Planning a day trip from Athens that combines boat cruising, island exploring, and a relaxed vibe? This full-day cruise promises just that, taking you on a leisurely journey through some of Greece’s most charming islands in the Saronic Gulf. It’s an experience that appeals to travelers looking for a taste of island life without sacrificing comfort or convenience.
What makes this trip stand out? First, the expert guides and friendly crew really elevate the experience, making it informative and genuinely enjoyable. Second, the delicious Greek buffet lunch with unlimited drinks offers great value for money, especially considering the scenic backdrop. On the flip side, a potential consideration is the limited time at each stop, which might feel rushed if you love to explore every corner deeply.
This cruise suits those who want a mix of relaxation, scenic views, and light adventure — perfect for travelers who enjoy a well-organized day with a touch of cultural discovery. If you’re after a comfortable, engaging way to see a few Greek islands in one day, this could be a strong choice.
Key Points

- Expert guides & friendly crew make the trip informative and welcoming.
- All-inclusive meals and drinks provide excellent value on a scenic boat.
- Multiple island stops offer a variety of landscapes and activities.
- Flexible options like biking, swimming, and sightseeing suit different preferences.
- Weather-dependent schedule means the experience can change or be rescheduled.
- Limited time per stop might feel rushed for some travelers.
What to Expect on the Athens Day Cruise

This full-day adventure is designed to blend sightseeing, relaxation, and light activity in the stunning waters of the Saronic Gulf. It starts with a warm welcome onboard, where you’ll be greeted with fresh coffee, orange juice, cakes, and cookies. This sets a friendly, casual tone for a day filled with scenic views and engaging stops.
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The Boat and Crew
You’ll be cruising on a spacious, traditional motor-sailer, which provides both comfort and a classic maritime vibe. The crew is well-reviewed for being attentive and personable, ready to help make your experience smooth. Many reviews highlight how knowledgeable and enthusiastic guides like Anna make the day both fun and informative, sharing interesting facts about the islands and the local culture.
The Itinerary in a Nutshell
The cruise covers around 10 hours and includes several stops, with some optional activities to choose from at each point. You’ll visit three main islands: Agistri, Moni, and Aegina, each offering unique sights and experiences.
First Stop: Agistri Island

Your day begins with a cruise to Agistri, a lush island famous for its beaches and green landscapes. The highlight here is the walk through Megalochori village, with its classic white-and-blue houses. It’s a great spot to soak in the relaxed island atmosphere.
If you’re up for some activity, you might want to join the optional bicycle tour. Many travelers found it a wonderful way to explore the island’s natural beauty, pedaling from Megalochori to Skala, with scenic coastal views along the way. It’s a perfect break from the boat and a chance to get a bit of exercise.
For those seeking tranquility, the beaches of Skliri and Chalkiada are the go-to spots—they’re popular among campers and offer crystal-clear waters to relax and swim. Some guests enjoy just lounging at seaside cafes, enjoying the peaceful vibe and beautiful scenery.
One review mentions that Agistri’s beaches were “pure paradise,” with perfect swimming conditions next to the port, highlighting how easy it is to unwind here.
More Great Tours NearbySecond Stop: Moni Island (or Metopi as an alternative)

Next, you’ll visit Moni Island, an uninhabited paradise with natural landscapes and a surprising amount of wildlife. The island is known for its peacocks and deer, and while you don’t disembark, you can swim and snorkel around the area. Many guests loved this part, describing the waters as crystal clear and perfect for a refreshing dip.
In case Moni isn’t accessible due to weather or other conditions, the itinerary includes Metopi Island as an alternative, which features turquoise waters, sandy shores, and even secluded vineyards. So, your experience may vary slightly based on weather and safety considerations.
While in Athens, here are other experiences we've covered
- Meteora Monasteries and Hermit Caves Day Trip with optional lunch
- Premium Delphi Day Trip with an Expert Guide, Museum & Lunch
- Athens cruise: Agistri, Moni/Metopi, Aegina with lunch & drinks
- Athens: Meteora Monasteries and Hermit Caves Day Tour with Lunch
- Meteora DayTrip English or Spanish, option Lunch by Local agency
- Traditional Greek cooking class and lunch or dinner with an Acropolis view
Why it matters:
Guests frequently mention how this stop offers a chance to cool off, enjoy vibrant underwater life, and take in untouched scenery. Several reviews talk glowingly about the swimming experience here, often quoting the beautiful waters and the fun of jumping straight into the sea from the boat.
The Greek Buffet Lunch & Drinks

After a couple of hours on Agistri and Moni, it’s time for a lunch break onboard. The traditional Greek buffet is a real highlight—many travelers note that the food is fresh, plentiful, and tasty, offering a genuine taste of regional cuisine. You can expect a variety of dishes, and the unlimited soft drinks, beer, and wine keep the mood relaxed and enjoyable.
Reviewers frequently praise the quality of the meal and the friendly service—a good deal considering the full-day experience. The lunch is served in a relaxed setting on the deck, with panoramic views that enhance the dining experience.
The value:
Given the inclusive drinks and the quality of the food, the overall value of this part of the trip is often highlighted as excellent. Several reviews mention that the meal exceeded expectations, and many appreciated the generous portions.
Final Stop: Aegina Island

The last island on the itinerary is Aegina, famous for pistachios and its historical sites. You’ll get around 1.5 hours of free time to explore, walk through the charming streets, or visit the local markets. Some opt for a pistachio tasting experience, which is a fun and tasty way to connect with the island’s main produce.
For those interested in history, there’s an optional walking tour to visit the archaeological museum and the Temple of Apollo, offering insights into Greece’s ancient past. Alternatively, you can simply stroll at your own pace, browse shops with handmade jewelry, or relax at a seaside café.
Many travelers enjoy swimming at nearby beaches or grabbing a quick bite before rejoining the boat. Reviews mention how Aegina’s laid-back vibe makes it a perfect spot to wind down after a busy day of sightseeing and swimming.
Wrapping Up the Day

The cruise concludes with a return cruise back to Marina Zeas, offering a chance to unwind and reflect on a day filled with beautiful scenery, cultural touches, and enjoyable activities. Many reviews describe the journey back as relaxing, with some quoting how they fell asleep after a full day of adventures.
Overall Value & Who It’s Best For
This cruise offers a comprehensive experience—covering multiple islands, featuring a yummy lunch, and providing opportunities for swimming, biking, and sightseeing. The price of around $150 per person is considered very good value when you think about the included meals, drinks, and the all-day cruising. The friendly guides and attentive crew help make the experience seamless and engaging.
While the limited time at each stop might not satisfy those wanting deep dives into every location, it’s perfect for travelers seeking a relaxed, scenic day that hits the highlights without rushing. It also works well for those who enjoy social atmospheres, thanks to the friendly guests and lively crew.
This tour tends to attract all kinds of travelers, from first-timers in Greece to seasoned island explorers, especially those who want a well-organized, fun-filled day with plenty of photo opportunities, swimming, and delicious food.
FAQs

Is transportation included?
Yes, if you select the pickup option, your transfer from designated locations in Athens to the cruise departure point is included. Otherwise, you can meet at the marina.
How long is the cruise?
The cruise lasts about 10 hours, including stops, lunch, and cruising time.
What should I bring?
Bring a hat, swimwear, towel, sunscreen, comfortable shoes for walking or biking, and a jacket for cooler moments.
Are there vegetarian options?
Yes, vegetarian options are available during the buffet. However, special dietary needs like Kosher or Halal aren’t offered, and children’s menus are not available.
Can I swim during the stops?
Absolutely, many reviews rave about swimming in the clear waters at each island, especially Agistri and Moni.
Is the cruise suitable for families or children?
While the reviews don’t explicitly focus on families, many mention that the crew is helpful and accommodating. Keep in mind, the trip involves some physical activity like biking and swimming, so consider your children’s comfort levels.
What happens if the weather isn’t good?
The cruise depends on weather conditions. If sailing is unsafe, the route might be changed or the trip rescheduled, with full refunds possible if sailing is prevented.
Athens Day Cruise: Agistri, Moni & Aegina + Lunch & Drinks
The Sum Up

This Athens Day Cruise offers a well-rounded taste of Greece’s Saronic Islands, perfect for travelers wanting a mix of scenic boat rides, cultural sights, and relaxing beach time. The friendly guides and delicious, all-inclusive meals make it a hassle-free option, especially if you’re short on time but want to see multiple islands.
It’s especially suited for those who enjoy social atmospheres, scenic swimming, and a comfortable, organized day out. While it’s not a deep exploration of each island, it provides enough time to enjoy the highlights, take photos, and experience Greek island life in a relaxed, enjoyable way.
For travelers seeking a value-packed, scenic, and fun day on the water, this cruise delivers on all fronts. Just remember to bring your suncream, be punctual, and embrace the laid-back Greek island vibe—you’re in for a memorable ride.
Ready to explore? Check the availability and see if this cruise fits your travel plans for an unforgettable day in Greece.
You can check availability for your dates here:More Lunch Experiences in Athens
- Meteora Monasteries Private Full Day Tour & Great Lunch
- Private Delphi and Hosios Loukas Monastery – Great Lunch and Drinks Included
- Athens: Meteora Day Trip in Spanish with Live Guide & Lunch
- Private Tour: Highlights of Athens Including The Acropolis with Lunch or Dinner
- Meteora Full Day Private Tour from Athens including Lunch
- Athens Tour: Acropolis, Acropolis museum, and Greek lunch
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- Athens Swimming Cruise to Agistri Metopi Aegina
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- Athens: All-inclusive Cruise to Agia Marina, Moni & Metopi
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- Athens: Acropolis and Acropolis Museum Private Tour
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- Athens: Greek Foodie Tour with Tastings
- Athens: Evening Guided Walking Tour with Plaka & Dinner
- Dream Wine Tour from Athens 7 days
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- Athens: Temple of Olympian Zeus Entrance Ticket


