Athens Private Full day Catamaran cruise with meal & drinks

Imagine sailing across the sparkling waters of the Saronic Gulf, feeling the warm sun on your skin, and enjoying the gentle sway of a sleek catamaran. That’s exactly what this full-day private sailing trip from Athens offers. From the moment you step onto the boat, you’re treated to a blend of comfort, scenic beauty, and authentic Greek island vibes. Guided by a professional crew, this experience promises a seamless day of swimming, lounging, and delicious food, with plenty of opportunities to relax or explore.

One thing we particularly appreciate about this tour is its all-inclusive nature — your meals, snorkeling gear, and even fuel and port fees are covered. However, as with any cruise, it’s worth considering that you’ll need to organize your own transport to the meeting point. Still, for those wanting a stress-free, personalized day on the water, this trip hits a lot of high notes.

A possible consideration? If you’re not into snorkeling or swimming, some might find the stops less appealing, though the scenic views and onboard comfort still make for a lovely day. This tour suits travelers seeking a relaxed, scenic escape from the busy Athens streets, perfect for families, couples, or friends wanting to experience Greece from a different perspective.

Key Points

• Luxury and Comfort: Enjoy a private, well-equipped sailing catamaran with a professional crew.
• All-Inclusive Experience: Food, drinks, snorkeling gear, fuel, and port fees are included, providing excellent value.
• Scenic Stops: Swim and snorkel at two beautiful bays on Aegina, with clear waters and picturesque surroundings.
• Flexible Day Out: Approximately nine hours of sailing, allowing plenty of time to relax and soak in views.
• Ideal for Relaxation: Perfect for travelers looking to unwind after days of sightseeing or exploring Athens’ historic sites.
• Limited Participation: Only your group shares the experience, ensuring a personalized and intimate environment.

A Closer Look at the Itinerary

Starting Point: Istion Yachting

Your day begins right outside the Istion Athens Charter base at Alimos Marina — a convenient location just a short taxi or public transport ride from downtown Athens. Meeting the crew here at 10:00 am, you’re greeted by a professional team that’s known for their friendliness and attentiveness. The group is limited to your booking, often just up to 10 people, making it a cozy, personalized experience.

First Stop: Agia Marina Bay, Aegina

After a quick safety briefing, the boat sets sail across the Saronic Gulf, with stunning views of Athens’ coastline fading into the distance. The first swim stop is at Agia Marina Bay in Aegina — a spot praised for its crystal-clear waters and calm environment. As one reviewer noted, their snorkeling experience was “wonderful,” thanks to the pristine water and helpful snorkel equipment provided.

You’ll have around two hours here, enough time to jump into the water, explore the underwater world, or just float and relax on the boat’s deck. The scenery is characterized by rocky coastlines and lush greenery, providing a beautiful backdrop for a swim. The crew often helps with snorkeling gear and makes sure everyone feels comfortable in the water.

Second Stop: Vagia Bay

Next, the boat heads to Vagia Bay, another scenic bay with shallow waters, ideal for a leisurely swim. Reviewers mention that the views of the Attica landscape from the boat are stunning during the sail, making the journey as memorable as the stops. You get around an hour and a half here, which is ample time to cool off, take photos, or simply unwind on deck while the crew whips up a fresh meal.

The Onboard Meal

No sailing adventure is complete without good food, and this trip delivers with a delicious onboard lunch — seafood pasta along with salads and appetizers. The food is served hot, and many guests commented on the quality, noting it was a highlight of the day. As one traveler said, “Loved the food and the friendly staff,” which makes the whole experience even more enjoyable.

The Return

After a relaxing day of swimming and lounging, you’ll head back to Alimos Marina around 7 pm, just in time to reflect on a day well spent. The cruise ends at the same point it started, making logistics straightforward.

Why This Cruise Works Well

The scenery is undoubtedly one of the main draws. As you sail from Athens, the views of the coast, the islands, and the expansive sky are breathtaking. Several reviews highlight how enjoyable the boat itself is — a well-maintained catamaran that’s comfortable and easy to move around on.

Travelers also appreciate the attentive crew. SveinErik_B mentioned the boat and staff as “beautiful” and “excellent,” emphasizing the friendly attitude and helpfulness, especially during snorkeling. Gayle_S pointed out the trip’s relaxing nature, perfect after a hectic week of sightseeing, and her grandson’s enjoyment suggests it’s suitable for a wide age range.

The value for money is another plus; with all meals, drinks, snorkeling gear, and fees included, it simplifies planning and budgeting, especially for groups. The private aspect ensures that your experience isn’t crowded with strangers, adding a layer of intimacy and flexibility.

Considerations for Travelers

While most praise the trip, it’s worth noting that alcoholic drinks are limited—not unlimited wine or beer—and there’s no hotel pickup service. The meeting point is accessible via public transport, but you’ll need to arrange your own transfer from your accommodation. If you’re not a fan of swimming or snorkeling, you’ll want to consider how much you’ll participate in those activities, although the vessel’s comfort and scenic cruising still make it worthwhile.

Why This Tour is Perfect for

This cruise suits travelers who want a laid-back day on the water, enjoying Greece’s natural beauty without the hassle of organizing their own boat trip. It’s ideal for couples, families, or small groups of friends looking for a special experience that combines stunning views, good food, and authentic island time. If you appreciate personalized service and want to avoid large, crowded tours, this private cruise offers a more intimate, relaxed alternative.

The Sum Up

For those seeking a luxurious yet relaxed escape from Athens, this private catamaran cruise ticks many boxes. With its well-organized itinerary, included meals, and beautiful stops in Aegina, it offers excellent value for a full-day adventure. The friendly crew, comfortable boat, and stunning scenery make it a memorable way to experience Greece’s coastline. Whether you’re a seasoned sailor or just looking to unwind on the water, this trip is a gentle, scenic journey that’s hard to beat.

If you’re after a smooth, scenic, and well-catered experience that balances activity with relaxation, this cruise is an excellent choice. It’s perfect for those who want to see Aegina from the water, enjoy great food, and escape the city’s hustle for a day.

FAQ

How many people are on this cruise?
This is a private tour, so only your group will participate, typically up to 10 people, ensuring a personalized experience.

What’s included in the price?
The cost covers nine hours of sailing, onboard lunch (seafood pasta and salads), snorkeling equipment, fuel, port fees, taxes, and bottled water. Alcoholic beverages are available but not unlimited.

Do I need to arrange transportation to the meeting point?
Yes, you should organize your own transfer to Alimos Marina, which is near public transportation options. The meeting point is right outside the Istion Athens Charter base.

What activities are offered during the cruise?
You can swim and snorkel at two different bays in Aegina. The crew provides snorkeling gear, and you can fish if you wish, as fishing equipment is included.

Is this experience suitable for children?
Given that the trip appeals to a wide age range and is described as relaxing, it’s generally suitable for families. However, parents should consider their children’s swimming capabilities and comfort with boat trips.

What’s the best time of year for this cruise?
While not specified, Greece’s weather from spring to early autumn (April to October) is ideal for sailing, swimming, and enjoying outdoor meals.

Are there any additional costs I should be aware of?
Entrance fees to archaeological sites are not included, but this trip focuses on the scenic coast and swimming stops, so extra costs should be minimal unless you choose to visit sites separately.

This full-day private sailing cruise from Athens offers a wonderful mix of relaxation, scenic beauty, and good food. It’s a fantastic way to see Greece from a different angle and unwind after days of sightseeing. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply want a peaceful day on the water, this trip delivers a memorable experience.