Luxury Catamaran Cruise from Athens with Traditional Greek Meal and BBQ

Imagine sailing along the shimmering Athens Riviera, feeling the warm sun on your skin, and being treated to a delicious homemade Greek feast—without the hustle of city streets. This luxury catamaran cruise promises an intimate, scenic journey that combines the best of Greece’s coastline with exceptional food, drinks, and small-group comfort. It’s a stand-out option for travelers seeking relaxation, authentic flavors, and memorable views.

What makes this experience particularly appealing? It’s the perfect blend of a laid-back sailing adventure with the chance to swim in crystal-clear waters, all topped off with a barbecue feast prepared by friendly crew members. However, it’s worth noting that the tour is weather-dependent and strictly capped at just 10 guests, making it ideal for those who love personalized, relaxed outings. If you’re after a calm, scenic day out with excellent food and stellar views, this cruise is definitely worth considering.

Key Points

• Small-group intimacy ensures personalized attention and a relaxed vibe.
• Stunning scenery and swimming stops along the Athens Riviera make for a refreshing experience.
• All-inclusive drinks—beer, wine, and soft drinks—keep guests refreshed throughout.
• Authentic Greek meal and BBQ served onboard, praised for its flavor and quality.
• Hotel pickup and drop-off add convenience, especially in busy Athens.
• Weather conditions can affect the schedule, so flexibility is key for this experience.

An Overview of the Experience

This half-day cruise generally lasts around five hours, making it a manageable yet fulfilling escape from Athens’s busy streets. Whether you choose the morning cruise with lunch or the sunset cruise with dinner, the focus is on enjoying the sea, the scenery, and some well-deserved downtime. The tour is operated by True North M.C.P.Y. (Sailing Athens), a company known for friendly service and well-maintained vessels.

When you arrive at the Agios Kosmas Marina, just a short ride from the city center, you’re greeted with a welcome drink and a quick safety briefing by your experienced skipper. The boat itself is a sleek, modern catamaran that comfortably accommodates up to ten guests, fostering a sense of intimacy and quiet luxury.

What to Expect During the Cruise

The Boarding and Sail Introduction

The experience kicks off with hotel pickup, removing the hassle of organizing transportation. Once on board, you’ll settle into a cozy spot, enjoy a drink, and listen to your skipper’s brief overview of the route and safety tips. The atmosphere is relaxed, with soft music and friendly chatter creating a welcoming environment.

Cruising Along the Athens Riviera

Once underway, you’ll be treated to expansive views of the coastline, including spots like Voula and Vouliagmeni. The crew provides fresh towels and offers plenty of chilled drinks—beer, Greek wines, and soft drinks—that keep everyone refreshed. Reviewers like Caitlyn and Robert noted how much fun they had just lounging, sunbathing, and sipping on drinks while the boat gently glided past scenic coves and beaches.

Swimming and Snorkeling Stops

The first highlight for many is the chance to stop and swim in the calm, blue waters of the Riviera. You’ll have the option to use snorkeling gear provided by the crew and explore underwater life, which reviewers like Shana and Carmella found especially enjoyable. While some guests noted the water might be cool in certain seasons—such as in March—they appreciated the opportunity to take a dip and cool off.

Onboard Dining: Greek Food at Its Best

After some swimming, it’s time for the main event: the barbecue feast. The crew prepares a variety of flavorful dishes, including Greek salads, roasted vegetables, shrimp saganaki, and more. Reviewers frequently mention how impressed they were with the quality and authenticity of the food, with many saying it was among the best meals they had in Athens.

One guest commented, “Rea’s cooking was the best we’ve ever had on a tour,” emphasizing how freshly prepared and tasty the dishes are. The smell of roasted vegetables often drifts over the deck, tempting everyone to the dining area for a relaxed, alfresco meal against the backdrop of stunning sea views.

Sunset Views or Daytime Leisure

Depending on your choice, you’ll either enjoy your meal under the bright sun or during a romantic sunset. The sunset cruise offers particularly spectacular views, with reviewers describing the experience as “magical” and “peaceful.” Watching the sun dip below the horizon while sipping wine and nibbling on Greek appetizers is a highlight many cherish.

The Itinerary in Detail

Welcome and Orientation: You start with a welcome drink onboard, where your skipper introduces the vessel and safety procedures. This quick briefing sets the tone for a relaxing, worry-free trip.

First Stop: Scenic View & Refreshments: The boat cruises past Voula and Vouliagmeni, giving you ample opportunity to snap photos and enjoy the sea breeze. Reviewers like Kathleen and Bill loved how the drinks kept flowing, and the views kept impressing.

Second Stop: Swimming & Snorkeling: The crew provides snorkeling gear, allowing you to explore the water’s depths. Some guests found the water in March to be chilly but still worth a quick swim, citing the refreshing experience as a highlight.

Meal and Relaxation: After swimming, the boat anchors for a hearty Greek barbecue. The menu features fresh, flavorful ingredients, with some reviewers praising the homemade quality. Guests like Carmella and Karissa note the attentive service and allergy considerations, making the meal both safe and delicious.

