Aegean day – private cruise to west cyclades

Exploring Greece’s Cyclades by boat offers a unique way to see some of the most charming islands without the crowds—and this private cruise to Kea and Kythnos certainly aims to deliver. Priced at $1,694 for a group of up to nine people, this 8-hour journey promises a personalized adventure filled with swimming, sightseeing, and plenty of relaxing Greek island vibes. What makes this experience stand out is its flexibility; it’s a fully customizable day, tailored to what you want to see and do—whether that’s lounging on a secluded beach or exploring ancient ruins.

One of the biggest advantages is the private nature of the trip. You won’t be stuck with strangers or following a set schedule. Instead, you’ll enjoy the company of your group and your skipper, who can advise on the best stops for that day’s weather and your interests. But with a tour of this length and complexity, a potential consideration is ensuring you’re comfortable with boat travel and variable weather conditions—since some stops depend on the day’s sea state.

This cruise is ideal for travelers who crave a flexible, intimate experience, and who want to combine relaxing beach time with cultural exploration. It’s especially suited for those who enjoy swimming, sightseeing on foot, and discovering off-the-beaten-path spots with a knowledgeable local skipper.

Key Points

• Private, customizable experience suitable for up to 9 guests
• Includes multiple swimming stops and visits to ancient sites
• Flexible itinerary with the option to disembark on main ports of islands
• All essentials covered: fuel, insurance, WiFi, drinks, snacks, and equipment
• Duration of 8 hours with convenient pickup options around Athens and nearby areas
• Potential weather-dependent stops for swimming and exploration

The Itinerary and What You Can Expect

This private cruise kicks off early in the morning, with pickup options from seven locations around Athens, including Piraeus, Glyfada, and Vouliagmeni—making it easy to start your day without long transfers. Once onboard, your skipper, who speaks English, French, and Greek, will guide you through the day’s activities. Expect a smooth one-hour transfer by either black cab or speedboat to your departure point near Sounion, where your vessel awaits.

Starting at Charakas Beach near Sounion, you’ll set sail into the Aegean Sea, with the first stop being Kolona Beach—a highlight for many. Known for its double-sided stretch of sand and crystal-clear waters, it’s an idyllic place to swim and relax. The tour also includes Apokrousi, a peaceful cove surrounded by rocky cliffs and lush greenery, perfect for a quiet dip. The boat’s crew appreciates that guests often comment on how well the crew manages these stops, balancing enough time to enjoy each location without feeling rushed.

After a refreshing swim, you’ll head to Merichas port on Kea, where you can disembark for a quick coffee or walk. The relaxed island vibe is evident here, with small cafes and local shops offering a taste of island life. For those interested in history, Kea’s southern coast holds ancient temples, a theatre, and old homes—all accessible for exploration if you wish. Reviewers often note that the crew is happy to suggest options for further exploration or to stay onboard and relax.

Next, your itinerary includes beach stops on Kea’s western side, allowing for more swimming or sunbathing. Alternatively, you can choose to disembark at the main port if you prefer to explore on land. The flexibility is a key value of this experience, and the crew encourages customizing your day based on weather and your interests.

The route then takes you to Kythnos, where you’ll spend time at Koundouros Bay, a favorite spot for its clear waters and relaxed atmosphere. Here, guests often remark that the calm environment is ideal for unwinding. There’s also the chance to visit the main port of Korissia and Vourkari, both charming villages offering cafes, shops, and scenic walks.

Throughout the day, your crew ensures you’re well taken care of, with light snacks, wine, beers, SUPs, and sea scooters included. Many reviewers appreciated the thoughtful touch of free WiFi onboard, which allowed them to share their experience or just stay connected during the sunny day at sea.

How the Day Unfolds

The detailed schedule includes several short transfers between stops—usually around 20 to 40 minutes—allowing you to balance swimming, sightseeing, and relaxing. The tour also offers up to 5 stops for swimming, weather permitting, giving plenty of opportunities to cool off. Guests have remarked that the stops are well-chosen and that the crew is attentive to the best spots available that day.

While the itinerary has a flexible backbone, what truly makes it special is the ability to adapt. If you’re eager to linger longer at a particular beach or explore more of the island’s ruins, your skipper can accommodate, making this a very personalized experience. The tour ends back at the pickup point around 6 pm, with drop-offs arranged at the same locations you were picked up from.

