Naxos: Full-Day Small Cyclades Sailing Cruise

Naxos: Full-Day Small Cyclades Sailing Cruise offers a chance to see some of Greece’s most stunning and lesser-known islands from the comfort of a sailing boat. For around $158 per person, you’ll spend about 9.5 hours exploring the small Cyclades archipelago—a dream for those who want to avoid the crowds and experience authentic island life from the water. Your day begins at the main marina in Naxos, with the boat departing around 8:30 AM, and ends back in port around sunset, around 6:00 to 6:30 PM.

What we love about this cruise is how intimate and relaxed it feels, with a small group of adventurers, and the chance it offers to swim in secluded bays free from the hustle of busier tourist spots. Plus, the option to encounter dolphins—a magical moment that many reviews mention—makes it more than just a sightseeing trip. On the flip side, you might find the trip a bit long if you’re sensitive to sea conditions, or if you prefer a more active, land-based adventure. Still, this cruise really suits travelers who enjoy sailing, snorkeling, and a good dose of Greek sunshine away from crowds.

This experience is ideal for adventurous couples, small groups of friends, or solo travelers looking to enjoy authentic Greek maritime beauty without the massive tour buses. If you’re eager to see hidden beaches, enjoy local food, and relax in a small, friendly setting, this trip hits the mark.

Key Points

• Small Groups: An intimate experience with around 10-12 people, making it easier to relax and engage with the crew.
• Secluded Spots: Swim and snorkel in quiet bays that larger boats can’t access.
• Expert Crew: Guides like Panos, Olga, or Alex bring local knowledge and friendly service.
• Varied Stops: Visit three distinct locations, each with unique features like sea caves or sandy beaches.
• All-Inclusive: Food, drinks, snacks, and insurance are included, adding to the value.
• Flexible Itinerary: Destination stops depend on weather but are carefully chosen for tranquility and beauty.

You can check availability for your dates here:

A detailed look at the experience

Starting the Day: Meeting in Naxos

You meet your crew at the main marina, directly in front of Naxos Blue Travel. The boat is typically a comfortable sailing vessel, suitable for a small group. The check-in process is straightforward, and you’ll get a safety briefing before setting sail. The early departure around 8:30 AM means you’ll be on the water as the island wakes up, enjoying calm seas and the chance to see the island from a different perspective.

The Journey South: Sailing and Scenery

Once underway, the captain and crew will navigate toward the South coast of Naxos, with the exact destination decided on the day based on weather conditions. This flexibility is a real plus, as it can mean more sheltered spots away from wind and waves, making swimming and snorkeling more enjoyable.

Traveling in a smaller vessel means you get a more personalized experience. The crew—often including a skipper and a hostess—are praised for their friendliness and knowledge, sharing stories about the islands, local landmarks, and marine life. This personal touch is what many guests rave about, with reviews describing the crew as “knowledgeable,” “hospitable,” and “attentive.”

Stops for Swimming and Snorkeling

The highlight for most travelers is the three stops during the day. Each is carefully selected for its natural beauty and tranquility. You might find yourself swimming in crystal-clear, turquoise waters, exploring underwater life, or simply lounging on sandy beaches.

Guests mention spots like Piso Livadi, Kalogeros Beach, Mikri Vigla Beach, and Plaka Beach, with each offering a different vibe—some quiet and perfect for relaxing, others ideal for snorkeling or exploring sea caves. Reviewers note that the stops are not rushed; there’s plenty of time for swimming, relaxing, and taking photos.

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Food and Drinks on Board

Mealtime is a highlight. Included in the price is a full lunch—often described as delicious, with some reviewers mentioning the quality of the meal and drinks. Complemented by snacks, wine, beer, juice, and soft drinks, the onboard catering makes the whole day feel indulgent without extra cost.

Guests consistently praise the hospitality of crew members like Olga and Panos, who serve food throughout the trip and make everyone feel at home. Several reviews mention the “amazing lunch” and “plenty of drinks,” which helps keep spirits high during the long, relaxing day at sea.

Encountering Marine Life and Dolphins

One of the standout moments, as noted by many reviews, is the chance to see dolphins. While not guaranteed, many travelers have been lucky enough to spot these playful creatures, adding an unforgettable element to the cruise.

Returning to Naxos

As the day winds down, your boat heads back to the main port, arriving around 6:00 PM. The relaxed pace, friendly crew, and beautiful scenery make the return journey feel just as special as the start. Many guests feel it’s a perfect way to unwind after a few days of sightseeing or beach lounging on land.

Is this tour worth it?

When evaluating the value for money, consider that the price includes transportation, meals, drinks, insurance, and the expertise of a knowledgeable crew. For roughly 9.5 hours of sailing, swimming, and relaxing, it’s quite a bargain—especially when compared to larger, more commercial cruises that might rush stops or skimp on food.

The small group size, personalized itinerary, and secluded spots are what many reviews highlight as the biggest benefits. The reviews overwhelmingly praise the friendly, professional crew, the beautiful scenery, and the quality of the food.

On the downside, some might find the trip a bit lengthy or not suited if they get seasick or prefer land-based activities. Also, since the destinations depend on weather, some days might feature different locations or fewer stops.

Who should consider this experience?

This cruise is best suited for adventuresome travelers who enjoy sailing, snorkeling, and discovering quiet beaches. It’s perfect for those who value small-group experiences and want to escape the crowds, with many praising the knowledgeable guides and the chance to see dolphins and beautiful bays.

If you’re after a relaxed, scenic day on the water with good food and personable service, this cruise will likely be a highlight of your trip to Naxos. Conversely, if you prefer a shorter, more energetic tour, or are traveling with very young children or mobility concerns, you might want to explore other options.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the duration of the cruise?
The cruise lasts about 9.5 hours, starting around 8:30 AM and returning by 6:00 to 6:30 PM, giving you plenty of time to enjoy swimming, snorkeling, and relaxing.

What is included in the price?
Your fee covers full lunch, morning snacks, drinks (beer, wine, soft drinks, water, juice), petrol fees, and insurance. It’s a pretty complete package for a day at sea.

Do I need to bring my own food or drinks?
No, everything is included onboard. Just bring essentials like sunscreen, sunglasses, sun hat, towel, and maybe a light jacket if the weather turns windy.

What is the group size?
Most trips are small, with around 10 to 12 people, which enhances the feeling of intimacy and personalized service.

Are there specific spots I will visit?
The exact destinations depend on weather conditions but typically include secluded bays, beaches like Piso Livadi and Plaka, and sometimes sea caves or quiet coves.

Can I see dolphins?
While not guaranteed, many travelers report seeing dolphins during their cruise, which adds a special touch to the day.

Is this experience suitable for children or those with mobility issues?
This cruise is reserved for guests over 16 years old and is not suitable for wheelchair users, mainly due to boat access and the nature of the tour.

To sum it up

This Naxos: Full-Day Small Cyclades Sailing Cruise offers an authentic way to see Greece’s beautiful maritime scenery without the crowds. The combination of secluded swimming spots, expert guides, and excellent onboard food makes it a fantastic value for those looking to relax, explore, and enjoy Greek hospitality. The small group size enhances the experience, creating a friendly environment where you can genuinely unwind.

If you’re someone who loves sailing, enjoys snorkeling in tranquil waters, and wants a personalized, intimate day at sea, this cruise will likely be a highlight of your trip to Naxos. It’s a particularly good choice if you seek authentic experiences and stunning natural beauty away from the touristy hustle, with a crew that’s attentive and knowledgeable.

However, if you’re prone to seasickness, or prefer fast-paced land excursions, you might want to consider alternative ways to explore the islands. Still, for many, this cruise is a perfect blend of relaxation, adventure, and Greek charm—an experience worth setting aside a day for.

You can check availability for your dates here: