Paros: Traditional Gulet Shared or Private Island Cruise

Imagine cruising along Greece’s charming coast on a beautifully restored Turkish gulet, with the warm sun on your face, a cold drink in hand, and stunning islands gliding by. That’s exactly what this Paros island cruise offers—a chance to experience the Aegean’s beauty from a comfortable, classic boat while savoring Greek flavors and meeting fellow travelers. Whether you choose a shared or private tour, it’s a day that promises relaxation and adventure wrapped into one.

We’re particularly fond of two things about this experience: the smaller group size, which ensures a more intimate feel, and the delicious local food and drinks included in the price. That said, one thing to consider is that if you sign up for the maximum capacity of 25 people, the boat might feel a bit more crowded, especially during peak times. Still, for travelers seeking a cozy, well-organized day out on the water, this cruise is hard to beat.

This trip is ideal for those who want a laid-back, scenic escape from the crowds, with plenty of opportunities for swimming, relaxing, and enjoying the stunning Greek coast. It’s especially suited for travelers who appreciate good company, tasty food, and a comfortable boat experience that doesn’t skimp on style or safety.

Key Points

• Smaller groups for a more personal experience with no more than 25 passengers onboard.
• All-inclusive pricing covers food, drinks, fuel, and snorkeling equipment.
• Relaxing itinerary with stops at Antiparos, Despotiko, and Blu Lagoon, each offering unique sights.
• Comfortable boat with recent refits ensuring safety and a pleasant ride.
• Flexible routes and the possibility of customizing stops with the crew.
• Easy access from Piso Livadi port, with optional hotel pick-up and drop-off.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An Honest Look at the Paros Gulet Cruise

When we look at tours like this, it’s clear that the charm lies in the details—things like the boat’s design, the stops, and the vibe onboard. The Galatea, the boat used for this cruise, immediately stands out with its elegant shape and spacious indoor and outdoor areas. Having been completely refitted in 2021 and 2023, it’s in tip-top shape, and the recent upgrades mean you’re traveling on a vessel that meets all EC safety standards.

The boat measures about 20 meters long and 5.5 meters wide, giving it enough room to comfortably host up to 25 guests. This size strikes a good balance—there’s enough space for everyone to find a quiet spot or soak up the sun without feeling cramped. The sunbathing area at the bow and the large seating at the stern, along with the deck mattresses, make it a perfect place to unwind.

What the Itinerary Looks Like

The cruise departs from Piso Livadi at around 10 am, setting the tone for a full-day adventure (returning at about 6 pm). The exact stops can vary depending on weather and your preferences, but typically include:

• Faneromeni or Sostis beach in Antiparos, two spots known for their clear waters and relaxing vibe.
• Livadi beach in Despotiko or a stop in the channel between Antiparos and Despotiko, offering options for swimming and exploring.
• The sea cave in Antiparos, weather permitting, is a highlight—its shimmering waters and unique formations tend to impress.
• Panteronisi (The Blue Lagoon), a beautiful spot perfect for swimming, snorkeling, and just soaking up the scenery.

The route is flexible, and the crew can customize stops based on weather and guests’ wishes, which many reviews appreciate. One guest noted, “Very nice stops and good equipment for snorkeling,” which highlights the quality of the experience.

What’s Included and What’s Not

The cost of $124 per person covers pretty much everything you need for a fun day: fuel, food, drinks, snorkeling gear, and the crew. That’s a good value considering how all-inclusive it is—no hidden costs, and you get to relax knowing your meals and drinks are taken care of.

You’ll enjoy Greek specialties, with enough variety for vegetarians, as one reviewer pointed out. The drinks are free, making for a very laid-back atmosphere. The boat also offers pick-up and drop-off from your hotel with prior notice, which is a nice touch if you’d prefer not to make your way to the port.

