A Taste of Greece’s Saronic Gulf: A Full-Day Private Boat Tour Visiting Aegina
If you’re looking to escape the busy streets of Athens and explore the nearby islands in style, this private boat tour offers a refreshing alternative. For around $2,491 per group (up to 8 people), you’ll spend roughly nine hours exploring Aegina and its surroundings aboard a sleek, high-quality RIB (Rigid Inflatable Boat). Led by a knowledgeable skipper, the trip combines scenic cruising, hikes, charming villages, and authentic local flavors—all in a way that feels both exclusive and laid-back.
What we love about this experience is how it balances adventure with relaxation. First, the speedy boat ride gives you an exhilarating way to see the Gulf’s stunning coastline, and second, the chance to walk through typical Greek fishing villages like Perdika offers genuine insight into local life. Meanwhile, the inclusion of snorkeling equipment, beach towels, and water makes it easy to stay comfortable without extra hassle.
A possible consideration is the price, which might seem steep for some travelers, especially since lunch isn’t included. But when you factor in the private nature of the tour, the exclusive stops, and the quality of the boat, it’s a solid value for those seeking a personalized Greek island experience.
This tour is best suited for travelers who value comfort, privacy, and authentic small-group adventures—whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply looking for a memorable day on the water away from the crowds.
Key Points
- Private, personalized experience with a dedicated skipper and small group size.
- Visits to Aegina, Perdika, and Moni Island offer diverse scenery, from beaches to quaint villages.
- Includes snorkeling gear, water, and beach towels for maximum comfort.
- Hiking on Moni Island provides a scenic escape, with historical stone sheds and wildlife.
- Taste local cuisine at Perdika’s fish tavernas, sampling flavorful meze dishes.
- Approximately 9-hour adventure with flexible stops and outdoor activities tailored for moderate physical fitness.
Exploring the Saronic Gulf: Setting Out from Athens
Starting from Minoos 3 in Anavissos, the journey begins early at 9:00 am with a swift transfer onto your private RIB. The boat itself is described as luxurious and stylish, promising a smooth and comfortable ride across the clear, inviting waters of the Gulf. The boat’s speed means you’ll cover a lot of ground without feeling exhausted, and the certified skipper ensures safety and local knowledge are front and center.
As you leave the bustle of Athens behind, the sparkling waters and sunny skies set a perfect scene for a day out. We appreciated the quality of the boat, which adds a layer of comfort often missing from shared or crowded tours. The fact that this is a private experience means that your group won’t be jostling with strangers; instead, you can relax and customize your day with your skipper.
Prefer personalized experiences? Here are other private options we've covered in Athens
First Stop: Moni Island Beach — A Natural Playground
The journey’s first highlight is Moni Island, just a short cruise from the mainland. Here, hikers and casual walkers alike will enjoy the trail to the top of the island. The walk is accessible enough for most, yet offers enough elevation to reward you with breathtaking views of the Aegean.
What makes Moni Island special are the stone sheds from WWII, which add a historical touch, and the wild deer, goats, and peacocks that now inhabit the area. These animals have made this tiny island their home, and spotting them adds a fun, almost safari-like element to your hike. We loved that the admission is free, which helps keep the overall value high.
The 1.5-hour stop allows ample time for exploring, snapping photos, or simply soaking up the peaceful environment. We found that the combination of adventure and nature at Moni Island makes it a perfect first stop to stretch your legs and enjoy raw outdoor beauty.
Second Stop: Perdika — Charm, Fish, and Flavors
Next, the boat takes you to Perdika, a traditional fishing village known for its narrow, winding streets and friendly atmosphere. This stop is ideal for those who love wandering through authentic Greek towns, with plenty of opportunities for photos.
Most travelers spend around 1 hour and 40 minutes here, enough time to stroll, browse local shops, or sit at a seaside taverna. The highlight for many is sampling the local meze—small, flavor-packed dishes that showcase Greece’s culinary finesse. We loved the idea of sharing small plates—it turns a simple meal into a social experience, and in Perdika, the fresh seafood and lively tavernas make it a true treat.
For those who want to explore further, Perdika offers a glimpse of local island life away from tourist crowds, making this stop one of the tour’s highlights.
Final Stop: Aegina Town — Local Markets and Bustling Harbors
The last part of your journey takes you to Aegina’s main port, a lively hub filled with boats, cafes, and markets. Here, you can shop for souvenirs at the traditional stalls or enjoy a coffee at a scenic café watching the boats come and go.
This 1-hour stop is perfect for soaking in the energy of a working Greek harbor and experiencing the local vibe. The town’s narrow streets are great for wandering, and the market offers a taste of everyday life on the island.
What’s Included and What’s Not
Your skipper will provide snorkeling equipment, bottled water, ice, and beach towels, ensuring comfort and convenience throughout the day. These little touches make a big difference, especially when you’re exploring in the sun and sea.
