Porto Rafti: Athens Floating Bar Cruise

Porto Rafti: Athens Floating Bar Cruise Review

Imagine cruising aboard a traditional Greek wooden boat, with the night sky above, moonlight shimmering on the water, and a mini bar offering expertly mixed cocktails right on deck. That’s exactly what the Porto Rafti: Athens Floating Bar Cruise promises—an unusual and lively way to enjoy an evening in Greece, blending the charm of a boat ride with the fun of a floating party.

This 2.5-hour experience, offered by East Attica Cruises, is a standout because it’s the only floating bar in Athens, bringing something fresh to the city’s vibrant nightlife scene. We love how it combines the relaxed atmosphere of a boat with the energetic vibe of music, dancing, and a splash of adventure.

One aspect worth considering is the weather—since the cruise is dependent on sea conditions—so a rainy or windy night might mean a cancellation. Still, for those seeking a playful, less conventional way to spend an evening, especially if you’re into cocktails, swimming, or just soaking up the atmosphere under the stars, this cruise hits the spot.

This experience is particularly well-suited for travelers who enjoy socializing, are comfortable around water, and want a memorable night that’s both fun and picturesque. It’s perfect for couples, groups of friends, or anyone looking to add a unique twist to their Athens trip.

Key Points

• Unique Experience: Athens’ first floating bar cruise offers a fun, lively atmosphere on a traditional Greek boat.
• Flexible Mood: Whether you want to dance, relax, or take a moonlit swim, the cruise caters to your vibe.
• All-Inclusive Feel: The mini bar includes cocktails, wine, beer, and soft drinks, with the option to purchase more—adding great value for the price.
• Scenic Views: Expect stunning nighttime views of the shore lights and a peaceful anchor spot for swimming.
• Weather-Dependent: The cruise can be canceled due to bad weather, so check the forecast beforehand.
• Family & Sober Friendly: Not suitable for children under 16, non-swimmers, or those prone to motion sickness, but accessible for others.

An In-Depth Look at the Athens Floating Bar Cruise

The Setting: Port of Porto Rafti and the Traditional Greek Boat

The adventure begins at the Resalto Terminal in Porto Rafti, a charming seaside town just a short drive from Athens. The meeting point is straightforward, and the boat itself exudes classic Greek charm: a wooden vessel that feels both authentic and inviting. The boat is equipped with essentials like a lifeguard and safety measures, which travelers appreciated based on reviews.

What truly makes this vessel special is its transformation into a lively, colorful Tiki Club once the cruise begins. The deck is decorated with vibrant lights that turn the boat into a floating party zone, perfect for dancing or simply soaking up the atmosphere with friends.

The Itinerary: What to Expect During the Cruise

The cruise runs from 21:00 to 23:30, with check-in starting at 20:30. Once underway, the boat sets sail along the quiet waters of Porto Rafti, with the first highlight being the anchor near a peaceful island. This is the moment for those who want to enjoy a night swim with the water warm enough, especially in summer. You’ll find pool floats onboard, adding to the fun, and a lifeguard on duty for safety.

While the boat is anchored, guests can indulge from the mini bar stocked with cocktails, wine, beer, and soft drinks—an important detail considering drinks are not included in the price but can be purchased onboard. Several reviews mention the quality of the cocktails, with some describing them as “well-made” and “refreshing,” which makes the extra expense worthwhile.

Expect the atmosphere to be lively, with music and dancing. The transformation into a Tiki Club means that the boat becomes a vibrant party spot, especially as colorful lights and music turn the experience into something more festive than a simple boat ride.

The Swimming Stop: A Highlight for Many

One of the main attractions is the single swimming stop. Guests can jump into the water for a quick dip or just lounge on deck with a cocktail in hand. Reviewers have noted that the water is warm enough in the summer months, and the stop creates a perfect balance of relaxation and fun. Some mention bringing their own towels, as these are not provided, and swimsuits are recommended.

The Post-Swim Vibe and Return

After swimming and dancing, the boat heads back to port, with guests often lingering on deck, enjoying the shoreline lights and the tranquil night sky. The cruise has a casual, unpretentious vibe that appeals to those wanting a memorable, social experience without the hassle of a full-day tour.

Practical Details and Why They Matter

• Price and Value: At just over $30, this cruise offers a unique night experience that combines drink selling, entertainment, and swimming—something you might pay extra for elsewhere. Considering the entertainment and scenic highlights, many reviews feel it’s a good value.
• Duration and Timing: The 2.5-hour window is perfect for an evening activity, fitting easily into a night out or pre-dinner plan. Check availability for the start times, as they vary, but most guests seem to enjoy the late-hour vibe.
• Weather Dependence: Since the cruise can be canceled due to bad weather, it’s important to check the forecast beforehand. The link provided helps keep you informed of conditions, crucial for planning.
• Accessibility: The activity is wheelchair accessible, and the crew speaks English and Greek, making it easy for international travelers to feel comfortable.

Authentic and Fun Experiences Based on Reviews

While reviews generally praise the atmosphere and uniqueness of the cruise, some mention that the drinks are reasonably priced for a cruise environment, but not included in the ticket. A few guests appreciated the professionalism of the crew, noting the presence of a lifeguard and the safety measures onboard.

A couple of reviewers highlighted the lively music and friendly crowd, making it a great place for groups or couples wanting to socialize. Others found the anchor spot peaceful, perfect for a quick dip under the stars, which adds a special touch to the night.

One reviewer mentioned that the boat was transformed into a “mini Tiki Club,” complete with colorful lighting and dance music, turning what could be a simple cruise into a lively party.

Why Choose This Experience?

If you’re looking for an authentic feel with a slice of local culture, this cruise delivers a cozy, fun-filled evening. It’s ideal for young adults, couples, or groups of friends who want to combine a boat ride with a party atmosphere. The lack of a strict itinerary means you can enjoy the moment without feeling rushed, and the chance to swim adds a memorable touch.

While not suitable for children under 16 or non-swimmers, it’s perfect for those comfortable in water and interested in a laid-back yet lively outing.

The Sum Up

The Porto Rafti: Athens Floating Bar Cruise offers a rare combination of traditional Greek hospitality, lively entertainment, and scenic night views. For a reasonable price, you get the chance to dance under the moon, indulge in well-made cocktails, and enjoy a refreshing swim in tranquil waters.

This experience excels for social travelers or couples seeking a relaxed yet energetic evening away from the busy city center. The casual, fun vibe makes it a memorable outing, especially in warm weather when the water beckons.

While weather-dependent, the cruise’s charm and novelty make it a worthwhile addition to any Athens itinerary, especially if you’re craving something a little different from temple visits and museum tours. Be prepared to bring your swimwear, a towel, and your best dance moves—this is one night you’ll talk about long after the stars fade.

FAQs

Is the cruise suitable for children?
No, this cruise is not suitable for children under 16 years old. It’s geared towards adults who enjoy lively music, dancing, and swimming in a party atmosphere.

Are drinks included in the ticket price?
No, drinks are not included. You can purchase cocktails, wine, beer, and soft drinks from the mini bar onboard. Reviewers suggest the drinks are well-made and reasonably priced.

What should I bring for the cruise?
Bring swimwear, a towel, comfortable clothes, and flip-flops. Towels are not provided, and it’s best to be prepared for a quick dip if you choose to swim.

What happens if the weather is bad?
The cruise may be canceled due to bad weather conditions. It’s advisable to check the weather forecast beforehand via the provided link to avoid disappointment.

How long is the cruise?
The cruise lasts 2.5 hours, starting around 21:00 and ending at approximately 23:30. Check availability for specific start times.

Is the cruise accessible for wheelchair users?
Yes, the activity is wheelchair accessible, and the crew speaks both English and Greek, aiding communication and ease of access.

In essence, the Athens Floating Bar Cruise in Porto Rafti offers an engaging, fun, and scenic night out, perfect for those wanting a break from traditional sightseeing and eager for a lively, memorable experience on the water.