Athens Full-day catamaran cruise with meal & drinks

Exploring Athens from the land is fascinating, but seeing it from the water offers a whole new perspective—one that combines relaxation, adventure, and a splash of luxury. This full-day catamaran cruise sets sail from Alimos Marina and takes you around the waters near the island of Aegina. With a mix of swimming, sunbathing, and excellent onboard dining, it’s a wonderful way to spend about nine hours soaking up the Greek seaside vibe.

What we love about this experience is its balance between comfort and activity. The guided stops for swimming in secluded coves make it more than just a boat ride—it’s a chance to connect with the water and nature, all while enjoying the hospitality of a well-prepared onboard meal. Yet, it’s worth noting that the trip requires some planning—there’s no transfer included, so getting to Alimos Marina is something you’ll need to organize yourself.

This cruise suits travelers who crave a mix of relaxation and exploration, enjoy being on the water, and want a taste of Greek island life without leaving Athens. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply want a day away from city sightseeing, this trip offers a memorable day out with excellent value for those who appreciate good food, stunning views, and personalized service.

Key Points

• Scenic sailing around Aegina offers breathtaking views of the Greek coastline.
• Swim and snorkel in quiet coves, experiencing Greece’s crystal-clear waters away from crowds.
• Delicious onboard lunch highlights fresh seafood pasta, salads, and snacks.
• Experienced crew and a professional skipper ensure a safe, smooth trip.
• All-inclusive drinks—wine, beers, and bottled water—keep you refreshed.
• Flexible booking options and full refunds up to 24 hours before departure.

The Itinerary Breakdown: What to Expect

The journey begins bright and early at 10:00 AM from Alimos Marina. From there, you’ll board a modern sailing catamaran—a vessel designed for comfort, stability, and ample space to stretch out and enjoy the day. The crew, led by a knowledgeable English-speaking skipper, guides you through the day’s highlights, making sure everyone stays safe while having fun.

Morning Sail and First Swim

The first two hours are all about soaking up the sun, sipping on a drink, and enjoying the gentle sea breeze as you sail south toward Aegina. This part of the trip offers lovely panoramic views of Athens and the surrounding islands, perfect for snapping some photos or just relaxing with a good book.

Once you arrive at your first swimming spot—carefully chosen for its calm, clear waters—you’ll be free to swim, snorkel, or just float around. The crew is actively involved, often providing tips on the best spots to see marine life or take photos. Several reviews mention how the crew’s local expertise really enhances the experience, as they know exactly where the water is most inviting and peaceful.

Lunch and Relaxation

After working up an appetite, it’s time for a sit-down on deck with a delicious seafood pasta meal, accompanied by salads, appetizers, and snacks. The lunch is served onboard, meaning no need to disembark or search for restaurants onshore. Guests reported the meals were fresh and flavorful, with some describing the seafood pasta as a standout.

During the meal, you can enjoy a glass of local wine, beers, or bottled water. The drinks menu is limited for safety reasons, but the options available tend to satisfy most tastes. One reviewer noted that the crew was attentive, regularly refilling glasses and making sure everyone was comfortable.

More Swimming and Scenic Cruising

In the afternoon, the boat moves to another secluded cove for additional swimming or relaxing under the sun. It’s common to see guests sunbathing on the nets or deck padding, with the stunning Aegina coast in the background.

The captain’s knack for finding the best spots is frequently praised—reviews highlight how these secretive coves feel like private retreats, far from the busier tourist beaches. This quiet, intimate aspect makes the trip especially memorable.

Return to Athens

After about 7 to 8 hours on the water, the boat heads back toward Alimos Marina, arriving around 7:00 PM. The return journey offers one last chance to enjoy the sunset over the water, adding a final touch of magic to the day.

The Value of This Full-Day Cruise

For roughly nine hours of sailing, swimming, eating, and relaxing, the cost offers good value—particularly because all the essentials are included: skipper, crew, lunch, drinks, taxes, and fuel. You won’t need to worry about extra charges unless you want additional drinks or souvenirs.

The onboard meal, in particular, is a highlight. Unlike shorter boat trips that only offer snacks or drinks, this experience provides a hearty, well-prepared lunch, making it ideal for travelers who want more than just a boat ride. The included wine and beers add a touch of indulgence, especially as you float in the calm waters of Aegina’s coves.

That said, keep in mind the trip starts from Alimos Marina, so transportation to the meeting point is your responsibility. The marina is accessible by tram or taxi from central Athens, which is straightforward but worth factoring into your schedule.

Practical Tips and Considerations

• Timing: The cruise departs at 10:00 AM; check availability for exact times.
• What to bring: Sunscreen, sunglasses, sun hat, towel, and your passport or ID. These are essentials for comfort and identification.
• What not to bring: Pets are not allowed, so plan accordingly.
• Accessibility: Not suitable for those with mobility impairments.
• Getting there: The meeting point is outside Istion Yachting Alimos Charter base, opposite Pier 8 and 9—easy to reach by tram or taxi.
• Booking: You can reserve now and pay later, offering flexibility if your plans change.

Authentic Insights from Reviewers

Guests often mention the crew’s attentiveness and local knowledge as key strengths. One review highlights how the captain “found the best swimming spots,” making the experience feel personalized. Another appreciated the excellent wine selection, which complemented the scenic views and seafood meal perfectly.

Many reviewers noted how the quiet coves offered a peaceful escape, with some saying it felt like they had their own private beaches. The boat’s modern design and spacious layout allow for plenty of comfort, and the relatively small group size ensures a cozy, intimate atmosphere.

Who Would Love This Experience?

This cruise is perfect for couples, small groups, or families seeking a relaxed day away from Athens’ hustle. It’s best suited for those who enjoy being on the water, swimming in natural settings, and indulging in good food and drinks. If you’re after a full-day adventure that combines scenic sailing with beachside relaxation, this trip will hit the mark.

However, if you’re someone with mobility issues or prefer a more active or land-based exploration, you might want to explore other options. Also, since no transfers are included, travelers should be comfortable arranging their own transport to Alimos Marina.

Final Thoughts

This full-day catamaran cruise offers a balanced blend of scenic sailing, quiet swimming spots, and a delicious onboard meal. It feels like an authentic taste of Greek island life, minus the hassle of traveling to multiple islands. The knowledgeable crew, stunning views, and relaxing atmosphere make it a highly appealing choice for those wanting to experience Athens from a different perspective.

While the trip’s start point requires some planning, the overall experience delivers excellent value—especially when you consider the included meals, drinks, and the chance to unwind in peaceful coves. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply craving a break from city sightseeing, this cruise promises a memorable, picture-perfect day on the water.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is transportation to Alimos Marina included?
No, transfers are not included. You’ll need to arrange your own transport, which is straightforward by tram or taxi from Athens city center.

What should I bring with me?
Bring your passport or ID, sunglasses, sun hat, sunscreen, and a towel. These will help you stay comfortable during the day.

Are drinks included?
Yes, the trip includes wine, beers, and bottled water. Alcoholic drinks are limited for safety reasons but are enough to enjoy the cruise.

How long is the cruise?
The entire experience lasts approximately 9 hours, starting around 10:00 AM and returning around 7:00 PM, depending on availability.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering flexibility if needed.

Is this suitable for children or those with mobility issues?
It’s suitable for most children, but not recommended for guests with mobility impairments due to the boat’s design.

What kind of meal is served?
A fresh seafood pasta dish, along with salads, appetizers, and snacks, served onboard. Reviewers say the quality is impressive.

How do I reserve my spot?
You can book now with the option to pay later, which helps keep your plans flexible without losing your place on the boat.

This full-day Athens catamaran cruise truly combines scenic beauty, relaxation, and authentic Greek hospitality. For those seeking a leisurely day on the water with memorable views and tasty food, it’s a top choice—certainly one to consider when visiting Athens.