Our boats are equipped with safety gear for all ages, and our experienced skippers know exactly which bays offer shallow, sandy entries perfect for small children. Here are our top picks for kid-friendly destinations from Preveza.
Lefkada: Shallow Bays and Easy Access
Lefkada is the closest island to Preveza, just 20 to 30 minutes by boat. The eastern coast is sheltered from the wind and features several family-friendly beaches with calm, shallow water.
Best spots for families:
- Desimi Bay: A wide, sandy bay with water that stays waist-deep for 30 metres from shore. Perfect for toddlers and young swimmers
- Nidri area beaches: Multiple small coves with tavernas nearby for a family lunch stop
- Mikros Gialos: A sheltered pebble beach with crystal-clear water and natural shade from surrounding trees
Meganisi: The Quiet Island
Meganisi is a small, peaceful island one hour from Preveza. With almost no traffic, no loud nightlife, and a relaxed pace of life, it is the ideal island for families who want to slow down.
- Abelike Bay: An almost enclosed bay with incredibly calm, turquoise water. Kids can snorkel safely here with visibility to the bottom
- Vathi Village: A charming waterfront village where you can dock, walk around, and enjoy ice cream or a meal at a seaside taverna
- Papanikolis Cave: Children love the adventure of entering this sea cave by boat. Our skipper brings the boat close enough for everyone to see inside
Sivota: Mainland Paradise
Sivota is not an island but a coastal area south of Preveza with stunning turquoise lagoons. The Bella Vraka sandbar connects the mainland to a tiny island and creates a natural wading pool that children absolutely love.
The water here is warm, shallow, and calm. Several beach bars and tavernas in the area make it easy to spend a full day without worrying about supplies.
Paxos: For Older Children and Teens
A day trip to Paxos is slightly longer (1.5 to 2 hours) but worth it for families with older children. Teenagers especially love the dramatic blue caves on the western coast, the swimming at Antipaxos, and exploring the streets of Gaios village.
Tip: Start early in the morning to make the most of the day. Bring snacks for the crossing and plan a lunch stop at Gaios or Lakka.
Safety on a Family Boat Trip
Safety is always our first priority, especially with children on board.
- Child-sized life jackets available on all boats
- Experienced skipper who adjusts speed and route based on conditions
- Shade available on the Lobster 35 cruiser, which we recommend for families with small children
- First aid kit on board
- Flexible itinerary \u2014 if the kids get tired, we head back early
Which Boat for Families?
We recommend the Lobster 35 for family trips. It offers more shade, a stable platform, a comfortable seating area, and is designed for a relaxed cruising experience. For families who want independence, our Karel self-drive boats are also a great option for shorter coastal trips.
Book Your Family Adventure
Ready to create memories that your children will talk about for years? Book your family boat trip online or contact us to discuss a custom itinerary tailored to your family’s needs. We will suggest the perfect route, the best stops, and the right boat for your group.
Ready to Explore the Ionian Sea?
Book a private cruise or rent a boat from Preveza and create your own adventure.