Athens: Full-Day Island Hopping Cruise with Lunch and Swimming

When exploring Athens, this full-day island hopping cruise offers a refreshing escape into the waters of the Saronic Gulf. For $213.45 per person, travelers enjoy a 10-hour trip that combines scenic sailing, island exploration, swimming, and a delicious Greek lunch onboard. The tour departs from Zea Marina in Piraeus at 8:45 am, with convenient round-trip transportation from central Athens included.

What sets this tour apart is the variety of stops, from charming villages to protected nature parks, all led by English-speaking staff. The cruise receives a 4.5-star rating based on 27 reviews, with many highlighting the friendly crew, beautiful boat, and stunning water. While the boat is comfortable for up to 40 passengers, some note that at full capacity, space could feel tight. This tour caters well to those seeking a balanced mix of relaxation, sightseeing, and swimming.

Key Points

• Full-day cruise around the Saronic Gulf with traditional wooden boats
• Includes transfers from central Athens to Zea Marina and back
• Stops at Agistri, Moni, and Aegina, offering picturesque villages and natural parks
• Swimming and sunbathing opportunities at each island stop
• A delicious Greek lunch served onboard, with drinks available
• Rated 4.5/5 based on 27 reviews, praised for friendly staff and gorgeous scenery

Departure from Zea Marina in Piraeus at 8:45 am

The tour begins at Zea Marina, a well-known port in Piraeus, where guests are welcomed with coffee, juice, and pastries. The boat, a beautiful and clean traditional wooden vessel, sets sail promptly at 8:45 am, with round-trip transportation from four central points in Athens included. This makes it easy to start the day without worrying about logistics.

The tour’s timing allows guests to enjoy a relaxed morning, comfortably settling onboard before the day’s adventure begins. The small group size and professional staff create an inviting atmosphere right from the start.

Exploring Agistri: The First Island Stop

The first stop is Agistri, arriving around 11:30 am. This little Greek island is famed for its cliffs, pine-covered hills, and traditional alleys. You can relax on the boat’s sofas or sunbathe on deck while soaking in the views. Once on land, wander through the small villages or take a swim in the emerald waters.

The three-hour stay provides enough time to enjoy the natural beauty, take photos, or stroll along the peaceful streets. The island’s unspoiled charm makes it a favorite for those seeking tranquility and authentic Greek scenery.

Moni Island’s Nature and Wildlife

Next, the boat anchors near Moni Island, a protected nature park with a very limited population of deers and peacocks. The beach of Moni offers a perfect spot for swimming, snorkeling, and relaxing in the sun.

Lunch is served onboard here, accompanied by Greek wine, beer, and soft drinks. After eating, guests can explore the flora and fauna, or continue enjoying the turquoise waters. The three-hour stop at Moni strikes a nice balance between activity and leisure, providing an intimate encounter with nature.

Aegina: The Historical Island with Pistachio Farms

The last major stop is Aegina, arriving around 2 pm. This historic island is famous for pistachio farming, traditional villages, and ancient monuments such as the temple of Apollo and temple of Athena Aphaia. Guests have three hours to explore freely, whether visiting local markets, wandering the port, or discovering ancient ruins.

Aegina’s picturesque port and charming streets offer a glimpse into authentic Greek island life. The boat departs from Aegina at 5 pm, giving visitors ample time to soak in the views and capture photos before returning to Zea Marina.

Swimming, Sunbathing, and Food Onboard

Throughout the day, the boat serves as a comfortable base for swimming and sunbathing. Guests are encouraged to jump into the turquoise waters at each stop or relax on deck while enjoying the breathtaking scenery.

Lunch onboard is a highlight, featuring Greek dishes and drinks, with wine, beer, and soft drinks provided. The friendly crew ensures everyone is well taken care of, making the experience both relaxing and enjoyable.

Logistics: Transfers, Timing, and Group Size

This tour ensures convenient transportation with round-trip transfers from four central points in Athens. The small group limit of 40 people helps maintain an intimate atmosphere, though some reviews note that at full capacity, space onboard could be tight.

The timing is well-planned, with the boat leaving early in the morning and returning around 7 pm. The 30-minute transfer back to central Athens after arriving at Zea Marina adds to the ease of the overall experience.

The Boat and Crew: Cleanliness and Service

Guests consistently praise the cleanliness and beauty of the boat. The crew’s friendliness and attentiveness shine through in reviews, with many noting the knowledgeable guides who share interesting details about the islands and their history.

The onboard staff are fluent in English, making communication smooth. The safety of all participants is a priority, and the crew goes out of their way to ensure a comfortable experience.

What’s Not Included and What to Bring

The tour does not provide towels or snorkeling equipment, so travelers should bring their own if they plan to swim or snorkel extensively. The lunch, drinks, coffee, and round-trip transportation are included, making this a good value for a full day of activity.

Guests should prepare for sun exposure with sunscreen, hats, and sunglasses. Although towels are not supplied, the boat’s deck is ideal for sunbathing, and the water is perfect for cooling off.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This full-day island cruise is perfect for those who want a relaxed yet active day outside Athens. It appeals especially to families, couples, or friends looking to explore the beautiful islands of Greece without extensive travel planning.

It’s ideal for first-timers eager to see multiple islands in one day, and those interested in swimming, nature, and local culture. The friendly crew, scenic views, and included lunch make this experience well worth it, despite some minor concerns about boat capacity at peak times.

Athens: Full-Day Island Hopping Cruise with Lunch and Swimming – A Practical Choice

This tour offers a well-rounded day with beautiful scenery, interesting stops, and easy logistics. The positive reviews highlight the knowledgeable staff, delicious food, and stunning water, making it a solid option for anyone wanting to experience the Greek islands without leaving Athens.

While the boat capacity can be a consideration, the friendly crew and beautiful stops compensate for this. It’s particularly suited for those wanting a scenic, relaxing day with plenty of swimming and exploration.

Frequently Asked Questions

How early should I arrive for the tour?
The tour departs from Zea Marina at 8:45 am, so it’s best to arrive a little earlier to settle in and enjoy the provided coffee and pastries.

Are transfers included?
Yes, round-trip transportation from four central points in Athens is included, making logistics easy.

What should I bring for swimming?
Towels and snorkeling equipment are not included, so bring your own if needed. Sunscreen, hats, and sunglasses are recommended for sun protection.

Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, the tour is appropriate for most travelers, including families with children, as long as they are comfortable with boat rides and outdoor activities.

What if the weather is poor?
The tour depends on good weather; if canceled due to bad weather, a full refund or rescheduling is offered.

Can I customize my experience on this tour?
No, the itinerary is fixed, but guests have free time at each island to explore at their own pace.