Naxos: Rina Cave-Koufonisi Cruise & Rina Cave Swim with BBQ

Naxos: Rina Cave-Koufonisi Cruise & Rina Cave Swim with BBQ offers a fantastic way to see some of the Cyclades’ most stunning spots without the hassle of planning. Starting from Agia Anna, this 9.5-hour journey takes you to Kato Koufonissi, Ano Koufonisi, and the captivating Rina Cave. It’s operated by Jason Daily Cruises, a well-reviewed outfit with a 4.8-star rating from over 300 travelers.

What we love about this trip is how smoothly it combines relaxation, adventure, and authentic Greek flavors. First, the onboard BBQ is a real highlight — think juicy souvlaki and plenty of local wine in a laid-back setting. Second, the multiple swim stops in the clear waters of the Small Cyclades give you ample opportunity to snorkel and unwind in nature’s pool.

A potential consideration is that the boat can get crowded during peak season, which might impact the comfort of your experience if you prefer more space. Also, since the boat doesn’t dock at Kato Koufonissi, you’ll need to swim in from ladders, which could be a challenge for those less confident in the water.

This tour is ideal for travelers who love active days with scenic views, enjoy seafood or Greek cuisine, and want a balanced mix of exploration and relaxation. It’s perfect if you value friendly guides, good food, and stunning waters, as echoed in many positive reviews.

Key Points

• Scenic Stops: Three swim spots, including exploring the Rina Cave, provide varied aquatic experiences.
• Authentic Food & Drink: Barbecue with local wine, with vegan options available, offers a true Greek feast.
• Flexible & All-Inclusive: Snorkel gear, water, soft drinks, and even vegan meals make it a seamless day.
• Ideal for Active & Relaxing Travelers: Plenty of time to swim, explore islands, and lounge on deck.
• Well-Reviewed Crew: Friendly, knowledgeable guides keep the trip engaging and informative.
• Value for Money: An all-day experience with food, drinks, and multiple stops, praised by many for its affordability.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Exploring the Itinerary in Detail

Starting Point: Agia Anna Port with Jason Daily Cruises

Your day begins at the small, easily accessible pier in Agia Anna. The boats are generally spacious and clean, with a relaxed vibe. The crew tends to be friendly and helpful, often praised for their helpfulness and good humor. The departure times vary, so checking availability in advance is wise. The capacity of around 100 passengers means you’ll enjoy a lively atmosphere but avoid feeling overcrowded, especially if you arrive early to secure a good seat.

Kato Koufonissi: The First Stop

This tiny island is your first taste of Greek island magic. While the boat doesn’t dock directly at Kato Koufonissi, you’ll swim from the boat using ladders, which many find exhilarating. The water here is famously clear, making it an ideal spot for snorkeling or just floating in the calm sea.

A highlight here is the lunch, which features a multi-dish Greek barbecue with fresh salads, tzatziki, bread, and meat skewers. Vegan options include stuffed vine leaves and butter beans, ensuring everyone can enjoy the meal. Many reviews highlight the deliciousness of the BBQ and the generous portions, making it both a culinary and scenic experience.

Ano Koufonisi: The Charming Village & Beaches

After a 20-minute sail, you arrive at Ano Koufonisi, a small inhabited island that offers a laid-back vibe with beaches and a handful of traditional cafes. Travelers get about 2.5 hours here, enough time to walk around, relax on the beach, or grab a Greek coffee while soaking in the views.

Many visitors appreciate the free time to explore, with some noting how peaceful and unspoiled the island feels. You can stroll through the village or sit at a café, enjoying the simple pleasures of island life. The walkability and scenic charm make this stop a favorite for those who appreciate a slower pace.

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Rina Cave: Nature’s Marvel & Swim Spot

The final highlight is the Rina Cave, on the south coast of Naxos. This natural wonder allows for a swim inside the cave or a thrilling jump from the boat — a favorite among adventurous travelers. You’ll need to climb rocks or use ladders to access the water, adding a bit of excitement.

Many reviews rave about the crystal-clear water and the unique experience of exploring the cave. Some mention how the crew provides all necessary gear, and the opportunity to float inside a sea cave makes this stop truly memorable.

Returning to Agia Anna

After a full day of swimming, exploring, and eating, the boat heads back to Agia Anna. You’ll arrive in the late afternoon or early evening, depending on your departure time, with plenty of memories and photos to cherish.

What Makes This Tour Stand Out

Authentic Greek Cuisine & Good Wine: The BBQ on board is a major highlight — plentiful, flavorful, and served with local wine. Many travelers, including one who described the meal as “delicious,” say it’s a satisfying part of the experience. Vegan options are available, which shows the crew’s effort to accommodate different diets.

Multiple Swim & Snorkel Stops: The three designated swim stops, especially at Rina Cave and Koufonisi beaches, allow you to fully enjoy the stunning waters and underwater life. The snorkel gear and safety equipment like life jackets and pool noodles are included, making it accessible for most.

Friendly, Knowledgeable Guides: Many reviews commend the guides, mentioning how they shared interesting facts and made everyone feel welcome. This adds a personal touch to the trip, making it more than just a boat ride.

Good Value for Money: Considering the length (almost 10 hours), food, drinks, and multiple stops, travelers often find this cruise to be very good value — especially when compared to the hassle of arranging similar activities independently.

Things to Keep in Mind

Crowding during Peak Season: The boat can get quite full in summer, and some mention that in high season, it might feel crowded. If you prefer more space, arriving early to secure a prime spot at the front might be wise.

Swimming from the Boat: Since Kato Koufonissi isn’t docked at, you’ll swim from the boat. This could be a challenge if you’re not comfortable in open water or have mobility issues.

Weather Dependence: If high winds or rough seas cause cancellations, you’ll be rescheduled or refunded. The crew prioritizes safety, so flexibility might be needed.

Duration & Timing: The trip lasts about 9.5 hours, so bring sun protection, a hat, and a towel. Check the schedule ahead of time to match your plans.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This cruise is best suited for active travelers who love sea adventures, scenic island exploration, and good food. It appeals strongly to those who value friendly guides, enjoy snorkeling, and want to experience the authentic charm of the Cyclades without the hassle of planning each detail. It’s also a solid choice for families or groups, given the inclusive nature and safety gear. If your idea of a perfect day involves crystal waters, local wine, and a laid-back island vibe, this trip is likely to become a highlight.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long is the cruise?
The trip lasts approximately 9.5 hours, with multiple stops for swimming, exploring, and eating.

Where does the tour start and end?
It begins at Jason Daily Cruises in Agia Anna Port and concludes back at the same point.

Is food included?
Yes, a Greek BBQ lunch with salad, bread, fruits, and wine is provided. Vegan options are available upon request.

What should I bring?
Bring sunglasses, a hat, swimwear, a towel, sunscreen, and weather-appropriate clothing. Optional items include a camera and waterproof footwear for rock climbing.

Can I swim inside the Rina Cave?
Yes, you can choose to swim inside or jump from the boat. Climbing rocks is also an option for explorers.

Are there vegetarian or vegan options?
Yes, vegan/vegetarian options are available, such as stuffed vine leaves and butter beans.

What is the boat capacity?
The boat holds around 100 people, making it lively but not overcrowded.

What if the weather is bad?
Trips are canceled in high winds or rough seas, and you’ll be rescheduled or refunded.

Is this suitable for children?
Most likely, yes, especially if they’re comfortable in the water and enjoy a lively group setting.

How is the price justified?
Considering the all-day duration, multiple stops, food, drinks, and snorkel gear, many find it excellent value compared to independent trips or multiple separate activities.

Final Thoughts

If you’re craving a full day of island scenery, aquatic adventures, and Greek flavors, this cruise ticks all those boxes. The combination of stunning waters, friendly guides, and a delicious BBQ creates a seamless experience that many travelers rave about. While the boat can feel busy in peak season, the overall value and authentic feel make it a worthwhile choice.

Ideal for those who want to see diverse parts of the Cyclades comfortably and enjoy some underwater exploration, this trip offers a lively, scenic, and memorable day out. Whether you’re a seasoned traveler or a first-time visitor, you’ll likely come away with plenty of photos, stories, and a greater appreciation for Greece’s natural beauty and welcoming culture.

In summary, the Naxos: Rina Cave-Koufonisi Cruise offers a well-organized, friendly, and scenic way to spend a day on the water. It balances fun, food, and discovery, making it a popular and highly-rated choice for visitors to Naxos. Perfect for those who enjoy a mix of activity and relaxation, this trip is a solid investment in a memorable Greek island experience.

You can check availability for your dates here: