Athens: Private Daily Cruise & Snorkeling Petalioi Marmari

Imagine sailing through some of Greece’s most stunning waters, with the sun warming your back and the promise of underwater discoveries ahead. That’s essentially what a day with Summer Dream Boats offers — a chance to escape the crowds, explore the beautiful Petalioi Islands, and experience Greece from a different perspective. While we haven’t personally taken this exact trip, the detailed reviews and itinerary paint a pretty appealing picture for those looking for a mix of relaxation, adventure, and a taste of local charm.

What really catches our eye is the private boat aspect, which promises a more personalized experience compared to typical group tours. Plus, the opportunity to snorkel in vibrant waters and capture aerial images with a drone sounds like a fantastic way to make your day memorable. However, a potential consideration is that the tour is six hours long, which might be a bit much for anyone with limited stamina or specific time constraints.

This tour seems especially suited for travelers who love the water, enjoy exploring off-the-beaten-path spots, or simply want a relaxing day on the sea with a touch of luxury. If you’re someone who appreciates having a flexible, tailored experience and enjoys good company without the crowds, this could be a great pick for your Greece trip.

Key Points

• Private, personalized experience ensures a quieter, more tailored day on the water.
• Multiple stops for swimming, snorkeling, and exploring charming villages like Marmari.
• Snacks and drinks onboard keep you refreshed without the need for additional planning.
• High-performance rib boat offers comfort and speed, making the journey smooth.
• Use of drone and waterproof camera means lots of great photo opportunities.
• All fees and taxes included, plus towels and snorkeling gear — no hidden costs.
• Flexibility in cancellation (up to 24 hours before) allows peace of mind.

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Closer Look at the Experience

When considering a private boat tour like this, it’s helpful to understand what each part of the day entails and what you can expect to get from it. Based on the detailed itinerary and reviews, here’s how it all unfolds.

Starting Point and Safety Briefing

The tour begins at a designated parking area, where the crew welcomes you and provides a short safety briefing. This part is straightforward, taking about 15 minutes, and is essential to ensure everyone feels comfortable and prepared. The crew is described as knowledgeable, which helps set a tone of professionalism and safety.

The Cruise from Attica to Marathon

After the briefing, the boat departs for Marathon, cruising for about 30 minutes. While this isn’t the most scenic part of the day, it’s a nice chance to settle into the boat and enjoy the company of your crew and fellow travelers. The boat, a high-performance rib, is praised for being smooth and comfortable even at speed.

Exploring Megalonisos Petalion

The highlight of the tour is the stop at Megalonisos Petalion, where you get around 2.5 hours for swimming, snorkeling, and enjoying local snacks. The waters here are described as crystal-clear, perfect for a swim or exploring underwater life with the provided snorkeling gear. As one reviewer mentioned, “The water was incredibly clear, and the snorkeling was fantastic,” highlighting the quality of the marine environment.

This stop offers a nice balance of activity and relaxation, with plenty of time to soak up the sun, take underwater photos with the waterproof camera, or simply lounge on the boat with snacks and drinks served onboard. The crew’s attentiveness and friendly attitude contribute to a laid-back, enjoyable vibe.

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Marmari and Its Charm

Next, the boat heads to Marmari, a small fishing village on Evia. Here, you’re given about 1.5 hours to explore — a perfect window to walk along the picturesque seafront, hit a local tavern for seafood, or just relax at a beach. It’s a chance to experience authentic local life away from tourist-heavy spots. Several reviews mention how charming and quaint Marmari feels, making it a worthwhile cultural stop.

Final Cruise and Return

The last cruise takes you back along Schinias Beach, another 30-minute ride filled with scenic views and the chance to capture some aerial shots with the drone. The boat then heads back to the starting parking area, marking the end of the day.

What Makes This Tour Stand Out?

The private aspect is arguably the biggest draw, especially for those who prefer a more intimate experience without the hustle of large tour groups. The crew’s attention to detail — from providing towels to snorkeling gear and ensuring safety — adds a layer of comfort. The inclusion of a waterproof camera and drone allows you to focus on enjoying yourself while capturing stunning visuals of your day at sea.

The stops are thoughtfully chosen. Megalonisos offers a pristine swimming environment, while Marmari provides a peek into local Greek life. These different environments balance adventure with leisure, offering something for all.

Food and drinks onboard are also a hit, with a selection of snacks, soft drinks, and bottled water. As some reviews highlight, “The snacks were delicious, and the crew kept everyone well-hydrated,” which is crucial on a sunny day on the water.

Considering the Price and Overall Value

While the exact cost isn’t specified here, the tour’s inclusions — private group, snorkeling gear, snacks, a waterproof camera, drone footage, and all taxes — suggest it offers good value for those wanting a customized experience. Compared to crowded group tours, the private setting and personalized attention can make the price worthwhile for a memorable day.

The six-hour duration is also appropriate for a full, relaxed experience. You get enough time to enjoy multiple stops, have a good swim, explore the villages, and still return comfortably before evening.

Practical Tips for Your Trip

• Bring your passport or ID — it’s required for check-in.
• Dress comfortably and bring swimwear, sunscreen, and a hat.
• The tour is not suitable for babies under 1 year, so if you’re traveling with very young children, this might not be the best fit.
• Reserve and pay later to keep your plans flexible, especially in case of last-minute changes.
• Remember that alcohol and drugs are not allowed onboard for safety reasons.
• Consider packing an extra towel or a change of clothes if you plan to explore the villages afterward.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This experience appeals most to travelers who prioritize a private, relaxed day at sea over structured group activities. If you’re into snorkeling, scenic boat rides, and picturesque villages, you’ll find plenty to love here. It’s also a good pick for anyone wanting a flexible, customizable day with plenty of photo opportunities and local flavor.

However, if you’re traveling with very young children, or if you prefer a more structured, guided tour with fixed schedules, some might find this less ideal. Also, those who are less comfortable on boats might want to consider their sea legs before booking.

FAQs

How long is the tour? The experience lasts approximately 6 hours, starting from the parking area and including all stops and cruising time.

What should I bring? Bring your passport or ID, swimsuit, sunscreen, and perhaps a hat. The tour provides towels and snorkeling gear but bringing your own waterproof camera is optional.

Is the tour suitable for children? It’s not suitable for babies under 1 year, but older children comfortable with boat rides and swimming will likely enjoy it.

Can I cancel if my plans change? Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering some flexibility.

Are meals included? Snacks and drinks are provided onboard, but there is no mention of a full meal. You might want to bring extra snacks if you’re hungry.

What is the boat like? The boat is a high-performance rib, known for being fast and comfortable, making the cruise smooth and enjoyable.

Do I get good photo opportunities? Absolutely, thanks to the waterproof camera and drone, you’ll have plenty of chances to capture stunning shots.

Is the experience eco-friendly? The tour offsets carbon emissions, which is a nice touch for environmentally conscious travelers.

Final Thoughts

If you’re seeking a private, flexible day out on the water with a good mix of swimming, exploring, and relaxing, this tour ticks many boxes. The combination of scenic stops, the quality of the crew, the extra touches like snacks and photo gear, and the chance to see the Petalioi Islands and Marmari make it a compelling choice.

For those wanting an intimate, well-rounded Greek sea adventure that balances comfort with discovery, this experience is worth considering. It’s especially suited for travelers who appreciate personalized service and the freedom to enjoy each stop at their own pace.

While it’s not perfect for everyone—particularly families with very young children or those on a strict schedule—most will find this a memorable way to experience Greece’s coastlines and islands. Just remember to book in advance, bring your essentials, and get ready for a day of sunshine, sea, and stunning views.

Enjoy your trip, and may the Greek waters bring you as much joy as they’ve brought countless travelers before!

You can check availability for your dates here: