Proti Island: Snorkeling Boat Tour

If you’re looking to explore Greece’s lesser-known waters and see some incredible underwater sights, the Proti Island snorkeling boat tour might just be the experience you need. For around $39.50, you get to spend a few hours cruising around one of the Peloponnese’s uninhabited islands, snorkel at two different locations, and enjoy the chance to swim alongside colorful fish and explore a WWII shipwreck. It’s a straightforward, well-priced way to add some marine adventure to your Greek itinerary.

One thing we love about this tour is the flexibility — you can choose between a morning or afternoon departure, which makes it easier to fit into your plans. Plus, the snorkeling equipment is included, so you don’t need to worry about bringing your own gear. That said, one thing to consider is that the afternoon tour only visits one location, which might feel a tad rushed if you’re eager to explore more underwater sites.

This tour is perfect for travelers who want to combine boat cruising with snorkeling, especially those curious about WWII wrecks or seeking peaceful, scenic spots away from crowded beaches. It’s also suitable for small groups, making the experience more intimate and personalized.

Key Points

• Uncommon Locations: Snorkel at two different sites around an uninhabited island, including a WWII wreck.
• Flexibility: Choose between morning and afternoon tours to suit your schedule.
• All-Inclusive: Snorkeling equipment is provided, simplifying logistics.
• Small Group Setting: Tours limited to six participants for a more personal experience.
• Cost-Effective: At just over $39, it offers good value for marine exploration.
• Ideal for Non-Swimmers: While not suitable for those with pre-existing medical conditions, the boat ride and snorkeling are manageable for most.

The Experience in Detail

Starting Point: Scuba Turtles Dive Center

Your adventure begins at the Scuba Turtles Dive Center, located conveniently in the Peloponnese. This is where you’ll meet your guides, who generally speak English, Greek, and Spanish. The small group size means you’ll get personal attention, and you won’t be just another face in a crowd. The staff is known for their friendly approach, which helps ease any first-time snorkeler nerves.

The First Stop: Vourlia Beach

The highlight for many is Vourlia Beach, a picturesque stretch of sand tucked away in a calm cove. The water here is strikingly clear, making it perfect for snorkeling. As you float above the gentle waves, you’ll be treated to views of colorful fish and underwater flora. The calmness of the bay makes it suitable even for less confident swimmers, though the tour is not recommended for non-swimmers.

One review mentioned how “the water was so crystal clear, I could see fish swimming just below me.” Another appreciated that the location is uninhabited, so it feels like your own private paradise. You’ll spend about 70 minutes here—enough time to don your gear, explore the wreck just below the surface, and enjoy the tranquility.

The WWII Shipwreck

A significant draw of this tour is the WWII shipwreck, which lies just outside the bay entrance. It’s about 40 meters long and offers an intriguing glimpse into history. Some sections are just below the waterline, making it accessible for snorkelers of various skill levels. Several reviewers noted how “the wreck was fascinating, with sections just below the water surface, perfect for pictures and exploration.”

The wreck adds a layer of depth to the experience, especially for history buffs or those interested in maritime stories. Remember, since the wreck is just below the surface, you won’t need advanced diving skills—snorkeling gear is sufficient to get a good look.

Second Stop (for Full Morning Tour)

After enjoying Vourlia Beach and the wreck, your boat will head to a second snorkeling location to explore more underwater scenery. The full 4.5-hour tour includes two stops, allowing ample time for swimming, relaxing, and soaking in the views. The boat remains close enough to shore that the scenery is stunning, and the water remains at a comfortable temperature during warmer months.

For those who opt for the afternoon tour, only one site will be visited, making it a shorter 2-hour experience. The trade-off is a more relaxed pace but less time exploring underwater.

Practical Details

The boat tour is quite straightforward: your equipment is provided, and the boat departs from the dive center. The duration, 4.5 hours for the full tour, offers good value, considering the multiple snorkeling spots and the scenic cruise. The tours are limited to six people, ensuring you get a more personalized experience compared to larger groups.

Keep in mind, this experience isn’t suitable for non-swimmers or those with certain medical conditions. You should also bring essentials like a hat, sunscreen, water, and swimwear. The guide’s language options—English, Greek, and Spanish—make it accessible for a diverse range of travelers.

What Makes This Tour Stand Out

Beyond the beautiful waters, what really elevates this experience is the combination of scenic cruising with underwater exploration. The boat ride itself offers stunning views of Proti Island’s unspoiled coastline. And once you’re in the water, you get a chance to see the underwater world that’s often hidden from land-based visitors.

Many reviews mention how accessible and relaxing the experience is, especially for those who want a quick escape from busy tourist spots. The inclusion of snorkeling equipment and the small group size makes it feel more like a tailored adventure rather than a generic tour.

The Value for Money

At just over $39, this tour offers excellent value, especially considering the inclusion of two snorkeling locations and the shipwreck. It’s a cost-effective way to experience Greece’s marine life, especially if you’re not keen on booking separate boat rentals or excursions. Plus, with flexible departure times, it can easily fit into varied itineraries.

Limitations to Keep in Mind

While the tour is generally well-reviewed, it’s worth noting that the afternoon option visits only one site. If you’re eager to see multiple snorkeling spots, the morning tour is the better choice. Also, since the guide on the water isn’t included, you’ll need to rely on the guides’ instructions before entering the water, so paying attention during the briefing is important.

Who will love this experience?

This tour is ideal for travelers who want a short, manageable marine adventure without the need for advanced skills or equipment. It’s perfect for those who prioritize scenic beauty, underwater history, and a relaxed pace. If you enjoy small-group experiences with personalized attention, this will suit you well. Non-swimmers should consider other options, but confident snorkelers and water lovers will find plenty to enjoy here.

Final Thoughts

The Proti Island snorkeling boat tour offers a balanced mix of natural beauty, historical intrigue, and fun in a small, friendly setting. The clear waters, calm coves, and accessible wreck combine to create an experience that’s both relaxing and visually captivating. With its affordability and flexible options, it’s a fantastic way to add some marine adventure to your trip to Greece.

Travelers who value authentic, less touristy spots will appreciate how the tour highlights a relatively untouched part of the Peloponnese. The sense of peace and the chance to see a WWII wreck up close are bonuses that make this outing genuinely memorable.

Whether you’re a seasoned snorkeler or simply want to enjoy the water, this tour offers a compelling, value-packed experience that’s worth considering for your Greek itinerary.

FAQs

Is the tour suitable for non-swimmers?
This tour is not recommended for non-swimmers. Snorkeling requires a basic comfort in the water, and the experience involves swimming near the boat and underwater sites.

What should I bring?
You should bring a hat, swimwear, sunscreen, and water. The tour includes snorkeling equipment, so you don’t need to pack your own gear.

How long does the tour last?
The full snorkeling tour lasts approximately 4.5 hours, while the afternoon version only visits one site and lasts about 2 hours.

Where does the tour start?
It departs from the Scuba Turtles Dive Center, which is the designated starting point for the trip.

Are there any age restrictions?
The data doesn’t specify age restrictions, but since it’s not suitable for non-swimmers or those with certain medical conditions, children should be comfortable in the water.

What languages are available for the guides?
Guides speak English, Greek, and Spanish, making the experience accessible to a broad range of travelers.

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

Is the experience suitable for families?
While not explicitly stated, the small group size and snorkeling focus suggest it could be enjoyable for families with older children who can swim confidently.

In essence, the Proti Island snorkeling boat tour combines affordability, scenic beauty, and a touch of history, making it a worthwhile addition to any Peloponnese trip centered around water and natural landscapes.