Unique sailing experience to Aegina-Metopi and Skala

If you’re looking for a way to escape the busy streets of Athens and see a few of Greece’s beautiful islands in one go, this all-day sailing tour might just be your ideal choice. It promises a mix of sightseeing, swimming, and relaxing aboard a semi-private luxury motor yacht, all with the chance to soak up some sun and local flavors. We haven’t done this trip ourselves, but based on reviews and the details available, here’s a deep dive into what you can expect.

What we really like about this experience is its balance of guided exploration and free time—you’ll get enough structure to see the highlights but also space to relax and explore on your own. Plus, the luxury yacht aspect elevates the experience from your typical boat tour, making it feel more special. On the flip side, a potential consideration is the age of the vessel and crew experience, which some reviewers have mentioned as less than perfect. Overall, if you’re someone who loves a scenic sea adventure mixed with island hopping, this tour could be a great fit.

This tour is best suited for those who want a comprehensive day on the water, enjoy sailing, and don’t mind a group setting that can vary in size. It’s particularly appealing for travelers who appreciate good food, stunning views, and the chance to see multiple islands without the hassle of multiple transport arrangements.

Key Points

• Visit four Greek islands in a single day, combining sightseeing, swimming, and relaxing.
• Luxury motor yacht provides a semi-private, comfortable way to explore.
• Includes a Greek lunch, snacks, drinks, and snorkeling gear—good value for the price.
• Flexible exploration time on each island allows for personal discovery.
• Weather-dependent; poor conditions could lead to cancellations or schedule changes.
• Reviews highlight helpful staff and beautiful scenery, but vessel condition and crew familiarity may vary.

The Itinerary In-Depth

This tour packs a lot into roughly 10 hours, starting from Piraeus and ending back in the same spot. The main goal is to give you a taste of four different islands, each with its own character, all from the comfort of a well-equipped yacht.

Start: Setting Sail from Piraeus

Your adventure begins at Pasalimani in Piraeus, the bustling port just outside Athens. If you opt for the pickup service, it’s a smooth start — a driver will collect you from your hotel, so you’re not adding extra planning to your day. The vessel itself is described as spacious and beautiful, creating a relaxed atmosphere from the moment you step aboard.

Stop 1: Agistri

Your first stop is Agistri, a tranquil island known for its peaceful beaches and laid-back vibe. The boat anchors here, giving you a chance to stretch, explore, or rent a bike if you fancy some light exercise. It’s a perfect spot to soak in the serenity or have a quick swim before heading to the next stop.

Stop 2: Metopi

Next up is Metopi, which offers a delightful snorkeling opportunity. The tour includes snorkeling gear, so you can marvel at the underwater world, with some reviews noting the clarity of the waters as a highlight. The stop here balances the scenic beauty of the Aegean with the chance to cool off and enjoy some time in the water.

Lunch Break on Moni Island

Midday, you’ll cruise to Moni Island where a Greek buffet lunch awaits. The meal is prepared by the crew’s chef and is a selling point for many travelers, with reviews praising both the quality and variety of food—including vegetarian options. During the lunch, you can sip wine or beer, making it a leisurely, social affair.

Stop 3: Aegina

After lunch, the boat moves to Aegina, famous for its historic sites like the Temple of Apollo. You’ll have time to explore the island’s streets, shop for souvenirs, or simply relax on the beach. The island’s charm is often highlighted in reviews, with some guests mentioning their enjoyment of bike rides or shopping, and others relaxing on the sand.

The Return

The trip wraps up with a leisurely sail back to Piraeus, where you can reflect on the day’s highlights. The entire experience is designed to offer a mix of guided sightseeing and personal exploration.

What’s Included and What’s Not

The tour provides many amenities that enhance the experience. Expect coffee, juices, pastries at the start, and a Greek lunch buffet with options for vegetarians. Alcoholic beverages like wine and beer are also included, along with soft drinks, water, and coffee or tea throughout the day. Snorkeling equipment is available for use, which adds an extra layer of fun.

On the downside, entrance fees for museums or other sites are not included, so if you want to visit specific attractions on the islands, you’ll need to budget extra. Also, if you’re relying on hotel transfers, note that this option isn’t included unless you select it.

The Vessel and Crew

Most reviews note that the boat and crew are generally helpful and friendly, contributing to a positive atmosphere. However, some guests have mentioned that the vessel is older, made of wood, and might appear a bit worn, especially towards the end of the season. The crew’s familiarity with ports also varies, with some guests noting that the crew seemed unsure or inexperienced, which could impact the experience.

The boat’s size and spaciousness are praised, making for a comfortable day out. It feels less crowded than larger tours, which appeals to those seeking a semi-private feeling, even if it isn’t strictly private.

Customer Experiences: The Good and the Not-So-Good

Many travelers RAVE about the trip, saying it’s a highlight of their Greece visit. Several reviews mention how smooth the logistics were, with punctual pickups and well-organized schedules. One guest noted, “The staff was always helpful, friendly, and entertaining,” emphasizing the crew’s effort to make everyone comfortable.

Food also earns high praise. A guest shared, “The food was top-notch and the service was good,” and others appreciated the variety and quality of the meal, especially noting vegetarian options.

The scenery and island stops are consistently described as beautiful. Swimmers loved the snorkeling at Metopi, with some reviews mentioning how relaxing and enjoyable the water was. The opportunity to rent bikes on Agistri or explore Aegina’s streets adds a personal touch to the itinerary.

However, not all experiences are flawless. One review pointed out that the vessel was “old and not kept up very good,” and the crew appeared more interested in socializing than actively engaging with passengers. Docking times were also a concern for some, with excessive stops limiting their time onshore.

Price and Value

At around $160 per person, this tour offers a lot when considering the inclusions — meals, drinks, snorkeling gear, and island exploration. Compared to doing similar activities independently, the convenience and luxury of the yacht add significant value. The reviews suggest that most guests feel it’s worth the price, especially those who prioritize a comfortable, all-in-one day trip with good amenities.

For families or groups, the semi-private nature of the yacht can make this a particularly enjoyable experience, although children should be supervised, as the tour is geared more toward adults, especially with the inclusion of alcohol.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

If you’re after a well-rounded day of island hopping with comfortable transportation, this is a solid pick. It’s perfect for those who want to combine sightseeing with leisure — swimming, dining, and relaxing on deck. If you’re okay with an older vessel and a sometimes inconsistent crew, you’ll probably have a wonderful time.

This tour also suits travelers who appreciate good food and scenic views, and who prefer an organized, guided experience that takes the hassle out of planning multiple island visits. It’s less ideal if you’re expecting a brand-new boat or highly curated crew service, but overall, it offers a memorable slice of the Aegean.

FAQs

How long is the tour?
The whole experience lasts approximately 10 hours, making it a full-day adventure from Athens.

Does the tour include hotel pickup?
Yes, pickup is offered as an option, which many reviews say makes starting the trip much easier.

What’s the main focus of the trip?
It’s a combination of island exploration, swimming, snorkeling, and relaxing on a luxury boat, with a focus on giving you a taste of four islands in one day.

Is the vessel modern?
Not exactly — it’s made of wood and may look aged, especially later in the season, which some guests find charming but others find disappointing.

Are there vegetarian options for lunch?
Yes, the included Greek buffet has vegetarian dishes, and the crew can accommodate special dietary needs like gluten-free.

Can kids join this tour?
Children can participate but must be accompanied by an adult. The tour is generally suitable for most travelers, but younger kids might find the full-day schedule long.

What should I bring?
Bring sunscreen, swimwear, a towel, and perhaps some cash for souvenirs or extra snacks. Snorkeling gear is provided, but you can bring your own if preferred.

Is it weather-dependent?
Yes, the tour requires good weather. If canceled due to poor conditions, you’ll have the option to reschedule or get a full refund.

What’s the group size?
Up to 49 travelers can join, but reviews often mention a semi-private, cozy atmosphere, so it doesn’t feel crowded.

Final Thoughts

This sailing tour to Aegina, Metopi, and Skala offers a wonderful way to see multiple islands in a single day, especially if you value comfort and good food. The blend of scenic cruising, snorkeling, and island exploration makes it a versatile experience. While the vessel’s age and crew familiarity might give some pause, most guests find the overall value and stunning views make it worthwhile.

It’s especially suitable for travelers who want a guided, organized day out on the water, with plenty of opportunities to relax, enjoy local cuisine, and take in the sights. If you’re looking for a memorable, well-rounded day in the Greek islands, this tour could be just what you need.

Remember: Always check the weather forecast before booking and be prepared for a full day of activity. The islands are stunning, the boat is comfortable (if a bit aged), and the experience promises a beautiful slice of Greece’s iconic Aegean scenery.