Athens Swimming Cruise with DJ on Board (Lunch & Drinks inluded)

Imagine swapping Athens’ bustling streets for a day on the water, exploring three beautiful islands with plenty of swimming, sunbathing, and relaxing. That’s exactly what the Athens Swimming Cruise offers—a smooth ride across the Saronic Gulf, stopping at Agistri, Metopi, and Aegina. With a lively onboard atmosphere, including a live DJ, all-inclusive lunch and drinks, and the option to upgrade to VIP seating, this trip combines fun, scenery, and comfort.

What we particularly love about this experience is the thoughtfully curated stops—each offering different scenery and activities—that make for a well-rounded day. Plus, the generous inclusion of food, drinks, and entertainment means you can fully unwind without worrying about extra costs.

That said, the cruise isn’t perfect for everyone. Some reviews mention overcrowding and a less-than-ideal experience if you’re expecting a luxury boat or more peace and quiet. It’s best suited for travelers looking for an energetic day on the water with friends or family, who enjoy a lively atmosphere and don’t mind sharing space with others.

If you’re after a lively, fun-filled water day with great scenery, good company, and a touch of music, this cruise could be a perfect fit. It’s especially appealing if you want to see multiple islands without the hassle of driving, plus enjoy a bit of entertainment and a delicious lunch on the go.

• All-inclusive experience with lunch, drinks, and a live DJ onboard
• Visit three different beaches and islands in one day, saving you time and transportation hassle
• Flexible options: swim, sunbathe, explore or just relax on deck
• Optional VIP upgrade available for a more private experience
• Good value considering food, drinks, entertainment, and multiple stops included
• Overcrowding can be an issue for some; book early or upgrade for more comfort

This cruise is designed as a full-day escapade, roughly 8 hours and 30 minutes long, starting at 9:30 am. It offers a mix of scenic views, beach fun, and lively entertainment, perfect for travelers who want a break from Athens’ busy streets and a taste of Greece’s island life without the hassle of land travel.

The morning begins with a pickup service (at an extra charge) or you can meet directly at the designated point in Kallithea. The boat, operated by Athens Swimming Cruise, can host up to 250 travelers, ensuring a lively but manageable atmosphere. The vessel is equipped with showers and ample outdoor space for lounging, plus a sunny deck for soaking up the sun or enjoying the breeze.

The Itinerary in Detail

Stop 1: Agistri
The first island stop is Agistri, renowned for its clear turquoise waters and relaxed vibe. Guests are given about an hour and 45 minutes to enjoy swimming at Agistri Beach, often highlighted as a favorite among reviewers for its natural beauty and tranquility. “The water was crystal clear, and the beach was nice and not overcrowded,” shared one guest. Agistri is a perfect spot to dip into the Aegean, take photos, or simply unwind under the sun.

Stop 2: Nisís Metópi
Next up is the uninhabited Metopi Island, accessible only by boat. This stop is particularly appreciated by nature lovers and photographers because of its shallow, inviting waters, white sandy beach, and vineyards. It’s also famous for being a stop for sea turtles, adding an element of wildlife spotting that many travelers find captivating. The stop lasts about an hour, giving plenty of time for swimming and exploring.

Stop 3: Aegina
Aegina provides a more lively atmosphere with its charming villages and scenic views. You’ll have about two hours here, enough to explore the town, enjoy the local cuisine, or relax on the beach. Reviewers mention savoring the local dishes and enjoying the area’s authentic charm. It’s a great way to blend water activities with some cultural exploration.

Music and Entertainment:
One of the most praised features is the live DJ set, which sets a fun, party-like tone for the day. Guests mention that the music adds a vibrant energy, making swimming, sunbathing, and relaxing onboard even more enjoyable. The social aspect is amplified by the lively atmosphere, perfect for groups or those wanting a festive experience.

Food and Drinks:
Lunch is a Mediterranean buffet, which offers a variety of dishes that satisfy most tastes. Many guests note that the food is of good quality, with some mentioning the deliciousness of the pistachio ice cream at the end of the day. Drinks include house wine for adults, soft drinks, and filtered coffee, with additional beverages available for purchase. Reviewers highlight the value of the inclusive lunch and drinks, making this a cost-effective option for a full day of fun and relaxation.

Facilities:
The boat has showers for rinsing off after swimming, and plenty of outdoor seating. Some reviews point out the importance of arriving early or upgrading to VIP seating if you want more space and comfort, especially during peak times when overcrowding can occur. The VIP option, costing an extra €80, offers a more private and spacious experience, with some guests describing it as feeling like a “private party.”

Priced at around $121.91 per person, the cruise offers a comprehensive package that covers transportation, multiple island stops, lunch, drinks, and entertainment. Considering that many other tours might charge extra for meals, drinks, or guide services, the all-inclusive nature makes it a good deal—particularly for those who enjoy a lively, social atmosphere.

However, the experience’s value depends on your expectations. If you seek tranquility and exclusivity, this might not be the best choice, as some reviews mention overcrowding and a bustling environment. But for a fun, social day out with a lively crowd, the price is quite reasonable.

• Book in advance: The tour is often booked about 10 days in advance, and spots fill up quickly. Early booking guarantees better seat choices and availability of VIP upgrades.
• Arrive early: The pickup starts around 8:45 am, and the cruise departs at 9:30 am. Arriving early ensures smooth boarding.
• Consider VIP: If space and comfort matter, and you’re willing to spend a little extra, the VIP seats are praised as worth it—especially for groups or couples wanting a more private experience.
• Bring essentials: Towels and sunscreen are not provided, so pack those along with your flip-flops, a hat, and maybe a waterproof case for your valuables.
• Be prepared for crowds: If you prefer a less busy experience, consider upgrading or arriving early at the meeting point.
• Stay flexible: The itinerary offers enough free time for swimming, exploring, or just lounging, so plan your day accordingly.

This cruise is best suited for travelers who want a lively, fun day on the water, with plenty of opportunities to swim, soak up the sun, and enjoy good music and company. The stops at Agistri, Metopi, and Aegina provide diverse scenery—from tranquil beaches to bustling villages—and the all-inclusive setup ensures you won’t need to worry about extra costs.

It’s particularly attractive for groups, families, or solo travelers who enjoy a communal atmosphere and don’t mind sharing space. The lively environment and entertainment make it less ideal for those seeking peace and quiet or luxury boat experience, but it’s a fantastic way to experience the Greek islands in a single day, with the added bonus of music, food, and conviviality.

• Is pickup included? No, pickup is available upon request for an additional €14 but the meeting point is in Kallithea.
• What is the duration of the tour? The entire trip lasts about 8 hours and 30 minutes, starting at 9:30 am.
• Can I upgrade to VIP seating? Yes, VIP seats are available for €80 per person, offering a more private experience with fewer guests.
• Are drinks and lunch included? Yes, the Mediterranean buffet lunch, house wine, soft drinks, and filtered coffee are all included.
• Are there showers onboard? Yes, showers are available on the boat’s sunny deck, perfect for rinsing off after swimming.
• What should I bring? Towels, sunscreen, and perhaps a waterproof case; note that towels and sunscreen are not provided.
• What age range is this suitable for? Most travelers can participate, making it a good option for families, couples, and groups.
• Is there a limit on the number of travelers? Yes, the tour can accommodate up to 250 guests, so it tends to be lively but manageable.
• What about overcrowding? Some reviews mention overcrowding, especially on the upper decks; arriving early or upgrading can help.
• What happens if the weather is bad? The tour requires good weather; if canceled due to poor conditions, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

In all, the Athens Swimming Cruise offers a dynamic way to experience Greece’s Saronic Gulf islands. It’s perfect for those craving a day full of swimming, good music, and scenic views, provided you’re comfortable with a lively, social environment. With its all-inclusive setup, friendly atmosphere, and variety of stops, it’s a trip designed to make lasting memories—whether you’re celebrating with friends, family, or simply seeking a vibrant escape from the city.