Samos: Boat Tour with BBQ Lunch to Samiopoula

This experience made our article of The 8 Best Boat Tours & Cruises In Samos.

A Relaxed Day on the Water: Samos Boat Tour to Samiopoula with BBQ Lunch

Imagine cruising along the crystal-clear waters of the Aegean Sea aboard a traditional Kaiki boat, with the warm sun overhead and the gentle breeze at your back. For around $79 per person, this 8-hour tour offers a chance to explore the uninhabited island of Samiopoula, enjoy a delicious BBQ lunch, and take refreshing dips in some of the most scenic waters Greece has to offer.

What we particularly love about this experience is the casual, authentic vibe—you’re not on a stuffy cruise but rather on a friendly, well-organized trip that feels more like visiting friends than being part of a large tourist group. The knowledgeable crew adds a layer of warmth and insight that makes the trip feel personal. Plus, the swimming stops and lunch are both highlights that make this day truly memorable.

One thing to consider is that drinks aren’t included, so you might want to bring your own. Also, the reserved sunbeds and umbrellas at the beach are an extra 4 euros, which is worth knowing if you want to lounge comfortably. This tour suits those who enjoy laid-back adventures, stunning scenery, and good food—perfect for couples, families, or solo travelers looking to soak in the Greek island vibe.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Key Points

• Authentic Experience: Small-group, friendly crew with a focus on hospitality.
• Beautiful Swimming: Clear waters and uninhabited surroundings for perfect dips.
• Tasty BBQ: Generous, well-grilled lunch options with fresh Greek salads and fruits.
• Stunning Views: Picturesque photo opportunities of Samiopoula and the surrounding coast.
• Relaxed Pace: Full day allowing ample swimming, relaxing, and sightseeing.
• Additional Costs: Optional sunbeds and umbrellas at Kakorema beach.

The Itinerary: What to Expect on Your Day

This tour begins early at the Pythagorion port, where you should arrive about 30 minutes before departure. From there, you’ll step aboard a traditional caique, a charming type of Greek boat that’s smaller and more intimate than a large cruise ship. This style of boat adds to the authentic feel of the trip, and with a manageable size, the crew can better attend to individual needs and share insights about the sea and islands.

The first highlight is the cruise itself—you’ll love the way the boat glides smoothly across the bright blue waters, offering fantastic photo opportunities of the coast and Samiopoula, a small, uninhabited island with a rugged, natural charm. The crew often shares stories about the islands, adding a layer of local flavor and history that makes the journey more engaging.

Once you arrive on Samiopoula, you’ll have time to swim in the turquoise waters, which guests consistently praise as “beautiful” and “crystal clear.” The island’s unspoiled landscape, with its few donkeys and mountain goats, offers a peaceful setting for relaxing or exploring at your own pace. Guests have noted that the island is “uninhabited, apart from three donkeys and a herd of mountain goats,” which come to greet visitors in a friendly manner.

After some time in the water or on land, the crew will prepare the BBQ lunch at Kakorema beach. You’ll enjoy succulent grilled meat or fish, depending on your choice, served alongside a traditional Greek salad bursting with fresh tomatoes, feta, and olives. The lunch is described as “delicious and very extensive,” with some guests even mentioning they could have gone back for seconds. To complement the meal, fresh fruits are served—adding a sweet and refreshing touch to your midday break.

In the afternoon, expect a second swimming stop on the way back, giving you more chances to enjoy the beautiful sea. The boat then heads back toward Pythagorion, allowing you to reflect on the day, snap some last photos, and enjoy the cooling breeze.

Why This Tour Adds Up to Great Value

Compared to larger, more commercial excursions, this trip offers a personalized experience with a focus on authenticity and comfort. The price includes the boat trip and a hearty BBQ lunch, which many guests felt was very generous and tasty. The free time for swimming means you can relax at your own pace, whether that’s floating in the sea, sunbathing, or exploring the island’s natural surroundings.

The tour’s small group size—though not specified—means you’ll likely enjoy more interaction with the crew and fellow travelers. Guests have praised the crew’s charisma, knowledge, and hospitality, making the experience more engaging and memorable.

However, keep in mind that additional expenses might include beach sunbeds and umbrellas (reserve for 4 euros), and drinks are not included, so bringing water or your preferred beverages is wise.

Who Will Love This Experience?

This boat tour is perfect if you’re looking for a relaxing, authentic day in Greece. It suits those who value good food, scenic views, and a laid-back atmosphere. Families with children, couples, or solo travelers who appreciate small-group adventures will enjoy the friendly crew and natural setting. If you’re excited by the idea of swimming in pristine waters and enjoying a traditional Greek BBQ in a peaceful environment, this tour will likely meet or exceed expectations.

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Final Thoughts: Is This Tour Right for You?

If your goal is to combine a scenic boat ride with a tasty meal and a bit of swimming, this tour hits the mark. The friendly crew, stunning views, and authentic setting make it a valuable experience for anyone wanting to see Samiopoula without the fuss of large, commercial tours.

The day is slow-paced and flexible, making it ideal for guests who prefer relaxed exploration and genuine local flavor. If you’re looking for a more structured or all-inclusive experience, or want to avoid extra costs like sunbeds, you might consider other options. But for those craving natural beauty, good food, and friendly hospitality, this trip offers a memorable slice of Greek island life.

FAQs

Do I need to bring anything for the trip?
Yes, bring swimwear, a towel, and sunscreen. If you plan to lounge on the beach, consider bringing some cash for optional sunbeds or umbrellas.

Is the tour suitable for children?
While not explicitly stated, the relaxed pace and swimming opportunities make it family-friendly. Just keep in mind the boat’s small size, so supervise children at all times.

Can I buy drinks on the boat or at the beach?
Drinks are not included in the tour price, and while the reviews don’t specify if drinks are available for purchase on board, you might find some options or bring your own.

What is the duration and start time?
The tour lasts about 8 hours, with departure times varying by availability. Be sure to arrive 30 minutes early at Pythagorion port.

Are there any additional costs?
Yes, beach sunbeds and umbrellas are reserved for 4 euros if you wish to use them, and drinks are not included, so budget accordingly.

How scenic is the boat ride?
Guests rave about the stunning views of Samiopoula and the surrounding coast, making the journey itself a highlight.

Is the BBQ lunch vegetarian-friendly?
The standard options include fish or meat, but you might want to check in advance if vegetarian options are available.

This boat tour to Samiopoula offers a genuine taste of Greek island life, combining scenic beauty, friendly service, and good food—all wrapped into a manageable, enjoyable day out. It’s a fine choice if you want to explore the unspoiled side of Samos with ease and comfort.

You can check availability for your dates here: