From Athens: Agistri, Moni & Aegina Day Cruise with Swimming

A Friendly Guide to the Agistri, Moni & Aegina Day Cruise from Athens

If you’re looking for a way to escape the hustle of Athens and soak up some Greek island charm, this full-day cruise to Agistri, Moni, and Aegina might just be what you need. We haven’t gone on this tour ourselves, but from what we see and hear, it offers a relaxed, scenic, and tasty way to spend a day on the water, especially if you’re into swimming and discovering quieter spots away from crowds.

What really draws us in are the inviting swimming stops in crystal-clear waters and the chance to taste authentic Greek flavors on board. Plus, traveling on a traditional wooden boat adds a charming touch that feels more authentic than big touristy ships. A potential consideration? The day is quite packed at around 10 hours, so it’s best suited for those comfortable with a full schedule and a bit of boat time. This tour is perfect if you enjoy a mix of sightseeing, swimming, good food, and friends in a laid-back setting.

Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a seasoned traveler, this cruise has something for many types of travelers. It’s especially suited for those who want a taste of multiple islands in one day without the hassle of planning individual trips, and it’s great for anyone comfortable with a longer, relaxed boat journey. Keep in mind, it’s not designed for wheelchair users, but if you’re up for a day on the water, it should fit well with your travel plans.

Key Points

• Comfortable full-day experience that covers three islands in the Saronic Gulf.
• Traditional wooden boat creates an authentic Greek sailing vibe.
• Swim and relax in beautiful, translucent waters with multiple stops.
• Delicious Mediterranean-Greek food and drinks served onboard, including wine, beer, soft drinks, and water noodles.
• Expert crew enhances the experience with engaging service and music.
• No hidden costs — most activities, snacks, and shore stops are included, but bike and walking tours are optional extras.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Discovering the Islands: What You Can Expect

This cruise really aims to give you a taste of multiple islands with a laid-back, yet engaging, itinerary. Starting from Marina Zeas in Athens, you’ll set sail on a traditional wooden vessel, which immediately sets a relaxed tone. From there, it’s about enjoying the scenery, the sea breeze, and making the most of each stop.

Agistri’s Pine-Clad Charm and Optional Bike Tour

Your first stop is Agistri, a small island surrounded by vibrant blue waters and dotted with pine trees. It’s the ideal setting for unwinding and enjoying the fresh air. If you’re feeling adventurous, you can join an optional bike tour between Melalochori and Chalikiada Beach. This adds a bit of active exploration to your day, though it’s an extra and not part of the core cruise experience. Those who prefer to relax can simply stroll or lounge on the boat while others explore on two wheels.

One traveler notes: “Martika boat was amazing and I had a beautiful day with the crew and other guests,” highlighting how welcoming and well-managed the trip is. The crew’s friendly attitude makes a difference, especially if you’re new to sailing.

Moni: The Island of Wild Deer and a Greek Feast

Next, you move onto Moni — a tiny island with no permanent residents but inhabited by law-protected deer, goats, rabbits, and peacocks. It’s a special spot, offering a sense of untouched nature. Here, you’ll enjoy a traditional Greek lunch onboard, complete with local wine, beers, soft drinks, and coffee. The meal is a highlight for many, praised for its deliciousness and authenticity.

After the feast, the options multiply: you can dip into the warm waters for a swim, snorkel around the boat, or even swim to the island itself if you’re feeling brave. This freedom to choose how to enjoy the sea is a big plus, making the experience flexible for different comfort levels.

Reviewers have described the time on Moni as “amazing,” with the opportunity to swim in beautiful, warm water or walk on the island, if you prefer a break from the boat. The natural setting and the chance to see animals like deer and goats make it stand out.

Aegina: The Cultural and Culinary Gem

Around 3 pm, you’ll head to Aegina, a more developed island famous for its white stone houses, fragrant gardens, pistachios, and historical sites like the temple of Apollo and the temple of Aphaia. It’s a lively contrast to the quieter islands and offers fantastic photo opportunities and local flavors.

Expect a relaxed afternoon wandering through charming streets or sitting at a café. While the main focus of the cruise is on the boat and swimming, some may choose to explore a bit, though the tour doesn’t include a formal walking tour. The island’s unique volcanic landscape and delicious food make it a fitting final stop.

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Return to Athens

By around 4:45 pm, it’s time to sail back to Marina Zeas, enjoying mellow music, fresh Mediterranean fruits, coffee, and drinks to wind down the day. The journey back is often described as calming, with many travelers appreciating the music and atmosphere created by the crew.

What’s Included and What’s Not

Most of what you need for a fantastic day is included in the price of $144 per person. You’ll be welcomed onboard with coffee, juices, water, and pastries, and there’s plenty of snacks, drinks, and water noodles throughout the day. The shore stops at Agistri and Aegina are built in, along with swimming and sunbathing opportunities, which are often the highlights.

The crew is noted for being professional and engaging, serving drinks and playing music to enhance the mood, according to multiple reviews.

Extra costs include optional activities like the bike tour in Agistri or a walking tour in Aegina, which are not part of the main package. If you’re someone who prefers all-inclusiveness, be prepared for these extras. Also, no hotel pickup or drop-off is included, so you’ll need to organize your own transportation to Marina Zeas.

Considerations for Travelers

This tour is not suitable for wheelchair users—something to keep in mind if you or someone you’re traveling with has mobility needs. The day is long, so comfortable clothing, sun protection, and swimwear are recommended.

The Experience Through the Eyes of Others

What do travelers rave about? The friendly and engaging crew seems to make all the difference, as many mention. The food consistently gets high praise, with guests describing it as “fabulous,” “delicious,” and “authentic.” And the stunning views and swimming spots are frequently highlighted as memorable moments.

Reviews also reflect how well the experience is organized, with thoughtful details like music, snacks, and drinks keeping everyone happy throughout the day. One guest wrote, “It was such a memorable day,” capturing the general positive vibe.

Final Thoughts: Is This Cruise Right for You?

If you’re someone who enjoys relaxing on a boat, swimming in beautiful waters, and tasting good Greek food, this tour offers a delightful way to spend a day. The mix of island stops, scenic sailing, and onboard hospitality makes for a well-rounded experience. It’s especially appealing if you value authenticity—like sailing on a traditional wooden boat—and want to see multiple islands without the hassle of organizing separate trips.

However, if you prefer a shorter day, or need accessibility accommodations, this might not be the best fit. The full 10 hours can be quite a lot for those who prefer a more leisurely pace or shorter excursions. Also, if you’re keen on guided tours of each island’s history, you’ll need to explore other options, as this cruise focuses on scenic and culinary enjoyment rather than detailed sightseeing.

This cruise stands out as an enjoyable, well-reviewed way to get a taste of the Greek islands with minimal fuss. It’s particularly suitable for travelers who appreciate good food, relaxing swim stops, and friendly service on a traditional vessel.

FAQs

Is the tour suitable for kids?
While not explicitly marketed as family-focused, many travelers mention it’s an enjoyable experience for those who like swimming and boat trips. Keep in mind, the full day might be tiring for very young children.

What should I bring?
Bring your passport or ID, a towel, swimwear, and sun protection. Comfortable clothing and perhaps a hat or sunglasses are also a good idea.

Are drinks included?
Yes, the cruise offers wine, beer, soft drinks, and water, all included in the price, along with snacks and water noodles.

Can I join the bike tour?
The bike tour between Melalochori and Chalikiada Beach in Agistri is optional and not included in the main price. You’ll need to pay extra if you want to participate.

Is there a shorter option?
The tour lasts about 10 hours, so it’s quite full. Check the availability for specific start times to see if a shorter version is offered.

Is hotel pickup included?
No, you need to meet your guide outside your hotel or arrange your own transportation to Marina Zeas.

What is the group size?
While not specified, reviews suggest it’s a friendly, social environment, likely with a moderate group size.

Are there any hidden costs?
Most activities are included; optional extras like bike or walking tours cost extra. No mention of additional charges onboard.

Can I do this if I don’t swim?
Absolutely. You can enjoy the boat ride, scenery, and food without swimming, though many find the swim stops to be highlights.

What about accessibility?
This tour isn’t suitable for wheelchair users, so plan accordingly if mobility is a concern.

All in all, this day cruise offers a relaxing, scenic, and tasty slice of Greece that many travelers find worthwhile. With friendly crew, authentic flavors, and beautiful island stops, it’s a solid choice for those wanting to see a bit of everything in the Saronic Gulf.

You can check availability for your dates here: