Athens: Marathon Cape and Bay of Schinias Snorkeling Trip

If you’re eyeing a day of adventure that combines stunning scenery, underwater exploration, and some well-earned relaxation, this snorkeling tour from Athens might just be what you’re looking for. While I haven’t personally joined this exact trip, I’ve gone through the details, reviews, and what makes it special — and I think it’s worth sharing a clear picture of what you can expect.

What really draws us in are the crystal-clear waters and the chance to explore hidden bays that aren’t overcrowded. Plus, with an experienced guide supporting you, even beginners can feel confident getting into the water. On the flip side, you should consider that this tour is weather-dependent — if the conditions aren’t right, your plans might change. It’s best suited for travelers who enjoy a mix of scenic cruising and underwater discovery, especially those with a sense of curiosity and a love for the outdoors.

Key Points

• Small Group Experience: Limited to 7 participants, ensuring personalized attention and a relaxed atmosphere.
• Expert Guidance: Knowledgeable guides and instructors help you make the most of your snorkeling adventure.
• Beautiful Scenery: From Marathon Cape’s rugged coastline to the sandy shores of Schinias Bay, views are stunning.
• Marine Life Encounters: Opportunities to see colorful fish, starfish, octopuses, and more, with insights shared throughout.
• Flexible and Easy: Includes all necessary equipment, bottled water, snacks, and videos/photos to remember the day.
• Weather-Dependent: The trip relies on favorable weather conditions; cancellations are possible if conditions turn poor.

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Detailed Look at the Experience

This tour offers a welcome break from Athens’ busy urban vibe, transporting you to some of the area’s most scenic coastal spots. Starting at the Kanelakis Diving Experiences dive center in Nea Makri, you’ll meet your guide and fellow snorkelers — often a small, friendly group that makes it easy to relax and chat. From there, it’s about a 20-minute speedboat ride from Marathon Beach to your first snorkeling spot.

The Itinerary & Scenic Highlights

The first stop is Marathon Cape, a rugged stretch of coastline with relatively untouched waters. Here, you’ll get tips from your instructor on how best to enjoy the underwater world, whether you’re a seasoned snorkeler or just starting out. Many reviewers, including Thavisa, mentioned that all equipment was provided, and the boat ride itself was a fun part of the experience. The gentle breeze and scenic views of the coastline make for a memorable start.

After about 30 minutes exploring beneath the waves, you’ll cruise to Schinias Bay, renowned for its natural beauty within the protected Schinias National Park. This part of the trip is perfect for relaxing — you can soak up the sun, take a swim in the clear waters, or simply enjoy the tranquility of the surroundings. The bay’s sandy beach offers a peaceful spot to unwind, and many reviews highlight how calm and fish-filled the waters are, making it an ideal spot for underwater watching.

Back on the boat, you’ll enjoy some local snacks and refreshments, with options like biscuits, fruits, juice, or tea. This is a good time to chat with your guide or just soak in the scenery. Many travelers noted how well cared-for they felt, especially with the support of guides like Dimitri, who is praised for his caring attitude and knowledge.

Snorkeling in Two Unique Spots

You’ll get to snorkel at two different locations during this trip, each offering something special. The underwater scenes are often described as vibrant, with diverse marine life. Tour reviews mention encounters with starfish, octopuses, sea cucumbers, and colorful fish. Some travelers, like Devin, appreciated how Demetrius (or Dimitri) took them about 3 miles from shore, showcasing a more authentic, less touristy underwater environment.

The guides are praised for their knowledge and patience, especially valuable if you’re new to snorkeling. As Daniel puts it, their instructor “explained everything necessary to enjoy the experience” and shared interesting facts about the marine life. These insights enrich the experience, turning a simple underwater swim into an educational outing.

Relaxation and Scenic Cruising

The boat itself is described as cozy and well-maintained, making the journey between stops just as enjoyable as the snorkeling. You’ll love the scenic views of the coastline and the breeze in your hair as you cruise around Marathon Cape, often called a “hidden gem” by those who’ve been there.

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What to Expect When You Book

The entire trip lasts about 4.5 hours, with a focus on providing a relaxed, small-group atmosphere. You’ll meet at the dive center and then set off on the boat, with about 15-minute breaks at each main location and time to enjoy the water or snacks. The tour is suitable for children age 6 and above, provided they’re comfortable swimmers and accompanied by an adult.

You won’t need to worry about equipment — everything from masks to fins is included. The tour doesn’t include lunch, but snacks and drinks are offered, making it a perfect half-day escape. Just remember, no unaccompanied minors or non-swimmers are allowed, so plan accordingly.

Who Will Love This Trip?

If you’re someone who appreciates beautiful coastal scenery, underwater marine life, and small-group intimacy, this snorkeling trip fits the bill. It’s particularly well-suited for those who want a laid-back day out, rather than a high-adrenaline adventure. Families with children over six who are confident swimmers will find it suitable, but it’s not recommended for non-swimmers or solo travelers with mobility issues.

The experience is perfect for travelers seeking value for money — given that all equipment, guidance, and photos are included, reviewers consistently say it’s well worth the price. Plus, if you’re interested in learning about the marine environment or Greek history through your guide’s commentary, this trip offers plenty of that too.

Final Thoughts

This snorkeling trip from Nea Makri to Marathon Cape and Schinias Bay offers a balanced mix of scenic cruising and underwater adventure. The small group size, friendly guidance, and stunning natural settings make it an attractive option for those looking to escape Athens for a few hours and discover Greece’s marine treasures.

It’s clear from the reviews that many travelers leave with a sense of accomplishment and lots of great photos, thanks to the excellent support and guidance provided. While weather can be a factor, most guests seem to find the experience very rewarding, especially if they’re eager to see marine life in a peaceful, scenic environment.

In essence, this experience caters best to those who want a relaxed, educational, and picturesque half-day out. Whether you’re traveling solo, as a couple, or with family, it’s a chance to enjoy Greece’s natural beauty — with some underwater surprises along the way.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, children aged 6 and above who are confident swimmers are welcome, provided they are accompanied by an adult. It’s not suitable for non-swimmers or unaccompanied minors.

What is included in the price?
All snorkeling equipment, bottled water, snacks (biscuits or fruits), and photos/videos from the trip are included. Guidance from the instructor is also part of the package.

How long does the trip last?
The entire experience lasts about 4.5 hours, including stops at different locations and cruising time.

Do I need to bring anything?
Bring swimwear and a towel. Since equipment is provided, you don’t need to worry about your own gear unless you prefer to use your own.

What happens if the weather is bad?
The tour is subject to favorable weather conditions. If canceled due to poor weather, you’ll be offered an alternative date or a full refund.

Is transportation from Athens included?
No, the tour starts at the dive center in Nea Makri. You’ll need to arrange your own transfer. Many guests find taxis under 50 euros from Athens are convenient.

If you’re after a laid-back, scenic, and marine-filled half-day, this snorkeling trip strikes a good balance of fun, relaxation, and learning. It’s perfect for those who want to see a different side of Greece beyond the historic ruins — the underwater world really is worth exploring.

You can check availability for your dates here: