Athens: Marathon Cape and Bay of Schinias Snorkeling Trip

Exploring Greece’s coastline is a treat, and this Marathon Cape and Schinias snorkeling tour offers a compelling way to see some of the most pristine waters near Athens. Led by knowledgeable guides, this experience combines speedboat rides, vibrant marine life, and tranquil beaches—all within a manageable 4.5-hour window.

What makes this trip stand out for us is the focus on small group intimacy, which means you get personalized attention, and the chance to truly appreciate the natural beauty of the area. The crystal-clear waters and marine biodiversity are highlights that even non-swimmers can enjoy, thanks to plenty of guidance and support from friendly instructors.

A potential consideration is the weather dependency—since the tour is subject to favorable conditions, poor weather could lead to cancellations or alternative arrangements. Nevertheless, this adventure suits travelers looking for an authentic, relaxed day on the water, away from crowds and touristy spots. Whether you’re a seasoned snorkeler or simply curious about Greece’s underwater treasures, this trip offers a balanced mix of fun and discovery.

Key Points

• Small group experience with limited to 7 participants for personalized service
• Expert-guided snorkeling and boat rides through scenic Greek coastlines
• Accessible for non-swimmers and children aged 6 and up, with instructor support
• Includes all snorkeling equipment, photos, and snacks, providing great value
• Ideal for those seeking tranquility, marine exploration, and a break from Athens’ hustle
• Weather-dependent, with full refunds or rescheduling options available

An Authentic Coastal Escape Close to Athens

This snorkeling tour from Nea Makri is a carefully curated escape from the busy streets of Athens. Instead of just city sightseeing, it offers a chance to experience Greece’s natural coastal beauty and underwater world. The journey begins with a 20-minute speedboat ride from Marathon Beach, which alone is a highlight—this is your chance to feel the breeze, listen to the waves, and get excited for what’s to come.

The tour is operated by Kanelakis Diving Experiences, with guides who are both friendly and knowledgeable. The reviews praise Dimitri, the owner, for his hospitality and expertise, and many mention how he expertly managed the group, explaining marine life and ensuring everyone was comfortable. This personal touch turns a simple boat trip into an engaging, educational experience.

The Itinerary: What to Expect

Stop 1: Starting Point at Frinis 20

Your adventure kicks off at the dive center in Nea Makri, where you’ll meet your guide and receive your snorkeling gear. The small group size means you’ll get more attention, and the guide will provide tips on equipment use and safety. A warm welcome makes everyone feel at ease, even if it’s your first time snorkeling.

Stop 2: Schinias Beach and Scenic Cruise (30 minutes)

The first major stop is Schinias Beach, renowned for its golden sands and protected natural landscape. Here, you’ll enjoy a scenic boat cruise along the coast, taking in the views of Schinias National Park, an area praised for its unspoiled beauty. This part is perfect for taking photos, relaxing, and soaking up the sun.

Many reviewers highlight the quality of the boat ride. One reviewer described it as “super fun,” and noted how the guide’s knowledge about the land and sea enhanced the experience. Others appreciated the peaceful atmosphere and the chance to just unwind with snacks and drinks on deck.

Stop 3: Marathon Cape and Snack Break (15 minutes)

Moving on to Marathon Cape, this is a fantastic spot to get a glimpse of Greece’s ancient history and natural scenery. The brief stop allows for a quick break, where you’ll enjoy local snacks—a thoughtful touch appreciated by many. This stop offers a mixture of ultra-clear waters and ancient landscape, making it a memorable visual contrast.

Stop 4: Second Snorkeling Session at Schinias Bay (30 minutes)

Back on the water, you’ll revisit Schinias Bay, where the underwater visibility and marine life were highly praised in reviews. Many guests found this spot ideal for spotting colorful fish, starfish, and even an octopus or two, as some reviewers shared their underwater discoveries. The guide’s mention of marine creatures, like sea cucumbers and sea urchins, added educational value.

The guides’ enthusiasm and their effort to show unusual sea creatures truly made the snorkeling memorable. Several reviewers, including one who said “Dimtri is awesome,” confirmed that the guide’s knowledge and care elevated the experience.

Return to Nea Makri

After the second snorkeling session, you’ll cruise back to your starting point. The final leg offers one last chance to relax, breathe in the fresh sea air, and enjoy the scenic coastline. Many guests described the journey as relaxing and fun, with some mentioning how their guides made them feel cared for throughout.

What’s Included and What’s Not

The tour provides snorkel equipment, bottled water, photos and videos, snacks (biscuits or fruits), and drinks (juice or tea). This makes it quite value-packed, especially given the small group size and personalized attention. You’ll also benefit from a friendly guide who explains marine life in both English and French, enhancing the educational aspect.

However, lunch is not included, and there’s no hotel pickup or drop-off service, so you’ll need to organize your own transportation to the meeting point at Kanelakis Diving Experiences. The meeting spot is easy to reach if you’re staying nearby, and the tour ends back at the start point.

The Experience: From Snorkeling to Scenic Beauty

Guests often highlight how well-organized and professional the trip is. Many stress the value for money, especially considering the personalized guides and the opportunity to see local marine life up close. Several reviews mention how attentive the guides are, with Dimitri being praised for his friendly demeanor and extensive knowledge.

One reviewer mentioned, “Dimitri took us out about 3 miles from shore and showed us the wildlife in the area,” which underscores the adventurous yet relaxed nature of the tour. Others appreciated the educational component, learning about marine creatures and local history, which added depth to the experience.

Marine Life and Underwater Highlights

While the underwater environment isn’t a coral reef or tropical paradise, many guests found the marine life captivating. Sightings include starfish, octopus, sea cucumbers, sea urchins, and numerous fish. Several reviews mention how clear the water was, making it easier to spot these creatures, even for beginners or non-swimmers.

The Guides: What Sets Them Apart

Most reviews are glowing about Dimitri, praising his professionalism, friendliness, and attention to detail. Several mention how he takes the time to explain everything, shows genuine enthusiasm for marine biology, and cares deeply about guest safety.

One guest said, “Dimitri is a nice guy who speaks French all the trip,” adding a personal touch that made the experience more engaging and inclusive for French-speaking travelers. Many guests felt that his care and patience turned snorkeling into an enjoyable, stress-free activity.

Practical Tips for Your Trip

• Bring swimwear and a towel, as most of your time will be in the water or relaxing on deck.
• The tour is suitable for travelers aged 6 and over, but unaccompanied minors are not allowed.
• Non-swimmers can still enjoy the experience, thanks to the guide’s support.
• Weather plays a role—poor weather can lead to cancellations, so check the forecast and be flexible with your plans.
• The small group size (max 7 people) means you should book early to secure your spot, especially in peak season.
• Taxis and shared transfers are affordable and straightforward from Athens or nearby coastal towns.

Who Would Love This Tour?

This snorkeling adventure is perfect for families, couples, or solo travelers seeking a peaceful day on Greece’s coast. If you enjoy marine exploration, scenic boat rides, and small-group intimacy, you’ll find this experience rewarding. It’s especially well-suited for those who want a relaxing, educational, and beautiful outdoor activity without the crowds.

Travelers who appreciate local knowledge and authentic encounters will enjoy the guidance provided by Dimitri and his team, who genuinely care about sharing Greece’s marine treasures.

Final Thoughts

This Marathon Cape and Schinias snorkeling tour offers a balanced mix of scenic beauty, marine discovery, and relaxed fun. The small group format, expert guides, and stunning waters make it a standout choice for anyone wanting to escape Athens’ city buzz for a few hours.

You’ll leave with a deeper appreciation for Greece’s coastline, some great photos, and perhaps a new favorite underwater creature or two. While weather can be unpredictable, the overall experience provides immense value—especially considering the thoughtful touches like snacks, photos, and personalized attention.

If you’re looking for a low-stress, high-reward activity that combines scenery, learning, and a splash of adventure, this trip is a solid pick. It’s best for those who want a gentle, authentic taste of Greece’s natural beauty, with the chance to get into the water and explore.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for children? Yes, children as young as 6 can participate, provided they are accompanied by an adult. Non-swimmers can also enjoy the experience with guide assistance.

Do I need snorkeling experience? No, beginners are welcome. Guides are there to help you feel comfortable and teach you how to use the equipment.

What should I bring? Pack swimwear, a towel, and perhaps some sunscreen. Snacks and drinks are provided, but you might want to bring extra water for hydration.

Is the trip weather-dependent? Yes, poor weather can lead to cancellations. Confirm the forecast before booking and stay flexible with your plans.

How long is the tour? The entire experience lasts around 4.5 hours, including boat rides, snorkeling stops, and breaks.

What language are guides available in? Guides speak English and French, making it accessible for many travelers.

Is lunch included? No, but there are local snack options during the stop at Marathon Cape.

Where do I meet? You gather at Kanelakis Diving Experiences in Nea Makri. Details are provided when you book.

Can I see marine life easily? Yes, many guests report good underwater visibility and spotting various sea creatures, thanks to the clear waters.

How many people are in each group? Limited to 7 participants for a small, intimate experience.

In summary, this snorkeling tour near Athens is a fantastic way to combine scenic boat rides, marine encounters, and some well-earned relaxation. Perfect for those wanting authentic, off-the-beaten-path Greek coast experiences, all with the support of knowledgeable guides who make safety and fun their top priorities.