On the flip side, towels are not included, so bring your own if you want to dry off after swimming. Also, if you’re traveling with children, it’s worth noting that the boat’s capacity and the open water stops mean you should consider whether your family is comfortable with those elements.

The Crew and Overall Atmosphere

According to reviews, the crew really makes a difference. Jeremy called the “Nice crew,” and Eline described them as “Awesome” with Italian crew members who serve great food and maintain a friendly, relaxed vibe. Nadine also appreciated how they “listen to passengers,” making sure everyone’s needs are met.

The boat comfortably fits 11 guests in some reviews, which is more relaxed and ensures everyone has space—whether to sunbathe or chat. When at full capacity (up to 25), it might feel a little tighter, but overall, the boat’s recent refit and spacious layout make it a comfortable ride.

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The Experience: What You’ll Love

Beyond the scenic stops, you’ll love the quality of the experience. Being on a classic Turkish gulet offers a more authentic feel than larger, crowded boats. The comfortable vessel and the smaller group size foster a friendly, sociable atmosphere.

The food and drinks are well-loved—guests rave about the Greek specialties and the availability of free drinks, which really adds to the relaxed vibe. And, if you’re into snorkeling, the equipment provided is good quality, making it easy to enjoy the underwater sights.

The weather can influence the stop at the sea cave, but even if it’s not possible, the other swimming spots frequently impress. The Blue Lagoon, in particular, is a beautiful, iconic spot that’s worth the trip.

Who This Cruise Is Best For

This cruise suits travelers who want a relaxed, scenic day on the water with a touch of authenticity. Perfect if you enjoy smaller groups, good food, and customizable routes. It’s also ideal for those who value safety and comfort, thanks to the recent boat upgrades.

If you’re traveling with friends or a partner who appreciates a laid-back vibe and beautiful scenery, you’ll find this experience very rewarding. Even solo travelers looking to meet others will enjoy the social atmosphere on board. However, if you prefer a very structured, large-group tour, this might not be the best fit.

Final Thoughts

The Paros Traditional Gulet Cruise offers a genuine taste of Greek island life. It provides a well-rounded experience—beautiful stops, delicious local food, and a comfortable vessel—at a fair price. The small group size makes it especially appealing for those who dislike feeling crowded and want a more personal connection with the crew and fellow travelers.

While it’s not a tour packed with high-energy activities, it excels in relaxation, scenic beauty, and quality service. The flexible route and friendly crew make it a solid choice for anyone wanting to enjoy the Greek coast in comfort. If you’re after a day of sun, sea, and good company, this cruise might be just what you’re looking for.

FAQ

Is the cruise suitable for people who don’t swim?
Yes, you can still enjoy the scenery and relax on the boat if you’re not into swimming. However, snorkeling gear is provided for those interested.

Can I customize my stops?
Yes, the crew can help you customize the route and stops, weather permitting, to suit your preferences.

What should I bring?
Bring swimwear, a towel, and perhaps some sunscreen. Towels are not included, but you might find the boat provides some.

Is food included in the price?
Yes, the cruise includes Greek food and drinks, with vegetarian options available.

How many people will be on the boat?
The boat is designed for up to 25 guests, but many reviews mention trips with around 11 people for a more spacious experience.

What is the duration of the cruise?
The cruise lasts about 8 hours, departing around 10 am and returning around 6 pm.

Can I get a private booking?
Yes, private group options are available—great for special occasions or just a more exclusive experience.

Is there a pick-up service?
Yes, with prior notice, you can arrange hotel pick-up and drop-off at your own expense.

What happens if the weather is bad?
The route can change depending on weather conditions, especially the stop at the sea cave, but the crew will ensure the best possible experience.

How do I book?
You can reserve your spot online in advance, with the option to pay later. Just remember to send your ID or passport details after booking for embarkation.

All in all, if you’re after a comfortable, friendly, and scenic day out on the water around Paros, this gulet cruise offers good value and a memorable experience.

You can check availability for your dates here: