Hydra, Poros and Egina Day Cruise from Athens with Optional VIP Upgrade

The Hydra, Poros, and Egina Day Cruise from Athens offers a full day exploring three of Greece’s most charming islands for $161.64 per person. This 11-hour journey starts early in the morning, with pickup options available, and takes visitors on a scenic cruise through the Saronic Gulf. The tour provides ample free time at each island to stroll, shop, or relax, complemented by a delicious Greek lunch onboard and a lively Greek folklore show during the return voyage. For those seeking an extra touch of comfort and luxury, an optional VIP upgrade includes exclusive lounge access, a welcome drink, private check-in, and a shared transfer from hotel to port.

While this cruise is well-suited for those wanting a comprehensive taste of the Greek islands without the hassle of separate bookings, it’s worth noting that time at each stop is limited—about 1 to 2 hours per island. The large ship capacity of over 600 people can lead to crowded disembarkation and onboard spaces, which some reviews mention as a drawback. The tour’s strengths lie in its engaging itinerary, lively onboard entertainment, and the opportunity to experience the iconic sights of Hydra, Poros, and Egina—all in one day.

Key Points

• Full-day cruise from Athens to three islands: Hydra, Poros, and Egina, lasting approximately 11 hours.
• Affordable price of $161.64 per person, with options for pickup and transfers included.
• Free time at each island for sightseeing, shopping, and relaxing, with optional excursions (own expense).
• A Greek lunch and folklore show are part of the experience, adding cultural flavor.
• VIP upgrade enhances comfort with exclusive lounge access, a welcome drink, and shared hotel transfer.
• Crowd levels can be high due to ship capacity, and time on each island is brief but sufficient to see highlights.

Departure from Piraeus Port and Hotel Pickup Options

The tour begins early at 7:30 am with the possibility of hotel pickup for the standard cruise with transfer. If you choose the VIP option, a shared transfer from your Athens hotel or accommodation is included, streamlining the start of your day. The meeting point is conveniently located near public transportation, making it easy to access regardless of where you stay in Athens.

The journey to Piraeus port is via air-conditioned coach, setting a comfortable tone for the day ahead. It’s important to note that this tour does not include pickup from Piraeus port, airport, or private apartments, and most travelers are well suited for participation, with a maximum group size of 500.

Exploring the Three Islands: Poros, Hydra, and Egina

Poros: The First Stop

Upon arrival at Poros, visitors enjoy approximately 1 hour to explore independently. The island features a beautiful waterfront taverna, perfect for a quick coffee or snack, and is known for its lemon forest, with citrus trees, windmills, and waterfalls. Guests can shop for souvenirs, or visit sights like the Trinzia Russian dockyard from the 19th century if time permits.

Hydra: The Iconic Harbor Town

Next is Hydra, with about 1 hour ashore. The harbor’s colorful houses and narrow lanes give this island a distinctly charming atmosphere. Guides offer tips on what to see and do, but most visitors prefer to wander the streets, relax in cafes, or browse small shops. The harborfront provides ample photo opportunities and a glimpse of the famous stone mansions.

Egina: The Ancient Highlight

The final stop is Egina, with a 2-hour stay. Here, travelers can choose to join an optional excursion (own expense) to visit the well-preserved ancient Temple of Aphaia or explore the port town on foot. The town offers harborfront strolls, ouzeri visits, and boutique shopping. Afterward, the cruise continues with a Greek folklore show as the boat heads back to Piraeus.

The Cruise Experience and Onboard Amenities

During the cruise, guests can enjoy two meal sittings of Greek lunch served onboard. The menu is described as delicious, often accompanied by unlimited soft drinks and non-alcoholic beverages—especially appreciated on hot days. The boat’s crew receive praise for their helpfulness and attentiveness, contributing to the overall positive experience.

The VIP upgrade elevates the day with access to an exclusive lounge, where guests can enjoy finger food, bottled water, soft drinks, and filter coffee. A welcome drink sets a warm tone, and private check-in simplifies boarding. The VIP area boasts Wi-Fi access and a luxury goods store on the second deck, with a sun deck and open space for summer comfort. However, some reviews mention that the A/C in the VIP lounge can be broken, leading to discomfort during hot weather.

The Guides and Entertainment on Board

Guides are available throughout the day to share insights about the islands and highlight key sights. The Greek folklore show aboard the return leg features traditional music and dancing, adding a cultural touch to the journey. The crew’s friendliness and helpfulness are frequently praised, making the day both informative and lively.

Remarks on the Pacing and Crowd Levels

Some feedback points out that disembarkation and boarding can be chaotic due to the large ship capacity. The short time at each island—about 50 minutes to 2 hours—means travelers should prioritize their interests and be prepared for a quick visit rather than a deep exploration. The length of travel—up to 3.5 hours one-way to Hydra—may be a consideration for those with limited time or preferences for more relaxed island visits.

The VIP Option: Is It Worth It?

Most reviews agree that upgrading to VIP offers significant benefits. Passengers enjoy priority check-in and embarkation, lounge access, and a more comfortable experience—especially with unlimited drinks and a buffet lunch. While crowds and A/C issues can still occur, many find the extra comfort and exclusivity worth the additional cost.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This full-day cruise appeals most to those eager to see multiple Greek islands in a single day without the hassle of separate bookings. It’s ideal for first-time visitors who want a sightseeing overview, enjoy onboard entertainment, and appreciate a good-value experience. Keep in mind that time at each island is limited, making this less suitable for travelers seeking in-depth exploration.

Hydra, Poros, and Egina Day Cruise from Athens: Final Thoughts

This tour offers a compact yet lively way to experience three distinct Greek islands in one day. The scenic cruise, delicious onboard lunch, and cultural entertainment make it a compelling option for many. The VIP upgrade is particularly popular among reviewers, enhancing comfort during the journey.

However, the large ship size and short stops can lead to crowds and rushed visits, so travelers should manage expectations accordingly. The early start and long travel times might feel tiring but are balanced by the beautiful scenery and authentic Greek moments along the way. This cruise provides an engaging snapshot of Greek island life, ideal for those wanting a taste of the islands with minimal planning.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is transportation included in this tour?
Yes, pickup and drop-off from Athens hotels or central meeting points are included in the standard cruise with transfer. The VIP upgrade also includes shared hotel transfer to the port.

How much time do I have on each island?
The stops are approximately 50 minutes on Poros, 1 hour on Hydra, and 2 hours on Egina. These durations allow for quick exploration, shopping, or relaxing, but not in-depth sightseeing.

What amenities are available onboard?
Guests can enjoy Greek lunch, folklore entertainment, and unlimited non-alcoholic beverages. The VIP lounge offers finger food, drinks, and Wi-Fi, though some reviews note A/C issues in the VIP area.

Is the VIP upgrade worth it?
Most reviews suggest that VIP access enhances comfort, offering priority boarding, exclusive lounge, and better seating. The additional amenities are especially appreciated during hot weather or busy days.

Can I visit the Temple of Aphaia?
Yes, joining the optional excursion to Egina’s Temple of Aphaia is available at own expense. The stop lasts about 2 hours, making it a highlight for history and architecture enthusiasts.