What’s Included & What’s Not

The cost of $1,694 covers fuel, VAT, insurance, the skipper, and onboard amenities like SUPs, sea scooters, WiFi, wine, beers, and light snacks. This all-inclusive approach means you won’t have to worry about extra charges for the essentials, making the cost easier to justify especially given the personalized private service. You’ll also benefit from 3 to 5 swimming stops, depending on weather, adding serious value for water lovers.

However, lunch is not included, so if you want a full meal on the islands, you’ll need to plan accordingly—either bringing your own or purchasing something onshore during your disembarkation. While many reviews praise the quality of onboard snacks and drinks, some suggest bringing extra snacks or water if you’re particularly hungry or thirsty.

Practical Considerations

The tour is designed for those who enjoy boat travel and are comfortable with some movement at sea. The vessel’s crew is experienced and attentive but note that it’s not suitable for wheelchair users. The flexibility in timing and stops makes it a good choice for travelers who appreciate a bespoke approach, but you should be prepared for variable weather conditions, which can influence which stops are most enjoyable.

The pick-up and drop-off services are a nice touch, especially if you’re staying in Athens or nearby. Private transfers can be arranged, ensuring a seamless start and end to your day.

Authenticity and Reviews

This tour receives praise for its personalized service and the friendly, multilingual crew. Travelers appreciate that they can customize their day, making it feel less like a canned cruise and more like a day with friends on the water. Several reviews mention how well the crew manages the timing, balancing swimming and sightseeing without rushing.

One reviewer shared, “The crew was fantastic—they suggested the best spots based on the weather and made us feel like VIPs for the day.” Another noted, “I loved how flexible they were; we spent extra time at the beaches I liked most, and the ancient ruins in Kea were a highlight.”

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This private cruise is ideal for small groups or families seeking a relaxed, tailored experience. It’s perfect if you want to avoid large tour buses and crowded islands, instead opting for a more intimate exploration of Kea and Kythnos. Water enthusiasts will appreciate the swimming stops and optional water sport equipment, while culture lovers can enjoy the ruins and local villages.

If you’re comfortable on a boat and value the freedom to customize your day, this experience offers remarkable value—especially when you consider the inclusions and personal touch. However, if you prefer a structured, guided tour with set timings, this might feel a little too flexible.

Final Thoughts

In essence, this private cruise offers a wonderful blend of relaxation, adventure, and cultural discovery—set against the backdrop of the stunning Cyclades. You’ll enjoy the comfort of a private boat, the flexibility to shape your day, and the chance to explore islands at your own pace. It’s a great choice for travelers who prioritize authentic experiences over cookie-cutter tours and who don’t mind a bit of sea travel for the privilege of controlling their itinerary.

While it’s not the cheapest way to see Greece’s islands, the personalized service and inclusions create excellent value. Whether it’s your first trip to the Cyclades or a repeat visit, this cruise offers a memorable day out on the water, perfect for making the most of Greece’s iconic islands.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for children?
While not explicitly stated, the tour involves boat travel and swimming, so children should be comfortable with both. It’s best suited for families with older kids or teenagers.

What should I bring?
Bring sunglasses, a sun hat, swimwear, sunscreen (preferably biodegradable), and a towel. Extra snacks and water might be helpful if you’re particularly hungry or thirsty.

Can I customize the stops?
Yes, the tour is private and designed to be flexible. You can choose to stay longer at certain spots or skip others, depending on your interests and weather.

What happens if the weather is bad?
Since weather can affect swimming and stop availability, the crew will adapt the itinerary accordingly—favoring sheltered spots or alternative activities.

Is lunch included?
No, lunch is not included. Guests typically bring their own or plan to eat onshore during disembarkation.

How long is the transfer from Athens?
Pickup options are available from various locations, with about an hour’s transfer to the boat near Sounion, either by black cab or speedboat.

What languages do the crew speak?
The crew can communicate in English, French, and Greek.

Is WiFi available onboard?
Yes, free WiFi is provided, allowing you to share your experience or stay connected.

What’s the maximum group size?
Up to nine guests, making this experience intimate and personalized.

Can I book last-minute?
Yes, you can reserve up to 24 hours in advance with free cancellation, offering some flexibility if your plans change.

This private cruise to the West Cyclades offers a fantastic way to experience Greece’s islands on your own terms—relaxing, scenic, and filled with authentic moments. Whether you’re after a day of swimming, exploring ancient ruins, or simply soaking up the sun with a glass of wine, this trip provides a memorable slice of Greek island life.