Athens: Half Day Swimming Cruise to the Saronic Islands

Imagine slipping away from the hustle of Athens for a few hours to relax in the crystal-clear waters of the Saronic Gulf, all while enjoying scenic boat rides, refreshing drinks, and the chance to swim in some of Greece’s quieter, more secluded beaches. This six-hour experience offers a perfect blend of adventure and comfort, especially suited for those who love open-water swimming and want to avoid the hassle of planning a beach day themselves.

What makes this cruise stand out? First, the ease of staying onboard while exploring untouched beaches means less time fussing with logistics and more time soaking up the sun and sea. Second, the well-stocked bar and water toys add a touch of luxury and fun, making every swim memorable. However, keep in mind, this experience is primarily for swimmers comfortable in open water—no disembarking on the islands themselves, which might be a downside for some.

This cruise is ideal for anyone craving a relaxed, scenic escape just outside Athens, especially those who appreciate good views, social atmosphere, and the chance to float in calm, beautiful waters. It’s best suited for travelers who enjoy swimming, snorkeling, and simple, hassle-free boat trips that focus on pure enjoyment rather than sightseeing.

Key Points

• Relaxed half-day experience with roughly 3 hours of swimming in sheltered, pristine beaches
• All aboard comfort: onboard café, water toys, Wi-Fi, and a stocked bar add to the enjoyment
• Secluded swimming spots carefully chosen for calm and clear waters, perfect for unwinding
• Convenient logistics: optional hotel pickup and drop-off, with a clear meeting point in Piraeus
• Suitable for swimmers comfortable in open water; not ideal for non-swimmers or those with mobility challenges
• Authentic experience: a chance to enjoy Greece’s natural beauty without the crowds or complicated planning

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Detailed Look at the Experience

The Departure and Getting There

Your day begins at the Akti Kountouriotou 1 in Piraeus, where the boat is docked at Marina Zeas. Arriving early—by 10:00 at the latest—is crucial because the boat cannot wait for latecomers. The meeting point, located between the I Love Piraeus and Olympiacos signs, is easy to spot, and the crew member with a neck tag will be there to welcome you. If you’ve booked hotel pickup, expect to be collected from around 9:00 AM, but you’ll receive your exact time a day before.

The Cruise to the Saronic Islands

The first part of the journey takes you through scenic Piraeus harbor, with the ship cruising for about an hour and a half. During this time, you’ll enjoy panoramic views of Athens’ port and the surrounding coastline, plus onboard music and Wi-Fi to set the mood. It’s a great chance to settle in, absorb the sea breeze, and prepare for the swimming portion ahead.

The Secluded Beaches and Swimming Spots

Once you arrive at the crucial part of the trip, the boat drops anchor at carefully selected sites around the Moni, Metopi, and hidden beaches near Aegina. These spots are known for their calm waters and crystal-clear visibility—perfect for snorkelers and swimmers alike. The captain’s experience ensures the stops are sheltered from strong currents and boat traffic, making the experience more peaceful.

Here, you’ll have approximately three hours to swim, snorkel, and enjoy the water toys. The crew supplies snorkeling gear, life jackets, and pool noodles, so you can explore underwater life or simply float lazily on the surface. The water toys add a playful element, and we loved the way they turned the swimming into an interactive experience, especially for families or groups of friends.

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Onboard Comfort and Refreshments

While in the water, you can take a break and return to the boat to enjoy the fully stocked bar and snacks. Whether you prefer a cold drink, a light snack, or simply relaxing under the sun, the onboard café keeps you well-fed and hydrated. The Wi-Fi means you can share photos or check messages while kicking back in the lounge area.

The Return Journey

As the afternoon winds down, the boat begins its smooth cruise back to Piraeus, giving you a chance to relax and reflect. The scenic cruise offers lovely views of the coastline, and the gentle movement of the boat makes it a perfect way to unwind after your water adventures. When you see the familiar sights of Piraeus approaching, you’ll realize how much you’ve enjoyed your secluded escape in Greece’s natural beauty.

What to Expect at Each Stop

Piraeus Port

The starting point is straightforward, and the friendly crew makes check-in quick and easy. The cruise departs promptly, so punctuality is essential. The dock area is lively, with plenty of signs and guides, making navigation simple even if you’re new to the port.

The Scenic Cruise

This part of the journey offers a chance to enjoy Athens from the water—an often-overlooked perspective. You’ll appreciate the panoramic views of the city’s coastline and the relaxed atmosphere as the boat glides past busy marinas and open waters.

Swimming and Snorkeling Spots

The chosen locations are calm and sheltered, perfect for swimmers of all levels. The crystal-clear waters allow for easy snorkeling, revealing glimpses of marine life just below the surface. The secluded beaches mean you won’t be bothered by crowds, giving you a true feeling of escape.

The Return Voyage

The boat’s return trip is a leisurely cruise, giving you plenty of time to soak in the views, listen to music, or chat with fellow travelers. The gentle movement of the boat and the scenic backdrop make it an ideal wind-down after a day in the water.

Authentic Experiences and Authenticity

What makes this cruise stand out is the focus on comfort and natural beauty. Unlike other tours that might be crowded or overly commercialized, this experience emphasizes peaceful swimming in pristine waters. The crew’s professionalism and friendly attitude—highlighted in reviews—ensures you feel cared for throughout.

Our favorite part? The selection of swimming spots chosen for their calmness and clarity. It’s clear that the captain and crew prioritize safety and quality, making this a truly relaxing and enjoyable outing.

Analyzing Value and Cost

While the tour’s price might seem modest, it’s important to consider what’s included: secluded swimming spots, snorkeling gear, water toys, onboard snacks, and drinks. This combination offers great value for a memorable half-day escape. Plus, the convenience of optional hotel pickup and drop-off adds to the overall ease.

Compared to doing your own beach day, which involves transportation, planning, and dealing with crowds, this cruise offers a hassle-free alternative that saves you time and energy. The authentic experience of swimming in untouched waters combined with onboard amenities makes it worthwhile, especially for those wanting a balanced mix of adventure and relaxation.

Who Should Book This Tour?

This cruise is best suited for swimmers who are comfortable in open water. If you’re looking for a relaxing way to escape Athens without the hassle of planning, and you enjoy scenic boat rides combined with swimming, this tour is a perfect fit. It also appeals to those who appreciate a laid-back atmosphere with friendly service and great views.

Family-friendly? Yes, especially for families with children who can swim and enjoy water toys. However, it’s not recommended for non-swimmers, wheelchair users, or people over 80, due to the nature of open-water swimming and the boat’s facilities.

The Sum Up

For anyone staying in Athens who wants a quick, relaxing escape into Greece’s beautiful waters, this half-day cruise offers a perfect balance of scenic views, comfortable amenities, and memorable swimming spots. It’s a straightforward way to savor the calm, clear waters of the Saronic Gulf without the hassle of island hopping or full-day commitments.

The seclusion of the beaches, combined with friendly crew service and fun water toys, makes this an experience that’s both authentic and enjoyable. Whether you’re traveling solo, with family, or with friends, it’s a chance to unplug, relax, and enjoy Greece from a different perspective.

If your main goal is to swim in quiet, stunning waters with ease and comfort, this tour delivers. It’s also a good choice for those who want a low-stress, scenic day that leaves you refreshed and with plenty of great photos to remember.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for non-swimmers?
No, this experience is designed for swimmers who are comfortable in open water since swimming takes place offshore without disembarkation.

How long do we spend swimming?
You’ll have about three hours of free time for swimming, snorkeling, and enjoying water toys at carefully selected beaches.

What amenities are available onboard?
The boat features a fully stocked bar, snacks, Wi-Fi, onboard music, and water toys like pool noodles and snorkeling gear to enhance your experience.

Do I need to bring anything?
Comfortable swimwear, towel, sunscreen, hat, sunglasses, and flip-flops are recommended. A jacket might be useful if it gets breezy.

Can I get picked up from my hotel?
Yes, optional hotel pickup and drop-off are available, starting from around 9:00 AM, with exact times provided a day before.

What happens if weather conditions are bad?
The tour is weather-dependent. If canceled due to adverse conditions, you can reschedule or receive a full refund. The captain may also alter the route for safety reasons.

This half-day swimming cruise perfectly combines laid-back comfort with the natural beauty of Greece’s protected beaches. It’s a fantastic way to enjoy the tranquil waters and stunning scenery of the Saronic Islands—recommended for travelers who love swimming, sunshine, and a relaxed boat ride.

You can check availability for your dates here: