Naxos: Koufonissia and Rina Cave Boat Trip with BBQ

Taking a boat trip around Naxos and its surrounding islands offers a refreshing way to see the Aegean’s most picturesque spots while enjoying some true Greek hospitality. From crystal-clear waters to hidden beaches and quaint villages, this tour promises a full day of relaxation, exploration, and good food—all under the sun.

What we particularly love about this experience is its perfect balance between adventure and comfort. The stops at Rina Cave and Ano Koufonissi give you a taste of Naxos’ secret treasures, while the delicious BBQ lunch and unlimited drinks make sure everyone stays refreshed and satisfied.

However, one thing to consider is that the boat can get crowded—reviewers mention the vessel’s capacity is around 100 people, which might mean some space constraints when it comes to finding a comfortable spot on deck. But if you’re happy to share your space and mingle, this trip suits families, couples, and solo travelers who want to see multiple islands without the hassle of organizing transport or ferries.

Key Points

• Stunning Water & Natural Sights: Expect clear waters, caves, and unspoiled beaches.
• Authentic Greek Cuisine: Tasty BBQ with vegetarian options and unlimited drinks.
• Flexible Island Exploration: Time to wander around Ano Koufonissi and relax on its beaches.
• Guided Swimming & Snorkeling: Equipment provided for exploring Rina Cave’s underwater beauty.
• All-Inclusive Value: Drinks, fruits, Wi-Fi, and snorkeling gear included.
• Family-Friendly & Social: Suitable for groups who enjoy a lively boat atmosphere.

A Deep Dive into the Experience

The Departure from Agia Anna

The adventure begins at the small pier in Agia Anna, a cozy spot perfect for a laid-back start. You’ll meet your skipper and a friendly crew, ready to take you on what’s described as a scenic and fun-filled cruise. The boat itself accommodates around 100 guests, which means some busy moments—reviewers suggest arriving early to secure your preferred spot.

Once onboard, the trip is all about relaxing and soaking in the views. Expect to cruise past the rugged coastline of Naxos, with plenty of opportunities to snap photos of the sea and distant islands. Many reviews highlight the crew’s friendliness and attentiveness—your guides, often fluent in Greek and English, really help set a welcoming tone.

Scenic Voyage: From Naxos to Koufonissia and Rina Cave

The first major stop is Kato Koufonisi, a small but charming island with secluded beaches and traditional tavernas. Here, you’ll have roughly 1.5 hours to enjoy Greek coffee at seaside cafes, stroll around, or just take in the views. Our sources mention that this stop is perfect for quick shopping, sightseeing, or a peaceful walk along uncrowded streets.

The boat then makes its way toward Rina Cave, one of the trip’s star attractions. The journey itself offers stunning vantage points of the coastline, setting the scene for the natural wonder ahead. Once anchored at Rina Cave, guests are encouraged to jump into the water—snorkeling equipment is provided for exploring the inside of the cave’s natural formation. Reviewers repeatedly mention that the water here is incredibly clear, making it ideal for snorkeling. One guest described the cave swim as “spectacular,” emphasizing the beauty of the untouched landscape and the thrill of rock climbing outside the cave.

Lunch: Greek BBQ with Unlimited Drinks

After some swimming and exploring, it’s time for the much-anticipated BBQ lunch. The crew delivers a well-prepared feast of grilled meats, local fruits, and vegetarian options—all served with unlimited water, soft drinks, and local wine. Multiple reviews highlight the quality of the food, with guests describing the BBQ as “delicious,” “authentic,” and “well worth the price.”

One reviewer mentioned that the staff was particularly attentive during lunch, making sure everyone was satisfied and hydrated. The inclusion of unlimited drinks is a big plus—especially on a hot day—making this a great value for the overall experience.

Island Discovery: Ano Koufonissi

Next, the boat heads to Ano Koufonissi, a tiny yet captivating island with pristine beaches and unspoiled streets. You’re given about 2.5 hours here for leisure—whether to relax on the beaches, explore local shops, or take photos of the traditional whitewashed buildings. Many guests appreciated the free time, noting that it offered a perfect balance between sightseeing and relaxing.

A common highlight from reviews is the chance to sip Greek coffee at a seaside café, enjoying views of the Aegean while soaking up the island’s laid-back atmosphere. This stop offers great opportunities for capturing memorable photos and enjoying some downtime.

The Final Stop: Rina Cave & Return Journey

The trip wraps up with a final visit to Rina Cave for another chance to swim or snorkel. The caves’ impressive rock formations and clear waters make for a memorable finale. Reviewers often describe the experience as “incredible,” with some mentioning the thrill of rock jumping and exploring the underwater landscape.

After this, the boat begins its return to Agia Anna, where many guests expressed a sense of having experienced a day well spent. The journey back offers more scenic views and opportunities to relax and chat with fellow travelers.

What’s Included and What to Keep in Mind

The tour offers good value considering the inclusions: a full boat trip, snorkeling gear, lifejackets, floating noodles, Wi-Fi, all drinks, fruits, and a hearty BBQ lunch. The only extra costs are for transport to and from the meeting point, which is at the port of Agia Anna.

You’ll want to bring essentials like sunglasses, a hat, swimwear, a towel, and sunscreen. While the tour doesn’t include nudity, it’s family-friendly and designed for a wide age range, with reviewers noting its suitability for children and groups alike.

Practical Tips for Making the Most of Your Trip

• Arrive Early: The boat’s capacity is around 100, and securing a spot early ensures better seating and less crowding.
• Wear Sun Protection: The boat deck gets plenty of sun, so hats and sunscreen are must-haves.
• Bring a Waterproof Camera: The caves and beaches offer plenty of photo opportunities—waterproof gear helps you capture the moment without worry.
• Stay Hydrated: Although drinks are unlimited, bringing your own water bottle is always a good idea.
• Flexible Schedule: Use the free time on Ano Koufonissi to explore as much or as little as you like—relax on beaches, walk the streets, or shop local crafts.
• Book in Advance: Due to positive reviews and popularity, especially in peak summer months, booking ahead is recommended to secure your spot.

The Real Deal: Authenticity, Value, and Experience

This boat trip earns praise not only for its scenic stops and natural beauty but also for how smoothly everything runs. The guides and crew are described as knowledgeable, friendly, and attentive, which makes a real difference when you’re in unfamiliar waters.

Most travelers agree that the value for money is excellent—considering the length of the trip, the inclusions, and the variety of activities. The opportunity to swim in Rina Cave, explore the charming island of Ano Koufonissi, and enjoy a traditional Greek BBQ all in one day is a lot to pack into 9.5 hours.

Some reviews mention minor drawbacks, like the boat feeling a bit crowded or some guests wishing for more time at each stop. However, these are offset by the overall quality of the experience and the stunning scenery.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This experience is ideal for those who want a full-day adventure on the water, blending sightseeing, swimming, and local cuisine. Families, couples, or solo travelers who enjoy social atmospheres and are comfortable sharing space on a boat will find it particularly appealing. It’s also a good choice for travelers who want to see multiple highlights without the hassle of arranging multiple boat trips or transport.

If you’re looking for a relaxing, well-organized tour with friendly guides and authentic flavors, this trip fits the bill. Just be prepared for a lively environment and some crowds—it’s part of the fun but worth noting if you prefer quiet, secluded excursions.

FAQ

Is transportation to the meeting point included?
No, this tour does not include pickup or drop-off. You will meet at the port of Agia Anna, so plan your transport accordingly.

What should I bring on the trip?
Bring essentials like sunglasses, a hat, swimwear, a towel, and sunscreen. Water-resistant or waterproof gear for photos might also be helpful.

Can I snorkel inside Rina Cave?
Yes, snorkeling equipment is provided, and reviewers mention that the waters inside the cave are crystal clear—great for underwater viewing.

How long is each stop?
You’ll have about 1.5 hours at Kato Koufonisi, 2.5 hours on Ano Koufonissi, and about 1 hour at Rina Cave. The itinerary is designed to balance sightseeing with leisure.

Is vegetarian lunch available?
Yes, vegetarian options are offered alongside the traditional BBQ, ensuring everyone is catered for.

What’s the boat capacity?
The boat holds around 100 people, which helps create a lively atmosphere but also means arriving early is wise for better seating.

Are drinks included?
Unlimited water, soft drinks, and local wine are included in the price, making it a stress-free day for staying hydrated and refreshed.

Final Thoughts

This boat trip around Naxos and its nearby islands offers an authentic slice of Greek island life, with plenty of opportunities to swim, explore, and enjoy good food. The combination of scenic vistas, natural caves, charming villages, and a hearty BBQ lunch makes it a well-rounded tour that delivers excellent value.

Whether you’re a first-time visitor eager to tick off some iconic sights or a seasoned traveler craving a relaxing day on the water, this experience can suit a variety of preferences. The friendly guides and manageable itinerary help ensure you’ll leave with memories of stunning scenery, tasty food, and perhaps a few new friends.

If you’re up for a day of sun, sea, and authentic Greek flavors, this trip is definitely worth considering on your Naxos adventure.

Note: Always check availability and book ahead due to popularity, especially in peak summer months.