Athens Private Luxury Catamaran Cruise with Traditional Greek Meal and BBQ

If you’re considering a way to see Athens beyond its ancient sites, a luxury catamaran cruise along the Athens Riviera might just be the perfect choice. We haven’t personally taken this exact tour, but based on the glowing reviews and detailed descriptions, it’s clear that this experience offers a unique blend of stunning scenery, delicious food, and relaxed luxury. For those who love being on the water, enjoying good company, and savoring authentic Greek flavors, this cruise seems to tick all the boxes.

What really stands out to us are the spectacular views of the coast that you can’t get from land, and the well-reviewed food and drinks — especially the barbecue and the open bar with Greek wine and beer. However, a potential consideration is that the cruise lasts about five hours, and if you’re not a big fan of boat travel or have sensitivities to sea conditions, it’s worth thinking about that long on the water. This could be a fantastic experience for travelers who love comfort, scenic beauty, and a leisurely day on the Aegean.

This tour seems especially suited for those who want a private, all-inclusive outing, perhaps celebrating a special occasion or simply looking to indulge in a little luxury. It’s also an excellent way for first-time visitors to get a different perspective of Athens without the hustle of city streets. Whether you’re traveling as a couple, with friends, or in a small group, the personalized feel and the attention to detail make it appealing.

Key Points

• Luxury and Comfort: This is a private cruise with a professional crew providing attentive service.
• Spectacular Views: Access to parts of the Athens coastline you wouldn’t see from land, with plenty of opportunities for swimming and snorkeling.
• Gourmet Food & Open Bar: Enjoy a barbecue lunch with Greek salads, shrimp saganaki, and fresh vegetables, complemented by an unlimited supply of Greek wine, beer, and soft drinks.
• Convenient Pickup & Drop-off: Hotel pickup and return make it easy, especially if you’re staying centrally in Athens.
• Well-Reviewed Experience: Consistently rated 5 stars with comments praising the food, crew, and overall atmosphere.
• Pricing & Value: At around $749 per person, it’s definitely a splurge but seems to offer good value given the all-inclusive nature.

An Inside Look at the Experience

Starting Point: Seamless Pickup and Welcome Drink

The tour kicks off with hotel pickup, which is a big plus for hassle-free planning. Once aboard, you’ll be greeted with a welcome drink — often a refreshing Greek wine or perhaps a soft drink — as the crew introduces themselves and provides safety instructions. This initial touch sets a relaxed tone, easing you into the experience.

Cruising the Athens Riviera: Stunning Coastal Views

Once the vessel is underway, you’ll be able to soak in the sights of the Athens coast — views that are impossible to see from land. The reviews consistently mention the unbelievable scenery, with many noting how the coastline looks even more beautiful from the water. You can sit back on the deck, admire the azure waters, and enjoy the gentle breeze.

Swimming and Snorkeling: Fun in the Blue

The itinerary includes two swimming stops, which travelers find especially enjoyable. You’re provided with goggles and fresh towels, making it easy to jump in and explore the underwater world. One reviewer described snorkeling gear being provided, and from their comments, it’s clear that these breaks are well-organized and worth taking advantage of.

The Highlight: Gourmet Barbecue and Appetizers

The food is a standout feature according to reviews. The barbecue lunch is described as “spectacular,” with fresh vegetables, shrimp saganaki, and other Greek specialties. The smell of roasting vegetables alone might tempt you to head straight to the table. Reviewers rave about the quality and freshness of the food, with many saying it’s among the best they’ve had in Greece. The meal is served while you gaze at the sea and the scenic surroundings, making it a truly memorable dining experience.

Drinks Galore: Open Bar with Greek Wine & Beer

The open bar is more than just a side note — it’s a key part of the experience. Unlimited beer, wine, and soft drinks are included, and reviews highlight how enjoyable it is to sip Greek wine while sailing. Some mention that the crew is attentive, constantly refilling glasses, which contributes to a relaxed holiday vibe.

The Return Journey: Mists and Memories

As the cruise winds down, you’ll reflect on the breathtaking views and the laid-back atmosphere. The experience generally lasts about five hours, including all stops, which most find to be the perfect length to enjoy everything without feeling rushed. The return trip is smooth, with a chauffeur waiting to take you back to your hotel.

What Travelers Are Saying

Multiple reviews sing the praises of the professional crew, especially mentioning individuals like Mike and Ari, who are described as welcoming, attentive, and committed to making sure everyone is comfortable. The food consistently receives high marks — many say it’s one of the best meals they’ve had in Greece, and some mention it’s even better than meals on more expensive boats in places like Ibiza.

The scenery is another high point. Reviewers highlight how the views of the coast and the clear waters make the cruise feel special. Several mention that the sailing experience was smooth and peaceful, with some even describing the trip as “unbelievable” and “unbelievable fun.”

For those considering whether it’s worth the price, many feel the experience delivers good value given the inclusions — private transportation, multiple swimming stops, generous drinks, and a delicious meal. Not to forget, the private aspect adds an extra layer of comfort and personalization.

Cons? Possibly the Length

While most reviews are glowing, some mention that the meal time is scheduled quite early at around 6 pm, which can feel a bit rushed for those hoping for a sunset dinner. Since the cruise ends around 9 pm, it might be slightly early for some sunset enthusiasts, but overall, this doesn’t seem to detract much from the enjoyment.

The Perfect Fit: Who Should Consider This Tour?

This cruise is ideal for travelers who want to combine comfort, scenery, and good food into a half-day outing. It’s well-suited for those celebrating a special occasion or simply wanting a relaxed, luxurious day out on the water. If you enjoy authentic Greek cuisine, sailing, and beautiful coastal views, this is likely to be a highlight of your trip.

However, if you’re prone to seasickness or prefer more active excursions, you might want to think about the sea conditions and length of the trip. It’s also a good option for those who want a private experience rather than a crowded group tour.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is hotel pickup included?
Yes, the tour offers hotel pickup and return from any location in Athens, making it super convenient and hassle-free.

What’s the duration of the cruise?
The entire experience lasts about 5 hours, including stops for swimming and snorkeling.

Is food included?
Absolutely. You’ll enjoy a barbecue lunch with Greek salads, shrimp saganaki, and more. Vegetarian options are available if requested at the time of booking.

What drinks are included?
Unlimited beer, Greek wine, and soft drinks are part of the open bar, so you can sip freely throughout the cruise.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, cancellations are free if done at least 24 hours before the scheduled start. Refunds are not available if canceled less than 24 hours prior.

Is this tour suitable for families or children?
While most reviews don’t mention children specifically, the experience is family-friendly in general, especially for those comfortable with boat outings. Just consider the duration and sea conditions if traveling with young kids.

If you’re after a luxurious, scenic, and delicious way to see Athens from a different angle, this private catamaran cruise looks like a winner. The combination of stunning coastal views, excellent food, and attentive service has resonated strongly with past travelers, many of whom would happily repeat the experience.

It’s especially suitable for those who appreciate comfort, want to indulge in Greek wine and fresh seafood, and enjoy relaxing on a spacious vessel. Keep in mind the price point and length of the trip to ensure it fits your travel style, but all signs point to this being a memorable highlight of a Greek vacation.

Whether you’re celebrating a special moment or just want to treat yourself, this cruise offers a taste of Greece that’s both indulgent and authentic. Just remember to bring your sunblock, your bathing suit, and an appetite for both stunning views and good food.