The Northeast Aegean Islands are a prime spot for boat tours and cruises, thanks to their clear waters, scenic coastlines, and the ease of exploring inaccessible coves and beaches. Unlike more crowded destinations, this region offers a variety of options—from relaxed day cruises to private sailing adventures—allowing travelers to experience Greece’s maritime charm in a way that suits their style. We particularly like the Full Day Cruise to Korakaki with BBQ from Mytilene for its combination of laid-back fun, stunning scenery, and authentic Greek cuisine, or the 7 Hours Private Sailing Cruise in North Thassos for those seeking exclusivity and personalized service. These tours showcase how the Northeast Aegean combines natural beauty with memorable experiences on the water.
If you’re considering a day on the sea, here’s a quick overview: we cover full-day cruises, private sailing options, and smaller, personalized boat trips that emphasize unique sights and local flavors. Whether you want to relax with a BBQ, explore less-visited beaches, or cruise with a small group, there’s something here for every type of traveler. Below, you’ll find detailed descriptions of each top-rated tour—each one offering its own special way to enjoy Aegean waters.
1. Full Day Cruise To Korakaki With BBQ From Mytilene
This full-day cruise [] from Mytilene is a fantastic way to spend a relaxing day on the water. Starting at Petra port around 09:30 am and Molyvos at 10:00 am, the tour takes you along the northern coastline of Lesvos, offering picturesque views of the sea and, on clear days, glimpses across to Turkey. One of the key highlights is Korakaki beach, an idyllic, vehicle-free spot perfect for swimming and exploration. The crystal-clear waters and calm surroundings make it an ideal place for snorkeling or simply unwinding under the sun.
What sets this tour apart is the onboard BBQ, prepared by the friendly crew, which adds a tasty local flavor to your day. The 7-hour itinerary includes multiple stops where you can swim, snorkel, or relax. The cruise is especially suited for travelers who want a hassle-free, scenic day with good food and plenty of swimming. The reviews are perfect (5/5 from 4 reviews), praising the friendly crew and the tranquil scenery.
Bottom line: This cruise offers a perfect balance of comfort, scenery, and local flavor—great for families or anyone wanting a laid-back day on the water with authentic Greek BBQ.
2. 7 Hours Private Sailing Cruise in North Thassos
For those who prefer exclusivity, the 7 Hours Private Sailing Cruise in North Thassos [] offers a tailored experience on a private yacht. Limiting groups to up to 10 people, this tour gives you the chance to explore parts of the Aegean most first-timers miss, away from crowded spots. The tour includes stress-free hotel pickup and drop-off, making the whole day seamless.
This boat trip is perfect for travelers who want to see the Greek coastline from a different perspective, spot dolphins, or visit secluded beaches inaccessible by land. You can even upgrade to enjoy home-made onboard meals, adding a personal touch to your cruise. The boat is luxurious and well-equipped, with a skipper who is experienced and attentive to your interests.
The reviews (5/5 from 3 reviews) highlight the intimate atmosphere and the chance to customize the day, making it an ideal choice for couples, small groups, or anyone seeking a private escape. The price, at $578.80 per group, reflects the exclusivity and comfort on offer.
Bottom line: This private sailing tour offers flexibility, personalized service, and a chance to explore lesser-known parts of Thassos, making it ideal for a special occasion or a quiet retreat on the sea.
3. 5 Hours Private Sailing Cruise in North or South Thasos
If you’re short on time but still want a luxurious experience, the 5 Hours Private Sailing Cruise in North or South Thasos [] fits the bill. This smaller, more intimate tour is perfect for those looking to explore in style, with a focus on personalized service aboard a luxury yacht, catamaran, or motor boat.
This cruise includes customizable stops—visit the north or south coast depending on your preferences—and offers opportunities for swimming, snorkeling, or just relaxing on deck. The crew is drawn from a fleet of the newest and most comfortable boats, with skippers experienced in showing guests the best local spots. The service emphasizes flexibility, and the price ($462.73 per group) offers good value for a tailored experience.
Ideal for couples or small groups who want a semi-private, hassle-free day, this tour is especially appreciated for its personalized approach and the chance to craft a unique day on the water. Reviews mention the polite crew and the excellent value for such a personalized experience.
Bottom line: For travelers with limited time but a desire for exclusivity and comfort, this cruise delivers a high-end experience with the flexibility to choose your favorite spots.
4. Thassos Boat Trip
This Thassos Boat Trip [] offers a full day of exploration around the island, with a focus on visiting hidden beaches and iconic spots like Aliki. Starting with a convenient hotel pickup, this tour features swimming in secluded bays, snorkeling adventures, and fishing opportunities in waters known for their richness.
One of the main attractions is the natural stone pool Giola and Salonikios Beach, both accessible only by boat. The tour also includes a delicious complimentary meal of freshly grilled souvlaki and salad, adding a true taste of Greece to your day. The itinerary is well-paced, with stops for swimming, relaxing, and capturing memorable photos of the lush coastlines.
Rated 4.5/5 by eight reviewers, this tour appeals to families and explorers eager to see the island’s lesser-visited spots. The price, $67.64 per person, makes it an affordable yet comprehensive day on the water.
Bottom line: This tour is well-suited for those who want an active, full-day adventure with good food, interesting stops, and plenty of swimming.
How to Choose the Right Boat Tour
When deciding which tour to book, consider your budget, time availability, and specific interests. For a relaxing, all-inclusive day with authentic Greek food, the Full Day Cruise to Korakaki is ideal. If privacy and personalized service appeal more, the 7 Hours Private Sailing Cruise in Thassos offers a luxurious, flexible option. For a shorter, active day that covers many sights, the Thassos Boat Trip strikes a good balance of value and exploration.
Booking early is highly recommended, especially in the high season (June to September), which is when these tours tend to fill up fast. Keep in mind that some tours include upgrades like onboard meals or private groups—these small extras can turn an ordinary trip into a special memory.
In summary, the Northeast Aegean Islands boast a variety of boat tours that cater to different tastes and budgets. Whether you’re after a full-day adventure with a BBQ, a private sailing experience, or just want to explore hidden beaches, these options provide a fantastic way to see the islands from a different perspective. For a more relaxed day, the Full Day Cruise to Korakaki offers excellent value, while the private options give a level of exclusivity that makes for a memorable trip. Be sure to book early and pick a tour that best matches your holiday style—your Aegean adventure on the water awaits.