Chalkidiki: Blue Lagoon & Ammouliani Island Cruise & Lunch

Experience the Beauty of Chalkidiki with the Blue Lagoon & Ammouliani Island Cruise

Imagine spending a day cruising through central Macedonia’s crystal-clear waters, exploring the famous Blue Lagoon, and relaxing on the charming Ammouliani Island. For just $47 per person, this full-day boat trip offers a chance to see some of Greece’s most iconic sights without breaking the bank. The tour, operated by Eirinikos Glassbottom Cruises, lasts around a full day, usually departing from Ouranoupoli’s port, and includes stops for swimming, photos, and a traditional Greek barbecue.

What we love most about this experience is the combination of stunning scenery—like the vibrant yellow corals visible from the glass-bottom boat—and the relaxed pace that allows plenty of swimming opportunities. The second highlight for us is the authenticity of the meal, featuring Greek souvlaki, fresh salads, and tzatziki—simple but flavorful, showcasing local cuisine. A minor consideration is that the tour involves swimming 2 meters from the boat, which requires basic swimming skills, so it’s not suited for everyone.

This cruise is ideal for travelers who enjoy natural beauty, relaxed afternoons on the water, and family-friendly outings. It’s especially suited for those who appreciate authentic experiences and the chance to combine sightseeing with leisure.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Key Points

Stunning Views: The glass-bottom boat offers unique views of coral reefs and underwater life.
Swimmer-Friendly: Two swimming stops, including the Blue Lagoon and Ammouliani’s Alikes Lagoon.
Authentic Food: Traditional Greek BBQ, with options for vegetarians if notified in advance.
Relaxed Pace: Enough time at each stop for swimming, photos, or just soaking up the scenery.
Family-Friendly: Suitable for children and all ages, with a lively onboard atmosphere.
Affordable Value: For under $50, you get a full day of activities, meals, and memorable vistas.

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A Deep Dive into the Chalkidiki Blue Lagoon & Ammouliani Tour

Starting Point and What to Expect

The tour begins at the port of Ouranoupoli, a charming village that’s often a gateway to the monasteries of Mount Athos. Arrive about 30-45 minutes early to find parking and settle in before the boat departs around 11:00 AM. The vessel is a glass-bottom boat, which allows you to glimpse underwater life without getting wet, a feature that earns many positive remarks from travelers. You’ll pass over well-known reefs, where the keel reveals yellow corals, a highlight for lovers of marine scenery.

As you cruise out, the crew keeps the energy lively with a DJ onboard, creating a cheerful atmosphere that balances sightseeing with a party vibe. The boat itself is described as clean, well-maintained, and equipped with safety gear, which is reassuring for families and less experienced swimmers.

The Blue Lagoon: First Swimming Stop

The first major highlight is the Blue Lagoon of Vourvourou, famous for its crystal-clear waters. The boat anchors here for about 1.5 hours, giving you plenty of time to swim, float, or simply relax on the boat’s deck. You’ll enjoy swimming in turquoise waters at about 2 meters depth, which is perfect for those comfortable in the water. Several reviews praise this stop, with comments like, “The crystal clear water was simply amazing, a joy to swim in for both adults and kids.”

A note for swimmers: life vests are only available in emergencies, so bring your own if you prefer additional safety or plan to snorkel. Also, consider bringing beach shoes because the shoreline can be rocky or seaweed-covered.

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The Greek BBQ Lunch

After swimming, everyone gathers on the boat for a light yet satisfying barbecue. The menu features pork souvlaki, Greek salad, tzatziki, and bread, with beverages including wine and soft drinks. Travelers have found the meal “tasteful,” and some mentioned it being enough to fuel the rest of the day’s activities. If you don’t eat pork or meat in general, it’s worth notifying the operator a day in advance so they can prepare a vegetarian option.

Many reviews mention the value of the lunch, especially considering it’s included in the price, and the friendly service that makes the meal feel genuine and home-cooked.

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Ammouliani Island and Alikes Lagoon

Post-lunch, the boat heads to Ammouliani Island, a small, scenic island known for its beautiful beaches. The stop here lasts about 1.5 hours, giving you the choice to swim at Alikes Beach or relax at a beach bar, sipping cocktails or soft drinks. Several travelers emphasize that Ammouliani’s natural beauty is a standout, with crystal waters and peaceful surroundings.

Critically, if the weather is windy or conditions are rough, the boat may dock at the port of the central village of Ammouliani, which some find less idyllic but still pleasant. Bring sunscreen and an umbrella if you want shade.

The Vibe and Overall Experience

Throughout the day, the friendly crew and lively onboard music create a convivial atmosphere, making it perfect for families, couples, or groups of friends. From multiple reviews, it’s clear the organization is tight, with travelers appreciating the timely departures and clear instructions. The small group size and the informative guides help foster a relaxed, enjoyable environment.

Practical Considerations

The tour is not inclusive of extra snacks or drinks beyond what’s offered, but they are available for purchase onboard. You’ll need to bring your own snacks, sunscreen, and towels. Children and non-swimmers can still enjoy the trip, though swimming in the first stop requires basic skills.

The duration is roughly 6-7 hours, and the tour is flexible, with the possibility of cancellation up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund—ideal if your plans are not yet firm.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This trip is best suited for families and active travelers who want a mix of scenic views and leisure. It’s a good choice for those who enjoy authentic Greek hospitality and water-based activities. If you’re prone to seasickness or prefer a more relaxed, less interactive boat ride, this might not be your best choice. However, for most travelers, the value for money and beautiful stops make it a rewarding outing.

Final Thoughts

The Chalkidiki Blue Lagoon & Ammouliani Island Cruise offers a well-rounded balance of sightseeing, swimming, and authentic Greek cuisine in a friendly, lively atmosphere. The boat’s glass-bottom design adds a special touch, allowing you to marvel at underwater life without getting wet—ideal for those who want to enjoy the scenery but aren’t expert swimmers.

The two swimming stops are highlights, especially the Blue Lagoon, praised for its crystal-clear waters. The lunch is simple but tasty, adding great value to the experience. The friendly crew, combined with the stunning scenery, makes this tour a memorable day trip.

While it’s not perfect—particularly if you prefer a very quiet, less crowded experience—it’s a great choice for families, couples, and anyone looking for an affordable way to see some of Greece’s best waters and islands.

Frequently Asked Questions

What time does the tour start and end?
The tour departs at around 11:00 AM from Ouranoupoli and typically returns in the early evening, allowing a full day of activities.

Is the swimming suitable for non-swimmers?
The first swimming stop involves swimming from the boat at 2 meters depth, so it’s best suited for those who are comfortable in the water. Non-swimmers might enjoy the scenic views from the boat or relaxing at the second stop.

Can I bring my own snacks and drinks?
Yes, you can bring your own snacks and beverages. While drinks are available for purchase onboard, many travelers prefer to pack extra for the day.

Is vegetarian food available?
Yes, the BBQ lunch features traditional souvlaki pork, but vegetarian options can be arranged if you notify the operator a day in advance.

Is the tour suitable for children?
Absolutely. Many reviews mention that children enjoy the trip, especially the crystal-clear waters and music onboard. Just keep in mind the swimming requirements for the first stop.

Is there any parking available at the starting point?
Yes, parking is available near the port of Ouranoupoli, and it’s best to arrive 30 minutes early to secure a spot and prepare for boarding.

Final Word

If you’re seeking an affordable, scenic, and fun water adventure in Greece, this cruise offers a lot for the price. It’s perfect for those who want to combine natural beauty with a taste of local flavors and enjoy a relaxed day on the water. Expect stunning underwater views, friendly service, and a chance to feel the Greek sun on your face. Whether you’re traveling with family or just want a memorable day out, this trip provides a great value experience that captures the spirit of Chalkidiki.