Seahorse Boat Rental

Who they are

Seahorse is a boat rental company based in Alipa harbour, in Paleokastritsa, on the west coast of Corfu. Its website does not say since when it has worked or who runs it. It has a fleet of boats with their own names, such as Poseidon II, Athina, Ariti, Princess Lia or Spyridoula, most marked as suitable without a licence, and some more powerful launches used with a skipper or requiring a licence.

What it offers

There are three ways of going out. The first is to rent a boat and drive it yourself. Those of up to 30 horsepower need no licence; those with more power do require a recreational boat licence. The website advertises this rental from €100 and publishes the prices each day in its booking system. You can sail all over the Paleokastritsa area except the prohibited zones, which are marked on the map they give you.

The second is shared four-hour trips with a skipper: one to Porto Timoni, Kastelli beach and the caves, and another to Paradise, Gyali bay and its caves. The third is private trips, also with a skipper: Porto Timoni and Kastelli, Paxos and Antipaxos, Gyali bay, sunset and the Diapontia islands with Porto Timoni. On the private ones fuel and skipper are included, plus water, beer, soft drinks and wine.

What the rental includes

Each boat carries life jackets for adults and children, an anchor and first-aid kit, plus a canopy, Bluetooth sound system, cool box (without ice) and cushions. Fuel is not included: you can take a fixed-price option or pay for what was used on return. Prices include VAT and harbour fees. Depending on the service, they may ask for a deposit. The frequently asked questions do not mention snorkelling gear.

To drive the boat you must be 18 and show an ID card or passport. Small pets are allowed on board. Capacity varies by boat and is given in each boat's entry.

Booking and cancellation

You book online, with immediate confirmation and card payment, or by WhatsApp on +30 693 722 6459; the email is [email protected]. The office opens every day from 9:00 to 18:30 (elsewhere the website says 18:00), and by phone or online they answer from 8:00 to 23:00. In high season they recommend booking ahead; the website does not publish the season dates.

To cancel you must use the form at least three days before arrival. Later cancellations are charged in full, plus €20 handling. If bad weather forces a cancellation, the trip is postponed or the money refunded, and if it is the company that cancels, it refunds 100% or changes the date. The website does not say in which languages they serve; it is written in English.