Island Anastasia – Full day VIP Catamaran cruise

Imagine spending a day sailing on a sleek, luxurious catamaran, visiting a secluded island with crystal-clear waters, exploring a small museum packed with pirate treasures, and enjoying a delicious onboard lunch—all in one smooth, well-organized trip. That’s exactly what the Island Anastasia full-day VIP cruise promises, and from what we’ve gathered, it’s a compelling experience for those seeking a blend of relaxation, adventure, and a touch of luxury near Sunny Beach, Bulgaria.

What makes this cruise stand out is its combination of scenic sailing, private beach time, and cultural exploration. Plus, the all-inclusive aspect—food, drinks, museum entry, and transfers—adds genuine value, especially for travelers wanting a stress-free day. That said, the trip does have some considerations, like the need for comfortable footwear for exploring the island and noting that swimming gear isn’t provided, which might be a small inconvenience for some.

This cruise suits those who love luxurious travel experiences, enjoy sailing adventures, or are looking to escape the crowds with a more exclusive day trip. Whether you’re traveling as a couple, with friends, or as part of a small group, this experience seems designed to cater to a variety of interests, making it a versatile choice for your Bulgaria holiday.

• Luxurious Sailing: The full-day experience on a VIP catamaran provides comfort and style.
• Natural Beauty: Expect breathtaking views and time to swim in pristine waters.
• Cultural Insight: Visit a museum with pirate artifacts, adding a historical dimension.
• All-Inclusive: Food and drinks are included onboard, offering great value.
• Flexible Timing: Check availability for different starting times, accommodating various schedules.
• Convenient Transfers: Pickup and drop-off from Sunny Beach resorts make logistics easy.

Starting the Day: Comfort and Convenience

The trip begins with a pickup from your resort or designated bus stops on the main road, ensuring you don’t have to worry about arranging transport yourself. The transfer is included and is a stress-free way to start your day. Expect a scenic drive to Nessebar, where the luxurious catamaran awaits.

Once onboard, the crew—who communicate fluently in English and Spanish—greet you with welcome drinks and a safety briefing. This sets a relaxed tone while ensuring everyone feels secure. The onboard bar stocks a good selection of refreshments—coffee, tea, soft drinks, beer, and wine—so you can sip as you glide smoothly across the water.

The Sailing: Scenic and Serene

The cruise to Saint Anastasia Island takes approximately two-and-a-half hours. During this stretch, you’ll enjoy magnificent views of Bulgaria’s coast and the open sea. The boat itself, being a luxury catamaran, offers plenty of space, making it suitable for those who prefer relaxing in a stylish environment rather than being cramped.

Guests on similar trips have appreciated the peaceful atmosphere onboard, with some mentioning the friendly crew who are attentive without being overbearing. One reviewer noted that the boat was spacious enough to allow for privacy, making it ideal for couples or small groups, and that the scenery is truly spectacular—a perfect backdrop for photos.

Exploring Saint Anastasia Island

Upon arrival, you’ll have around two hours to explore the island at your own pace. The island’s main attractions include a small museum, which houses pirate treasures and historical artifacts. The entrance fee is included in the tour, adding more value to the outing.

Guests have enjoyed wandering around the quiet pathways, soaking in the authentic atmosphere of this less-visited spot. The island’s untouched natural beauty is a highlight, with some visitors commenting on the peaceful vibe that makes it easy to unwind.

The Museum and Its Treasures

The museum is a quirky highlight, providing insight into the island’s past. It’s a quick but fascinating stop, especially for history buffs or those curious about Bulgaria’s maritime lore. The artifacts, including pirate relics and old maritime tools, add a tangible connection to the island’s history.

Beach and Swimming

The deserted beach with crystal-clear waters is ideal for a refreshing swim or just relaxing on the sand. Reviewers often mention that the water is superb for swimming, with some noting they wish they’d brought snorkel gear—though swimming equipment isn’t provided. The lifeguard on duty offers peace of mind, but always be cautious if you’re not a confident swimmer.

Returning to the Catamaran: Lunch and Scenic Return

After your island exploration, you’ll be treated to a delicious onboard lunch. The menu typically includes local and international dishes, with some reviews highlighting the quality and freshness of the food. The meal is served as the boat heads back, providing a perfect opportunity to relax and enjoy spectacular views of the coastline.

The return journey lasts about two and a half hours, giving you ample time to unwind, share photos, or simply soak in the scenery. Guests often mention the friendly atmosphere onboard and appreciate the smooth sailing that makes the whole experience feel luxurious yet casual.

Additional Perks: Museum Visit and Scenic Sights

One of the tour’s hidden gems is the visit to the island’s museum, which is included in the price. This adds an educational dimension and turns the trip into more than just a boat cruise. It’s a great way to learn about local pirates and maritime history without any extra cost.

The spectacular scenery continues during the return sail. Many reviews mention the beautiful views of the Bulgarian coast and the serene environment, which makes the whole day feel like a peaceful escape from everyday life.

Practical Details & Considerations

• The trip lasts 7.5 hours, with flexible starting times available—check the schedule when booking.
• The all-inclusive package covers food, drinks, museum entry, and transfers, delivering excellent value for money.
• Be sure to bring sunscreen, sunglasses, a sun hat, swimwear, and a towel—the Bulgarian sun can be intense.
• If you want to swim or snorkel, bring your own gear, as it’s not provided.
• No high heels, pets, or bulky luggage are allowed, which keeps the experience safe and comfortable for everyone.
• The tour isn’t suitable for children under 3, those with heart problems, or people prone to seasickness, so plan accordingly.

This experience is perfect for travelers who want a luxurious, hassle-free day on the water with a mix of relaxation and cultural discovery. It’s especially appealing if you value all-inclusive convenience and enjoy scenery-laden sailing. Couples looking for a romantic getaway will appreciate the peaceful atmosphere and private beach, while small groups or families with older children will find it a fun, relaxing day out.

If you’re someone who appreciates quality food and drink in a beautiful setting or wants a break from bustling tourist spots, this cruise offers a balanced package. However, if you’re seeking high-adventure activities like snorkeling or are traveling with very young children, you might want to consider alternative options.

The Island Anastasia VIP catamaran cruise offers a well-rounded day of luxury sailing, scenic views, and cultural exploration. With all-inclusive food and drinks, a secluded beach, and an interesting museum, it provides genuine value for travelers looking for a memorable, stress-free experience near Sunny Beach.

While it’s not tailored for those who prefer an active or adventure-packed day, it excels at delivering relaxation, beautiful scenery, and a taste of Bulgaria’s maritime history in a comfortable, stylish setting. The trip’s organized transfers and friendly crew ensure a seamless experience, making it a top choice for those seeking a luxurious escape on Bulgaria’s coast.

This is a great day trip for couples or small groups who want a touch of elegance, a scenic voyage, and the chance to unwind in a peaceful environment. If you enjoy cruising, exploring islands, or simply sipping wine while watching the sunset, this tour ticks all those boxes.

How long is the cruise to Saint Anastasia Island?
The cruise takes approximately two-and-a-half hours each way, giving plenty of time to enjoy the scenery and relax on the water.

What is included in the tour price?
The ticket covers transfer from Sunny Beach to Nessebar, the full-day cruise, lunch on board, all drinks, entry to the island and museum, and scenic return trip.

Is swimming equipment provided?
No, swimming gear isn’t provided, but the lifeguard is on duty. You might want to bring your own towel and snorkel gear if you wish to explore the waters more actively.

Can I visit the island’s museum?
Yes, entry is included in the tour, and it’s a quick visit packed with pirate artifacts and maritime history.

Are there any restrictions or disabilities considerations?
The tour is not suitable for children under 3, people with heart problems, or wheelchair users. You’ll need to be able to walk comfortably around the island and boat.

What should I bring?
Bring sunscreen, sunglasses, a sun hat, swimwear, towel, and cash for any personal expenses or souvenirs.

Is this tour suitable for vegans?
While the menu details aren’t specified, the experience emphasizes onboard cuisine, so vegans should inquire directly or plan for additional snacks.

What is the cancellation policy?
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering flexibility if your plans change.

In summary, this VIP catamaran cruise strikes a fine balance between luxury, scenery, and cultural discovery. It’s an excellent way for travelers to enjoy Bulgaria’s coast with minimal hassle, making it a worthwhile addition to your holiday itinerary if relaxation and authentic experiences are your priorities.