Nafplio, often called the first capital of Greece, is a charming seaside town with a natural appeal for sailors. Its crystal-clear waters, dramatic coastline, and historic landmarks make it an ideal place to explore from the deck of a boat. What really sets Nafplio apart is the variety of sailing options available—whether you’re after a relaxing half-day or a private full-day cruise, there’s something for every taste. We especially like the All-Inclusive Semi-Private Cruise, which balances ease, intimacy, and activity, with snorkel, paddleboard, and plenty of Greek wine. It’s perfect for travelers who want a laid-back day with plenty of opportunities to swim and soak up the sun, without breaking the bank.
In this list, we cover everything from small-group day trips to luxurious private charters, offering you a wide range of experiences. Whether you want to explore secluded beaches, enjoy a gourmet meal on the water, or have a tailored adventure guided by local skippers, you’ll find a sailing trip that suits your style. Now, let’s look at each of these Nafplio sailing adventures in detail.
1. Sailing Nafplio | All Inclusive semi-private Cruise
This all-inclusive semi-private cruise offers a relaxed, small-group experience on Nafplio’s beautiful waters. With a duration of about 4 hours 30 minutes, it’s perfect for those who want to enjoy swimming, snorkeling, and paddleboarding without fuss. The boat takes care of all the details—snacks like spinach pie and fresh fruit are included, along with bottled water, Greek beer, and wine, so you can sit back and unwind.
One of the tour’s highlights is a close pass by the Venetian castle of Bourtzi, which makes for great photos and a bit of historical flavor. The main swimming stop at Romvi Island features emerald waters and a beach shaded by trees—ideal for relaxing or exploring underwater with provided gear. The small-group setting means making new friends is easy, and the crew’s friendly attitude makes it feel more like a day with friends than a formal tour.
Guests consistently praise the easy meeting point, the peaceful stops, and the quality of water sports gear and snacks. This tour is ideal for travelers wanting a laid-back, social experience with lots of swimming and scenery. Bottom line: it’s a fantastic, affordable way to enjoy Nafplio’s coastline in comfort.
2. Catamaran Cruise in Nafplio | Private
For around $2,015.91 per group (up to 15 people), this private catamaran cruise is a superb choice for families or groups seeking exclusivity and flexibility. The cruise lasts about 4 hours 30 minutes, with the option to choose morning or sunset departures to match your mood and plans.
What sets this tour apart is its focus on exploring hidden beaches and small islands, accessible only by boat. The crew offers a wealth of historic facts, sharing insights as you pass by Bourtzi fortress, which is just across from the boat. The boat is well-equipped with snorkel gear, stand-up paddleboards, and even an action camera with a drone, making it perfect for capturing your adventure.
Guests appreciate the personalized service, the quality of the snacks—fresh fruit, local treats—and the opportunity to customize the experience. This cruise is most suitable for travelers who want privacy, a flexible itinerary, and a more active water experience. It’s an excellent choice for couples or families wanting a bespoke day at sea.
Bottom line: If privacy and tailored experiences matter most, this private catamaran cruise is hard to beat.
3. Nafplio: Catamaran Cruise with Meal and Drinks
This catamaran cruise with a meal combines scenic sailing with a culinary delight. Lasting approximately 4.5 hours, it’s perfect for those who want to enjoy the Argolic Gulf’s serenity along with local cuisine and fine wines.
The tour highlights the chance to relax on deck, surrounded by beautiful coastline views, while sampling Greek dishes paired with regional wines. The trip includes stops at secluded beaches, where you can swim, snorkel, or just soak up the sun. The vessel’s comfortable seating and shaded areas make it easy to unwind, and the friendly host ensures everyone feels pampered.
What makes this experience stand out is the combination of gastronomy and stunning scenery. It’s ideal for travelers looking to indulge in good food and drink while exploring small islands and sea caves. The tour’s relaxed pace makes it suitable for all ages and fitness levels, especially those who prefer a leisurely day afloat.
Bottom line: perfect for food lovers who want a scenic, relaxing day with excellent service and authentic flavors.
4. Nafplio: Catamaran full day private cruise
Spending a full day on a private catamaran (about 8 hours) offers unmatched flexibility. This full-day cruise for up to 6 people is perfect for families or friends seeking an all-day adventure. The itinerary is customizable, with stops at Romvi Beach and other spots, ensuring you visit exactly what interests you most.
The boat is equipped with snorkeling gear, paddleboards, and ample space to relax. The crew serves traditional Greek snacks, lunch, and sweets, along with unlimited drinks—wine, beer, coffee, and soft drinks—making it a floating feast. Guests love the serene passage through the Argolic Gulf, with plenty of time for swimming, sunbathing, or exploring tiny coves.
This tour shines for those who want a comprehensive, private experience with the freedom to design the day. Its value lies in the combination of activity, comfort, and exclusivity. The main downside? It’s more expensive, but for many, the privacy and flexibility are worth it.
Bottom line: if you want a personalized, all-day sea adventure with gourmet food and plenty of water sports, this is the way to go.
5. Nafplio: Catamaran Half Day Private Cruise
This half-day private cruise offers about 4.5 hours of sailing, perfect for a relaxed exploration of Nafplio’s coastline without a full-day commitment. Like other private options, it can be tailored to your interests, with stops at Romvi and other scenic spots.
You’ll enjoy traditional Greek snacks, drinks, and the chance to paddleboard, snorkel, or swim from the boat. The vessel is comfortable, and the crew is attentive, making it suitable for families or small groups. The flexibility allows you to focus on what interests you most—whether that’s lounging and tasting local wines or exploring underwater.
What makes this tour stand out is its intimate setting coupled with the option to customize your experience, avoiding the crowds and enjoying the sea at your own pace. It’s a good pick for those short on time but seeking a rich, personalized water adventure.
Bottom line: a great choice for a private, flexible day on the water with excellent food and activities.
6. Nafplio: Full Day Catamaran Cruise with Lunch & Drinks
This full-day cruise offers 8 hours of sailing, swimming, and exploring the coastline. It’s perfect for those eager to see Nafplio’s beaches like Karathona, enjoy a Mediterranean-style lunch, and try snorkeling or paddleboarding.
The itinerary includes stops at several coves, with time to relax and enjoy the local wines served onboard. The boat has comfortable seating and shaded areas, making it suitable for a full day of leisure. Guests love the blend of sightseeing, swimming, and dining, with some reviews pointing out the clarity of the water at Karathona as a highlight.
This tour is ideal for travelers who want a comprehensive day that combines cultural sights with plenty of water-based fun. The multiple stops and longer duration offer great value for those looking to maximize their time on the water.
Bottom line: a well-rounded, full-day experience for underwater exploration, delicious food, and scenic cruising.
7. Tolo-Nafplio: Sailing Experience with Local Skippers
This sailing experience offers about 4.5 hours of personalized sailing guided by local skippers. It’s designed to give you a tailored itinerary, with opportunities to snorkel, paddleboard, and explore hidden coves.
What makes this trip special is the focus on local knowledge—skippers who know the area intimately will steer you toward the best spots. The experience emphasizes relaxed exploration, with the flexibility to choose your favorite activities. The reviews highlight the friendly, experienced skippers and the peaceful atmosphere.
This tour suits travelers who prefer a less structured, more intimate experience, especially those interested in customizing their day. Its moderate price point makes it attractive for small groups or couples seeking a private, authentic day on the water.
Bottom line: for a flexible, local-led sailing trip with personalized touches, this experience is hard to beat.
How to Choose Your Perfect Nafplio Sailing Adventure
When deciding which Nafplio sailing experience suits your trip, consider your budget, preferred level of activity, and how much privacy you want. For those on a budget who love social settings, the semi-private all-inclusive cruise offers great value. If privacy and tailored experiences are your priority, the private catamaran or the full-day private cruise are excellent options.
Travelers looking for a mix of scenery and gastronomy should consider the catamaran with meal, while those wanting a shorter trip might prefer the half-day private cruise. For a comprehensive day with plenty of swimming, snorkeling, and sightseeing, the full-day cruise provides the best value.
Booking early is advisable, especially in high season (May to September). Also, consider the type of experience you want—whether it’s a lively social trip, a private family adventure, or a gourmet day on the water.
Final Thoughts
Nafplio offers a surprising variety of sailing experiences that cater to every type of traveler. For a relaxed, social day with water sports and snacks, the semi-private cruise is a standout. If you seek exclusivity and a chance to explore tiny islands, the private catamaran will delight. For those interested in combining culinary treats with scenic sailing, the catamaran with meal is ideal.
No matter which you choose, these trips promise a memorable way to see Nafplio from the water, with plenty of opportunities to relax, explore, and enjoy Greece’s stunning coastline. Remember to book early and pick the experience that best matches your style—these trips tend to fill up quickly.