However, lunch is not included, so you’ll want to bring some snacks or plan to dine at Perdika or Aegina Town. In our view, this allows you to pick your preferred style and budget for food—whether that means a quick snack or a leisurely sit-down meal.
While in Athens, here are other experiences we've covered
- All Day Cruise -3 Islands to Agistri,Moni, Aegina with lunch and drinks included
- Athens Full Day Private Tour
- Delphi Full Day Private Tour from Athens
- Athens: All Day Cruise to Agistri Moni Aegina with Lunch & Drinks
- Athens Greece Full Day private tour
- Lake Vouliagmeni Thermal Spa And Temple Of Poseidon Private Full Day Tour
Authentic Experiences and Practical Details
The reviews highlight the luxurious boats and the comfort they deliver, with one traveler noting, “OpenSea RIB Charter ensures you travel in comfort/style.” The small group size means personalized attention, and travelers consistently praise the knowledgeable guides who make the experience both informative and enjoyable.
The 9-hour duration strikes a good balance—it’s enough time to see a variety of sights without feeling rushed. While the price is on the higher side, it reflects the private nature, high-quality equipment, and personalized service.
If you’re looking for a more intimate, relaxed way to explore the Aegina area, this tour offers a combination of scenic views, cultural discovery, and outdoor fun that’s hard to beat.
The Sum Up
This private boat tour from Athens to Aegina is a remarkable way to experience the Saronic Gulf. It’s perfect for travelers who want a luxurious, personalized day on the water, with highlights like hiking, local food, and charming villages. The inclusion of snorkeling gear and beach towels makes it easy to enjoy the outdoors without extra fuss, and the small group size ensures a tailored, relaxed experience.
While it may not be the best choice for those on a strict budget, the value lies in the quality of the boat, personalized service, and authentic stops. If you’re after a memorable and comfortable escape from Athens that blends adventure and culture, this tour should be high on your list.
Ideal for couples, families, or small groups wanting a luxury day trip with diverse experiences, it delivers a genuine taste of Greek island life.
FAQ
Is this tour suitable for all ages?
Yes, as long as participants have a moderate physical fitness level. The activities, including hiking and walking through villages, are manageable for most people with a reasonable level of mobility.
How long does the boat ride last?
The total tour duration is about 9 hours and 15 minutes, with the boat ride being a significant part of that time, offering plenty of scenic cruising and exploration.
What should I bring?
Bring comfortable shoes for hiking, a hat, sunscreen, and perhaps a camera for capturing stunning views. The tour provides snorkeling equipment, water, ice, and beach towels, but lunch isn’t included, so plan accordingly.
Can I customize the stops?
Since it’s a private tour, your skipper can tailor the experience to some extent, focusing more on your interests—whether that’s more time in Aegina Town, additional snorkeling, or extra hiking.
Is this tour weather-dependent?
Yes, the tour requires good weather. If canceled due to poor weather, you’ll get a different date or a full refund. It’s best to check the forecast before booking.
What’s included in the price?
Use of snorkeling equipment, bottled water, ice, beach towels, and the services of a certified skipper are included. Lunch and personal souvenirs are not covered.
How do I meet the tour?
The tour starts at Minoos 3, Anavissos, Greece, at 9:00 am. The experience ends back at the same meeting point, making transportation planning straightforward.
This private boat trip offers a well-rounded glimpse of Aegina’s natural beauty, local charm, and outdoor activities, all delivered in a comfortable, exclusive setting. Whether you’re seeking adventure, relaxation, or authentic Greek culture, this tour has something to offer.
More Boat Tours & Cruises in Athens
- Athens Panoramic Tour & Plaka for Cruise Travelers
- Athens Riviera Private Sunset Boat Cruise
- From Cruise Port: Athens City, Acropolis & Acropolis Museum
- Private Luxury Sunset Sailing Cruise in the Athenian Riviera
- Athenian riviera : Quarter day Private Boat Trip
- Athens city Tour (4hrs) combined with Piraeus Port Cruise Terminal transfers
More Tours in Athens
More Tour Reviews in Athens
More Athens experiences we've covered
- Food Tour evenings and Sundays
- Athens photo tour
- Athens Highlights by Electric Trikke Bike
- Athens, Piraeus, and Coastline: Blue Hop-On Hop-Off Bus
- Athens Panoramic Tour & Plaka for Cruise Travelers
- Athens half day lay-over Tour combined with Athens Airport transfers
- Cape Sounion with Official Guide to the Temple of Poseidon
- 8-Day Classic Greece Tour: Athens, Epidaurus, Mycenae, Olympia, Delphi & Meteora
- Full Day Private Tour in Athens
- Private Excursion 2 Days: Athens – Nafpaktos & Mountainous Nafpaktia
- Athens: Cretan Olive Oil Tasting Experience
- Athens Highlights & Cape Sounion Sunset Tour & Audio Tour