Kassandra: West Sithonia Coves and Islets Sailboat Tour

This experience made our article of Our Picks For The 15 Best Sailing Experiences In Halkidiki.

Kassandra: West Sithonia Coves and Islets Sailboat Tour – A Complete Review

Imagine sailing along the turquoise waters of the Aegean, with sun on your face, gentle sea breezes, and views so picturesque they seem almost unreal. That’s exactly what you get on the Kassandra: West Sithonia Coves and Islets Sailboat Tour in Halkidiki, Greece. With a typical duration of around 5 hours, this trip is designed for those looking to escape the crowds and enjoy some of the most beautiful, lesser-known spots in the region.

Led by friendly, knowledgeable skippers, this tour takes you across crystal-clear waters to visit secret coves, tiny islands, and scenic beaches. You’ll get plenty of time to swim, snorkel, and relax on deck, all while taking in some superb marine life and stunning landscapes. What makes this experience stand out? First, the small-group setting, limited to up to 8 or 9 people, ensures a more personal, relaxed vibe. Second, the informal but attentive crew is eager to answer questions and enhance your day with local insights.

A couple of considerations: this is a weather-dependent activity, and the itinerary might shift if conditions aren’t ideal. Also, it’s primarily designed for swimmers and those comfortable in the water, so if you have mobility challenges, this might not be the best fit. Still, for most travelers craving a tranquil day on the water, this tour offers genuine value.

If you love stunning scenery, personalized service, and the chance to explore off-the-beaten-path beaches and islands, this trip is a natural choice. It’s especially perfect if you’re traveling with a small group or family who enjoy swimming and being active in the water.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Key Points

• Small Group Experience: Up to 8-9 guests for a more intimate and relaxed day.
• Beautiful Stops: Visit Kelyfos (“Helonas”), secret coves south of Neos Marmaras, Kamenos beach, and possibly Gerochristos Island.
• Flexible Itinerary: Adaptable based on weather and group preferences, with knowledgeable skippers providing local insights.
• All-Inclusive Comfort: Drinks, snorkeling gear, SUP, and essentials like water and coffee are provided onboard.
• Self-Catered Food: Bring your own sandwiches and snacks; no onboard food sales, emphasizing eco-friendliness.
• Ideal for Swimmers: Plenty of swimming, snorkeling, and lounging opportunities, with safety equipment available.

An In-Depth Look at the Experience

Setting Off from the Coast of Halkidiki

The adventure begins at a location that varies depending on your booking — it could be from a central harbor or a designated pickup point if you’ve arranged that. We loved the way the start feels relaxed and flexible, with the crew ensuring everyone is comfortable and ready before setting sail.

Once aboard the sailing yacht, the crew takes care of the marina fees and fuel, allowing you to focus on the experience. The boat itself is well-equipped with a toilet, hot water, safety gear, a fully-stocked kitchen, and an MP3 player for your favorite tunes. A cabin offers space for storage, resting, or changing clothes, which adds a nice touch of convenience.

First Stop: Kelyfos Island (“Helonas”)

Our first highlight was Kelyfos, affectionately called “Helonas.” Its rocky, tree-covered landscape looks like something out of a postcard, and the rocky bottom teeming with marine life makes it ideal for snorkeling. The skipper pointed out cascades of fish and aquatic flora, making it a favorite among those who love underwater exploration.

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Exploring the Secret Coves

Next, the boat glided toward the coves south of Neos Marmaras, where the green foliage meets crystal waters. The quiet, private feeling of these spots impressed many reviewers, who appreciated the lack of crowds. One guest noted, “The beaches we visited were incredible. We loved how private they felt and how clear the water was.”

This stretch offers a perfect combination of scenic beauty and tranquility. The crew often pulls into Kamenos beach for a swim or snorkel session, where you can float among rocks and seaweed, spotting fish and feeling like you’ve discovered a hidden gem.

Optional Stops: Gerochristos Island & Diaporti Beach

Depending on weather conditions and group mood, the trip may include a final visit to Gerochristos Island or Diaporti beach — both are considered scenic, less-crowded spots where you can relax or paddleboard (SUP). This flexible approach means your day can be tailored on the spot, which is a huge plus for those who prefer a bit of spontaneity.

Lunch and Refreshments

While lunch isn’t included, the crew offers drinking water, coffee, and tea onboard. You are encouraged to bring fruits, sandwiches, or beverages, which you can enjoy in the sunshine while cruising. The crew’s effort to use eco-friendly plates and glasses is appreciated, especially in today’s world of disposable plastics.

Final Thoughts on the Trip

Throughout the trip, the skippers maintain a discreet presence — they are on hand to answer questions but give you space to enjoy the surroundings. Reviewers mention that they’re friendly and knowledgeable, making conversations about the local area both interesting and insightful.

Pricing & Value Analysis

The cost of this tour is quite reasonable for the small group experience and the quality of stops. Given that all marina fees, fuel, snorkeling gear, and SUP are included, the main extra expense comes from bringing your own food and drinks.

Compared to larger group tours or other water-based activities in Halkidiki, this trip offers more personalized attention and access to hidden spots. Many travelers felt they received excellent value — a memorable day in stunning surroundings without feeling crowded or rushed.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This sailboat tour is perfect for small groups or families looking for a relaxed, intimate experience. It suits swimmers and snorkelers who want to explore less accessible beaches. If you’re someone who appreciates beautiful scenery, calm waters, and knowledgeable guides, you’ll find this trip worthwhile.

On the other hand, if you prefer guided tours with structured activities or have mobility issues, this might not be ideal due to its informal, water-based nature and weather dependency.

The Sum Up

For travelers seeking a personalized, scenic day on the water in Halkidiki, this sailboat tour offers a terrific combination of stunning views, secluded coves, and authentic marine encounters. The small-group format ensures you’ll enjoy a more intimate experience, with plenty of free time for swimming and relaxing. The friendly crew and flexible itinerary make it easy to tailor your day, and the focus on eco-friendly practices adds to its appeal.

This trip works best for those who value authentic experiences over touristy hotspots, and who are comfortable in the water. It’s an excellent choice if you’re craving peaceful, beautiful scenery and a touch of adventure in Greece’s Aegean coast.

FAQ

What is the duration of the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 5 hours, with specific start times available depending on the booking.

Do I need to bring my own food and drinks?
Yes, lunch is not included, but you are encouraged to bring sandwiches, fruits, and beverages to enjoy onboard.

Are there any age restrictions?
While not explicitly stated, the tour is best suited for swimmers and those comfortable in water. It’s not recommended for individuals with mobility issues or small children unless they are confident swimmers.

What should I bring with me?
Bring a passport or ID, sunglasses, hat, swimwear, towels, sunscreen, and any snacks or beverages you prefer.

Is this tour suitable for non-swimmers?
The tour involves swimming and snorkeling, so if you cannot swim, you might want to consider other options or bring flotation assistance equipment.

Can I customize the itinerary?
The schedule may change due to weather or guest preferences, so there is some flexibility built into the trip.

Are there any restrictions on the group size?
Yes, the small group option limits the tour to up to 8 guests, fostering a more personal experience.

This sailing adventure in Halkidiki promises a memorable, scenic day on the water, perfect for those who appreciate authentic natural beauty and small-group intimacy.

You can check availability for your dates here: