From Sifnos: Antiparos and Despotiko Tour

Exploring Antiparos and Despotiko by Speedboat from Sifnos: An Honest Take

If you’re looking to escape the crowded beaches and explore some of Greece’s lesser-known islands, a speedboat tour from Sifnos to Antiparos and Despotiko could be just the adventure you need. This experience offers a chance to see the Aegean’s stunning coastlines, secluded beaches, and volcanic landscapes—all from the comfort of a private boat.

What makes this trip stand out? For us, the highlights are the opportunity to swim in crystal-clear waters and visit spots only accessible by boat. Plus, the flexible itinerary means you can enjoy plenty of time at each stop without feeling rushed. On the flip side, the main concern might be the cost—$1,524 for a group of up to four—so it’s definitely an experience best suited for those wanting a more personalized, luxury day on the water. If you love being on the sea, exploring hidden gems, and enjoy a bit of comfort, this trip could be right up your alley.

Who should consider this? It’s perfect for small groups, couples, or families who value privacy and personalized service. If you’re comfortable spending around six hours on a boat and want to see the islands from a local, knowledgeable crew, this tour is a solid pick.

Key Points

• Private group experience with personalized attention
• Ideal for sea lovers who enjoy swimming and sunbathing
• Visit secluded spots only reachable by boat
• Includes drinks and crew, with no hidden costs
• Not suitable for wheelchair users
• Flexible cancellation policy with 24-hour notice

You can check availability for your dates here:

The Actual Experience: What to Expect

We love the idea of hopping on a speedboat from Platis Gialos Marina, which puts you right at the starting point of this adventure. The tour begins with a scenic sail northeast, giving you a chance to admire the islands’ beaches and rocky coastlines, like Chryssopigi, Apokofto, and the beaches of Faros. These spots are perfect for those spontaneous photo moments or a quick dip in the water.

One of the first highlights is passing the tiny, uninhabited island of Strogilli— a quiet, peaceful start to the journey that hints at the secluded nature of this tour. As you approach Despotiko, the atmosphere becomes more volcanic and rugged, with Epitafios offering dramatic scenery. The highlight here is the Seal’s Cave, which adds a touch of mystery and natural beauty to the trip.

Next, you’ll arrive at the long, sandy beach of Livadi on Despotiko, where you’re free to swim for as long as you like. The waters are famously clear, making it a great spot for cooling off after some time on the boat. Several reviews mention that the swimming stop was a favorite part, with one saying, “We loved the way the waters looked like something out of a postcard.”

Afterward, the crew takes you into the Despotiko-Antiparos strait, where you’ll visit Agios Georgios, a charming spot with acclaimed taverns like Pipinos. Here, you’ll probably want to plan for a relaxed lunch (note that food is not included), which many find adds to the local, authentic vibe.

Before heading back, the boat passes the tiny islet of Tsimintiri, rounding out a full day of exploration. The entire trip lasts around six hours, which feels ample to take in the sights without feeling like you’re rushing.

The Stops That Matter

Chryssopigi, Apokofto, and Faros Beaches: These are picture-perfect spots, ideal for quick swims and taking in the views. They’re accessible by boat, which means fewer crowds and more intimate experiences. Multiple reviews mention how peaceful and unspoiled these beaches are—definitely a plus if you’re tired of busy shorelines.

Strogilli Island: While tiny and uninhabited, it’s a fun sight, and passing by offers a sense of adventure. It’s a quick glimpse, but one that adds to the feeling of discovering secret corners of the Aegean.

Despotiko’s Rocky Shores & Epitafios: The volcanic terrain is dramatic and striking, making it a favorite for nature lovers. The Seal’s Cave is a must-see, with reviews praising its natural charm and the crew’s knowledge about the area.

Livadi Beach on Despotiko: The long sandy stretch is perfect for swimming and lounging. Many travelers mention it’s a highlight, with some saying, “You can really relax here, away from crowds.”

Agios Georgios & Taverns: After swimming, grabbing lunch here is a common recommendation. Taverns like Pipinos are well-known locally, adding a taste of authentic Greek cuisine to your day.

The Practicalities: Price, Duration, and Comfort

At $1,524 for a group of four, this experience isn’t cheap— but considering it includes a private speedboat, crew, and drinks, many travelers find the value matches the cost. You get a tailored experience, away from busy public tours, which is worth it if you’re after privacy and comfort.

The duration of around 6 hours means you get plenty of time to explore without feeling overwhelmed. Starting times vary depending on availability, so it’s a good idea to check and plan accordingly. Keep in mind, the tour is not suitable for wheelchair users, largely due to the nature of boat access and the rocky terrain.

The meeting point at Platis Gialos harbor is straightforward to find, and the trip ends back at the same location, making logistics simple. Drinks are included, but food isn’t, so bring some snacks or plan to enjoy a leisurely lunch on land.

The Overall Impression

From what we gather, this tour strikes a good balance between adventure, relaxation, and exclusivity. The knowledgeable guides and stunning scenery really stand out, with many reviews noting their professionalism and passion for the area. The chance to sail in a private boat, away from crowds, makes it a memorable experience.

However, the price point means it’s best suited for travelers who prioritize comfort and personalized service. If you’re happy to spend a bit more for a tailored day on the water, this trip offers a genuine sense of discovery and beauty.

For those who love exploring islands by sea, enjoy swimming, and appreciate a calm, scenic route with expert guidance, this tour offers a rewarding way to see parts of Greece that are often overlooked.

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Final Thoughts

This Antiparos and Despotiko tour from Sifnos is a great choice if you’re after a luxurious and intimate way to explore the islands’ coastlines. It’s especially suitable for small groups or couples who want a bespoke experience and the flexibility that a private boat offers.

While the cost might seem high, many reviews suggest that the combination of stunning scenery, knowledgeable guides, and the freedom to explore at your own pace makes it worthwhile. If you enjoy being on the water, swimming in quiet bays, and discovering hidden spots, you’ll likely find this tour a real highlight of your trip.

Just keep in mind that the experience is active and involves some boat travel, so if you’re prone to seasickness or require accessible facilities, you might want to consider other options. But for those ready for a day of adventure, relaxation, and natural beauty, this trip ticks a lot of boxes.

FAQ

Is food included in this tour?
No, the tour does not include food, so you might want to bring snacks or plan to enjoy a meal at one of the taverns on land, like Pipinos at Agios Georgios.

How long does the tour last?
The tour is approximately 6 hours long, with different starting times depending on availability.

Can I cancel this tour?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, making it flexible if your plans change.

Is this tour suitable for children?
The tour is private and catered to groups up to four, but it’s not explicitly marked as family-friendly. Given the boat travel and outdoor environment, it might be best suited for older children or those comfortable on boats.

What languages do the guides speak?
The guides speak Greek, English, and French, so communication should be smooth for most travelers.

Is this experience accessible for wheelchair users?
No, unfortunately, it’s not suitable for wheelchair users due to the nature of boat access and terrain.

If you’re looking for a more personalized way to see some of the lesser-known Aegean islands, this private speedboat trip could be a highlight of your trip—offering both adventure and relaxation in equal measure.

You can check availability for your dates here: