From Athens Sea Kayak Sunken City of Epidaurus

Explore the Sunken City of Epidaurus by Sea Kayak and Snorkel

This engaging tour from Athens offers a unique chance to kayak over the ancient ruins of Epidaurus at a depth of less than three meters, where the waters are so clear you can see house foundations, potteries, and floor sections beneath the surface. Priced at $224 per person, the tour lasts approximately 12 hours, making it a full-day adventure suitable for active travelers who want a mix of history, nature, and hands-on exploration.

The experience is led by certified guides who explain the significance of the Roman villa from the 2nd century AD and the area’s history as a destination for pilgrims seeking health. The small group size, limited to 6 participants, ensures personalized attention and a relaxed atmosphere. A highlight includes a visit to the Corinth Canal, adding a notable engineering marvel to the day’s discoveries.

While the trip involves kayaking and snorkeling, it is designed for those comfortable with light physical activity and suitable for most ages under 6 ft 6 in (200 cm) and 264 lbs (120 kg). The tour provides hotel pickup and drop-off, a family-style lunch, and all necessary equipment, making it a convenient way to combine adventure with cultural insights.

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Key Points

• Authentic kayaking and snorkeling experience over the Sunken City of Epidaurus
• Includes transportation and hotel pickup from Athens for hassle-free travel
• Guided by certified experts who share historical details about the Roman villa and the area
• Visit the Corinth Canal, one of Greece’s most famous engineering feats
• Small group size of up to 6 participants for a more personalized experience
• Duration of about 12 hours, perfect for a full-day outing

The Sunken City of Epidaurus: Underwater Ruins at Kalymnios Beach

The tour begins at Kalymnios Beach, where the water’s transparency offers an extraordinary view of ancient ruins just below the surface. At less than three meters deep, the remains include mosaic floors, debris walls, and structural supports that have survived for centuries. This Roman villa from the 2nd century AD was near the ancient port, across from the Agora and below the Acropolis of Epidaurus.

Participants use sea masks and snorkels to observe the submerged relics up close, appreciating the preservation of the ruins in the clear waters. The guides provide insights into the area’s past as a spiritual and physical health destination for Greek pilgrims, a vibe still felt today amid the natural beauty and peaceful surroundings.

Kayaking Over Ancient Foundations and Pottery

The guided sea kayak journey takes you from the shore out over the sunken ruins, with expert instruction from the guides. They explain the significance of the architectural features, such as floors and structural supports, visible beneath the water. This activity combines physical activity with an extraordinary view of underwater archaeology.

Participants paddle along the coastline, crossing bays and enjoying short swims. The kayaking route is designed to be manageable for most participants, with the focus on enjoying the scenery and the history without feeling rushed.

Snorkeling the Ruins in Crystal-Clear Waters

After kayaking, the tour shifts to snorkeling, where participants are led to a sea urchin-free path around the submerged Roman villa. Using snorkel masks, they get a close-up look at the ruins, along with various fish species attracted to the area. The underwater visibility enhances the experience, making it easy to see the mosaic floors and intact debris walls.

The guides help identify points of interest and answer questions, making sure everyone feels comfortable exploring the underwater site. The combination of kayaking and snorkeling provides a rich perspective on both the area’s history and its natural environment.

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Visiting the Corinth Canal: A Notable Engineering Marvel

A key part of the tour is the visit to the Corinth Canal, a remarkable waterway connecting the Aegean and Ionian Seas. The guides share interesting facts about its construction and significance, adding a cultural layer to the day. Standing beside the canal, visitors can appreciate the scale and ingenuity behind this 2200-meter-long feat of engineering.

The stop at the canal is brief but memorable, offering ample photo opportunities and a chance to reflect on Greece’s historic and modern engineering achievements.

Included Amenities and Practical Details

The tour package covers hotel pickup and drop-off, ensuring smooth transportation from Athens to Epidaurus. Participants receive a family-style lunch, offering a taste of local cuisine, and all necessary kayaking and snorkeling equipment. The guides are English-speaking, providing clear instructions and historical insights throughout the day.

Participants are advised to bring sun protection (hat, sunglasses, sunscreen), water, swimwear, a towel, and a change of clothes. Suitable footwear like flip-flops is recommended for walking. The tour explicitly prohibits alcohol and drugs for safety reasons.

Physical Requirements and Accessibility

This experience is suitable for most active individuals, but it’s not recommended for those over 6 ft 6 in (200 cm) or over 264 lbs (120 kg). The activity involves paddling and snorkeling, so a basic level of mobility and comfort in the water is necessary. The small group setting ensures personalized guidance, but the physical nature of kayaking and snorkeling means it’s best for those comfortable with light outdoor activity.

The Guides and Customer Experience

The guides are certified and fluent in English, known for their knowledgeable and friendly approach. They point out points of interest, answer questions, and ensure safety during kayaking and snorkeling. The positive reviews highlight their expertise, especially in explaining the area’s history, which enriches the experience.

Participants praise the timing and pacing, with a full-day schedule that balances activity, relaxation, and sightseeing. The family-style lunch adds a warm, communal touch, and the small group size ensures everyone receives attention and support.

Cost and Booking Flexibility

Priced at $224 per person, the tour offers good value considering the included transportation, equipment, lunch, and guidance. Booking is flexible, with free cancellation available up to 24 hours before the activity. Travelers can reserve now and pay later, providing convenience and peace of mind.

This tour suits travelers who enjoy outdoor activities, history, and sea adventures. It’s ideal for those looking for an active, educational, and scenic full-day excursion from Athens.

The Sum Up: A Unique Mix of Adventure and History at Epidaurus

This sea kayak and snorkeling tour from Athens to the Sunken City of Epidaurus combines active outdoor fun with a fascinating glimpse into ancient Greece. The guided visits to underwater ruins and the Corinth Canal add cultural richness to the day, making it more than just a water-based adventure.

The small group format and certified guides support a personalized experience, while the full-day schedule offers a balanced mix of paddling, exploring, and relaxing. The crystal-clear waters and well-preserved ruins make for an unforgettable experience, particularly for those with an interest in history and outdoor activities.

While the physical nature of the tour requires some effort, it suits most active travelers eager for a hands-on archaeological and natural experience. For anyone staying in Athens and seeking a unique day trip that combines sea, history, and scenic sights, this tour delivers an engaging journey into Greece’s ancient past.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is included in the tour price?
The tour price of $224 covers hotel pickup and drop-off, transportation to Epidaurus, sea kayaking, snorkel gear, a family-style lunch, and a visit to the Corinth Canal.

How long does the tour last?
The experience lasts approximately 12 hours, making it a full-day activity suitable for travelers who want to maximize their time exploring Greece’s coastal historical sites.

Is the tour suitable for children or older travelers?
The activity is tailored for active participants and is not suitable for individuals over 6 ft 6 in (200 cm) or 264 lbs (120 kg). The physical requirements involve paddling and snorkeling, so participants should be comfortable with light outdoor water activities.

What should I bring for the trip?
It is recommended to bring a sun hat, sunscreen, sunglasses, water, towel, swimwear, change of clothes, and flip-flops for walking.

Can I cancel or reschedule?
Yes, the tour offers free cancellation if canceled up to 24 hours in advance. You can reserve now and pay later, providing flexibility in planning.

Is there anything not included in the price?
Alcoholic drinks, bottled water, and anything not explicitly listed in the included section are not covered by the tour price. Participants should plan accordingly.

What makes this tour stand out?
The combination of sea kayaking over ancient ruins, snorkeling, and visiting the Corinth Canal provides a multi-dimensional experience that appeals to both adventure seekers and history enthusiasts. The knowledgeable guides and small group size enhance the overall quality of the trip.

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