VIP Athens: Hydra, Poros, and Aegina Day Cruise with Lunch

Exploring the Greek Islands from Athens: A Review of the VIP Hydra, Poros, and Aegina Day Cruise

Traveling from Athens to the nearby Saronic Islands makes for an easy yet memorable escape, especially if you’re craving a mix of stunning views, charming villages, and good food. The VIP Athens: Hydra, Poros, and Aegina Day Cruise with Lunch offers a polished way to tick off three beautiful islands in a single day, all while indulging in some comfort and entertainment. After reviewing available reviews and tour details, we think this experience is a great pick for those wanting a hassle-free, well-organized trip with touches of luxury.

What we really like about this tour is the combination of scenic sailing and island exploration, plus the inclusion of delicious Mediterranean cuisine and live entertainment onboard. It’s a smooth way to see different island atmospheres—Hydra’s historic charm, Poros’s greenery, and Aegina’s pistachio farms—without the stress of planning individual transport or activities. That said, one potential downside is the price point of $316 per person, which might be steep for budget travelers, especially if you’re not keen on optional extras or guided tours. Still, if comfort, convenience, and a taste of luxury matter to you, this trip could be worth it.

This cruise works best for those who enjoy a structured day with plenty of free time on each island, combined with onboard amenities and entertainment. It’s especially suited for travelers who appreciate a bit of refined comfort—like VIP lounges and first-class finger foods—plus the chance to relax and socialize while taking in the views.

Key Points

• Comfort & Convenience: The cruise offers a VIP lounge, private tour options, and round-trip transportation (if selected).
• Multiple Islands in One Day: Visit Hydra, Poros, and Aegina, each with its unique charm and atmosphere.
• Gourmet Meal & Drinks: A buffet-style Mediterranean lunch, plus unlimited soft drinks, water, and coffee—covering your refreshment needs.
• Live Entertainment: Enjoy live music and performances on board, adding to the festive vibe of the day.
• Flexible Tours: Choose between a walking tour of Hydra or a panoramic tour of Aegina, tailoring the experience to your interests.
• Family Friendly: Suitable for most travelers comfortable with boat trips, but note the tour’s general physical requirements.

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Closer Look at the Itinerary

The day kicks off at the old port of Athens in Faliro, where you’ll board a comfortable boat that’s equipped for a smooth, scenic ride. The boat’s speed and amenities help make the journey enjoyable rather than tiring. The first stop is Hydra, famed for its charming cobbled streets, traditional stone houses, and a quirky preservation of donkeys as transport. You’ll have free time here to wander, shop, or take photos—some reviews mention that the town’s architecture is truly charming, with plenty of photo opportunities.

Many travelers appreciate the option of a guided walking tour of Hydra for a deeper dive into its history and culture, though this incurs an extra fee. The absence of a mandatory tour means you can explore at your own pace, which is great if you prefer wandering independently.

Next, the cruise sails to Poros, a lush island covered with pines and lemon groves. Here, you’ll have time to stroll along the waterfront, browse local shops, or relax at a seaside taverna. The island’s tranquil vibe and natural greenery contrast nicely with Hydra’s historic streets, giving you a varied experience.

The last main stop is Aegina, known for its pistachios and beaches. You can explore the town’s coastal streets or opt for a bus tour of the Temple of Aphaia and the Monastery of Agios Nektarios—these optional excursions add historical and cultural flavor to your visit. Many guests rave about tasting the local pistachios and enjoying the island’s laid-back charm, which makes for a fitting end to the day.

Dining and Entertainment on Board

The buffet lunch is a significant highlight. It offers a variety of Greek and Mediterranean dishes, with first-class finger foods and a well-curated selection of drinks. The unlimited soft drinks, water, and coffee are a nice touch, ensuring you stay refreshed during the day’s activities. Several reviews mention the quality of the food as “delicious” and appreciated after a morning of exploring.

Adding to the festive atmosphere, the cruise features live Greek music and entertainment, which many guests say creates a lively, celebratory mood. Whether you’re dancing or simply enjoying the tunes, it’s a cheerful way to end your island-hopping adventure.

Transport and Logistics

The embarkation process involves fast lane entry, so you won’t spend too long waiting in lines. The tour includes round-trip transportation from select hotel locations (if opted for), which is a big help for those unfamiliar with local logistics. If you don’t choose this option, you’ll need to make your way to the starting point at the old port, but the location is easy to find via the provided Google Maps link.

The cruise duration is approximately 12 hours, giving enough time to explore each island and enjoy onboard amenities without feeling rushed. Keep in mind that the starting times vary based on availability, so it’s worth checking your schedule before booking.

Pros and Cons

What travelers love:

• The scenic boat ride, with comfortable seating and beautiful views throughout
• Well-organized itinerary that covers three distinctive islands in one day
• The quality of the food and drinks, with a buffet that satisfies various tastes
• The live music and entertainment that add a festive touch to the journey

Potential drawbacks:

• The price might be high for some, especially if you don’t opt for extras
• The tour is quite full-day, which might be tiring for some, especially in hot weather
• Certain activities, like guided tours of Hydra or Aegina, are optional and paid separately, which could add to costs
• Not suitable for travelers with mobility issues or pregnant women, due to the nature of island exploration and boat travel

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Who Is This Tour Perfect For?

If you’re someone who values comfort, good food, and a smoothly organized day filled with sightseeing, this cruise fits the bill. It’s especially suited for travelers looking to combine sightseeing with some leisure, as the onboard amenities and live entertainment keep the mood lively. It’s also ideal if you want to tick off three islands in one go without having to plan individual transport or worry about schedules.

However, if you’re on a tight budget or prefer more independent exploration, you might find this experience less appealing. Also, those with mobility challenges should consider the physical aspects of exploring cobblestone streets and boat boarding.

Final Thoughts

The VIP Hydra, Poros, and Aegina Day Cruise offers a polished, memorable way to experience some of Greece’s most beloved islands with a sense of comfort and style. The combination of scenic views, tasty food, and lively entertainment makes it a balanced package. While it’s on the pricier side, many reviews suggest that the quality of the experience—especially the food and atmosphere—justifies the cost.

This tour is a good fit for travelers who want a hassle-free, enjoyable day out on the water and don’t mind splurging a little for comfort and entertainment. Whether you’re traveling solo, as a couple, or with friends, it provides a solid way to see the Greek islands without the stress of planning every detail yourself.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for families or children?
The tour is generally suitable for most travelers, but keep in mind the physical aspects such as walking cobbled streets or possibly being on the boat for a long time. Assistance dogs are allowed, but pets are not.

What’s included in the price?
The price covers the full-day cruise, free time on the islands, a buffet lunch, unlimited soft drinks, water & coffee, live entertainment, VIP lounge access, private tour options (upon request), and round-trip transportation if selected.

Are the optional tours of Hydra and Aegina included?
No, these are extra options that you can choose on the day. The basic itinerary provides free time to explore, but guided tours are paid separately.

What should I bring?
Bring a sun hat, swimwear, towel, biodegradable sunscreen, flip-flops, and your passport or ID. Snorkeling gear is also recommended if you want to explore underwater.

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 transportation to the meeting point provided?
It can be, if you select the transportation option. Otherwise, you’ll need to reach the starting point in Kallithea on your own.

How long does the trip last?
The entire tour runs approximately 12 hours, from embarkation to return, giving plenty of time to enjoy each island.

What is the capacity of the boat?
While not explicitly stated, the cruise offers VIP amenities and private options, suggesting a well-sized, comfortable vessel.

Do I need to send my ID or passport details?
Yes, all visitors must send their ID or passport details after booking to the provided email addresses, as per the tour requirements.

To sum it up, if you’re seeking a day of scenic sailing, island exploring, and good food wrapped into a single, comfortable package, this cruise is worth considering. It balances sightseeing with leisure, making it a good choice for those who want to enjoy Greece’s islands without the hassle of organizing each element themselves.

You can check availability for your dates here: