From Athens: Hydra, Poros, and Aegina Day Cruise with Lunch

Experience the Beauty of the Saronic Islands on a Full-Day Cruise from Athens

This full-day cruise offers an opportunity to explore three iconic Greek islands—Hydra, Poros, and Aegina—all in one trip. Priced at $159 per person, the tour departs from the old port of Athens in Faliro and includes free time on each island for swimming, sightseeing, and shopping. The cruise features a buffet lunch with Greek and Mediterranean dishes, live music and entertainment, and round-trip transfers if you select that option.

While the itinerary provides plenty of boat time, it offers enough flexibility with free exploration on each stop. This makes it an appealing choice for travelers eager to experience multiple islands in a single day, though it’s important to keep in mind that some reviews mention the food quality and the limited time spent on each island. This tour suits those who value scenic cruising, island hopping, and lively onboard entertainment.

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Key Points

• Full-day adventure visiting Hydra, Poros, and Aegina from Athens
• Price: $159 per person with options for included transfers
• Duration: Around 11 hours total, starting in the morning and returning in the evening
• Highlights: Free time for swimming, exploring cobblestone alleys, tasting pistachios, and visiting landmarks
• Meals & Entertainment: Buffet lunch and live Greek music and dance
• Limitations: Limited time on islands; some mention the food quality as poor

Departure from Athens and the Boat Experience

The tour begins at the old port of Athens in Faliro, easily accessible via a provided Google Maps link. The boat is designed for comfort, featuring ample amenities and a friendly crew ready to assist. The round-trip cruise lasts approximately 11 hours, allowing ample time to visit each island and enjoy the onboard atmosphere.

Travelers can expect a large vessel with many guests, which can make some find the experience a bit crowded. The crew’s warmth and professionalism are appreciated, especially during the lively onboard entertainment.

Exploring Hydra: Cobblestone Streets and Donkeys

Hydra is famous for its stone-paved alleys, historic architecture, and donkeys that still serve as a primary mode of transportation. The cruise offers free time on Hydra, letting visitors wander through its charming streets and admire the distinctive architecture. An optional walking tour is available at an extra fee, guiding you through historic landmarks and traditional houses.

One notable aspect of Hydra is its car-free streets, making exploration more relaxed and picturesque. The donkeys give a unique, old-world charm to the island. Swimming is also an option for those wanting to cool off in Hydra’s calm waters.

Poros: Green Spaces and Lemon Groves

Poros stands out for its lush greenery, pine forests, and fragrant lemon groves. The tour provides free time to explore the town, shop, or dine at a local taverna. The island’s calm beaches are ideal for a quick swim, as many visitors enjoy the tranquil vibe of Poros.

While the focus is on relaxation and sightseeing, the island’s natural beauty and peaceful atmosphere make it a favorite for those wanting a break from busier locations. The optional walking tour can deepen your appreciation of Poros, but it requires an extra fee.

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Aegina: Pistachios and Ancient Ruins

Aegina offers a blend of beaches, pistachio groves, and archaeological sites. The tour includes free time for swimming and shopping. An optional bus tour takes you to the Temple of Aphaia and the Monastery of Agios Nektarios, both of which are highlights for history and culture enthusiasts.

Aegina’s local pistachios are a key attraction, and sampling or buying fresh pistachios is highly recommended. The island’s beachfronts are perfect for relaxing after exploring its historical landmarks.

Lunch and the Onboard Entertainment

A significant part of this tour is the buffet-style lunch, which features Greek and Mediterranean cuisine. While the food offers a traditional experience, some reviews mention that the quality may vary, and the food can be unappetizing at times.

The cruise also boasts live entertainment, with Greek artists and dancers performing onboard. Music and dancing help create a lively, festive atmosphere during the return journey to Athens, making it a fun way to cap off the day.

Logistics, Group Size, and Meeting Points

The meeting point is located at WMPP+MF Kallithea, with clear directions provided via Google Maps. The tour includes round-trip transfers if this option is selected, easing transportation logistics. The group size can be large, and the boat is equipped to handle many guests, which might impact the personal feel of the experience.

The timing starts early in the morning, with a full schedule on board and on each island. For travelers with limited mobility or those traveling with pets (except assistance animals), considerations are necessary, as the tour is not suitable for wheelchair users or unaccompanied minors.

Pacing and Time Allocation on Islands

The itinerary offers ample time for swimming and exploring on each island but also means that the time on land is somewhat limited. The review notes that there is “lots of boat time for little time spent on the islands,” which can be a downside for those eager to fully explore each location.

For visitors who prefer more staying on the islands, this trip offers quick visits rather than in-depth exploration. The optional walking tours can extend the experience but at an extra cost.

Food Quality and Onboard Service

While the buffet lunch is included, some comments indicate that the food quality may be poor, describing it as “filthy” in some cases. The onboard crew receives praise for their friendly service, helping to create a positive environment despite the mixed reviews about the meal.

The live music and entertainment on the return leg add a lively touch, making the journey feel festive and energetic, especially with the Greek dancers and musicians.

Who Will Appreciate This Cruise?

This full-day cruise is best suited for travelers who enjoy scenic boat rides, island hopping, and lively onboard atmosphere. It caters well to those who want to see multiple islands in one day and don’t mind the limited time on each location.

However, those seeking more in-depth visits or gourmet meals may find the experience lacking in some areas. This tour is ideal for families, group travelers, or anyone looking for a relaxed day of sightseeing combined with entertainment.

Final Thoughts on the Hydra, Poros, and Aegina Day Cruise

This $159 tour offers a practical way to visit three beloved Greek islands in a single day, with a mix of swimming, sightseeing, and cultural entertainment. Despite some criticisms about the food quality and limited island time, the scenic cruise, friendly crew, and lively onboard vibe make this a convenient option for travelers who want a taste of the Saronic Gulf.

If you value beautiful boat rides, easy logistics, and the chance to explore multiple islands quickly, this tour can meet those needs. However, travelers looking for a more relaxed or in-depth island experience should consider the potential for a rushed visit and variable food quality.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is transportation included?
Yes, round-trip transfers are available if you select the transport option.

How long is the cruise?
The total duration is approximately 11 hours, including time on the islands.

What is the price?
The tour costs $159 per person, covering the cruise, lunch, and entertainment.

What should I bring?
Travelers should bring swimwear, camera, biodegradable sunscreen, snorkeling gear, towel, sun hat, flip-flops, and ID or passport.

Are the islands suitable for walking?
Yes, free time allows for exploring cobblestone streets and beaches, but the tour involves walking on uneven surfaces.

Are there optional tours?
Yes, optional walking tours of Hydra and bus tours of Aegina’s landmarks are available at extra fees.

Is the food served onboard good?
The buffet includes Greek and Mediterranean dishes, but some reviews mention the food quality can be poor.

Can children or pregnant women join?
The tour is not suitable for pregnant women or people with mobility impairments, and unaccompanied minors are not allowed.

Is this tour accessible for wheelchair users?
No, it is not suitable for wheelchair users or those with mobility issues.

What languages are available?
The tour is conducted in English and Greek.

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