Chalkidiki: Blue Lagoon & Ammouliani Island Cruise & Lunch

Thinking about a day out in Central Macedonia that combines scenic beauty, fun swimming spots, and a taste of Greek cuisine? The Chalkidiki Blue Lagoon & Ammouliani Island Cruise might just be what you’re looking for. Offered by Eirinikos Glassbottom Cruises, this 6-hour adventure has earned a solid 4.6 out of 5 from hundreds of reviews, making it a popular choice for travelers wanting a blend of sightseeing, relaxation, and a bit of fun on the water.

What we really love about this tour are the crystal-clear waters you get to swim in—especially at the Blue Lagoon—and the well-organized nature of the trip. Plus, the inclusion of a traditional Greek barbecue lunch makes it feel authentic and filling. That said, a potential consideration is the swimming requirement at the first stop, which might not suit everyone. But overall, this trip seems best suited for those who appreciate scenic boat rides and are comfortable with a couple of swimming stops.

Whether you’re traveling solo, as a couple, or with friends, if you enjoy beautiful beaches, good value for money, and a relaxed, friendly vibe, this cruise could fit right into your itinerary. Now, let’s walk through what makes this experience worth considering—and what to keep in mind before booking.

Key Points

• Scenic Stops: The tour features two stunning swimming locations—the Blue Lagoon and Ammouliani’s Alikes Lagoon—that promise clear waters and great photo opportunities.
• Inclusive Lunch: A traditional Greek barbecue with souvlaki, Greek salad, and tzatziki offers a tasty, filling meal included in the price.
• Flexible Swimming: The stops include swimming from the boat and at the lagoon’s shore, with some reviews mentioning the need to be comfortable with swimming at a depth of 2 meters.
• Fun Atmosphere: With onboard music, a DJ, and cocktails on the VIP deck, the boat creates a lively, enjoyable environment.
• Value for Money: At $47 per person, the tour offers a good mix of sightseeing, swimming, and food, especially considering the length and the included amenities.
• Family Friendly: While not explicitly marketed as a family tour, reviews suggest children who can swim will enjoy the experience, but keep in mind the water activities are best suited for confident swimmers.

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The Itinerary in Detail

Starting Point and Departure

You’ll meet at the port of Ouranoupoli, a charming village with a recognizable tower of Prosforion as a landmark. Arriving about 30 minutes early is wise, giving you time to settle in and find parking. The tour kicks off around 11:00 AM, and you’ll want to be ready to board as early as 10:30.

The Glass-Bottom Boat Experience

The boat itself is a highlight—the glass-bottom section lets you peek into the waters below and marvel at the yellow corals. Many reviews mention how well-organized the crew is, with helpful staff ensuring everyone is comfortable. The boat is equipped with safety gear and a DJ onboard, adding to the lively atmosphere.

First Stop: Blue Lagoon

The iconic Blue Lagoon is one of the trip’s main attractions. The boat anchors in crystalline waters with a depth of approximately 2 meters, perfect for swimming and snorkeling if you bring your gear. If you’re comfortable in the water, you’ll appreciate the chance to swim right from the boat and enjoy the vibrant marine life beneath.

Some reviews note the beauty of the lagoon, with one traveler describing it as a “spectacular” spot to enjoy turquoise waters. The time here is around 1.5 hours, enough for a relaxing swim, some photos, or just soaking up the sun.

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The BBQ Lunch

After swimming, everyone gathers aboard the boat for a Greek-style barbecue. The meal features pork souvlaki, served with a Greek salad, tzatziki, and fresh bread. Be sure to specify vegetarian options in advance if needed, as the standard menu is pork-based. Many guests find the lunch simple but tasty, with the included wine and beverages enhancing the meal.

One review mentioned the food as “tasteful,” and it’s notable that the meal is considered good value for the price. It’s a casual, light lunch perfect for refueling before the next swimming stop.

Second Stop: Ammouliani’s Alikes Lagoon

Later in the day, the tour heads to the Alikes Lagoon on Ammouliani Island. This spot offers another swimming opportunity and a chance to relax at the beach bars. The clear waters and scenic surroundings make it a favorite among travelers, with many quoting their time here as the highlight.

The stop here is also about 1.5 hours. While some guests choose to swim, others prefer to sip cocktails at the beach bar, enjoying the relaxed vibe. This stop tends to be less physically demanding and more about leisure.

Returning to Ouranoupoli

By evening, the boat heads back to the starting point, bringing an end to a day filled with stunning views, fun swimming, and delicious food. The journey overall lasts about six hours, making it a manageable full-day activity.

What the Reviews Say

Many travelers praise the well-organized nature of the tour and the friendly, professional crew. As one review states, “The crew was super friendly, the ship was very cool.” The cleanliness of the boat and the good music onboard also earned positive notes.

The swimming stops are widely appreciated, with some reviewers mentioning the crystal-clear water as “simply amazing,” and others saying their kids had an especially good time. One traveler shared, “The second swimming stop at Ammouliani was the one we enjoyed the most,” highlighting how relaxing and picturesque the location is.

The food, described as tasteful and authentic, has been well-received, with guests feeling it’s a good deal considering the overall experience.

Some Caveats

A few reviews pointed out that swimming from the boat requires a certain comfort level, as you’ll be in water about 2 meters deep. Also, during strong winds, the second stop might be at a different location—the port of the center village rather than the lagoon—so it’s worth checking the weather forecast.

Finally, since hotel pickup and drop-off aren’t included, you’ll need to organize your transport to the port of Ouranoupoli, which is straightforward but adds a step to your planning.

Is This Tour Right for You?

If you’re someone who loves scenic boat rides, enjoys swimming in clear waters, and wants a value-packed day with good food, this cruise could be a great fit. It suits travelers who are comfortable with some swimming in the ocean and enjoy a lively, relaxed environment.

While not specifically marketed as family-friendly, the experience is suitable for children who can swim and are comfortable in the water. The lively atmosphere and onboard music add to the fun, but it might be a bit noisy for those seeking a quiet, contemplative day.

If you’re after an authentic Greek experience with a mix of sightseeing, swimming, and tasty food, and you don’t mind organizing your own transport to the port, this cruise offers excellent value.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is transportation included in the tour?
No, the tour does not include hotel pickup or drop-off. You’ll need to get to the port of Ouranoupoli on your own, but parking is available nearby.

What should I bring?
Bring swimwear, a towel, sunscreen, snacks if you wish, and perhaps a waterproof bag for valuables. If you plan to swim from the boat, bring your snorkeling gear and consider beach shoes for rocky terrain.

Are vegetarian options available?
Yes, you should inform the tour operator a few days in advance if you require a vegetarian meal, as the standard BBQ features pork souvlaki.

Can I swim during the stops?
Yes, the first stop at the Blue Lagoon involves swimming from the boat at about 2 meters deep—so comfortable swimmers will enjoy this. The second stop at Ammouliani’s lagoon is also suitable for swimming or relaxing at the beach.

What is the typical group size?
While not explicitly stated, reviews suggest a lively atmosphere with plenty of passengers. The boat is well-maintained and equipped for a group experience.

How long is the tour?
The entire experience lasts around 6 hours, starting at about 11:00 AM and returning in the evening.

Is there a dress code?
No formal dress code—just beachwear, comfortable clothes, and sunscreen are enough.

What if the weather is bad?
The tour is subject to weather conditions. In strong winds, the second stop might be at the port of Ammouliani rather than the lagoon, but the crew will inform you beforehand.

Final Thoughts

The Chalkidiki Blue Lagoon & Ammouliani Island Cruise offers a delightful way to spend a day soaking up the natural beauty of Greece’s central Macedonia. It’s a smart choice for those wanting scenic views, good food, and relaxing swimming without breaking the bank. The well-organized nature and friendly crew make for a smooth experience, and the mix of lively atmosphere and tranquil stops keeps most travelers happily engaged.

While it’s not perfect—especially if swimming in deeper water isn’t your thing—it remains a solid, enjoyable activity that’s been loved by hundreds of travelers. If you’re looking for a value-filled day trip with plenty of opportunities to explore the waters and enjoy authentic Greek flavors, this cruise deserves a spot on your itinerary.

Happy sailing and swimming in Greece’s beautiful waters!

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