Return Journey: As the cruise wraps up, you’ll sail back to the marina, taking in the last views of the coastline. The crew ensures everyone has time to soak it all in before heading ashore, with many guests describing the trip as “peaceful” and “blissful.”

The Practical Details

What’s Included?

• Hotel pickup and drop-off in Athens: This service adds a layer of convenience that many travelers appreciate, especially after a busy day.
• All drinks: Unlimited beer, wine, and soft drinks make for a very relaxed experience.
• Snorkeling gear and fresh towels: These small touches enhance comfort and fun.
• Greek barbecue lunch or dinner: Made fresh onboard, with options for dietary restrictions if advised at booking.

Group Size and Intimate Experience

With a maximum of 10 guests, this cruise offers a semi-private atmosphere. Reviewers love the personalized attention from the crew, who are described as friendly, knowledgeable, and attentive. The small group size means you won’t feel lost in a crowd, allowing for relaxed conversations and more tailored interactions with your crew.

Duration & Timing

The entire experience lasts approximately 5 hours, making it a perfect half-day activity. You can choose either the morning or sunset options, depending on your preference and schedule. Remember, the tour is weather-dependent, and cancellations due to poor conditions are possible, but you will be offered a different date or a full refund if that happens.

Cost & Value

Priced at $196.96 per person, this experience may seem like a splurge compared to standard boat tours. However, the reviews emphasize the quality of food, the personalized service, and the stunning scenery as making it a worthwhile investment. The inclusion of hotel transfers, drinks, and a gourmet meal further enhances its value, especially for those seeking a more refined, relaxed day out.

Authentic Insights from Reviewers

Many travelers appreciated how well the crew balanced professionalism with friendliness. Shana called it “an absolute must if you’re in Athens,” highlighting the private feeling when she booked alone. Robert praised the “great shipmates” and “excellent meal,” while Kathleen appreciated the attentive service and top-notch food.

Even in cooler months, like March, reviewers found the experience still worthwhile, especially with beautiful weather and the opportunity to swim. The combination of stunning views, delicious food, and a calm, intimate setting make this cruise stand out among other tours.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This cruise suits travelers who love relaxed, scenic outings with a touch of luxury. If you enjoy good food, drinks, and quiet time on the water, you’ll find this experience delightful. It’s ideal for small groups or couples seeking intimacy and personalized service. Families with older children can also enjoy it, especially as many reviews mention family-friendly aspects and good safety standards.

For those who want a structured, activity-packed day, this might be too laid-back. But if your goal is peaceful sailing, incredible views, and a gourmet Greek meal, this cruise hits all the right notes.

FAQ

Is hotel pickup included?
Yes, hotel pickup and drop-off from anywhere in Athens are included, making the experience hassle-free.

How long is the cruise?
It lasts approximately 5 hours, giving enough time to relax, swim, and enjoy the meal without feeling rushed.

Can I book the morning or sunset cruise?
Absolutely. You can choose between a morning cruise with lunch or a sunset cruise with dinner when you make your reservation.

What is the group size?
The maximum is 10 travelers, ensuring an intimate experience with personalized attention from the crew.

Is it suitable for children?
While most travelers find it family-friendly, the reviews suggest it’s best for children over 10 due to the nature of the boat and activities.

What should I bring?
Bring sunscreen, your bathing suit, and a towel. The crew provides fresh towels and snorkeling gear.

What if the weather is bad?
The tour is weather-dependent. If canceled due to poor conditions, you’ll be offered an alternative date or a full refund.

Are drinks included?
Yes, unlimited beer, wine, and soft drinks are included throughout the cruise.

Is the food vegetarian?
A vegetarian option is available if advised at booking, though most reviews highlight the delicious barbecue and Greek dishes.

Final Thoughts

This luxury catamaran cruise from Athens offers a rare blend of scenic sailing, authentic Greek cuisine, and small-group comfort. It’s especially suitable for travelers who want a relaxed, high-quality experience with great views and delicious food. The inclusion of hotel transfers, unlimited drinks, and personalized service makes it a good value for those seeking a touch of luxury on their Greek holiday.

While the experience is weather-dependent and best suited for those who appreciate quiet, scenic outings, the overwhelmingly positive reviews suggest it’s a memorable way to see the coast and enjoy a laid-back day at sea. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply want to unwind, this cruise likely will leave you with wonderful memories of Greece’s stunning waters and flavors.

The ideal travelers for this tour are those who value comfort, small-group intimacy, and authentic experiences. It’s perfect for couples, small groups, or solo travelers who appreciate good food, scenic views, and a relaxed pace. If you’re after a lively party boat with large crowds, this may not be the right fit, but if your goal is calm, scenic, and gourmet, this cruise will surpass expectations.

To sum it up, for around $200, you’re getting a personalized, scenic, and delicious experience that captures the essence of Greece’s coastline. It’s a small investment for a big dose of tranquility, views, and flavors—definitely a standout choice during your Athens stay.