DISCOVER – Iraklia, Schinoussa & Naxos (Shared max 10 People)

If you’re dreaming of sailing around Greece’s Cyclades islands with a handful of fellow travelers, this small-group sailing tour from Paros might catch your eye. While I haven’t taken this exact trip myself, I’ve looked into what makes it special—and where it might fall a little short.

What draws many travelers to this experience is the chance to escape crowded beaches and explore lesser-visited spots in a relaxed setting. The intimate group size (max 10 people) means you’ll get more personalized attention from your guide, which is a definite plus. Plus, the opportunity to snorkel over a WWII wreck and relax on beautiful beaches sounds like a true Greek sailing dream.

However, it’s worth noting that with around 10 hours on the water, this trip might be a long day, especially if you’re traveling with small kids or prefer a more leisurely pace. The price is reasonable given the inclusive nature of the experience, but if you’re after a more luxurious or island-hopping adventure, you might want to explore other options.

This tour fits best for those who love small-group, active days on the water, soaking up scenic views, and discovering quiet corners of the Cyclades—ideal for travelers seeking a mix of adventure and serenity without a hefty price tag.

Key Points

• Intimate group size ensures personal attention and a relaxed atmosphere
• Unique snorkeling spots, including a WWII planewreck, add a fascinating touch
• Secluded beaches and bays provide peaceful, less crowded swimming spots
• Beautiful island views, especially Naxos, offer great photo opportunities
• Long, full-day experience—perfect for those ready for a day on the water
• Ideal for travelers who enjoy sailing and exploring small islands with a knowledgeable guide

A Deep Dive Into the Experience

What’s the concept behind this tour?

This day-long sailing trip offers a relaxed way to explore several small Cyclades islands from Paros. Instead of hopping from one crowded tourist spot to another, you’ll cruise along with a small group (no more than 10 people), which means more space, more personalized service, and the chance to really soak in the scenery.

The focus is on swimming, snorkeling, and simply enjoying the sea. The boat is your base for the day, with opportunities to relax on deck or jump into the water at various stops.

How is the itinerary structured?

The tour kicks off at Lady K Sailing Cruises’ meeting point in Piso Livadi port at 9:30am. From there, your day unfolds with three main stops:

1. Alimia Beach – Snorkeling over a WWII wreck
This is a highlight for many. The bay of Alimia is home to a sunken WWII hydroplane, and snorkelers get to explore this unique underwater site. It’s free to snorkel here, and the stop lasts about 45 minutes. The experience of swimming over a wreck is quite special—it’s a bit like a living museum under the waves. One reviewer mentioned, “Snorkel around a WW2 wrecked plane,” which hints at how memorable this spot can be.

2. Schinoussa – Swimming at Agrilos Bay in Ofidousa Island
Next up is Schinoussa, a small but charming island. The highlight here is the beach at Agrilos Bay, where you’ll probably want to bring your swimsuit and enjoy some quiet sunbathing or swimming. The stop lasts about an hour, which is enough to relax, take photos, and enjoy the peaceful surroundings.

3. Naxos – Visiting Rina Bay Cave
The last stop is in Naxos, to explore the cave at Rina Bay. This stop is shorter—around 30 minutes—but adds an explorative element to the day. The cave offers a glimpse into the natural beauty of the island’s coastline, and if you love quick nature adventures, this is a nice touch.

What’s the boat like?

While the exact model isn’t specified, the emphasis on a small group and the relaxing vibe suggests a cozy, comfortable sailboat designed for day trips. You’ll be on deck, basking in the sun or cooling off in the water, with plenty of room to stretch out.

What’s included, and what’s not?

The tour price is about $201.76 per person, which includes the boat, snorkeling gear, and a delicious onboard lunch. Since it’s a full-day experience, that’s good value—especially when you consider the small group size and the personalized attention you’re likely to receive. It’s also worth noting that the tour is suitable for most travelers, with good weather being a key factor for safety and enjoyment.

How’s the group dynamic?

Reviews consistently praise the friendly crew and the small group size, which makes the experience feel intimate rather than rushed. One reviewer mentioned, “The crew was very friendly and had great service,” highlighting how important good crew service is on these trips.

What about the downsides?

The main consideration seems to be the length of the day—around 10 hours—so if you’re not a fan of long boat days, this might feel a bit tiring. Also, the trip isn’t explicitly marked as family-friendly, and since it involves a lot of time on the water, small children might find it less suitable unless they’re comfortable with sailing.

Weather can also impact the experience—if conditions are poor, the trip could be canceled or rescheduled, but the company offers full refunds if that happens.

Is this experience worth it?

Looking at the reviews, the overall rating of 4 out of 5 suggests a positive experience for most. Travelers appreciated the less crowded beaches and the stunning views. One reviewer said, “An experience like no other. You’ll have the privacy and beauty of some of the less traveled beaches,” which captures the essence of what many enjoy about this tour.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This trip is perfect if you’re someone who loves sailing, snorkeling, and exploring small islands without the hassle of self-navigation. It’s great for those who enjoy small-group settings and want a more personalized experience with a knowledgeable crew.

It’s especially appealing if you’re interested in off-the-beaten-path sights like a WWII planewreck, or if you want a relaxing day soaking up the sun in peaceful bays. However, if you prefer a shorter day or traveling with very young children, you might want to explore other options.

Final Thoughts

All in all, this small-group sailing adventure from Paros offers a wonderful way to see some of the quieter corners of the Cyclades. You’ll get a good mix of swimming, snorkeling, scenic views, and relaxing on deck, all with a crew that’s friendly and attentive.

While it’s a longer day and might not suit everyone—particularly families with very young children or those who prefer shorter, less active excursions—the experience delivers on its promise of tranquility, natural beauty, and personalized service.

If you’re looking for a peaceful yet engaging way to discover lesser-known parts of Greece’s islands, this tour could be just what you need. Just remember to pack sun protection, your sense of adventure, and an appreciation for discovering Greece off the tourist trail.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for children?
It might not be ideal for very small children, as it involves a long day on a boat and extended swimming stops. Keep this in mind if traveling with young kids.

What’s the meeting point?
The tour starts at Lady K Sailing Cruises, located in Piso Livadi port. Make sure to arrive a little early to get settled.

What time does the tour start?
The experience begins at 9:30 am, giving you a full day of exploring.

Are meals included?
Yes, a delicious lunch is served onboard, making the long day more comfortable and enjoyable.

Can I cancel if the weather’s bad?
Yes, the tour offers free cancellation if canceled at least 24 hours in advance. In case of poor weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

How many people are on the boat?
A maximum of 10 travelers means you’ll enjoy a more intimate experience compared to larger group tours.

Is snorkel gear provided?
Yes, snorkeling gear is included, so you can easily explore the underwater sites.

What are the main highlights?
Snorkeling over a WWII hydroplane, relaxing on secluded beaches, and enjoying scenic views of islands like Naxos.

How long are the stops?
Stops vary from about 30 minutes at Naxos to 1 hour at Schinoussa, allowing enough time to enjoy each location without feeling rushed.

Is this tour eco-friendly?
While not explicitly stated, sharing a small boat and visiting less crowded sites suggests a lower environmental impact compared to larger tour boats.

If you’re craving a day of sailing that mixes adventure, relaxation, and a touch of history, this trip from Paros might just fit the bill. Just keep in mind your comfort with boat travel and your interest in quiet, scenic spots—then you’re all set to enjoy a memorable Greek day at sea.