Athens: Full-Day Island Hopping Cruise with Lunch & Transfer

If you’re headed to Athens and craving a change of scenery — away from the bustling city streets — a day on the water exploring the nearby islands might be just what you need. This full-day island hopping cruise offers a chance to see some of Greece’s classic isles with minimal fuss and plenty of relaxing in the sun. We don’t claim to have gone on this exact trip ourselves, but based on reviews and the detailed info available, it looks like a solid choice for those wanting a laid-back, scenic escape.

What draws many to this tour are the beautiful turquoise waters, the opportunity to explore authentic villages, and the inclusive Greek lunch onboard — all within a manageable 10-hour day. But, of course, it’s not perfect. The cruise’s pace can feel a bit long on the water, especially if you’re not big on boat rides, and some might want more time on the islands. Still, if you’re after a mix of sightseeing, swimming, and cultural flavor, this cruise could fit the bill well.

This tour tends to suit travelers who appreciate an organized, all-in-one experience and are looking for a relaxed way to see multiple islands in a single day. It’s especially good if you enjoy being on the water, want decent value for money, and don’t mind a busy schedule. If you’re traveling with family or friends who enjoy a mix of adventure and leisure, this could be a good pick — but always check if the specific activities meet your needs.

Key Points

Relaxed day trip with a scenic boat ride through the Saronic Gulf.
Multiple island stops offering swimming, exploring villages, and sightseeing.
All-inclusive meal and drinks onboard, including a Greek lunch paired with wine or soft drinks.
Convenient transportation with pickup and drop-off from key Athens locations.
Good reviews highlight friendly crew, tasty food, and stunning views.
Consider the long sailing times and limited time on each island if you prefer a more leisurely pace.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Why You Might Want to Book This Cruise

This full-day cruise is perfect if you’re after a straightforward way to experience some of Greece’s most iconic islands without the hassle of planning multiple transport connections. The roundtrip transfer from Athens makes it especially appealing for those staying in the city and wanting a seamless trip. Plus, the included lunch, drinks, and onboard amenities like WiFi mean you’re set for a day of relaxation and fun.

From what travelers say, the crew’s friendliness and knowledge make a difference — many reviews mention how welcoming and attentive the staff are. The stunning views of cliffs, pine-covered hills, and crystal-clear waters are also consistently praised. If you love to sunbathe, swim, or simply sip wine while watching the scenery, you’ll find plenty of opportunities here.

However, keep in mind that it’s a long day — with about 10 hours from start to finish — and the boat ride can feel lengthy, especially on the way back. Some reviews note that the sail back might seem a bit long, and the time on each island is somewhat limited. If you’re not a fan of boat trips or prefer more time to explore each destination, you might want to consider other options or plan accordingly.

What the Itinerary Looks Like in Practice

Starting Out: Meeting and Boarding

The day kicks off early with pickup from various points in Athens, including Omonoia Square, Karaiskaki Square, and the Old Parliament. You’ll be greeted aboard with coffee, juice, and pastries — a nice touch to start the day on a friendly note. The transport to the port is included, which simplifies the logistics.

Once at the port, the crew welcomes everyone aboard a traditional wooden boat. The boat itself has a cozy, characterful feel, with plenty of sofas and deck space perfect for lounging. The initial sail is a good time to settle in, enjoy the onboard WiFi, and take in the scenic views of Athens’ coastline.

Agistri Island: Nature and Villages

Your first stop is Agistri, often called one of Greece’s little island paradises. Here, you’ll get to gaze at cliffs and hills covered with pine trees, which many find breathtaking. The small villages are picturesque, with narrow alleys perfect for wandering. The review comments highlight how enjoyable it is to walk around and explore the traditional charm.

During your time here, you can sunbathe on the boat deck, swim in the emerald waters, or stroll through the alleys. The island’s quiet atmosphere is ideal for those who want a break from busy city life. Photos of Agistri often show peaceful bays and lush greenery, great for a relaxing walk or a quick dip.

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Moni Island: Nature Park & Lunch

Next, the boat anchors at Moni, a tiny island designated as a protected nature park. It’s a hit with visitors who enjoy seeing peacocks and deer — the only inhabitants. It’s a peaceful spot to enjoy a Greek beach lunch by the water, paired with Greek wine, beer, or soft drinks.

Many reviews mention the lunch on Moni as a highlight, praising the quality of the food and the relaxed vibe. You’ll have time to swim, snorkel (though masks are not provided due to COVID restrictions), and soak up the sun. The water here is described as stunningly clear and warm, which makes for a refreshing swim or some idle floating.

Aegina: Culture and History

The final stop is Aegina, a lively port town famous for pistachio production. Here, you can stretch your legs and explore at your own pace. The Temple of Apollo and the Temple of Athena Aphaia are notable sites for history buffs, and many appreciate the chance to visit these monuments. The port area is lively, with local shops and cafes.

Travelers note that the time here is enough to get a feel for the island, though some wish it were a bit longer. The reviews mention how charming the port is, and many say it’s a perfect way to end the day with a bit of sightseeing and local flavor.

The Return Journey

After Aegina, it’s time to head back to Athens. The cruise company mentions the sail back might be longer, and some reviews confirm that it can feel like a full 12-hour day, especially if you’re eager to get back to land. Still, most travelers agree that the experience is worth it, especially given the beautiful scenery and the convenience of organized pickups.

Value for Money and Overall Experience

At around $169 per person, this tour offers an all-in-one package with transportation, lunch, drinks, and multiple island stops. Reviewers consistently praise the good value, noting that they appreciated the inclusiveness and the quality of the food and drinks onboard.

The crew’s friendliness and professionalism are often highlighted, creating a welcoming environment for travelers of all ages. Many mention how the views, swimming spots, and village explorations make the long day worthwhile. The boat’s characterful design and onboard WiFi add a touch of comfort to the trip.

That said, the long sailing times and relatively limited time on each island can be a downside for those who prefer more leisurely exploration or longer beach days. Still, if your goal is to see three different islands in one day with ease, this cruise delivers.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

If you’re someone who loves being on the water, enjoys organized trips that cover several sights, and is comfortable with a long day outdoors, this cruise is likely a good fit. It’s especially suitable for travelers wanting a hassle-free way to see some of Greece’s beautiful islands without planning multiple transfers or ferry schedules.

Families with older children might find it enjoyable if everyone is comfortable on a boat and eager for some swimming and exploring. If you prefer more relaxed, unstructured days, or are on a tight schedule and want to spend more time on each island, you might want to look for alternatives.

This trip also works well if you’re a foodie or love Greek cuisine, thanks to the included lunch and drinks. Plus, those interested in local history and culture will appreciate the visits to temples and villages.

FAQs about the Athens Full-Day Island Hopping Cruise

Is transportation to and from Athens included?
Yes, the cruise includes roundtrip transportation from key Athens locations such as Omonoia Square, Karaiskaki Square, Old Parliament, and Plaka, making logistics straightforward.

What should I bring?
It’s recommended to bring sunglasses, a sunhat, swimwear, a towel, a camera, biodegradable sunscreen, flip-flops, beachwear, a passport or ID, and snorkeling gear if you have it. Towels and snorkeling equipment are not provided.

Is the cruise suitable for children?
Children must be accompanied by an adult, and the tour is generally family-friendly if everyone is comfortable on the boat. However, unaccompanied minors and pregnant women are not advised to join.

How long is the boat ride?
The total trip lasts about 10 hours, including travel, island stops, and sailing time. Some reviews mention the return sail feeling a bit long, so pack accordingly.

What is included in the price?
The price covers the full-day cruise on a traditional wooden boat, stops at Agistri and Aegina, swimming and sunbathing opportunities, onboard lunch and drinks, crew service, and WiFi onboard.

Are the sites on the islands included?
No, admission to monuments and guided tours are not included. You have free time to explore Aegina’s temples and villages at your own pace.

What happens in case of bad weather?
If weather conditions are unsuitable, an alternative date or refund will be offered, ensuring you’re not stuck in uncertain conditions.

Final Thoughts

This full-day island hopping cruise from Athens offers a scenic, convenient way to experience three of Greece’s charming islands in one go. With tasty onboard food, friendly crew, and stunning views, it appeals particularly to travelers who want a structured yet relaxing day on the water. The moderate price reflects the inclusiveness of transportation, meals, and multiple stops, making it a good value for those looking to tick islands off their Greece itinerary without too much hassle.

While it’s a long day and time on each island is limited, many reviews highlight how memorable and enjoyable the experience is—especially if you love swimming, local villages, and a taste of Greek hospitality. If you’re after an easy, organized, and scenic way to explore the Saronic Gulf, this cruise could be just what you need.

In summary, this cruise is best suited for those who want to combine stunning scenery, cultural sights, and beach time without the stress of planning each step. It’s about relaxing, soaking up the views, and enjoying Greece’s island charm in a day — practical, picturesque, and, most importantly, fun.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Note: Always check current availability and weather conditions before booking, as the experience depends on clear skies and calm seas.