Athens: Half Day Swimming Cruise to the Saronic Islands

Discover the Saronic Islands with a Relaxed Swimming Cruise from Athens

This half-day swimming cruise offers an exciting way to experience the Saronic Sea without the complications of planning a beach day. Starting from Piraeus, the tour lasts around 6 hours and is perfect for those who love swimming in open water and want to explore secluded beaches only accessible by boat. With crystal-clear waters at each stop, water toys, and a fully stocked bar, this cruise focuses on comfort and fun in a tranquil setting.

The tour features scenic boat cruises, carefully selected swimming spots, and plenty of time for relaxation. It is ideal for swimmers comfortable in open water and those seeking a stress-free aquatic escape. A notable highlight is the friendly crew, praised for their professionalism and positive energy, making the experience more enjoyable for all onboard.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Key Points

• 6-hour cruise starting from Piraeus with secluded beaches in the Saronic Gulf
• Swim and snorkel at destinations like Moni, Metopi, and beaches near Aegina
• Onboard amenities include snacks, drinks, water toys, Wi-Fi, and music
• Stops last around 3 hours, with scenic cruising before and after the swimming
• No disembarkation on the islands, focusing solely on water-based fun
• Easy access from 53 drop-off locations across Athens and Piraeus

Starting Point and Meeting Details in Piraeus

The tour begins at Akti Kountouriotou 1 in Marina Zeas Port, Piraeus. The meeting spot is located between the I Love Piraeus sign and the Olympiacos sign, near the entrance to the port. Guests are advised to arrive by 10:00 AM to allow for check-in, as the boat cannot wait for latecomers. The tour leader, identifiable by their neck tag, greets guests here and guides everyone onto the boat.

For those opting for hotel pickup and drop-off, this service is available but optional. The exact pickup time is communicated one day prior and may involve traveling to a nearby location to help avoid delays. Guests should arrive at least 5 minutes early at the designated pickup spot.

Route and Stops: Scenic Waterways and Hidden Beaches

The itinerary starts with a 30-minute van transfer from the starting point, followed by a 1.5-hour boat cruise to the Saronic Islands. The cruise offers scenic views as the boat glides through the calm waters of the Gulf.

The main swimming and snorkeling stop lasts around 3 hours, where the crew carefully selects quiet, sheltered beaches such as Moni, Metopi, and beaches near Aegina. These locations are perfect for relaxing in clear waters and trying out water toys like pool noodles and snorkeling gear.

After spending ample time at the swimming spots, the boat cruises back over 1.5 hours through the Saronic Gulf on the return journey to Piraeus. The final moments offer relaxing scenic views before arriving back at the port.

What Makes the Swimming Spots Special

The chosen locations for swimming are known for their tranquility and natural beauty. The crystal-clear waters provide excellent conditions for snorkeling and relaxing in the sea. Each site is carefully selected for its calm, sheltered environment, ideal for floating, playing with water toys, or simply basking in the sun.

While disembarking is not part of the itinerary, the secluded beaches offer a peaceful escape from crowded beaches, making this cruise particularly appealing for those seeking privacy and serenity. The water toys enhance the experience, adding an element of fun and playfulness.

More Great Tours Nearby

Onboard Experience: Comfort and Entertainment

The relaxation area onboard is designed for ease and comfort, allowing guests to enjoy the sea breeze and scenic views. The fully stocked bar offers drinks and snacks—optional but available—so you can stay refreshed without leaving the boat.

Guests also benefit from free Wi-Fi and onboard music, creating a lively and enjoyable atmosphere. The crew is known for being friendly, professional, and helpful, ensuring that everyone has a smooth and pleasant experience throughout the cruise.

Practical Information and Safety Considerations

The tour is weather-dependent, and the captain reserves the right to alter the route or schedule if necessary for safety reasons. Cancellations due to adverse weather are possible, with options to reschedule or receive a full refund.

Participants should be comfortable swimming offshore, as disembarkation on the islands does not occur. The cruise is not suitable for non-swimmers, wheelchair users, or people over 80. Guests are advised to bring comfortable shoes, swimwear, sunscreen, a hat, and a towel.

Duration, Pacing, and Physical Requirements

This 6-hour tour is paced to balance scenic cruising and ample swimming time. The main activity—swimming and snorkeling—lasts approximately 3 hours, giving plenty of time to relax, play, or explore at each stop. The onboard amenities support a laid-back atmosphere, and the water toys provide additional fun for all ages.

Since the tour involves open water swimming, guests should be comfortable in the sea. The boat’s crew may ask guests to exit the water if conditions or swimming ability pose a safety risk.

Who Will Appreciate This Cruise Most

This cruise is well-suited for swimmers who enjoy being in the water and want to avoid crowded beaches. The secluded beaches and calm waters make it ideal for families, couples, or groups seeking a relaxed, fun-filled day.

The onboard bar, water toys, and scenic cruising add to the entertainment value, making it a good choice for those looking for a casual, leisurely experience. However, it is not suitable for non-swimmers, those with mobility issues, or guests over 80.

Cost and Inclusion Details

The cost covers access to beautiful beaches and secluded coasts accessible only by boat. It includes snorkeling gear, life jackets, and pool noodles. Guests can enjoy free Wi-Fi and music onboard. The fully stocked bar offers drinks and snacks, which are optional.

Optional hotel pickup and drop-off are available, providing added convenience. However, disembarkation on the islands is not included, as the focus remains on water-based activities.

Final Thoughts on the Swimming Cruise Adventure

This 6-hour Athens-based cruise offers a straightforward, relaxed way to enjoy the Saronic Gulf. The carefully chosen swimming spots and friendly crew create a pleasant atmosphere for swimmers and water enthusiasts alike.

While it doesn’t involve visiting the islands themselves, the emphasis on secluded beaches, water toys, and scenic cruising makes this a refreshing escape from city life. It’s a great option for those who want to maximize water time and avoid the hassle of planning a beach day independently.

The tour’s strengths lie in its ease of access, peaceful locations, and friendly service. The main consideration is that disembarkation on the islands does not occur, limiting the experience to sea and water activities only.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tour suitable for non-swimmers?
No, the tour is not suitable for non-swimmers, as swimming offshore is part of the experience.

What should I bring for the cruise?
Guests are advised to bring comfortable shoes, swimwear, towel, sunscreen, hat, and jacket for the boat.

Can I get hotel pickup?
Yes, hotel pickup and drop-off are available as an option, with exact times provided one day prior.

How long is the swimming and snorkeling time?
The main swimming stop lasts about 3 hours, allowing plenty of time for relaxing and water activities.

Are drinks and snacks included?
The bar is fully stocked with drinks and snacks, available optionally.

Does the cruise go to the islands?
No, the cruise focuses on secluded beaches and swimming spots, without disembarkation on the islands.

What is the duration of the entire tour?
The total duration is approximately 6 hours, including cruising and swimming time.

Can I participate if I have mobility challenges?
The tour is not suitable for wheelchair users or those with mobility issues.

What weather conditions affect the cruise?
The cruise is weather-dependent; adverse weather may lead to cancellation or route changes for safety.

How do I identify the tour leader at the meeting point?
The tour leader is easily recognizable by their neck tag at the Akti Kountouriotou 1 meeting spot.

You can check availability for your dates here: More Great Tours Nearby