Thessaloniki : Half-Day Sailing Cruise to Shipwreck Bay !

This review focuses on a highly-rated sailing tour departing from Thessaloniki’s Nea Michaniona harbor, taking travelers on a six-hour trip to the famous Shipwreck Bay. Whether you’re craving a relaxing day on the water, spectacular coastal scenery, or a taste of authentic Greek hospitality, this experience offers plenty of value. Guided by friendly and knowledgeable captains, most guests find it a delightful way to see the coast, enjoy some swimming and snorkeling, and indulge in local food and wine.

What we particularly love about this cruise is how it combines comfort, intimacy, and insider charm. The tour is semi-private, usually catering to small groups, which feels more personal than a large boat trip. Plus, the inclusion of a home-cooked meal with wine and the chance to spot dolphins make it memorable. One potential drawback? If you’re expecting a full-day adventure or hotel pickup, this trip’s half-day format and optional transfer might seem a bit limited. That said, it suits travelers looking for a manageable, authentic day out on the water—perfect for those short on time but craving a genuine coastal experience.

Key Points

• Small-group intimacy enhances the experience and allows for personalized attention.
• Stunning views of coastlines, Shipwreck Bay, and even dolphins make it special.
• Authentic Greek lunch with wine adds local flavor to the day.
• Flexible activities like swimming, snorkeling, and relaxing on deck keep everyone engaged.
• Excellent reviews highlight friendly guides, comfortable boats, and memorable hospitality.
• Good value for a half-day tour that includes food, drinks, and scenic exploration.

A Closer Look at the Cruise Experience

The Departure and Meeting Point

The trip kicks off at Blue Foam Sailing Cruises in Nea Michaniona around 11:00 am. The meeting process is straightforward, with most travelers appreciating how close it is to public transportation—buses from Thessaloniki’s city center (lines 3 and 72) easily connect to the meeting point. The tour’s maximum group size of 8 ensures a relaxed, personalized atmosphere, which many reviews praise, emphasizing the friendly, attentive guides like Makis and Nikos.

What the Itinerary Looks Like

The cruise’s core highlights revolve around two key stops, though the journey itself is part of the charm.

Stop 1: Shipwreck at Epanomi

This is the main attraction, a sandy cape with a shipwreck that sank around 1970. The natural scenery is breathtaking: a sandy tongue protruding into turquoise waters, shells scattered along the shoreline, and the shipwreck itself adding an intriguing historical touch. Reviewers mention that the boat gets close enough for great photos and for snorkeling or exploring around the wreck. A traveler noted, “The shipwreck was a neat experience,” and many appreciated the chance to swim or snorkel in clear, inviting waters.

The shipwreck adds a sense of adventure and discovery, especially for underwater exploration fans. As one reviewer shared, “It sank in about 1970 giving its mark on the beach,” making it a tangible piece of maritime history to examine from the water or onshore.

Stop 2: Olympos Mountain and the Mythical Connection

On the way back, the boat often makes a stop near Olympos, the legendary mountain of the 12 gods. Here, the views are especially striking, with the backdrop of Mt. Olympus adding a mythic dimension to your trip. Several guests mentioned that this stop offered panoramic vistas and a chance to soak in the local landscape from the water.

Swimming, Snorkeling, and Relaxing

The water around Navagio Beach and Shipwreck Bay is frequently described as “crystal clear,” perfect for swimming and snorkeling. Several reviewers highlight how much they loved the opportunity to float in the blue waters, with some even spotting dolphins during their trip — a real bonus for wildlife lovers. A guest noted, “We got to see dolphins and swim in the prettiest blue water,” which underscores the marine wildlife that occasionally joins the cruise.

The boat itself is described as comfortable, clean, and well-maintained. Guests have praised the friendly guides who instruct on swimming safety, provide lifejackets when needed, and ensure everyone feels secure in the water.

The Food and Drink

A standout feature of this tour is the Greek lunch, which is included in the price. It features a generous portion of souvlaki (pork or chicken) wrapped in pita, along with grilled vegetables, Greek salad, and fresh fruit. Reviewers consistently rave about how delicious and fresh the food is, often comparing it favorably to meals served in local tavernas.

Complementing the meal is one bottle of wine per four guests, along with bottled water and water during the cruise. Several guests appreciated the wine’s quality, describing it as “lovely,” and adding a relaxed, convivial aspect to the trip. One reviewer mentioned, “The food he made for us was incredible,” highlighting the home-cooked feel that makes this experience stand out.

The Overall Atmosphere

Many reviews focus on the warmth and friendliness of guides like Makis and Nikos, who go out of their way to make everyone feel welcome. Travelers appreciated the relaxed vibe, small group size, and the chance to chat, share stories, and enjoy Greece’s natural beauty. The consistent theme was how the guides made the trip feel like a personalized day with friends rather than a generic tour.

Timing and Duration

The six-hour trip is perfect for travelers who want a taste of the coast without committing to a full day. Departure at 11:00 am means you can easily fit this into a morning or early afternoon plan. The trip concludes back at the starting point, giving you time to explore Thessaloniki afterward or continue with other activities.

Value for Money

At around $110 for a half-day trip, the experience offers solid value. You’re getting a private or semi-private boat, food, drinks, and the unforgettable scenery of Shipwreck Bay, plus the chance at wildlife sightings like dolphins. The small group size, personalized service, and included amenities all contribute to a worthwhile investment.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This cruise is ideal for travelers seeking a relaxed, authentic Greek coastal experience. It suits those who love being on the water, enjoy swimming, and want a more intimate atmosphere than large-group tours. It’s perfect for couples, small groups of friends, or solo travelers looking to meet like-minded adventurers.

If you’re interested in photography, you’ll love the panoramic views and the close-up of the shipwreck. Food lovers will appreciate the home-cooked meal and local wine, making the trip a delightful culinary experience as well. However, if you’re after a full-day adventure or wish for hotel pickup and drop-off, this tour might feel a bit limited in scope.

The Sum Up

This half-day sailing cruise from Thessaloniki to Shipwreck Bay offers a wonderful blend of scenic beauty, authentic Greek hospitality, and relaxed maritime fun. Its small-group setting, knowledgeable guides, and included local meal make it stand out as a memorable coastal escape. Whether you’re into snorkeling, wildlife spotting, or simply soaking up the sun with a good glass of Greek wine, this trip delivers more than just a sightseeing experience — it provides a taste of Greece’s natural charm and welcoming spirit.

For travelers who want a manageable, personalized, and genuine adventure, this tour hits all the right notes. It’s especially suited for those short on time but eager for a rich, scenic day on the water. The combination of stunning views, friendly hosts, and a delicious meal makes it a worthwhile addition to any Thessaloniki itinerary.

FAQs

Is hotel pickup included?
No, transportation to the meeting point is not included but the starting location is accessible by bus from Thessaloniki city center.

What time does the tour start?
The cruise departs at 11:00 am, giving you a good mid-morning start for a day at sea.

How long is the trip?
The experience lasts approximately six hours, including sailing, swimming, and lunch.

Is the tour suitable for children?
Most travelers can participate, but children should be comfortable swimming and be supervised, especially during water activities.

What is included in the price?
A semi-private boat trip, Greek lunch with souvlaki, grilled vegetables, Greek salad, fruit, water, and one bottle of wine per four guests.

Can I book a private tour?
While the boat is for eight people total, you need to book all seats for exclusivity. The tour usually runs semi-private, with a small group.

What should I bring?
Towels, sunscreen, swimwear, and perhaps waterproof camera or phone for photos.

Are the guides knowledgeable?
Yes, reviews highlight friendly, attentive guides like Makis and Nikos who go out of their way to ensure everyone’s comfort and enjoyment.

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

This sailing cruise offers a fantastic way to explore Thessaloniki’s coast, enjoy authentic Greek hospitality, and make unforgettable memories on the water.