Athens: Full-Day Island Hopping Cruise with Lunch and Swimming

If you’re visiting Athens and craving a taste of Greece’s sparkling waters and charming islands, this full-day island hopping cruise might be just the ticket. For around $213 per person, you’ll enjoy about 10 hours exploring Agistri and Aegina, two of the most picturesque islands in the Saronic Gulf. The adventure kicks off with a comfortable round-trip transfer from central Athens, making the entire experience smooth and hassle-free.

What we love most about this tour is how it combines relaxation and exploration — whether it’s lounging on the deck with a coffee, wandering through quaint villages, or swimming in crystal-clear waters. Plus, the knowledgeable guides, like Ana and George, add a personal touch that makes the day engaging and informative. The lunch on board, featuring Greek wine and fresh seafood, is another highlight, adding real flavor to an already delicious day.

One potential consideration? The group size can go up to 40 travelers, which might feel a little crowded for some. If you prefer a more intimate experience, it’s worth considering the size of the boat. Otherwise, the balance of organized convenience and authentic island charm makes this tour a great fit for those looking to combine sightseeing with leisure.

This tour suits travelers who enjoy a mix of cultural exploration, scenic beauty, and relaxed swimming. It’s especially ideal for those who appreciate well-organized trips with friendly staff and a focus on authentic Greek island life.

Key Points

• Comfortable transportation from Athens makes the trip seamless.
• Diverse stops include charming villages, nature parks, and historical temples.
• Swimming and sunbathing in turquoise waters are core parts of the day.
• Delicious Greek lunch on the boat enhances the experience.
• Knowledgeable guides provide interesting insights into local history and culture.
• Flexible free time on Aegina allows for personalized exploration.

Starting Point: Zea Marina in Piraeus

Your day begins early, with departure scheduled for 8:45 am from Zea Marina, also known as Marina Zeas, in Piraeus. The friendly staff greets you with coffee, juice, and pastries, setting a cheerful tone for the day. This early start ensures you get plenty of time on the water and on the islands, which is perfect if you want to maximize your sightseeing.

The boat itself is a traditional wooden vessel, often praised for being beautiful and clean, according to reviews. Its size may vary, but most travelers find it comfortable, especially with plenty of outdoor space for sunbathing and socializing. The round-trip transportation from Athens’s central points—air-conditioned vans—adds a layer of convenience that many travelers appreciate, avoiding the hassle of navigating or renting a car.

First Stop: Agistri Island

At around 11:30 am, you arrive at Agistri, a tiny paradise with cliffs, pine trees, and quaint alleys. This three-hour stop offers a chance to stroll the traditional villages or swim in the emerald waters. The scenery here is striking — steep cliffs and lush vegetation create a peaceful setting away from the tourist crowds.

Guests often mention how gorgeous the island’s views are, with one reviewer describing it as a “little island paradise.” The water is often cited as incredible, making for memorable swimming and snorkeling. You can relax on the boat’s sofas or find a quiet spot to soak up the sun.

Nature and Lunch at Moni Island

Next, the boat anchors near Moni Island, a protected nature park where only deers and peacocks live — giving it a tranquil, almost untouched feel. The lunch is served in this serene setting, with Greek wine, beer, and soft drinks flowing freely. Many reviewers rave about the delicious, plentiful food, which provides a perfect break in the day’s adventure.

After lunch, you can swim again, snorkel around the turquoise waters, or explore the flora and fauna of the island’s shores. The peaceful atmosphere makes it a standout part of the tour, blending nature with leisure.

Final Stop: Aegina

The last island on your itinerary is Aegina, famous for its pistachios, traditional villages, and ancient temples. You’ll arrive in time to enjoy a few hours of free time to wander at your own pace. The temples of Apollo and Athena Aphaia are notable historical sites, and strolling around the picturesque port offers authentic glimpses of local life.

Many travelers, like one who described the island as “fabulous,” appreciate the opportunity for personal exploration before heading back. The boat departs at 5 pm, giving ample time for wandering and photography.

Return to Athens

You’ll leave Aegina around 5 pm, returning to Zea Marina at approximately 7 pm. From there, the private vans will drop you back at your hotel or preferred location, capping off a well-organized and enjoyable day out at sea. The 30-minute drive from the port to central Athens** is a good chance to relax and reflect on the day’s highlights.

This tour strikes a good balance between organized convenience and authentic island experiences. The small group size (up to 40 travelers) means you won’t feel lost in a crowd, and the friendly, knowledgeable staff make sure you get the most out of each stop.

The lunch on board adds value—local Greek wine, beer, and delicious food — and the swimming stops provide refreshing breaks away from sightseeing. The itinerary is flexible enough to allow for personal exploration, especially on Aegina, which many reviews highlight as a highlight.

While the group size might be a consideration if you prefer intimacy, most travelers find the organized pace and professional staff make for a comfortable, memorable day. It’s a great way to see more of Greece’s islands without the hassle of planning individual transportation or schedules.

This experience is perfect for couples, families, or solo travelers who enjoy a blend of cultural sights, scenic beauty, and leisure. If you appreciate delicious food and wine, friendly guides, and swimming in clear waters, you’ll feel right at home. It’s especially suited to those wanting a full-day escape from Athens’ busy ruins, with enough free time to explore at your own pace.

Travelers who value organized logistics and comfort will find this tour a good match, as everything from transportation to lunch is thoughtfully handled. But if you prefer quiet, small-group experiences, be aware of the boat’s capacity and consider arriving early to secure a preferred spot.

If you’re looking for a well-rounded day trip that combines history, nature, swimming, and good food, this cruise offers genuine value. It’s especially appealing for those wanting to see more of Greece’s islands without the stress of independent planning. The friendly guides and beautiful scenery make it a memorable way to extend your Athens adventure.

Just keep in mind the group size and the timing—early mornings and a full day out—and you’ll be rewarded with stunning views, relaxing swims, and a taste of local life. It’s a great choice for those wanting a fun, hassle-free, yet culturally rich day on the water.

How early do I need to arrive for this tour?
The tour departs at 8:45 am, so it’s best to arrive a little earlier to settle in and enjoy the welcoming coffee and pastries.

Is transportation included from Athens?
Yes, round-trip air-conditioned vans pick you up from central points in Athens, making the start and end of your day easy and comfortable.

How long is each island stop?
Agistri and Aegina each get about 3 hours for exploring, swimming, or relaxing, while Moni Island offers a lunch break and time to enjoy the nature.

What should I bring?
Bring towels, snorkeling gear if you like, and sunscreen to enjoy the stops comfortably. The tour does not include towels or snorkeling equipment, so plan accordingly.

Are the guides knowledgeable?
Reviews consistently mention how Ana and George and the crew are friendly and informative, providing interesting insights into the islands’ history and culture.

Is the boat comfortable?
Most travelers find the traditional wooden boat to be beautiful, clean, and well-maintained, though it can get crowded during peak times.

Can I participate if I have mobility issues?
Most travelers can participate, but it’s advisable to check with the provider if you have specific mobility needs.

What is the cancellation policy?
You can cancel free of charge up to 24 hours before the tour for a full refund. Cancellations within 24 hours are not refunded.

In all, this tour offers a balanced, authentic taste of Greece’s Saronic Islands, blending scenic beauty, cultural history, and leisure — perfect for making the most of your Greek getaway.