Athens: Aegina, Agistri & Metopi Swimming Cruise with lunch

Athens: Aegina, Agistri & Metopi Swimming Cruise with Lunch offers a delightful escape from the city buzz, whisking you away on a 9-hour journey through some of Greece’s most scenic islands. For $130, you get to explore crystal-clear waters, relax on pristine beaches, and indulge in a Mediterranean buffet aboard a comfortable boat. With visits to three islands—Agistri, Metopi, and Aegina—this tour combines sightseeing, swimming, and local culture, making it a well-rounded day trip.

What we love about this cruise is how effortlessly it balances adventure and relaxation. The boat’s outdoor deck with sun loungers and beanbags offers perfect spots for soaking up the sun and enjoying the views. Plus, the chance to swim and snorkel in remarkably clear waters at each stop feels genuinely special. Another highlight is how well-organized the day is—timed stops, onboard meals, and multiple opportunities to explore.

One potential consideration is that the large ferry-style boat might mean sacrificing some intimacy and charm found in smaller vessels. Also, with a full schedule packed into 9 hours, those looking for a leisurely, unstructured day might find it a bit brisk.

This tour works best for travelers craving variety—from beach lounging and sightseeing to authentic Greek cuisine—and for those who enjoy meeting other travelers along the way. It’s especially suited for visitors who want a convenient, all-in-one experience without hassle, and who value value for money—many reviews tout the good balance of price, quality, and fun.

Key Points

• Multiple islands: Visit three distinct Saronic islands—Agistri, Metopi, and Aegina—each offering unique scenery and culture.
• Swimming opportunities: Dive into crystal-clear waters and snorkel at two different stops, perfect for water lovers.
• All-inclusive onboard lunch: Enjoy a Mediterranean buffet with unlimited soft drinks, wine, and coffee.
• Beautiful scenery & sunset views: Sail along the Athenian Riviera, passing iconic spots like Glyfada, with time to appreciate the views.
• Well-organized day: The itinerary maximizes your time on the islands and at sea, with specific stops for sightseeing, shopping, and relaxing.
• Authentic experience: Many travelers praise the friendly crew and the chance to explore without feeling rushed.

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The Experience in Detail

The Journey Begins at Marina Kallitheas

The tour starts at Marina Kallitheas aboard the vessel Platytera. The meeting point is straightforward, and the staff generally offers a smooth pickup and check-in process. We appreciate the convenience of the organized transportation—many reviews mention how much easier it is than navigating public transportation or booking separate ferries. For those with hotel pickups, the optional service can save a lot of stress.

The Sightseeing Cruise (First Leg)

Once aboard, the cruise kicks off with a 105-minute sail along the Athenian Riviera. This stretch is where the boat’s outdoor deck shines—ample space, sun loungers, and the chance to snap some photos of the coastline, with views of glamorous neighborhoods like Glyfada. The atmosphere is lively but relaxed, with onboard music and plenty of space to settle in.

Travelers note the crew’s friendliness and professionalism, making everyone feel comfortable. The cruise itself offers scenic views and a genuine feeling of being away from the city’s hustle. This part of the trip sets the tone for a carefree day of exploration.

Agistri Island: Charm and Adventure

The first island stop is Agistri, famous for its bucolic scenery and laid-back vibe. Here, you’ll have two hours to explore, relax, and enjoy the beaches, shop for souvenirs, or take a walk around the charming streets. Many reviews highlight how Agistri is not crowded, with quiet beaches and local cafes—a perfect spot to unwind.

Activities include swimming, snorkeling, or just strolling. Travelers often mention how beautiful and clear the water is, making swimming particularly enjoyable. As one reviewer put it, “the water was completely clear no matter how far I swam out,” which is high praise for water quality.

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Metopi: A Quiet Swim Spot

From Agistri, the boat cruises for about 20 minutes to Nisis Metopi, which offers another swimming break. This is a more secluded spot, perfect for those wanting to escape the crowds and enjoy the tranquil waters. It’s a brief stop—around 40 minutes—but well worth it for the chance to cool off and take in the scenic surroundings.

The Lunch Break & Scenic Sail

Back on board, around 30 minutes are dedicated to enjoying a buffet lunch featuring Mediterranean cuisine. Unlimited soft drinks, wine, and coffee are included, giving you plenty of options to sip and chat. Several reviews mention how the lunch is tasty and plentiful, providing good value, especially considering the all-inclusive drinks.

After lunch, the boat makes its way back toward Aegina, a larger island famed for its pistachios and historic sites. The 105-minute stop offers a chance to walk, shop, and swim along the picturesque shoreline. Many travelers cherish the freedom to wander, with some recommending exploring the charming streets and sampling local treats.

Aegina & the Final Sailing

As we approach Aegina, expect breathtaking scenery, with the coastline dotted with colorful buildings and bustling markets. The stop here is similar to Agistri—around two hours, enough to soak in the sights or relax on the beach. The reviews praise the beauty and uncrowded nature of the island, making it a highlight for many.

The day concludes with another 105-minute cruise across the Gulf, passing by the Glyfada coast and enjoying the scenery during the sunset. A lively onboard atmosphere develops, with many guests enjoying drinks, music, and even a dance show. Travelers often mention how this part of the trip turns into a lively celebration, a perfect way to end the day.

The Return & Drop-Off

The tour offers 20 drop-off locations across Athens, which many find very convenient. The organized transportation is a big plus, reducing the hassle of coordinating your own return journey.

Authentic Perspectives from Reviewers

Many reviewers rave about the friendly and attentive crew, emphasizing how much this enhances the experience. “The crew was very nice,” one traveler notes, “and the water was stunning everywhere we swam.” Others appreciate the value for money—for just $130, they felt they got a well-rounded day with swimming, sightseeing, and good food.

Some mention minor drawbacks, like the lunch being “nothing special,” or wishing for more time on the islands, but overall, the consensus is that the experience exceeds expectations, especially for the price.

Practical Tips for Your Trip

• Bring beach towels, sunscreen, and swimwear, as there are ample opportunities to swim and relax on the beaches.
• The large ferry can get a bit windy; if seasickness is a concern, you might prefer the outdoor deck or sit in the middle of the boat.
• The lunch offers vegetarian and vegan options, but if you have specific dietary needs, it’s good to note that the menu is fairly standard Greek fare.
• Book early, especially in high season, as this tour is quite popular.
• The duration (9 hours) means you’ll want to dress comfortably and be prepared for a full day of activity.

The Sum Up

This cruise offers a fantastic way to see some of Greece’s most charming islands without the hassle of arranging multiple ferries or tours. It balances sightseeing, swimming, and onboard comfort, making it ideal for those who want a taste of island life with minimal fuss. The value is hard to beat—many reviews highlight how the experience feels like a steal considering the included meals, drinks, and scenic stops.

If you’re looking for a well-organized, lively day trip that combines stunning views, authentic island stops, and a friendly atmosphere, this cruise hits the mark. It’s especially suited for travelers wanting easy logistics and the chance to relax and enjoy Greek summer. Just keep in mind that it’s a full day, so come prepared for a busy schedule but a truly memorable experience.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tour suitable for all ages?
While most travelers of all ages have enjoyed this trip, it’s not wheelchair accessible, and the full day might be tiring for very young children or those with mobility issues.

What languages are the guides available in?
The tour is conducted in English, French, Italian, and Spanish, ensuring diverse language support.

How long are the island stops?
Each island stop is around two hours, providing enough time to explore, swim, shop, or relax at your own pace.

Does the tour include snorkeling gear?
While snorkeling is mentioned as an activity, the tour details do not specify if gear is provided. It’s best to bring your own or inquire with the operator.

What is included in the lunch?
A Mediterranean buffet lunch with unlimited soft drinks, wine, and coffee. The menu is generally well-liked but standard; some reviews suggest it’s not gourmet but satisfying.

Are there any extra costs I should be aware of?
While drinks and food are included, optional extras like souvenirs or additional drinks beyond the provided options may incur charges. Towels and sunscreen are sometimes cash-only and overpriced on the boat, so bring your own.

This day cruise delivers a lively, scenic, and relaxed taste of Greece’s islands. With friendly staff, beautiful waters, and hassle-free logistics, it’s an excellent choice for anyone wanting a balanced mix of adventure and leisure in the Aegean.

You can check availability for your dates here: