Private Rib Cruise to Poseidon Temple at Sounio Cape

Key Points

• Private 7-hour cruise from Athens offers an intimate experience for groups up to 8.
• Includes round-trip transfer from central Athens hotels and entrance to the Poseidon Temple.
• Visit uninhabited islands like Arsida and Pothitos, perfect for swimming, snorkeling, and relaxing.
• Snorkel at Arsida Island’s cave with professional underwater photos included at no extra cost.
• Explore the ancient ruins of Poseidon’s Temple at Sounio, perched on a dramatic headland with stunning sea views.
• Perfect for sun seekers and history lovers who want personal attention and flexible plans.

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Private Rib Cruise to Poseidon Temple at Sounio Cape: An Overview

This private 7-hour rib cruise in Greece is designed for groups of up to 8 people and offers a unique way to experience the beautiful Attica coastline and the famous Poseidon Temple. Priced at $1,073 per group, this tour combines sea adventures, uninhabited island visits, and ancient ruins exploration.

Departing from central Athens hotels, travelers enjoy a round-trip transfer in an air-conditioned minivan, making it a seamless start to the day. With a professional guide and crew, the focus is on personalized service, ensuring a flexible and engaging experience suitable for those seeking adventure, relaxation, and cultural discovery.

While the tour includes snacks, bottled water, and snorkel equipment, it offers the option to add activities like scuba diving or discovering underwater sights at an additional cost. The tour’s small group size fosters a more intimate environment and allows for tailored attention.

Discovering the Coastline from Athens to Sounio

The tour begins when the group is picked up from a central Athens hotel and transported in an air-conditioned minivan to Lagonissi. Here, travelers board the rib boat, where the captain sets sail along the coastline of Attica. The fast journey along the coast provides an excellent opportunity to sit back, soak up the sun, or enjoy the scenery.

This scenic drive offers views of the Athenian Riviera, setting the tone for a day of both relaxation and exploration. The proximity to Athens makes this an easy escape from the city’s hustle, ideal for visitors looking for a combination of sea and history.

Uninhabited Islands: Arsida, Pothitos, and Fleves

After departing from Lagonissi, the boat heads toward small, uninhabited islands such as Arsida, Pothitos, Fleves, or Patroklos—depending on conditions. These islands are known for remote sandy beaches and clear waters, perfect for swimming, snorkeling, or simply unwinding.

A key highlight is snorkeling at Arsida Island’s cave, where the crew’s professional underwater camera captures memories at no extra charge. These safe waters are free of dangerous marine life and strong currents, making it an excellent choice for families or less experienced swimmers. If desired, guests can also opt for a scuba or discover scuba experience, available at extra cost.

Snorkeling and Underwater Photography

The snorkeling experience is a standout feature of this tour. The crew’s professional underwater camera allows visitors to preserve their underwater moments without needing to bring their own equipment. Swimmers can explore the cave at Arsida Island, where the clear waters reveal fascinating views of marine life.

The safe sea conditions mean snorkelers of all levels can enjoy exploring the underwater environment comfortably. The snorkel gear is provided, and the crew is available for assistance, making it suitable for different experience levels.

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Visiting the Sounio and Poseidon Temple Ruins

After enjoying the sea and sun, the boat heads toward Sounio, the site of the ancient Poseidon Temple. The ruins, perched on a headland surrounded by the sea on three sides, are a spectacular sight. The entry fee to the temple is included in the tour.

The location at Sounio is notable for stunning views and the feeling of walking through history at the remains of an ancient Greek temple dedicated to the sea god Poseidon. The ruins are widely recognized, with the name of Lord Byron engraved on the site, adding an element of literary history to the visit. The view from the ruins offers a sweeping outlook over the Aegean Sea, making it a favorite for photographers and history enthusiasts alike.

The Scenic Drive Along the Athenian Riviera

On the way back from Sounio, the guide shares lesser-known facts about Greece’s WWII history, stopping at the monument to Italian Soldiers who were killed after surrendering during WWII. This scenic drive along the water’s edge adds historical context to the day, enriching the overall experience.

Travelers appreciate the informative narration from the guide, which enhances the visit to the Poseidon ruins and adds a personal touch to the journey. This part of the tour showcases local stories and historical insights, making it more than just a boat ride.

The Comfort and Practicalities of the Tour

The private group format ensures a relaxed atmosphere with personal attention from the tour escort and captain. The tour is designed to maximize flexibility, with snacks, fresh fruit, and bottled water served onboard.

Participants should bring sunglasses, sun hat, swimwear, and towels. It’s recommended to also carry sun lotion and possibly a light jacket, depending on the season. The tour is not suitable for children under 5 and not accessible for wheelchair users.

Each booking is limited to 8 people, maintaining an intimate setting where guests’ preferences are prioritized. The entire experience is weather-dependent, and activities like snorkeling and island visits may vary if conditions change.

The Experience of the Guides and Crew

The guides and crew are described as professional, friendly, and helpful. In reviews, the guide’s storytelling and customer-oriented approach stand out as key strengths. The crew is skilled at managing wind conditions and planning the day accordingly, especially during windy days when sailing to certain locations might be challenging.

Guests appreciate that memories are recorded through underwater photos, and the crew’s knowledge of local and recent history adds value to the tour. The personalized service makes this cruise feel like a private adventure tailored to individual preferences.

Pricing and Inclusions

The $1,073 fee covers round-trip transfer from your Athens hotel, local taxes, entrance fees to the Poseidon temple, snacks, bottled water, and snorkeling equipment. The tour is fully private, with a live English-speaking guide, making it suitable for those seeking privacy and customized attention.

Optional activities like scuba diving can be arranged for an additional cost, giving more adventurous guests a chance to explore underwater environments further.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This private rib cruise suits families, couples, or small groups who want a personalized experience combining sea activities and cultural visits. It’s ideal for travelers who prefer flexibility and intimate settings over large group tours.

The tour’s scenic route, snorkeling, and historical sites appeal to those interested in nature, history, and relaxation. However, guests should be aware that children under 5 are not accommodated, and the tour may not be suitable for wheelchair users.

Final Thoughts on the Sounio Private Rib Cruise

This 7-hour private adventure offers a balanced mix of sea, sun, and history. The personalized service, stunning coastal scenery, and accessible snorkeling make it a compelling choice for those seeking a relaxed yet engaging day in Greece.

While the price reflects the private nature and inclusions, the small group size and customized approach justify the investment for many travelers. The expert guidance and well-organized itinerary ensure a smooth, memorable experience, especially for those eager to explore the Poseidon Temple and uninhabited islands in comfort.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is included in the tour price?
The round-trip transfer, local taxes, entrance fees to Poseidon’s temple, snacks, bottled water, and snorkel equipment are included.

How long does the tour last?
The tour lasts 7 hours, with checkable starting times depending on availability.

Is the tour suitable for children?
The activity is not suitable for children under 5. All children must be accompanied by an adult.

What should I bring?
Guests should bring sunglasses, sun hat, swimwear, towels, and sun lotion. A light jacket may be needed depending on the season.

Can I snorkel at the islands?
Yes, snorkeling is available at Arsida Island’s cave, with professional underwater photos provided for free.

Is the tour private?
Yes, this experience is for a private group of up to 8 people, ensuring a personalized experience.

What activities are included?
Guests can swim, snorkel, relax on uninhabited islands, and explore Poseidon’s ancient temple ruins.

What happens if the weather is bad?
The tour is weather-dependent; activities like snorkeling and sailing may be adjusted or canceled if conditions are unsafe.

Are food options available on board?
The tour includes snacks and fresh fruit, but lunch is not provided.

How do I book this tour?
Reservations are available with the option to reserve now and pay later, providing flexibility in planning.

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