Athens Private Half day Catamaran cruise with meal & drinks

Explore the Saronic Gulf on a Private Athens Catamaran Cruise

For those seeking a relaxed, intimate escape from the busy city of Athens, the Private Half-Day Catamaran Cruise with Meal & Drinks offers a luxurious way to enjoy the water. Priced at $1,478.85 per group (up to 10 people) and lasting approximately 4 to 5 hours, this tour combines scenic sailing, delicious Greek cuisine, and snorkeling in tranquil bays. Departing from a less crowded marina just half an hour from Athens center, the cruise provides a personalized experience with a friendly crew guiding you through some of the area’s most beautiful spots.

The tour is highly recommended, with a perfect 5.0/5 rating based on 34 reviews, and is booked on average 94 days in advance, indicating its popularity for special occasions or peaceful daytime adventures. It is ideal for groups of family or friends who want a flexible, private outing on the water, with plenty of opportunities for swimming, relaxing, and enjoying Greek hospitality.

Key Points

• Private sailing experience for groups up to 10 people with personalized service
• Includes onboard lunch with seafood pasta, salads, and Greek appetizers
• Snorkeling gear provided, with stops at sheltered bays and islands
• Two swim stops at Vouliagmeni and Nisís Idhroúsa, featuring clear waters and quiet coves
• Alcoholic beverages included (beer and wine, not unlimited) and bottled water
• Flexible cancellation up to 24 hours in advance with full refund

Departure from a Less Crowded Marina Near Athens

The tour begins at Istion Yachting – Alimos Charter Base Marina, a location that’s conveniently close to the city but offers a quieter departure point. This less frequented marina ensures a more relaxed start to the day, avoiding the busy Athens port areas. The mobile ticket system makes booking straightforward, and the activity is suitable for most travelers, as long as they can manage the boat boarding process.

The cruise lasts about 4 to 5 hours, giving enough time to enjoy multiple stops, savor a leisurely meal, and explore the coastlines without feeling rushed. Since the tour ends back at the same meeting point, it’s easy to plan other activities afterward or return to Athens center comfortably.

Discover the Sheltered Bay of Vouliagmeni

The first swim stop takes place at Vouliagmeni, a well-known and sheltered bay just outside Athens. This 1-hour stop offers a chance to dip into calm, protected waters perfect for swimming. The bay’s tranquility makes it ideal for relaxing or snorkeling, with no extra admission fees needed. This stop allows guests to stretch, take photos, and enjoy the scenic setting before continuing the cruise.

Because of its sheltered nature, Vouliagmeni provides a peaceful beginning to the water activities, especially suitable for those seeking a gentle introduction to the area’s coastal beauty.

Main Swim at Nisís Idhroúsa

The longer swim stop occurs at Nisís Idhroúsa, where 1 hour and 15 minutes are set aside for swimming and exploring the little islands nearby. The waters here are notably clear, offering excellent visibility for snorkeling, which is made easier with provided flippers and snorkel gear. The quietness of this spot makes it a favorite among guests, as they can freely swim, float, and discover the underwater life.

The opportunity to explore the smaller islands adds a sense of adventure, making this stop particularly memorable. The calm waters and scenic surroundings make it an ideal spot for both novice and experienced snorkelers.

Gourmet Greek Lunch Onboard

A highlight of this cruise is the included onboard lunch, which features light Greek dishes like seafood pasta, salads, and appetizers. The lunch menu is served during the cruise, allowing guests to enjoy fresh, flavorful food while taking in the views. The onboard meal is complemented by bottled water and a selection of alcoholic beverages, including beer and wine—though not in unlimited quantities.

Guests appreciate the quality of the food and the convenience of having a delicious meal without needing to make separate arrangements. This aspect of the tour adds to the overall feeling of indulgence and comfort.

Use of Snorkelling Equipment and Quiet Coasts

The snorkel gear, including flippers, is provided, so packing light is possible. This makes exploration easier and more enjoyable, especially since the crew is happy to share their local knowledge to help you find the quieter coves and secluded spots along the coast. The crew’s friendliness and expertise come through in their guidance, making the experience informative and relaxed.

These quieter coasts and secret coves are what set this tour apart: you get to discover tranquil areas away from crowded beaches, allowing for a peaceful day on the water.

The Crew and Hospitality

The crew is frequently praised for their fabulous, attentive, and informative service. Review mentions highlight guides like Alexandra, Costas, and Captain Pierre, emphasizing their helpfulness and friendly attitude. They ensure guests feel comfortable, giving plenty of space to relax or ask questions about the local area.

This personalized hospitality is a key reason why the tour maintains such high reviews and why it’s considered a high-quality private experience.

Optional Activities and Flexibility on the Day

While the tour has a set itinerary, the flexible nature of the private cruise allows you to spend more or less time at each stop based on your preferences. Whether you want to relax on deck, snorkel extensively, or simply enjoy the scenery, the crew accommodates your wishes.

The tour’s flexibility makes it a good choice for celebrating special occasions like birthdays or just enjoying a leisurely day at sea.

Weather Considerations and Cancellation Policy

Good weather is essential for this experience, and the activity is fully refundable if canceled 24 hours in advance due to poor weather conditions. This policy provides peace of mind, knowing that your booking is protected against unexpected weather issues. Since the tour is private, there are no crowds, but weather can impact the overall experience, especially during longer stays at the swim stops.

Who Will Appreciate This Tour Most

This private sailing cruise suits groups of up to 10 people looking for a luxurious, personalized day on the water. It’s perfect for those wanting to combine scenic sailing with delicious food, quiet coves, and opportunities for swimming and snorkeling. It appeals to travelers who value comfort, flexibility, and excellent hospitality.

While the price might seem high for some, the inclusions of meals, drinks, snorkel gear, and the private setting make it a worthwhile experience for special occasions or those celebrating a memorable day in Athens.

Final Thoughts on the Athens Private Half-Day Catamaran Cruise

This tour offers a relaxed, intimate way to explore the Saronic Gulf away from busy beaches and crowded tours. Its friendly crew, gourmet Greek lunch, and beautiful stops at Vouliagmeni and Nisís Idhroúsa create a well-balanced experience of sailing, swimming, and savoring Greek flavors.

The high ratings and glowing reviews reflect consistent quality, especially in hospitality and scenic beauty. For groups seeking a private, flexible day at sea with plenty of opportunities to relax, snorkel, and enjoy Greek cuisine, this cruise stands out as a top choice.

Frequently Asked Questions

What does the cruise include?
The cruise features meals onboard with Greek dishes, bottled water, alcoholic beverages (beer and wine), and snorkeling gear.

How long does the cruise last?
The cruise duration is approximately 4 to 5 hours, with two main swim stops and time to relax and eat.

Where does the tour depart from?
It departs from Istion Yachting – Alimos Charter Base Marina, a quieter location near Athens.

Is the tour suitable for children or non-swimmers?
While most travelers can participate, those with difficulty swimming should exercise caution, as snorkeling and swimming are included.

Can I cancel the tour if the weather is bad?
Yes, the tour offers full refund if canceled more than 24 hours in advance due to poor weather conditions.