Full day cruise Aigina|Moni|Agkistri with traditional Greek feast

Exploring the Saronic Gulf: A Full Day Cruise from Athens

If you’re looking for a way to escape the hustle and bustle of Athens and enjoy the Aegean Sea, this full-day cruise around the islands of Aigina, Moni, and Agkistri might just be what you need. While I haven’t done this specific trip myself, reviews and details from travelers paint a pretty appealing picture of a laid-back, scenic adventure that combines sailing with authentic Greek food and island exploration.

What really stands out is the promise of sailing on a traditional Greek-made boat with plenty of space and comfort, along with the chance to swim in turquoise waters and enjoy delicious local cuisine. Plus, the fact that it offers complimentary snorkeling gear, SUPs, and floating toys makes it feel like a well-rounded day of fun and relaxation. One thing to keep in mind is the price—around $983 per person—which might seem steep, but when you weigh the inclusions, it feels like a fairly complete experience.

This tour is best suited for travelers who are comfortable with a full-day outing, love being on the water, and want a mix of sightseeing, swimming, and good food. If lounging on a boat with a small group, enjoying local wine and mezes sounds like your idea of a perfect day, then this cruise could be a real highlight of your trip to Greece. However, if you’re after a more cultural or historical exploration with lots of walking, this might not be the ideal fit.

Key Points

• Private, intimate setting: The cruise accommodates up to 15 people, making it a cozy, personalized experience.
• All-inclusive feel: With house wine, snacks, snorkeling gear, SUPs, and a delicious Greek BBQ, you get a lot of value for the price.
• Flexible island stops: You can visit the well-preserved Temple of Aphaia in Aigina, swim in stunning waters at Moni, or rent a bike on Agkistri.
• Ease of logistics: Pickup and private transportation make it simple to start and end your day without stress.
• Relaxed, fun vibe: Expect a laid-back atmosphere with karaoke, music, and plenty of opportunities to swim and chill.
• Friendly reviews: Travelers rave about the experience, with comments like “absolutely amazing” and “the best experience ever in Greece.”

The Itinerary: What to Expect on this Sailing Adventure

This tour kicks off early in the morning, with pickup arranged from Palaio Faliro, a convenient spot near Athens’ public transport. At 9:00 am, you’ll board a spacious, traditional Greek sailboat operated by Aiolis Experience. The initial briefing will likely include safety tips, boat features, and a quick rundown of the day’s plan.

Once underway, you’ll start sailing towards the island of Aigina. This island is known for its well-preserved Temple of Aphaia, which is a highlight for history buffs or anyone interested in Greece’s ancient sites. You won’t necessarily have a long stop here, but it’s a great photo opportunity and adds a cultural touch to the trip.

Next, the boat heads to Moni, a favorite for many travelers thanks to its turquoise waters perfect for swimming and snorkeling. The reviews highlight the “magnificent” waters, which are ideal for taking a break from the boat to cool off. The snorkeling gear provided means you can explore underwater life without extra hassle.

Finally, the cruise makes its way to Agkistri, a lush, green island where you can rent bikes to explore or simply relax on the beach. The balance of water activities and island wandering keeps the day engaging without feeling rushed.

Food and Drink

A major part of this trip is the Greek BBQ served around 1:30 pm. You get to choose between meat or fish options—think souvlaki, octopus, calamari, and shrimps—accompanied by tzatziki, mezes, and fresh fruit. Travelers consistently praise the delicious quality of the food and the generous portions, which add value and make the experience extra memorable.

Onboard, you’ll find house wine, bottled water, and snacks like cookies, cake, and fruit to keep you fueled throughout the day. The inclusion of WiFi and Spotify means you can share your experience or just enjoy some tunes as you sail along.

Activities and Amenities

Apart from swimming and sunbathing, you’ll have access to SUPs and floating toys, making it easy to stay active and entertained. The karaoke speaker adds a fun element for groups wanting to sing along or just enjoy music.

The boat’s comfortable space and the care from the crew—who are described as friendly and attentive—make it a smooth experience. The reviews mention how well the crew takes care of everyone, making even first-time sailors feel at ease.

How the Experience Feels in Practice

According to travelers, the overall vibe of the cruise is relaxed and enjoyable. One reviewer called it “one of the greatest sailing experiences,” emphasizing the spacious boat and friendly crew. Others raved about the delicious food being the best they had during their trip, with some mentioning it was ideal for celebrating special occasions like a bachelorette party.

The timing, starting at 9 am and ending around 10 hours later, allows for a full day of activities without feeling rushed. The group size up to 15 makes it intimate yet lively enough for fun conversations and socializing.

A few reviews pointed out that the experience is weather-dependent, so if the weather turns bad, the trip might be canceled or rescheduled, which can be a disappointment if you’re set on this specific day.

Cost vs. Value

At nearly $1,000 per person, this trip isn’t the cheapest option available, but when you factor in private transport, a delicious BBQ, snorkeling gear, WiFi, and the personalized attention from the crew, it starts to feel more justified. It’s a well-rounded package for those wanting a luxurious, hassle-free day on the water, especially if you’re traveling in a small group or celebrating a special occasion.

Final thoughts: Who is this cruise ideal for?

If you’re after a relaxed, scenic sailing day with a touch of luxury—good food, cozy boat, island visits—this tour is a strong choice. It suits travelers who appreciate small-group experiences, want to avoid the crowded tourist spots, and enjoy water activities like swimming and snorkeling.

It’s particularly appealing for those celebrating something special or just looking for a memorable day on the Aegean. Keep in mind, the price reflects the all-inclusiveness and personalized vibe, making it better suited for travelers who value comfort and quality.

However, if you’re more interested in cultural sightseeing with walking tours or historical exploration, you might prefer a different kind of tour. Also, be prepared for an all-day commitment—this isn’t a quick jaunt, but a full, immersive experience.

FAQ

Is pickup offered for this tour?
Yes, private transportation is included, making it convenient to start and end your day without extra hassle.

What is included in the price?
You get a full day on the boat with a delicious Greek BBQ (meat or fish), house wine, bottled water, snacks, snorkeling gear, SUPs, floating toys, WiFi, and a karaoke speaker.

Can I visit the islands during this tour?
Yes, the itinerary includes stops at Aigina, Moni, and Agkistri, with options to explore the temples, swim in turquoise waters, or rent bikes on Agkistri.

What should I wear?
Bring swimwear, comfortable clothing for a day in the sun, and possibly a hat or sunglasses. Towels are provided onboard.

Is this tour suitable for children?
While not explicitly stated, the relaxed, family-friendly vibe and water activities suggest it could suit older children or teenagers comfortable with being on a boat.

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

All in all, this sailing trip offers a genuine slice of Greek island life, with the added bonus of comfort, good food, and a small-group atmosphere. It’s perfect for travelers who want to combine scenic splendor with relaxed fun, without feeling rushed or overwhelmed. If that sounds like your kind of day, this cruise might turn out to be one of your trip’s most cherished memories.