One Day Cruise to Hydra, Poros and Aegina from Athens

Explore Three Greek Islands in One Day with an Affordable Cruise

This one-day cruise from Athens offers a lively way to visit Hydra, Poros, and Aegina for just $161.64 per person. The tour lasts approximately 12 hours, starting early in the morning at 7:45 am from the Nautical Club of Tzitzifies Kallithea. Travelers have the option to add hotel transfers, or upgrade to VIP class seats or an executive suite, all designed to make the experience more comfortable.

What sets this cruise apart is its inclusion of a buffet lunch, live Greek music, and a traditional folk show onboard. The tour is suitable for most travelers, with a maximum group size of 550. While the full day on the water promises stunning island scenery and cultural highlights, some reviews mention crowded spaces and limited time at each stop, especially during peak seasons.

Key Points

• Visit three islands in one day: Hydra, Poros, and Aegina
• Includes buffet lunch, live music, and folk entertainment
• Optional VIP upgrades offer priority embarkation, exclusive seating, and extra amenities
• Hotel pickup and transfers available with selected options
• Time at each stop varies from around 50 minutes to 2 hours
• Crowded boat and limited time on some islands are considerations to note

Departure Details from Athens and Meeting Points

The cruise departs early from Nautical Club of Tzitzifies Kallithea at 7:45 am, with embarkation starting around 7:00 am to 7:25 am. The meeting point is close to public transportation, making it easy for most travelers to join. If the optional transfer service is selected, guests are picked up from central Athens hotels, simplifying the logistics. The tour concludes back at the original meeting point, ensuring a convenient return.

The Starting Point: Piraeus Port and the Greek Hospitality

The journey begins at Port of Piraeus, where the crew welcomes travelers with warm Greek hospitality. The boat is spacious and well-maintained, and the atmosphere is lively, with a multicultural mix of people ready for a day of island hopping. The crew’s friendly service ensures a smooth start to the day and sets a relaxing tone for the journey.

Hydra: Walking the Cobblestone Streets and Historic Landmarks

Hydra is renowned for its cobblestone alleys and timeless architectural charm. The cruise allows 2 hours on the island, during which travelers can explore Harriets Hydra Horses and enjoy a walk through the town. The island’s unspoiled beauty and traditional transportation—donkeys—make it a captivating destination. Visitors often find Hydra perfect for easy walks around historic landmarks; however, the short stop of around 1 hour 20 minutes limits exploration time.

Poros: Pine Trees and Sandy Beaches

The cinematic island of Poros offers natural beauty, with thousands of pine trees and sandy beaches making it a peaceful escape. The cruise affords about 50 minutes here, enough for a quick stroll or to take in the sea views. Visitors appreciate the calm atmosphere and scenic surroundings, ideal for a relaxing break amid natural beauty.

Aegina: The Historic Island with Pistachios and Temples

Aegina is famous for its Temple of Aphaia, St. Nektarios Monastery, and delicious pistachios. The 2-hour stop at Aegina includes options for a panoramic nature tour or exploring the island independently. The temple offers impressive views, and the local markets are perfect for sampling pistachios or visiting the monastery. Some reviews note that time at Aegina can feel rushed, but the highlights are accessible during the scheduled visit.

Onboard Experience: Food, Entertainment, and Upgrades

The buffet lunch onboard features chicken, fish, pasta, salads, and desserts, served in a dedicated area for all passengers. During the cruise, a live orchestra and a traditional Greek folk show add to the festive atmosphere.

Travelers can choose to upgrade to the VIP class, which offers priority embarkation, exclusive seating with sofas and cushions, USB charging, and unlimited drinks including water, soft drinks, and coffee. The VIP package also provides a separate area for dining, a first-class buffet lunch, and a chance to visit the ship’s bridge and meet the captain. Some reviews mention the VIP experience as particularly enjoyable, though opinions vary on the quality of VIP amenities, especially regarding the food quality.

Optional Shore Excursions and Purchaseable Tours

While the basic tour includes guided walks or panoramic tours on Hydra and Aegina, additional on-board purchases are available, such as walking tours in Hydra, panoramic tours in Aegina, and swimming excursions. The Aphaia & Nektarios tour allows deeper exploration of Aegina’s historical sites, but these are not included in the standard package and must be purchased separately.

Practical Logistics: Transfers, Crowd Levels, and Timing

Transfers are available if the optional package is selected, making the trip more convenient for those staying in central Athens. The boat often crowds quickly, so arriving early enhances the chance of securing a good spot, especially in the VIP areas.

The cruise’s timing involves a long transfer to Hydra, with about 3 hours of sea travel, which can be tiring but offers ample time for relaxing or socializing. The shorter stops at Poros and Aegina mean travelers should plan to maximize their time during these visits, although some reviews mention limited time on Poros, about 50 minutes.

Weather and Cancellations

This tour is weather-dependent, and poor weather can lead to cancellations and rescheduling for safety reasons. In such cases, a full refund or alternative date is offered. The tour requires a minimum number of travelers to operate, and cancellations due to low enrollment are possible, with full refunds provided if that occurs.

Who Will Appreciate This Tour Most

This day cruise is ideal for first-time visitors to Athens who want a quick and comprehensive experience of Greece’s iconic islands without the hassle of separate arrangements. The lively onboard atmosphere, combined with scenic stops, makes it suitable for families, couples, and groups looking for a relaxed yet engaging day. The VIP upgrades suit travelers seeking extra comfort, priority access, and a more exclusive experience, especially on busy days.

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

This 12-hour cruise offers a value-packed day exploring three distinct Greek islands. The included buffet lunch, onboard entertainment, and optional VIP amenities add to the overall experience. While crowds and limited island time can be drawbacks, the scenery, cultural highlights, and lively atmosphere make this tour a popular choice for those eager to see multiple islands in a single day.

Travelers who appreciate convenience and a taste of island life will find this cruise worthwhile, especially if opting for the VIP package to enjoy additional comforts and priority access. However, those seeking more in-depth exploration or a quieter experience might prefer a longer, more relaxed day on each island.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is included in the standard tour?
The standard tour includes all taxes and fees, a buffet lunch, live music, and a traditional folk show onboard. Transfers are optional, and additional tours or excursions can be purchased on board.

How long is the time spent on each island?
The total time at Hydra is approximately 2 hours, while Poros has about 50 minutes, and Aegina is allotted 2 hours. Some reviews highlight that time can be tight, especially at Poros.

Are VIP upgrades worth it?
Many find the VIP experience provides priority boarding, exclusive seating areas, free soft drinks and coffee, and special tours. Some reviews praise it as worth the extra cost, but opinions vary regarding the food quality and crowd control.

What are the main stops on this cruise?
The cruise visits Hydra, known for its cobblestone streets and architectural beauty; Poros, with its pine trees and scenic beaches; and Aegina, famous for the Temple of Aphaia and pistachios.

Can I book hotel transfers?
Yes, hotel pickup and drop-off are available if the transfer option is selected during booking. The meeting point is near public transportation for those not choosing transfers.

Is this tour suitable for children or older travelers?
The tour’s duration and walking involved make it accessible for most travelers, but mobility limitations could be a consideration due to crowd levels and walking distances.

What should I bring for the day?
Travelers are advised to bring sunscreen, bathing suits, and comfortable shoes. The weather can vary, so layering is recommended.

How flexible are the tour times?
The schedule starts early at 7:45 am and ends back at the meeting point in the evening. Changes or cancellations are possible due to weather or low enrollment.

What is the best way to ensure a comfortable experience?
Booking the VIP class provides priority access, more space, and additional amenities, which can greatly enhance comfort during the day.

Can I customize my experience onboard?
While the standard tour follows the set itinerary, additional on-board excursions are available for purchase, allowing some flexibility for specific interests like swimming or in-depth island tours.