Small Group Cruise Around Antiparos & Despotiko With Lunch

Discover a Small-Group Boat Tour in Paros Featuring Antiparos and Despotiko

This full-day cruise offers an intimate experience on board a traditional fisherman’s wooden motor yacht, limited to around 14 guests for a personalized atmosphere. Priced at $219.21 per person, the tour departs from Alyki Marina at 10:00 am, with the cruise lasting approximately 6 hours 45 minutes. It includes snacks, a hearty homemade lunch, and all beverages, making it a well-rounded option for those seeking a relaxed yet adventurous day on the water in Greece.

The itinerary is flexible, as the captain chooses the best stops based on weather conditions and traffic. Expect stunning swimming and snorkeling in crystal-clear waters, along with visits to beautiful beaches, sea caves, and small islands. This tour is praised for its small group size, friendly crew, and delicious food, making it ideal for travelers who appreciate a more personal and relaxed sailing experience. However, note that transfers from accommodations are not included, so plan accordingly.

Key Points

• Limited to approximately 14 guests for an intimate experience.
• Flexible itinerary with stops at Panteronisi, Antiparos, and Despotiko.
• Includes snacks, homemade lunch, and drinks such as white wine, beer, and soft drinks.
• Snorkeling mask, noodles, and towels are provided for comfort and fun.
• Departure from Alyki Marina at 10:00 am, returning around 4:45 pm.
• Highly praised for friendly crew, delicious food, and stunning swimming spots.

Starting the Day at Alyki Marina with Warm Hospitality

The tour begins at 10:00 am from Alyki Marina, where guests are welcomed with a coffee and a traditional sweet. The small group size ensures a relaxed check-in process and a chance for the crew to give personalized attention. The meeting point is conveniently located near public transportation, making it accessible for most travelers.

The embarkation on board the authentic kaiki, a traditional wooden boat, sets the tone for a laid-back yet adventurous day. The crew of experienced guides and chefs makes it clear that safety, comfort, and good food are priorities. This initial moment frames the cruise as a carefully curated experience designed to showcase the natural beauty of the islands.

Exploring Panteronisi: Nature’s Private Pool

The first stop is Panteronisi, renowned for its turquoise waters that resemble a giant, natural swimming pool. The captain decides this spot based on weather, but the expectation is for calm waters and spectacular scenery. Here, guests enjoy swimming and snorkeling in crystal-clear water, with the opportunity to see underwater life close-up.

After about an hour and a half, the crew offers a light snack consisting of canapes on fresh wood-fired bread, adding to the laid-back vibe. This stop is appreciated for its privacy and beauty, making it a highlight for those seeking a peaceful swim in nature’s own pool.

Discovering the Wild Coast of Antiparos

The next stop takes guests to Antiparos’ southeast coast, characterized by cliffs plunging into the sea and hidden caves such as the Mastihari Cave. The stunning, wild landscapes offer excellent photo opportunities and a chance to explore nature’s rugged charm.

With about 1 hour and 30 minutes allocated here, guests can swim, snorkel, or simply enjoy the raw beauty of this part of the island. The crew is praised for their knowledge of the area, ensuring that everyone finds the most impressive spots to relax and take in the scenery.

Lunch on Wild Despotiko Island: Greek Flavors with a View

The highlight for many is the lunch around Despotiko, a wild island known for its untouched landscape. The mezzes served include dakos salad with carob crouton and Parian cheese, mussels with feta and wine, and Greek salad with crouton, along with risotto flavored with ouzo and saffron.

Fresh fruits round out the meal, which is prepared on board by the friendly crew. Beverages such as white house wine, beer, and soft drinks are included throughout this two-hour stop. The food receives high praise for being delicious, plentiful, and authentic, adding a special flavor to the day.

The Flexibility of the Captain’s Choice

Since the itinerary varies based on weather and traffic, the captain customizes each cruise to maximize enjoyment. This means that each trip can feature different stops and swimming spots, providing a unique experience every time.

This adaptive approach is appreciated by guests who enjoy unpredictable adventures and personalized service. The crew’s expertise ensures that even with a flexible schedule, all guests have the chance to see the best the islands have to offer.

Transparent and Inclusive Amenities for Fun and Comfort

Guests are provided with masks for snorkeling, foam water noodles, and towels, allowing for easy swimming and floating. The small boat design ensures plenty of space to relax, and the friendly crew maintains a welcoming atmosphere throughout the day.

The beverages included—white wine, beer, soft drinks, and mineral water—keep everyone refreshed. The snacks and lunch are home-cooked and hearty, ensuring energy for the entire day on the water.

The Experience of the Crew and Food

Multiple reviews highlight the knowledgeable guides, friendly attitude, and delicious onboard meals. Yannis, the guide and chef, is frequently praised for his cooking skills and hospitality. The crew’s attention to detail creates a comfortable environment, even in the small group setting.

Guests appreciate that they have plenty of space to relax and enjoy during the stops, with careful pacing that balances swimming, sightseeing, and mealtimes. The food is often described as fresh, tasty, and abundant.

Practicalities and Booking Details

The tour includes a full day on a traditional boat, with no need to worry about transfers—although transfers from accommodations are not included. The meeting point is at X4VM+JQ Aliki.

The confirmation is received within 48 hours, and the cancellation policy offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance. The max group size remains 14 guests, ensuring a personalized experience.

Who Will Enjoy This Tour Most?

This small-group cruise caters well to those who value intimate settings and authentic experiences. The friendly crew, delicious homemade meals, and beautiful swimming spots make it perfect for romantic couples, small families, or groups of friends looking for a relaxed day out.

Travelers who prefer more space to relax and personalized service will find this cruise a delightful option. It’s especially suited for adventurers who appreciate natural beauty and authentic Greek hospitality.

Final Thoughts on the Antiparos & Despotiko Small-Group Cruise

The small-group cruise around Antiparos and Despotiko offers a personalized, scenic, and culinary-rich day on the water. The authentic kaiki, flexible itinerary, and delicious onboard meals distinguish it from larger, busier boat tours. The friendly crew and stunning swimming spots consistently earn praise in reviews.

While transfers are not included, the convenient meeting point and limited group size make this experience accessible and enjoyable for most. This tour is best suited for those seeking a relaxed, small-group adventure that combines natural beauty with authentic Greek flavors.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, the tour’s small size and calm waters make it suitable for families, though parents should consider the boat’s physical requirements and swimming activity.

Are beverages included?
Yes, white wine, beer, soft drinks, and mineral water are included throughout the cruise.

What is the duration of the cruise?
The total cruise lasts approximately 6 hours and 45 minutes, starting at 10:00 am and returning around 4:45 pm.

Do I need to bring my own snorkeling gear?
No, masks for snorkeling are provided for guests’ use onboard.

Are lunch and snacks included?
Yes, a homemade mezze lunch, snacks, and fresh fruits are included in the tour price.

Can I cancel my reservation if my plans change?
Yes, full cancellation is available up to 24 hours before the start for a full refund.

Is transportation from my hotel included?
No, transfers are not included, so guests need to arrange their own transportation to Alyki Marina.

What makes this tour stand out?
Its small group size, authentic boat experience, delicious food, and spectacular stops set this tour apart.

Is the itinerary fixed?
No, the captain chooses stops based on weather and traffic, making each cruise a unique experience.

What type of boat is used?
The tour is on an authentic kaiki, a traditional fisherman’s wooden motor yacht.