Sunset Cruise Athens Riviera Half Day Swimming&BBQ onBoard

Sunset Cruise Athens Riviera Half Day Swimming & BBQ on Board offers a relaxed way to enjoy some of Greece’s most beautiful coastlines without breaking the bank. For around $115 per person, you get about five hours of sailing along the Athenian Riviera, with opportunities to swim in clear waters, savor Greek cuisine, and watch the sun set over the Saronic Gulf. The boat departs from Alimos Marina, a convenient spot close to Athens, making this experience accessible for travelers looking to escape the city’s hustle.

Two aspects of this cruise stand out: the crystal-clear swimming stops at Varkiza and Hydrousa, and the authentic Greek BBQ served on deck. These make the trip memorable and give you a taste of local hospitality. The boat’s spacious deck and panoramic views are ideal for relaxing, taking photos, or simply soaking in the sunset.

One consideration worth noting is that the total trip duration is about 3 hours and 15 minutes, even though it’s sold as a 5-hour experience. Some travelers have felt that the time spent actually sailing and swimming could be expanded, especially when compared to the cost.

This cruise appeals most to travelers who want a laid-back, scenic escape with opportunities for swimming and casual dining. It’s perfect if you’re keen on unlimited drinks, beautiful vistas, and authentic Greek flavors, but perhaps less so if you’re expecting a longer or more active adventure.

Key Points

• Stunning Views: Unbeatable sunset and panoramic sea vistas along the Athenian Riviera.
• Swimming Opportunities: Two stops at Varkiza and Hydrousa provide crystal-clear waters for swimming.
• Authentic Food & Drinks: Greek BBQ buffet with unlimited beverages including beer, wine, and soft drinks.
• Comfort & Convenience: Spacious decks, panoramic lounges, and swimming equipment included.
• Time Considerations: The actual sailing and swimming time is somewhat shorter than the advertised five hours.
• Ideal for Relaxed Travelers: Best suited for those seeking scenic beauty, casual swimming, and a taste of Greek hospitality rather than a full-day itinerary.

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Detailed Look at the Experience

Starting Point & Departure

The cruise departs from pier 1 at number 151 in Alimos Marina, a straightforward meet-up point that’s easily reachable from central Athens. We recommend arriving at least 15 minutes early—the crew emphasizes punctuality—so you’re not rushing. The boat itself is a traditional wooden vessel, which adds a charming, classic vibe to the experience. Its spacious lounges and sun decks make it easy to find a comfortable spot, whether you want shade or sun on your face.

What the Itinerary Looks Like

Once aboard, you’ll be greeted with a welcome drink—a nice touch that sets a friendly tone. The cruise kicks off with a gentle sail along the Athenian Riviera, offering sweeping views of the coastline dotted with luxury homes and lush hills. The atmosphere is relaxed, with soft music playing in the background.

The first stop, Varkiza, is about swimming and enjoying the sea. The waters here are crystal-clear, making it ideal for a refreshing dip. You’ll appreciate the full swimming equipment provided—no need to pack your own. This stop is perfect for snapping photos as you float in serene waters with Athens faintly visible in the distance.

Back on board, a Greek BBQ buffet is laid out, accompanied by welcome sweets such as coffee, biscuits, or cake. The food is described as tasteful but not a replacement for dinner—don’t expect a large meal, but rather a light, flavorful snack with authentic local flavors.

Following this, the boat cruises toward Hydrousa, a small, less-known island directly opposite the Riviera. Here, you’ll get another chance to swim in pristine waters, which many find to be a highlight. The boat’s panoramic decks allow for relaxing, sunbathing, or simply soaking in the stunning sunset hues as the sky transitions to pink and gold.

The Experience: What We Loved

What really makes this cruise stand out is the combination of beautiful scenery and relaxed vibe. The views of the sunset are genuinely spectacular, providing a perfect backdrop for photos or a quiet moment of reflection. The warm sea breeze and the clear waters at both swimming stops create a true sense of escape.

Another standout is the friendly crew, who contribute to the warm, welcoming atmosphere. As one reviewer mentioned, “Incredibly friendly host and captain,” which adds to the feeling of authentic Greek hospitality. The unlimited drinks—including beer, wine, and soft drinks—are also appreciated, making the experience feel generous and unhurried.

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Considerations & Potential Drawbacks

Some travelers have noted that the actual sailing and swimming time is relatively short—around 3 hours and 15 minutes—despite being marketed as a 5-hour experience. One review pointed out, “you pay 105 but trip time is for 85,” highlighting that the value might not match expectations if you’re seeking a longer trip.

Plus, the music and sound system could use an upgrade, according to some guests, which might impact those looking for a lively party vibe. Lastly, towels are not included, so you’ll need to bring your own if you want to dry off comfortably after swimming.

Who Would Enjoy This Cruise?

This tour is best suited for relaxed travelers wanting to enjoy beautiful sea views, swimming, and Greek cuisine without the need for a full-day commitment. It’s ideal for couples, small groups, or solo travelers seeking a romantic sunset, casual swimming, and a taste of local hospitality. If you’re after a longer or more active water adventure, you might find this experience on the shorter side.

Why It Offers Good Value

At $115, this cruise provides a decent package of scenery, food, and drinks for a half-day outing. While some reviews mention the trip duration as a downside, the quality of the swimming stops and sunset vistas compensate for that. The inclusion of full swimming equipment and unlimited drinks makes it a practical choice for those wanting to relax and take in the sights without extra costs.

The Sum Up: Who Should Book This Cruise?

If you’re looking for a laid-back experience with stunning sunset views over the Athenian Riviera, this cruise will serve you well. It’s a good fit for travelers who want casual swimming stops and a taste of Greek hospitality mixed with scenic beauty. The moderate price and included amenities make it a fair deal, especially if you’re not expecting a full-day adventure.

However, if your priority is longer sailing or a more lively party atmosphere, consider other options. This experience is best for those who value authentic, relaxing, and scenic moments rather than high-energy activities.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long is the actual sailing portion of the cruise?
The sailing and swimming parts combined last approximately 3 hours and 15 minutes, so if you’re expecting a full five hours on the water, be aware that some of that time is spent docked or stationary.

Are towels provided for swimming?
No, towels are not included. It’s a good idea to bring your own, especially if you plan to swim at both stops.

What should I bring for the cruise?
Bring a hat, swimwear, towel, sunscreen, and beachwear to stay comfortable during the stops and while lounging on deck.

Is vegetarian or special dietary options available?
The provided information specifically mentions a Greek BBQ buffet and sweets, but nothing about dietary restrictions. It’s best to check with the provider beforehand if you have specific needs.

Can I bring my pet?
No, pets are not allowed onboard, which is a common policy for most small cruise boats focused on passenger comfort and safety.

What is included in the price?
The price covers the traditional wooden boat cruise, Greek lunch, unlimited drinks, swimming equipment, lavatories, spacious lounges, and panoramic views.

This sunset cruise along the Athens Riviera offers a lovely combination of scenic beauty, casual swimming, and authentic Greek flavors. It’s well-suited for travelers seeking a relaxing, picturesque escape with plenty of opportunities for photos and a taste of seaside Greece.

You can check availability for your dates here: