Athens Day Cruise: 3 Islands Tour in the Saronic Gulf with Lunch

Traveling around Greece’s stunning islands in a single day can seem like a logistical nightmare—ferry schedules, crowded boats, and tight timings. Luckily, this Athens Day Cruise offers a smooth, comfortable way to explore Aegina, Agistri, and a top swimming spot all in one go. It’s a fantastic choice if you want to tick off multiple islands without the stress of planning separate trips, and it’s especially appealing for those who love a mix of relaxation, sightseeing, and good food.

What we love most about this tour is the luxurious feel of the wooden boat, the generous inclusion of food and drinks, and the friendly, professional crew that keeps everything running smoothly. The ability to swim, snorkel, and explore at each stop truly adds value—plus, the all-day unlimited beer, wine, and soft drinks are a definite perk.

One possible consideration is the timing of stops—some travelers mention that the time at each island can feel a bit short. Also, the group size is capped at 40, which keeps things intimate but can fill up quickly if you’re booking last minute. This tour is ideal for visitors who want a relaxed, all-in-one day of island hopping, especially if they appreciate good hospitality and scenic views.

If you’re someone who enjoys a balanced mix of sightseeing, swimming, and great food in a comfortable setting, this cruise will suit you well. Families, couples, and solo travelers looking for a hassle-free day on the water with plenty of relaxing moments will find this experience particularly rewarding.

Key Points

• Comfortable private-style boat experience with elegant wooden design creates a luxe feel.
• All-inclusive food, drinks, and snorkeling gear provide excellent value and convenience.
• Short but well-paced stops at Agistri, Aegina, and a dedicated swimming spot balance exploration and relaxation.
• Knowledgeable crew and guides enhance the experience with helpful info and friendly service.
• Swim and snorkel in crystal-clear waters, with some reviews highlighting excellent underwater views.
• The tour is suitable for most travelers, with pickup options and a max of 40 passengers ensuring a cozy experience.

An In-Depth Look at the Itinerary

Agistri: The Secluded Gem

The tour begins with a 1 hour 30 minute stop at Agistri, a relatively small island that feels like a hidden treasure. Known for its natural beauty and quiet beaches, Agistri is perfect for those craving authenticity and tranquility away from crowds. Reviewers often mention its charming streets, traditional houses, and taverns, which evoke a genuine Greek island vibe.

Travelers can wander through Megalochoris, exploring local shops or simply soaking up the laid-back atmosphere. Many reviewers note that Agistri offers a different pace of life, making it a great introduction to the smaller, less touristy islands. The short stop is enough to grab a quick snack or take a peaceful walk, and since the waters are crystal clear, it’s ideal for a quick dip or snorkeling.

Nisís Metópi: The Swimming Haven

Next, you’ll stop at Metopi (or Aponisos/Moni) for another 1 hour 30 minutes of swimming and snorkeling. This spot is selected based on weather conditions, which is smart—ensuring the calmest, most scenic waters for your aquatic adventures. Reviewers consistently mention how amazing the green-blue waters are, filled with underwater life, making it a highlight for snorkelers.

Expect to see vibrant marine life and enjoy a serene environment to relax in. The reviews highlight that the swimming and snorkeling opportunities are well-timed, allowing travelers to indulge in the crystal waters without feeling rushed.

Aegina: The Historic and Culinary Pearl

The largest of the three stops, Aegina gets 2 hours—a decent chunk of time to explore. Known for its ancient history, including the temple of Apollo (Kolona), this island offers a glimpse into Greece’s past. What makes Aegina notably appealing is its local pistachios, which are considered some of the best worldwide.

Travelers often mention how much they enjoyed strolling through the charming streets, visiting the temple ruins, or just relaxing on beaches like Marathon, Agia Marina, or Perdika, famous for its seafood taverns. The highlight for many is the authentic, local vibe and the opportunity to taste some pistachio delicacies.

Cruising Between Islands

The total cruising time involves two hours from Marina Zeas to Agistri and another two hours from Aegina back to Piraeus. The boat itself is described as beautiful and well-maintained, with WiFi onboard for those who want to share the views or stay connected. According to reviews, the crew’s professionalism and friendliness make this a relaxing journey rather than a mere transit.

What’s Included and What to Keep in Mind

The tour offers a lot of value for the $150-odd price point. From breakfast snacks and homemade cookies on boarding to a full Greek lunch featuring top-quality ingredients, the food is a big plus. Plus, the unlimited beer, wine, and soft drinks make it a true vacation treat, as several reviews highlight.

Snorkeling gear is provided, which is great for those wanting to see underwater life without bringing their own equipment. The WiFi onboard is a bonus, allowing guests to share their stunning photos immediately.

However, the tour does have some limitations: the shuttle pickup is offered but only within 15km, with an extra charge of around €25 if you’re farther out. Also, the short duration at each stop might feel rushed for travelers wanting a more leisurely exploration.

The Experience: What Travelers Are Saying

Reviewers agree that the crew makes a significant difference. From “friendly and attentive,” to “knowledgeable and helpful,” the staff seem to elevate the experience. One reviewer praised “Dennis, Panos, and Hassan,” highlighting their professionalism and friendliness—making the trip feel personalized and warm.

The food also receives high praise—homemade, delicious, and plentiful—making the onboard lunch a highlight rather than just a necessity. Many mention that the swimming spots are beautiful, and the waters are excellent for both swimming and snorkeling, with underwater life, clear visibility, and peaceful surroundings.

Multiple comments note the value for money, especially considering the inclusive drinks, food, and comfortable boat environment. Several travelers highlight the smooth logistics—from pickup to disembarkation—making the day easy and enjoyable.

Those who faced bad weather or short stops still appreciated the crew’s flexibility in adjusting timings and ensuring safety, which speaks to the professionalism and client care of the staff.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This cruise is perfect for those wanting a stress-free way to see multiple islands in one day without sacrificing comfort. It suits families, couples, friends, or solo travelers who enjoy scenic boat rides, swimming, and good food. It’s especially good for travelers who value good value for money, as the all-inclusive package covers most essentials.

Those interested in history and local culture will appreciate the stops at Aegina, but if you’re looking for extensive sightseeing or in-depth cultural tours, you might find the time at each island somewhat limiting.

Lastly, this tour is ideal if you prefer a relaxed, luxury-style day on the water. The friendly crew, beautiful boat, and quality meals make it stand out from more rushed or crowded options.

Frequently Asked Questions

How early should I book this tour?
Most travelers book about 40 days in advance, especially if visiting during peak season, to secure a spot on this popular cruise.

Does the tour include hotel pickup?
Pickup is offered from nearby locations, but if your hotel is outside a 15 km radius, an extra €25 may apply for transportation.

What should I bring?
Bring a towel, swimwear, sunscreen, and a hat. While snorkeling gear is provided, you might prefer your own mask and fins if you have specific preferences.

How long is the cruise?
The total duration is around 10 hours, including travel time between the ports and stops on the islands.

Is the tour suitable for children?
Yes, most travelers say it’s suitable for most ages, provided they enjoy boat rides and swimming. Service animals are also allowed.

Can I expect free time on each island?
Yes, each stop provides free time for sightseeing, relaxing, or grabbing a quick bite. However, the time at each island is fairly brief, around 1 to 2 hours.

Final Thoughts

This Athens Day Cruise offers a well-rounded, comfortable way to experience three unique islands in a single day. The combination of scenic cruising, authentic island stops, and a generous all-inclusive package makes it a great option for travelers who want to maximize their time without the stress of planning individual ferry trips.

The friendly crew, delicious Greek lunch, and crystal-clear waters are the standout features that keep guests coming back. It’s best suited for those who enjoy leisurely days on the water, scenic views, and good company.

While the stops are somewhat short, the overall experience is packed with highlights, making it excellent value for money—especially if you’re after a relaxed, scenic, and authentic taste of the Saronic Gulf islands. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or just want a peaceful escape from Athens, this cruise ticks many boxes.

In summary, if you’re after a luxurious, hassle-free day trip with plenty of swimming, sightseeing, and tasty food, this Athens Day Cruise in the Saronic Gulf is a fantastic choice. It brings together comfort, authenticity, and great value, ensuring a memorable Greek adventure on the water.