Athens: Private Daily Cruise & Snorkeling Petalioi Marmari

Athens: Private Daily Cruise & Snorkeling Petalioi Marmari is a well-tailored escape designed for those craving a day on the water with a touch of luxury and authentic island charm. For around six hours, you’ll cruise in a high-performance rib boat with your private group, visiting stunning spots like the Petalioi Islands, often called the “Maldives of South-East Evia,” and the quaint fishing village of Marmari. The experience is priced to reflect exclusivity, offering personalized service, stunning scenery, and plenty of opportunities for swimming and snorkeling.

We particularly appreciate the small-group intimacy, which makes the trip feel more like a private adventure rather than a crowded tour. Plus, the added bonus of aerial drone footage and underwater photos elevates this experience from a simple boat ride to a memorable photo and video keepsake. One thing to keep in mind: this trip involves some boat time, so if you’re prone to seasickness or prefer calm waters, it’s worth considering.

This tour suits travelers who love off-the-beaten-path experiences—those looking for a blend of adventure, relaxation, and scenic beauty. It’s especially good if you enjoy snorkeling, fresh seafood, and picturesque villages. Families with older kids, couples, or friends seeking a private escape from the hustle of Athens will find plenty of value here.

Key Points

• Private Group: Tailored experience for your small group, with a flexible schedule.
• Snorkeling and Swimming: Opportunities to explore vibrant marine life in crystal waters.
• Authentic Villages: Visit Marmari, a charming fishing village with local taverns and cafes.
• Photo and Video Extras: Drone footage and underwater photos included, creating lasting memories.
• All-Inclusive: Snacks, soft drinks, snorkeling gear, towels, and water-proof camera provided.
• Environmental Consciousness: The trip offsets carbon emissions, reflecting a responsible approach.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Exploring the Experience: What You Can Expect

A typical day with Summer Dream Boats begins early on the parking lot, where your journey into Greece’s waters kicks off. The crew, led by knowledgeable guides, starts with a brief safety briefing in Attica, ensuring everyone feels comfortable and ready for the 30-minute cruise towards the islands. This quick introduction helps set expectations and build confidence before hitting open water.

Once aboard the high-performance rib boat, you’ll feel the thrill of skimming across the waves, with the wind in your hair and the Greek coast slipping by. The boat’s speed and handling make for an exhilarating ride, especially if you’re comfortable with a more lively journey—perfect for those seeking a bit of adventure.

Stop 1: Megalonisos Petalion — The Heart of the Islands

After about 30 minutes, you’ll arrive at Megalonisos Petalion, the largest of the Petalioi Islands. This is where we loved the chance to swim in the clear waters and snorkel among vibrant fish and underwater flora. The local snacks served here are a delightful touch—a simple yet tasty selection that adds local flavor to your day. The 2.5-hour stop is ample time to relax, explore, and soak up the peaceful island atmosphere.

“The snorkeling gear was provided, and the underwater photos really captured the lively marine life,” one guest remarked, highlighting the value of the included equipment. The crew’s friendly instruction makes snorkeling accessible even if you’re new to it.

Stop 2: Marmari — Traditional Charm and Fresh Seafood

The afternoon takes you to Marmari, a traditional fishing village with a slow pace and seaside charm. Here, you can stroll along the seafront, browse local cafes, or simply enjoy the laid-back vibe. For lunch, many guests opt for the local seafood restaurants and taverns, which serve up dishes straight from the sea—fresh, flavorful, and authentically Greek.

The 1.5-hour stop provides enough time to explore without feeling rushed, making it ideal for those wanting to experience local life and enjoy a relaxed meal in a picturesque setting.

Stops Along the Coast: Scenic Cruises on the Return

Before heading back to Athens, the boat makes a 30-minute cruise past Schinias Beach, offering scenic views and a chance to appreciate the coastline from the water. The entire journey offers plenty of photo opportunities, especially with the drone footage capturing the boat’s speed, the islands’ beauty, and the shoreline.

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Practical Details and Why They Matter

Duration and Flexibility: The 6-hour tour is thoughtfully designed to balance active moments with leisure. Check availability for specific start times, but expect a well-paced day that maximizes your time on the water and at each stop.

Transportation & Meeting Point: The tour begins in a designated parking area, making it easily accessible for those staying in or near Athens. The inclusion of a map helps you plan your arrival, reducing stress.

Group Size and Personal Service: Being a private group experience, the tour maintains an intimate atmosphere, letting guides cater to your interests and pace. This is a big plus if you prefer avoiding large crowds.

Inclusions and Extras: Snacks, bottled water, soft drinks, towels, and snorkeling equipment are all included, adding excellent value. The waterproof camera and drone footage are standout features, allowing you to capture memories without extra cost.

Environmental Responsibility: The tour’s commitment to offsetting carbon emissions is commendable, aligning with eco-conscious travelers wanting to enjoy Greece responsibly.

What to Bring: Don’t forget your passport or ID (a copy is accepted), sun protection, and perhaps a light change of clothes. Alcohol and drugs are not permitted, aligning with safety and legal standards.

Suitability: Not recommended for babies under 1 year, but perfect for those comfortable with boat rides and wanting a mix of adventure and chill time.

A Closer Look at the Itinerary

The carefully planned sequence maximizes your experience of Greece’s natural beauty and local culture. Starting with the relatively quick cruise from Athens to the islands, the journey feels just long enough to build anticipation without tiring you out. The 30-minute cruise around Schinias Beach is a scenic appetizer, offering views of the coastline and some candid photo moments.

The longer stop at Megalonisos Petalion is the tour’s crown jewel. Here, the combination of swimming, snorkeling, and enjoying local snacks creates a relaxed but engaging environment. The snorkeling gear allows you to explore underwater, and many reviewers praised the vibrant marine life and the crew’s helpfulness in guiding novices.

Marmari, with its quaint cafes, seafood restaurants, and traditional vibe, adds a layer of genuine local flavor. Guests often mention how they appreciated the opportunity to walk leisurely and soak up the authentic Greek seaside atmosphere.

The Return Journey

On the way back, the 30-minute cruise along the coast offers chances for more photos and reflection on the day’s highlights. The crew’s enthusiasm, combined with the stunning scenery, makes this a relaxing yet invigorating end to the tour.

Pricing, Value, and Who Will Appreciate It

While the cost of this tour might seem high compared to larger group excursions, the private nature, personalized service, and inclusion of photo/video extras justify the price. Guests consistently reflect that the experience feels worth the expense because of the exclusivity and quality of the amenities.

This tour is ideal for travellers seeking a flexible, intimate experience—whether celebrating a special occasion or simply wanting to explore Greece’s waters in comfort. It’s particularly appealing for families with older children, couples wanting a romantic day, or groups of friends looking for an adventure with a personal touch.

The Sum Up

This private cruise with Summer Dream Boats offers a compelling blend of scenic beauty, authentic local flavor, and personalized service. You’ll enjoy the thrill of fast boat rides, the tranquility of secluded islands, and the charm of a traditional fishing village—all in one memorable day.

For those who value snorkeling, good food, and great photos, this trip hits all the right notes. It’s well-suited for travelers craving a more exclusive, relaxed, and immersive experience on Greece’s waters. If you’re happy to pay a bit extra for intimacy and unique photos, this tour makes for a fantastic escape from the busy city.

In short, whether you’re looking for a standout day trip or a special way to see South-East Evia, this cruise delivers a genuine taste of Greece’s maritime beauty—perfect for making lasting memories with friends, family, or a loved one.

FAQ

How long is the tour?
The entire experience lasts about 6 hours, with specific start times available depending on the day.

What is included in the price?
Snacks, bottled water, soft drinks, snorkeling gear, towels, waterproof camera, drone footage, and all taxes and fees are included.

Is snorkeling equipment provided?
Yes, snorkeling gear is included, making underwater exploration accessible even for beginners.

Can I take photos and videos?
Absolutely. The tour provides a waterproof camera and drone footage, allowing you to capture the day from both above and below the water.

Is the tour suitable for children?
It’s best for children over 1 year old. Very young kids might find the boat ride a bit long or bumpy.

What should I bring?
Bring your passport or ID, sun protection, and perhaps a light change of clothes. No alcohol or drugs are permitted onboard.

Is this tour private?
Yes, it’s designed for your private group, offering flexibility and a more personalized experience.

How do I get to the starting point?
The tour begins at a designated parking area accessible from Athens; a map is provided to help you find your way.

This private cruise with Summer Dream Boats is a wonderful way to see the stunning Petalioi Islands and experience authentic Greek seaside life, all while enjoying top-notch comfort and service. Whether you’re seeking adventure, relaxation, or memorable photos, this trip offers a well-balanced dose of everything Greece is famous for.

You can check availability for your dates here: