Astypalea: Day Cruise to Koutsomitis & Kounoupes with Lunch

Astypalea: Day Cruise to Koutsomitis & Kounoupes with Lunch — A Luxurious Marine Escape in Greece

This 7-hour day cruise in Astypalea, Greece offers a blend of comfort, adventure, and scenic beauty. Priced at $181 per person, the tour takes place aboard the 19-meter Ferretti yacht, Merillo, and is designed for a maximum of 14 passengers, ensuring an intimate experience. Starting from the Marina of Pera Gialos, this cruise offers a full day of exploration, relaxation, and gourmet dining, making it ideal for travelers seeking a semi-private, all-inclusive boat excursion.

What sets this trip apart is its focus on luxury and personalized service. With snorkeling gear, beach towels, an open bar, and a delicious lunch, it caters to those who want to enjoy Greece’s stunning islets in comfort. While the itinerary may shift depending on weather conditions, the carefully curated stops at Koutsomitis, Kounoupa, Red Rock, and Agia Kyriaki promise a memorable day on the water. This cruise suits travelers who appreciate a premium experience amid beautiful scenery and crave a relaxed pace with plenty of opportunities to swim, snorkel, and indulge.

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Key Points

• Luxury small-group experience: Maximum 14 guests ensures comfort and personal attention.
• All-inclusive package: Open bar with soft drinks, beers, and wine, plus snacks and a full seafood lunch.
• Scenic stops: Visit the islands of Koutsomitis, Kounoupa, and the areas of Red Rock and Agia Kyriaki, with time for swimming and snorkeling.
• Expert crew: Multilingual guides help with snorkeling and explore caves, adding insight and safety.
• Convenient departure: The cruise begins at 11:00 AM from Pera Gialos and lasts around 7 hours.
• Additional amenities: Beach towels, snorkeling equipment, WC, shower, and sun protection are included for comfort.

Departure and Itinerary Overview

The cruise departs at 11:00 AM from the Marina of Pera Gialos in Astypalea. After the initial 45-minute sail, the first stop is Kounoupa, known for its double beach. Here, guests enjoy 75 minutes to relax on the beach, swim in the crystal-clear waters, or grab a cocktail from the snack bar. This island offers a perfect mix of sunbathing, swimming, and light refreshments.

Next, the yacht sails for 10 minutes to reach Koutsomiti, where 40 minutes are dedicated to swimming in the turquoise waters, with snorkeling gear available to explore underwater scenery. The snorkeling equipment makes this stop especially appealing for those eager to see marine life or enjoy a peaceful dip in the sea.

The tour continues with a 20-minute sail to Red Rock, where 30 minutes are allocated for swimming and snorkeling. This stop features an exploration of a nearby cave, adding an element of adventure for the curious. For those preferring to stay dry, the yacht offers plenty of scenic views, and drinks from the open bar.

The final stop is Agia Kyriaki, a tranquil island split by a natural channel. Here, travelers enjoy two hours of free time for swimming, snorkeling, or simply relaxing onboard. During this time, a gourmet shrimp pasta meal is prepared, followed by a delightful dessert. This full-bodied lunch caps the day with a satisfying gastronomic highlight.

The Experience on the Merillo Yacht

The 19-meter Ferretti yacht, Merillo, creates an atmosphere of relaxed elegance. Its ample canopies provide shade, while the shower and restrooms onboard add practical comforts. The yacht’s small safe speed boat enhances safety during stopovers, and the scenic drive between islands ensures smooth sailing.

The crew is fluent in English and Greek, providing professional service along with engaging commentary and assistance during snorkeling excursions. The snorkeling kit, beach towels, and sun protection are all supplied, allowing guests to focus on enjoying their time rather than packing gear.

Gourmet Meals and Refreshments

The lunch features spaghetti with shrimps and a dessert that satisfy seafood lovers and connoisseurs alike. Throughout the day, the open bar offers a variety of soft drinks, beers, and wines, ensuring that hydration and refreshment are always at hand. The cheese and cold cuts platter served as a snack complements the drinks and keeps everyone energized during the cruise.

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Practical Information and Booking Details

Guests should arrive at the Marina of Pera Gialos for the 11:00 AM departure. The tour ends back at the same meeting point after approximately 7 hours. The experience is not suitable for wheelchair users and does not include hotel transfers. It’s advisable to bring passport or ID, sunglasses, sun hat, and sunscreen for comfort and safety.

Reservations can be canceled up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, providing flexibility for changing plans. The “Reserve & Pay Later” option allows booking without immediate payment, which is ideal for those still finalizing their trip arrangements.

Who Will Enjoy This Cruise?

This semi-private cruise appeals most to travelers seeking a luxurious, relaxed day at sea. The small group size fosters an intimate environment, perfect for couples, friends, or small families. Those interested in snorkeling, beach lounging, and gourmet dining will find this trip particularly satisfying. It’s an excellent choice for anyone wanting to experience Astypalea’s islets with personalized service and scenic beauty.

Astypalea’s Best Features on the Cruise

The stunning views of the crystal-clear waters and amazing caves make each stop worthwhile. Kounoupa with its double beach offers a unique photo opportunity, while Koutsomiti’s turquoise waters invite underwater exploration. The Red Rock cave adds a touch of adventure, and the two-hour stay at Agia Kyriaki guarantees ample relaxation and enjoyment of Greece’s natural charm.

Limitations and Considerations

While the tour offers an all-inclusive experience, there is no hotel transfer, so guests must arrange their own transportation to the marina. Weather conditions can lead to changes in the itinerary or order of stops, which the crew manages flexibly. The maximum of 14 guests ensures intimacy but might mean booking in advance during peak seasons.

Final Thoughts on the Astypalea Day Cruise

This cruise provides a beautiful balance of relaxation, exploration, and luxury. The small group setting, combined with gourmet food, drinks, and snorkeling gear, makes it a compelling choice for travelers who want a premium experience on the water. The scenic stops and well-equipped yacht contribute to a memorable day in the Dodecanese.

While it’s not designed for wheelchair users and requires guests to organize their own transfers, the cruise’s personalized service and delightful itinerary make it a worthwhile addition to any trip to Astypalea. Expect beautiful scenery, delicious food, and excellent service to leave you with lasting memories of your time in Greece.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is included in the price of $181?
The price covers the all-inclusive cruise, including snorkeling equipment, beach towels, open bar with drinks, snacks, a seafood lunch, dessert, and onboard amenities.

How long is the cruise?
The cruise lasts approximately 7 hours, starting at 11:00 AM and ending back at the marina.

What stops will I visit during the cruise?
Guests visit Kounoupa, Koutsomiti, Red Rock, and Agia Kyriaki, with stops ranging from 30 to 75 minutes for swimming, snorkeling, relaxing, and exploring.

Is there a meal onboard?
Yes, a shrimp pasta meal is served during the stop at Agia Kyriaki, along with dessert.

Are drinks included?
Yes, the open bar offers soft drinks, beers, and wines throughout the cruise.

Can I cancel this tour?
Yes, cancellations are accepted up to 24 hours before the scheduled departure for a full refund.

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