Exploring the Saronic Gulf Islands by boat offers a mix of scenic vistas, charming villages, and unique experiences that are often hard to access by land alone. Unlike most destinations where the best way to see the sights is on foot or by car, these islands are best enjoyed from the water. Whether you’re seeking a luxurious private yacht experience or a family-friendly day cruise, the options are plentiful. One thing’s for sure: the best tours blend beautiful scenery with engaging activities — like swimming in crystal waters or exploring historic sites. I especially like the Santorini Private Luxury Yacht Sunset Cruise for its romantic appeal and island-hopping stops, but more on that later.
For those who want to explore several islands at once, the 8-day/7-night Mykonos Cruise stands out with its comprehensive itinerary and chance to see lesser-visited islands along with famous spots like Mykonos. If a quick, active day appeals more, the Poros: Daily Swimming Cruise is perfect. Below, you’ll find detailed insights into each tour, helping you decide which one suits your style and schedule best.
1. 8-day/7-night Mykonos Cruise
This 8-day, 7-night cruise is perfect for travelers who want to combine laid-back island hopping with lively nights and social vibes. Starting from Salamina port, you’ll sail through the Cyclades, making stops at Kea, Syros, and Mykonos, among others. The boat offers daily brunch and private or shared ensuite cabins, making overnight stays comfortable and social. What sets this tour apart is its combination of exploration and relaxed onboard atmosphere, with plenty of time to soak in the sun or mingle with like-minded travelers.
The itinerary includes time in Kea, a quieter island with stunning views, and Syros, the “queen” of the Cyclades, known for its cultural charm. The highlight is definitely Mykonos, famous for its vibrant nightlife, beautiful beaches, and iconic windmills. Since this cruise touches on areas less accessible by land, it offers a genuinely unique perspective of the islands. Rated 5.0/5 from 28 reviews, travelers love the friendly environment and the mix of sightseeing and socializing. At roughly $610 per person, the value for an all-inclusive week of touring, eating, and relaxing is clear.
Bottom line: If you want a longer, social, and well-rounded island experience with flexible cabin options, this cruise is a top choice.
2. Poros: Daily Swimming Cruise – Explore Saronic Islands
This daily half-day cruise offers a more active and tailored experience with a focus on swimming, snorkeling, and exploring Poros and nearby islands. Led by Olympian swimmer Ioannis Drymonakos, the tour is well-suited for those who love water activities and want a guided, structured day on the water. Starting from Poros port, the vessel heads to spots ideal for crystal-clear swimming and relaxing in scenic coves.
The tour’s appeal is in its focus on open-water swimming guided by a professional swimmer, making it great for families, couples, or groups of friends who want more than just sightseeing. The group size tends to be small, providing a personal touch, and the itinerary shifts daily based on weather conditions, keeping things fresh. At around $288 per person, the tour offers excellent value, especially for those who want to combine active water time with island exploration.
Good for: active travelers, water lovers, those on a shorter schedule. It’s less about island sightseeing and more about enjoying the water and scenery.
Bottom line: If swimming in warm, clear waters sounds ideal, this is a fun and affordable way to experience the Saronic Islands’ best swimming spots.
3. Santorini Private Luxury Yacht Sunset Cruise
This private 5-hour sunset cruise is the epitome of romance, ideal for couples or anyone celebrating a special occasion. Launching from Santorini, the tour offers a personalized experience aboard a private yacht, complete with stops for swimming, snorkeling, and sightseeing. As you drift through Santorini’s volcanic waters, you’ll visit iconic sites like the Volcanic Red Beach, White Beach, and the Venetian Lighthouse.
One of the tour’s greatest draws is the sunset viewing, where the sky turns shades of orange and pink, casting a magical glow over the caldera. The boat also stops at caves and hot springs for leisurely swimming and exploration. The experience includes round-trip hotel transfers, a private setting, and a delicious onboard dinner, making it perfect for a romantic escape. Priced at $3,114 for up to 4 people, it offers a luxurious, exclusive experience not suited to budget travelers but ideal for those seeking privacy and comfort.
Rated 5.0/5 from 2 reviews, travelers say, “Nulla da dire… bellissimo soprattutto da fare con amici e in famiglia.” The cost is high but reflects the exclusivity and personalized service.
Bottom line: For couples or small groups seeking a memorable, luxurious sunset experience with private stops, this cruise offers unmatched intimacy and stunning views.
How to Choose
When selecting your boat tour in the Saronic Gulf Islands, consider your priorities: budget, activity level, time constraints, and whether you prefer a group experience or private luxury. For a full week of island hopping combined with social atmosphere, the Mykonos Cruise offers great value. If water activities are your focus, the Poros Swimming Cruise is a perfect fit. For a romantic, personalized outing, the Santorini Sunset Yacht stands out.
Booking early is wise, especially for private tours or high-demand dates. Think about the weather too — summer months tend to be sunnier, but spring and fall can offer fewer crowds.
Final Thoughts
The Saronic Gulf Islands provide diverse boating experiences, from multi-day island cruises to intimate sunset sails. Each option offers its own flavor: the 8-day Mykonos cruise is great for those who want to see many islands and meet fellow travelers, while the Poros swimming cruise is ideal for active water lovers. For a romantic getaway, the luxury yacht sunset cruise delivers privacy and breathtaking scenery.
No matter which tour you choose, these experiences promise memorable moments on the water that are worth planning ahead for. If you’re dreaming of your Greek island adventure, consider booking early to secure your spot — these tours fill up fast, especially in peak season.