Athens: Semi Private Morning Sailing and Gastronomy Cruise

The Athens: Semi Private Morning Sailing and Gastronomy Cruise offers a unique way to enjoy the Athens Riviera while indulging in authentic Greek cuisine. Priced at $209 per person for a 5-hour trip, this tour combines sailing, local food, and scenic stops in a small group setting—limited to 10 participants—ensuring an intimate experience with personalized guidance. The tour departs from Alimos Marina and includes fuel, port fees, WiFi, and an experienced crew led by a knowledgeable skipper and chef. With options to tailor the experience and specific dietary accommodations, this cruise suits those seeking a relaxed yet enriching day on the water.

While the tour covers several highlights—such as swimming, snorkeling, and delicious regional foods—it’s worth noting that children under 2 and wheelchair users may find certain aspects less accessible. Still, for anyone eager to combine sailing with Greek gastronomy and stunning coastal scenery, this tour offers a compelling and well-rounded experience.

Key Points

• Small group size of up to 10 participants ensures a more intimate experience
• 5-hour cruise starting around 9:30 am, allowing ample time to explore and relax
• Includes Greek gastronomy with vegan, gluten-free, and lactose-free options available
• Stops at Hydrousa island for swimming, sunbathing, and possibly feeding rabbits
• Optional visit to Vouliagmeni Beach if weather permits, with warm waters and beautiful views
• Snorkeling and swimming gear is provided, with the chance to see marine life

You can check availability for your dates here:

Departure from Alimos Marina and Trip Schedule

The tour begins at 9:30 am from Alimos Marina, setting a perfect pace to enjoy most of the day. The guides recommend starting early to maximize relaxation and sightseeing opportunities. After approximately an hour of sailing and introductions, the boat reaches Hydrousa island around 10:45 am. This small island is known for its sandy beaches, crystal-clear waters, and the chance to feed rabbits if luck is on your side.

From there, you’ll spend around three hours swimming, sunbathing, and savoring the Greek traditional meal prepared by the crew. On good weather days, the crew might take the vessel to Vouliagmeni Beach, which offers warm waters and scenic views, adding an extra highlight to the trip. The cruise departs back to Alimos Marina around 13:15, arriving at 14:30, leaving plenty of time for your own sightseeing or shopping afterward.

Exploring the Itinerary and Key Stops

One of the main highlights of this cruise is the visit to Hydrousa island, a small and picturesque location just off the coast. The island’s sandy beaches and clear waters create an ideal setting for swimming and sunbathing. The possibility of feeding rabbits adds a charming touch, especially if you enjoy encountering local fauna.

If weather conditions are favorable, the crew may add a stop at Vouliagmeni Beach, which is renowned for its warm, inviting waters and scenic surroundings. This optional visit provides an opportunity to relax on the beach or snorkel in calm, crystal-clear water, with all necessary equipment supplied. The crew’s flexibility ensures a tailored experience that caters to the weather and guest preferences.

The itinerary also includes multiple photo stops and wildlife viewing opportunities during the 75-minute cruising segments, offering chances to capture stunning scenery and marine life. Each stop is designed to maximize relaxation, scenic enjoyment, and cultural experience.

Culinary Experience: Greek Gastronomy on Board

A major feature of this cruise is the culinary journey through Greek flavors, with snacks, appetizers, meals, and desserts prepared onboard by an experienced crew. The menus include regional ingredients and cater to vegan, gluten-free, and lactose-free diets, emphasizing inclusivity. The crew is happy to accommodate special allergies if informed in advance.

Passengers can indulge in local snacks, meats, cheeses, desserts, and regional dishes that highlight authentic Greek gastronomy. Beverages such as local wine, soft drinks, beers, and spirits are included, with the option to purchase special wines or cocktails at additional costs.

The onboard meals are served during the cruise, making the experience both relaxing and flavorful. This focus on local cuisine enhances the sailing trip, turning it into a true taste of Greece at sea.

Comfort and Amenities on the Sailing Yacht

The sailing yacht used for this cruise offers a comfortable setting for passengers. Relax while sunbathing onboard or utilizing the fresh beach towels provided. The yacht is equipped with restrooms, and WiFi is available so guests can stay connected or share their scenic moments.

For those interested in water activities, snorkeling equipment and SUP (stand-up paddleboarding) are supplied, adding fun options during the swim stops. The crew also provides fishing equipment for guests wanting an extra activity during their time on board.

The vessel’s size and layout are designed for intimacy and comfort, supporting a small-group environment with a maximum of 10 participants. This setup promotes personalized service and a leisurely pace, suitable for those who prefer a more relaxed cruise.

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Logistics: Pickup, Group Size, and Accessibility

The tour includes pickup from locations within an 8 km radius of Alimos Marina, with a roundtrip transfer available for €20 per person. The pickup is scheduled about 1 hour before departure, with the driver contacting guests via WhatsApp, Viber, or phone call for details. If staying outside the pickup zone, guests should inform the tour provider for alternative arrangements.

The small group size enhances the experience, offering more personalized attention from the crew. However, the tour is not suitable for children under 2 years or wheelchair users due to logistical constraints and onboard arrangements.

Guests are advised to bring sun protection such as sun hats, sunscreen, and swimwear. Casual and comfortable clothing is recommended, suitable for swimming, sunbathing, and relaxing onboard.

Flexibility and Cancellation Policy

This cruise offers free cancellation, allowing guests to cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. The Reserve Now & Pay Later option provides flexibility, enabling travelers to book their spot without immediate payment and confirm closer to the date.

This arrangement supports spontaneous plans and offers peace of mind, especially in unpredictable weather or changing schedules.

Comparing with Similar Experiences

While other boat trips around Athens include catamaran cruises with lunch and wine or full-day private sailing trips, this tour’s strength lies in its small-group intimacy and focus on Greek gastronomy. The 5-hour duration balances sightseeing, swimming, and culinary enjoyment without feeling rushed. The flexibility to tailor stops based on weather and guest requests makes it adaptable.

Other options might offer longer or more luxurious excursions, but this cruise strikes an attractive balance between comfort, culture, and affordability.

Ideal for Food Lovers and Relaxation Seekers

This semi-private sailing trip is particularly suited for travelers who want personalized service, authentic Greek cuisine, and scenic views. It’s perfect for those who value small-group intimacy, flexibility, and a relaxed pace. If you enjoy swimming, sunbathing, and delicious regional food, this cruise ticks all those boxes.

However, people requiring special accessibility arrangements or traveling with very young children or wheelchair users should consider other options, as this tour has some limitations in those areas.

Athens: Semi Private Morning Sailing and Gastronomy Cruise

This 5-hour voyage from Alimos Marina delivers a combination of sailing, local cuisine, and scenic stops with a focus on comfort and personalization. The crew’s expertise and flexible itinerary ensure a memorable day on the water, with highlights like Hydrousa island and optional Vouliagmeni Beach. The onboard Greek gastronomy menu rounds out the experience, making it a delightful way to explore central Greece’s coastline.

The small group setting, included amenities, and flexible cancellation policy make this tour particularly appealing for those seeking a relaxed, authentic, and well-organized sailing adventure. If your idea of a perfect day in Athens involves sea, sun, and regional flavors, this cruise is worth considering.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is transportation from my accommodation included?
Yes, the tour offers pickup and drop-off within 8 km of Alimos Marina for €20 per person. Guests outside this area should inform the provider for alternative arrangements.

Are dietary restrictions accommodated?
Absolutely. The Greek gastronomy menu includes options for vegan, gluten-free, and lactose-free diets, and guests are encouraged to notify the crew of any allergies.

What should I bring for the trip?
Guests should bring a sun hat, swimwear, and sunscreen. Comfortable clothing suitable for swimming and sunbathing is recommended.

Is this tour suitable for children or wheelchair users?
The tour is not suitable for children under 2 years or wheelchair users due to onboard logistics and safety considerations.

Can I cancel or reschedule?
Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before the trip. The Reserve Now & Pay Later option also provides flexibility in booking.

What amenities are provided onboard?
The yacht features restrooms, WiFi, fresh beach towels, snorkeling equipment, fishing gear, and SUP. Beverages such as local wine, soft drinks, and beers are included.

This Athens semi-private sailing and gastronomy cruise offers a well-rounded day combining sailing, authentic Greek cuisine, and scenic coastal stops. Its small group size and flexible itinerary ensure an engaging and personalized experience, ideal for those looking to enjoy a relaxed, food-focused adventure at sea.

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