Skiathos: Boat Cruise with Dinner & Sunset Viewing

Skiathos: Boat Cruise with Dinner & Sunset Viewing offers an intimate and authentic way to explore some of the most stunning parts of this Greek island. For just $164 per person, you’ll spend about seven hours on a small, family-run vessel with a maximum of eight guests. This tour takes you to deserted islands, caves, and inaccessible beaches, all while enjoying homemade Greek dishes and a spectacular sunset.

Two things we really appreciate about this experience are the genuine warmth of the hosts—George, Giannoula, and their son—and the chance to see less touristy, untouched spots that are only reachable by boat. The small group size makes it feel personal and relaxed, perfect for travelers seeking an authentic slice of Greek island life.

However, keep in mind that since the boat cannot approach the shore directly, swimming requires some effort—you’ll need to swim ashore or from the boat, which might not suit everyone. This tour is best suited for those who love natural beauty, good food, and friendly hosts. If you’re after a memorable, intimate day that combines scenic beauty with local hospitality, this might be your ideal escape.

Key Points

• Authentic Family-Run Experience: The hosts treat guests as friends, adding a warm, personal touch.
• Unique Access to Hidden Spots: Visit deserted islands, caves, and beaches unreachable by land.
• Delicious Homemade Cuisine: Feast on traditional, home-cooked Greek dishes paired with local wine and soft drinks.
• Stunning Sunset Views: End the day with a magical sunset at Agia Eleni or Banana beaches.
• Small Group for a Personal Feel: Up to 8 guests ensure intimacy and opportunities to chat with the crew.
• Flexible Cancellation and Payment: Book with confidence, free to cancel 24 hours in advance.

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Deep Dive Into the Experience

Setting the Scene

Imagine setting off from Artemida Cruises on a traditional boat owned by a welcoming family. The vessel, small enough to foster a cozy atmosphere but stable enough for a smooth ride, transports you along the scenic coast of Skiathos. The weather is likely warm, with the breeze from the Aegean promising a refreshing escape from land-based explorations.

The tour is limited to eight participants, striking a good balance between camaraderie and privacy. The guides wear blue T-shirts with the Artemida logo, signaling their friendly, approachable nature—a detail that adds to the feeling of being hosted by friends rather than just another tourist.

What Makes This Tour Stand Out?

One big plus is the traditional family-run vibe. The owners, George, Giannoula, and their son, are praised for their warmth and genuine hospitality—”Treating guests as friends,” as one reviewer puts it. This personal touch enhances the experience far beyond just sightseeing. You’ll get insider knowledge about Skiathos, its history, and its hidden corners, making your trip richer.

Another highlight is the chance to visit secluded beaches and caves that are only accessible by boat. Be prepared for some swimming, as the boat cannot reach the shore directly. If you’re comfortable with a swim or at least floating from the boat, you’ll find these spots to be among the most memorable parts of the day. Reviewers mention that these swimming spots are “beautiful” and “beachless” in scope, making them ideal for those seeking untouched natural beauty.

The Itinerary Breakdown

Stop 1: Tsougria and Arkos Islands

The journey begins by heading toward Tsougria and Arkos, two deserted islands with pristine, unspoiled beaches. Tsougria features a small chapel on a hillside—a charming spot that feels worlds away from crowded tourist beaches. One guest described visiting a chapel on the side of a hill, adding a touch of serenity to the trip.

Stop 2: Caves and Lalaria

Next, you’ll cruise past spectacular caves and the famous Lalaria beach, renowned for its white cliffs and sea arch. These geological wonders are impressive to see from the boat, and the guide’s commentary helps bring the scenery to life.

Stop 3: Skiathos Castle and Castro Islands

Passing by Skiathos Castle and the Castro islands, you’ll get a sense of the island’s history and strategic importance. The views from the boat are fantastic, especially as the sun begins to dip.

Stop 4: Panteleimonas Beach and Sunset at Agia Eleni or Banana

As the day winds down, you’ll reach Panteleimonas beach, described as a “paradise” by guests. It’s a perfect spot to relax or take a dip before heading to Agia Eleni or Banana beaches for sunset. Watching the sun set over the Aegean from these quiet beaches is an experience many cherish and remember.

Final Stop: Return to Artemida Cruises

The tour concludes back at your starting point, bringing full circle an authentic day of exploration, relaxation, and good company.

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The Food and Drink

One of the most praised aspects is the home-cooked Greek cuisine served during the cruise. Guests mention “a feast of homemade food” and “delicious wine,” which elevate the experience from mere sightseeing to a true taste of local life. The selection includes traditional sweets, fresh fruits, coffee, soft drinks, wines, and beer. The hosts also serve a special liqueur called Mastic, adding a regional flavor to the evening.

What to Bring and Consider

To make the most of this adventure, pack a sun hat, swimsuit, camera, and flip-flops. Be prepared for some physical activity, as swimming ashore involves some effort, and the boat doesn’t approach beaches directly. The tour advises bringing clothes that can get dirty, which is wise when exploring rocky caves or sandy beaches.

It’s worth noting that smoking indoors, alcohol, glass objects, and electric wheelchairs are not allowed, so plan accordingly. Since the boat cannot approach the shore, you should be comfortable with swimming or floating to reach the beaches.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This cruise is best suited for travelers who enjoy small-group experiences, authentic local hospitality, and scenic natural beauty. It’s ideal if you appreciate delicious home-cooked food and want to avoid the crowds of larger tours. It’s also perfect for those interested in discovering hidden spots instead of the typical tourist trail.

However, if you or your travel companions are prone to motion sickness or less comfortable with physical activity—like swimming from the boat—it might be less suitable. Also, those seeking a fast-paced or purely sightseeing experience may find this tour more laid-back but deeply rewarding.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tour suitable for children?
While not explicitly stated, the tour’s focus on swimming and outdoor activity suggests it’s best for older children or teenagers comfortable in the water and with some physical activity.

What is included in the price?
The cost covers the boat trip, towels, traditional sweets, coffee, soft drinks, water, dinner, wine and beer, fruits, a liqueur called Mastic, souvenirs, guiding, and swimming/snorkeling accessories.

What should I bring?
Bring a sun hat, swimwear, camera, flip-flops, and clothes that can get dirty. Don’t forget sunscreen and a towel for swimming.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering flexibility if your schedule shifts.

How long does the tour last?
The experience lasts approximately 7 hours, with specific starting times available based on your booking.

Is there a guide on the boat?
Yes, guides speak Greek, French, and English, providing commentary and insights during the trip.

Are there any physical restrictions?
The tour is not suitable for people with motion sickness or those unable to swim or handle outdoor physical activity.

How many people are in the group?
The tour is limited to 8 guests, providing a cozy, personal atmosphere.

Where do I meet the tour?
You meet in front of Artemida Cruises, where the guide will be wearing a blue T-shirt with the Artemida logo.

Final Thoughts

This small, family-run boat cruise around Skiathos offers more than just sightseeing. It’s an engaging blend of scenic beauty, authentic hospitality, and regional flavors. The opportunity to visit hidden beaches, caves, and deserted islands adds an exclusive feel that larger tours can’t match. Guests rave about the warmth of the hosts, the delicious homemade food, and the stunning sunset views—making it clear this is a memorable way to experience the island’s natural and cultural charm.

If you’re seeking a relaxed day with meaningful interactions and authentic Greek touches, this tour delivers. It’s especially well-suited for travelers who value small groups, insider access, and a blend of scenic adventure with good food. This experience is a lovely escape from more commercialized tours, inviting you to truly enjoy the laid-back pace and natural splendors of Skiathos.

Whether you’re a solo traveler, a couple, or a small family, this boat cruise promises a day filled with beauty, good company, and authentic Greek hospitality—truly a highlight of any trip to Skiathos.

You can check availability for your dates here: