Private day cruise with local food and wines tasting menu

A Private Day Cruise in Naxos: Sailing, Food, and Hidden Beaches

Naxos, the largest island in the Cyclades, offers a perfect setting for a day at sea. For around 9.5 hours, you’ll be on a beautiful Beneteau Oceanis 440, sailing to discover secluded beaches, explore sea caves, and indulge in a curated tasting menu of local food and wines. Your guide is a friendly skipper, who will introduce you to Naxos’ treasures — from turquoise waters to delicious island flavors.

What makes this experience stand out? First, the personalized nature of the private tour means you’ll have plenty of space to relax and customize your day. Second, the culinary aspect, with a chef preparing a full lunch made from genuine Naxian ingredients paired with local wines, offers an authentic taste of the island’s culinary bounty.

One thing to consider: this cruise is weather-dependent. If poor weather cancels the trip, you’ll either get a full refund or a chance to reschedule. It’s definitely an experience best suited for travelers seeking a blend of adventure, relaxation, and gourmet delights — especially those who love being on the water in a comfortable setting.

Who will enjoy this? This tour is ideal for couples, small groups, or families who appreciate sailing and want an exclusive, food-focused day out. If you’re excited about discovering Naxos beyond its beaches and villages, this is a wonderful way to see the island from a different perspective.

This experience made our article of The 7 Most Popular Food Tours In Naxos.

Key Points

• Private and Personalized: Only your group participates, offering flexibility and a more intimate experience.
• Authentic Naxian Cuisine: A full onboard lunch cooked with local ingredients, paired with regional wines.
• Secluded Beaches & Sea Caves: Access hidden spots inaccessible from land, perfect for swimming and snorkeling.
• Comfortable Sailing: The Beneteau Oceanis 440 provides a smooth, stable ride while on the water.
• Flexible Schedule & Weather Policy: Tours start early and are dependent on good weather, with options for rescheduling or refunds.
• Authentic Experience: Guided by a friendly skipper with positive reviews highlighting a fantastic, comfortable day.

Exploring the Naxos Private Day Cruise in Depth

The Setting and Overall Experience

Imagine setting out at 8:30 am from Naxos Marina aboard a sleek, well-maintained Beneteau Oceanis 440. From the moment you step onto the boat, you’re greeted with a sense of comfort — plenty of space to stretch out, clean lines, and a welcoming crew. This is a private experience, which means you won’t be part of a large group; instead, it’s tailored to your party, whether that’s a family, friends, or a couple seeking something special.

The cruise lasts about 9 hours and 30 minutes, giving you ample time to relax, explore, and indulge. The journey wraps up around 6 pm, leaving plenty of daylight for enjoying the scenery and taking in the sunset if you wish.

The First Stop: Naxos Marina

Your adventure begins at Xanemo Sailing, where you’ll meet your skipper — a local guide who knows the waters and the best spots to visit. This initial meeting is simple, with a quick walk to your vessel, and then you’re underway. For many travelers, the ease of boarding and the comfort of the boat are immediate highlights.

Secluded Beaches and Sea Caves

The core appeal of this cruise is access to Naxos’ more hidden beaches. Unlike crowded tourist spots, these are only reachable by boat, which means crystal-clear waters and peaceful surroundings. Expect to snorkel in some of the island’s secret bays, where the water’s clarity will surprise you. You might find yourself floating in turquoise waters, surrounded by cliffs and sea caves that beg to be explored.

The reviews praise the stunning views and highlight how the boat’s stability and comfort make swimming and lounging effortless. One reviewer mentioned, “The boat was very comfortable,” which is an important detail for those who might be wary of sailing vessels.

The Culinary Experience: Local Food and Wines

What sets this cruise apart from many other boat trips in Greece is the culinary component. A chef onboard prepares a full lunch menu featuring ingredients that reflect Naxos’ farming bounty — olives, cheeses, vegetables, meats. Each dish is thoughtfully paired with regional wines, turning this into a true tasting experience.

