One Day Cruise From Athens to 3 Saronic Gulf Islands

If you’re dreaming of a quick escape from Athens that combines stunning island scenery, culture, and a touch of leisure, this one-day cruise to Hydra, Poros, and Aegina might just be your perfect ticket. Offered by Filippis Tours, this experience promises a hassle-free way to tick three beautiful islands off your bucket list — all in one long, yet rewarding day.

What we love most about this tour is the combination of sightseeing, onboard entertainment, and good value. It’s a package that makes island-hopping accessible without the need for multiple bookings or excessive planning. Also, the included lunch buffet and folklore show add authentic Greek flavor to the journey.

However, it’s not without a few considerations. The trip duration—about 11 to 12 hours—means most of your day will be spent on the boat, and some travelers have found the ride “draggy” or crowded, especially during peak season. This tour suits those who love a mix of scenic views and cultural exploration, and who don’t mind a full day of activity.

Key Points

• Convenient all-in-one experience: Cover three islands with one ticket, saving hours of planning.
• Authentic cultural touches: Enjoy traditional folk dance and music on board.
• Good value for money: Includes ferry tickets, lunch, entertainment, and hotel pickup.
• Island exploration time: Ample free time on Hydra, Poros, and Aegina for sightseeing or relaxing.
• Comfort and convenience: Hotel pickup from central Athens, smooth boarding process.
• Potential drawbacks: Long day with most time spent on the boat; outdoor areas can get crowded.

The Itinerary: What to Expect

This cruise is set up to maximize your time across three iconic Greek islands, each offering a different vibe and scenery. The day begins very early—pickup starts from select hotels in Athens around 7:00 am, giving you a brief city tour en route to the port. The journey to the islands begins with a lively onboard atmosphere, featuring a live orchestra that sets a cheerful tone for the day ahead.

Departure and Welcome

Once aboard, the crew—sometimes praised as “helpful” and “friendly”—gives safety instructions and explains the day’s schedule. The boat’s common areas, including a spacious sunny deck and a main dining room, are designed for comfort, with plenty of space to relax and enjoy the views. The lunch buffet, which is Mediterranean-inspired, is served during the cruise, offering fresh ingredients and a variety of dishes that cater to different tastes.

Hydra: The First Stop

The first island is Hydra, famous for its amphitheatrically positioned port and traditional stone houses. The boat docks for 1 hour and 45 minutes, enough time for you to wander the narrow, cobbled streets, snap photos of the picturesque scenery, or perhaps visit a local cafe. Reviewers mention that Hydra’s charm lies in its quiet elegance and historical architecture, making it a favorite for those who enjoy leisurely exploration.

A notable insight from travelers is that the town is small and easily walkable, with some adventurous visitors opting to take a donkey ride for a true island experience. The quiet streets and classic architecture create a timeless atmosphere, perfect for a short stroll or just soaking in the views.

Poros: The Green Gem

Next, the boat sails to Poros — the smallest of the three islands, distinguished by its lush greenery and narrow canal separating it from the Peloponnese. You’ll have about 50 minutes here, so plan to explore the main town quickly, perhaps grab a coffee or browse some local souvenirs. The reviews highlight Poros as a lovely, peaceful spot to enjoy a short walk and take in the stunning vistas of the water and the island’s charming architecture.

Aegina: The Final Stop

After Poros, the boat heads to Aegina, where you’ll dock for approximately 2 hours and 15 minutes. This is your best chance to get a deeper sense of the island. There are two main options for how to spend your time: a classical tour visiting the Temple of Aphaia and the Monastery of St Nectarios, or a panoramic drive through the island’s scenic spots like Paleohora and local villages.

Many travelers appreciate the opportunity to explore Aegina at their own pace, with some visiting the historic sites or relaxing at seaside cafes. The Temple of Aphaia is a must for history buffs, offering impressive ruins and panoramic views.

The Return Journey & Greek Folk Show

As the day winds down, the boat departs Aegina for Athens. This part of the trip is highlighted by the Greek folk show, featuring live traditional music and dance performed by professional singers and dancers from across Greece. Reviewers like Connie_L describe it as a fun and lively way to end the day, allowing everyone to participate in the celebration of Greek culture.

The journey back offers more stunning views and a chance to unwind after a full day of sightseeing. The boat arrives back at the port around 7:30 pm, where hotel drop-offs are arranged for those who booked the included transfer.

What Travelers Say: Highlights from Reviews

Many reviews praise the well-organized logistics and helpful staff, making the experience smooth from pickup to return. One reviewer, Stephan, appreciated the “easy pick-up and drop-off from the hotel” and called the staff “the most helpful imaginable,” which is a huge plus for those unfamiliar with Greek transportation.

Food also earns accolades, with many commenting on the delicious buffet that offers a variety of Mediterranean flavors. The onboard folk dance and music performances are described as lively and authentic, providing a genuine taste of Greek culture.

However, not everyone loved the entire experience. Some reviews mention the length of the trip—with 12 hours being quite a long day—and note that most of the time is spent on the boat rather than exploring islands. Judy_B, for instance, described her experience as “cold, wet, and miserable,” citing bad weather and a crowded outdoor area, which can be a real risk depending on the day’s forecast.

A common suggestion from travelers is to manage expectations—this is a busy, full-day tour, and some may find the boat ride a bit tiring or crowded. But for those who cherish scenic views, cultural experiences, and island hopping without the fuss of multiple bookings, this tour offers good value.

Practical Details and Tips

• Duration: Expect about 11-12 hours, from pickup in Athens to return.
• Price: Approximately $175.40 per person, which covers ferry tickets, lunch, onboard entertainment, and hotel pickup for select hotels.
• Best for: Those who enjoy a full day of sightseeing, don’t mind long boat rides, and appreciate cultural performances.
• What to bring: Comfortable shoes for island exploration, sun protection, and a camera for the stunning views.
• Booking: It’s recommended to book about 32 days in advance, especially in peak season.

Additional Considerations

While the tour provides hotel pickup from centrally located Athens hotels, check if your accommodation qualifies. Also, note that drinks and personal expenses are extra, so budget for beverages or souvenirs. If bad weather occurs, the trip may be canceled or rescheduled, with full refunds offered.

Who is This Tour Perfect For?

This cruise is ideal for travelers seeking a comprehensive day trip that combines sightseeing, culture, and the chance to see three of Greece’s most popular islands. It’s especially suitable for those who prefer organized tours with logistics taken care of, and who enjoy onboard entertainment and local food.

If you’re looking for a relaxing beach day or a deep dive into island history, this tour may feel a bit rushed or busy. However, if your goal is to cover multiple islands in one go, enjoy Greek music and dance, and taste Mediterranean cuisine, this experience offers genuine value.

FAQ

Is hotel pickup included? Yes, for selected hotels in Athens, you’ll be picked up and dropped off at your accommodation.

How long is the boat ride? The entire trip lasts about 11 to 12 hours, with most time spent on the boat traveling between islands and returning to Athens.

Can I explore the islands on my own? Absolutely. The stops include free time for sightseeing, shopping, or relaxing. You can explore on foot or take an official donkey ride on Hydra.

What’s included in the price? The price covers ferry tickets for the entire route, buffet lunch, onboard folklore show, and hotel pickup/drop-off for select hotels.

Are there any optional tours at the islands? You can opt for guided tours like visiting the Temple of Aphaia or a panoramic drive on Aegina, but these are optional and not included in the base price.

What should I bring? Comfortable shoes, sun protection, a camera, and some cash for optional expenses or souvenirs.

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

Is the tour suitable for children? Yes, most reviews suggest families and children enjoy the trip, but always check the specific age restrictions.

How crowded does the outdoor deck get? During peak season, the outdoor areas can be quite crowded, so arrive early if you want a good spot.

Will I have enough time at each island? Yes, the schedule allows for 1-2 hours at Hydra and Aegina, and about 50 minutes at Poros, enough for quick exploration or relaxing.

This one-day cruise from Athens to Hydra, Poros, and Aegina offers a solid way to experience the iconic Saronic Gulf islands without fuss. The combination of scenic ferry rides, cultural entertainment, and island exploration makes it a well-rounded choice for travelers short on time but eager to see Greece’s coastal beauty.

While it’s a long day with some potential for crowded outdoor spaces and weather dependence, the convenience, included meals, and lively onboard performances make it a rewarding adventure. Perfect for those who enjoy structured tours with a social vibe, this experience promises a memorable taste of Greek island life—briefly, yet beautifully.

Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a seasoned traveler wanting a quick island fix, this cruise can provide a fun and scenic snapshot of Greece’s coastal charm.