Our reviewer noted: “We had very good food and lovely wines,” which is a testament to the quality of the onboard menu. The fact that the meal is cooked using local ingredients adds authenticity and supports the island’s producers.

The Itinerary: Slow, Scenic, and Tasteful

The cruise is designed to include multiple stops, giving you time to relax, swim, snorkel, and enjoy the scenery. The itinerary is flexible, but typically, you’ll begin with the marina and then head to the secluded beaches and caves. The “hidden bays” are the highlight, especially for those who love snorkeling or simply floating in warm waters away from crowds.

The reviews mention the “very clear water” and lovely islands, which suggest that the natural beauty is a major draw. The fact that the boat is described as “very comfortable” indicates you can spend extended time on deck soaking up the sun, enjoying the breeze, and watching the coastline pass.

Who is this for?

This cruise is perfect for travelers who want more than just sightseeing — they want a personalized, relaxing day on the water with gourmet food. It suits those interested in authentic local flavors and secluded spots that aren’t flooded with travelers. Family groups, couples, or small parties who enjoy sailing and are keen on authentic Greek cuisine will find this experience especially rewarding.

The Cost and Value

At $1,854 for the entire private tour, it might seem on the higher side, but consider what’s included. You get a private yacht, a full onboard lunch featuring local ingredients, local wine pairings, and personalized service. For a special occasion or a memorable family day, the exclusivity and quality make it a worthwhile investment.

Practical Tips

• Weather is key; if poor conditions cancel, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.
• Since it’s private, you can customize your experience — ask ahead if you want extra snorkeling or specific stops.
• Bring sun protection, swim gear, and your appetite for good food and beautiful scenery.
• Arrive at the marina a few minutes early to meet your skipper and get settled.

Who will love this experience?

If you’re looking for a luxurious yet authentic way to see Naxos, this cruise hits the mark. It’s ideal for those who value local cuisine, want to escape the crowds, and enjoy natural beauty from the water. It’s great for couples celebrating a special occasion, friends wanting a shared adventure, or families eager for a relaxed, memorable day.

Travelers who appreciate comfortable sailing and a personal touch will also find this tour very appealing. If you want a combination of adventure, relaxation, and gastronomic delights in a private setting, this cruise provides excellent value.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for children?
Since the tour is private, you can decide if it’s suitable for children. The boat is comfortable, and swimming is part of the experience, making it suitable for families with kids who are comfortable in the water.

What is included in the price?
The full private day cruise, a full onboard lunch made with local ingredients, and wine pairings are included. The meeting point is at Naxos Marina, and you’ll sail on a Beneteau Oceanis 440.

How long does the tour last?
It lasts approximately 9 hours and 30 minutes, from about 8:30 am to 6 pm, giving plenty of time for swimming, sightseeing, and enjoying the food.

Is the experience weather-dependent?
Yes, if the weather is poor, the trip may be canceled, but you’ll be offered a rescheduling or full refund.

Can I customize the itinerary?
Since it’s a private tour, you can discuss specific stops or activities with your skipper when booking.

Are the food and wine local?
Absolutely. The lunch and wines are made from local products, giving you an authentic taste of Naxos.

Is the boat comfortable and stable?
Yes, reviews confirm that the boat is very comfortable, making it suitable for relaxing, swimming, and enjoying the day.

How many people can join?
The tour is private, so only your group will participate, which allows for a tailored experience.

What should I bring?
Bring sun protection, swimwear, towel, and a camera to capture the stunning scenery.

In The Sum Up
This private Naxos cruise offers a fantastic combination of scenic sailing, secluded beaches, and authentic food and wine. Its personalized approach makes it perfect for those craving a special, relaxed day on the water with gourmet touches. If you’re seeking a unique way to experience Naxos beyond its busy beaches, this trip delivers stunning views, delicious flavors, and a memorable adventure. Whether celebrating a special occasion or just wanting a luxurious escape, this tour provides excellent value for an authentic Greek maritime experience.