Athens Private Full day Catamaran cruise with meal & drinks

If you’re dreaming of cruising the Saronic Gulf, this private catamaran tour from Athens might catch your eye. It’s a full-day adventure that promises sailing, swimming off beautiful Aegina beaches, and a decent onboard meal. While we haven’t personally set sail on this trip, the glowing reviews and detailed itinerary paint a pretty appealing picture for anyone looking to add a relaxed, scenic day to their Athens itinerary.

What we love about this experience is how it combines the thrill of being on a boat with the chance to swim in crystal-clear waters—two things many travelers seek after days of city sightseeing. Plus, the inclusion of a meal with seafood pasta and drinks means you’re not left scrambling for food once you’re on the water. A potential downside? The price tag of roughly $2,241 for up to ten people might seem steep, but it’s fairly typical for a private, all-inclusive day on a yacht.

This tour is especially well-suited for groups who want a comfortable, guided escape that takes the hassle out of organizing their own boat. It appeals to couples, friends, or small families wanting a leisurely day with plenty of opportunities to swim, relax, and enjoy Greek scenery without the crowds. If you’re after a seamless, all-in-one water adventure, this could be a good pick.

Key Points

• All-Inclusive Comfort: The tour offers a full day of sailing, with onboard meals, drinks, snorkeling gear, and fees included.
• Scenic Stops: Two swimming stops in Aegina’s beautiful bays are perfect for cooling off and enjoying nature.
• Hassle-Free Planning: Pre-booked with a designated meeting point and a set itinerary, it’s ideal for travelers who prefer organized experiences.
• Relaxing Experience: Expect a laid-back day with plenty of time to unwind, swim, and take in sea views.
• Price Consideration: The cost reflects the private, all-inclusive nature, making it a good value for a special day out.
• Authentic Praise: Reviews highlight the stunning boat and excellent staff, emphasizing how memorable and enjoyable the day can be.

The Experience in Detail

Starting Point and What to Expect

You’ll meet your crew outside Istion Yachting at Alimos Marina, just a short trip from central Athens. The meeting is straightforward, and since it’s a private tour, your group gets exclusive access, making the experience feel personalized rather than crowded. The tour starts at 10:00 am, giving you a full nine hours to enjoy the sea, so arriving on time ensures you won’t miss a moment.

The Sailing and Views

Once aboard the sailing catamaran, you’ll feel the freedom of being on the water, with plenty of space to stretch out and gaze at the horizon. The boat itself looks well-maintained and inviting, which is a plus for anyone slightly wary of the boat quality. The sailing is smooth, and the sea breeze keeps things comfortable, especially on warm days.

The Stops at Aegina

The highlight for many is the two swimming stops in Aegina’s bays—Agia Marina and Vagia. These are more than just typical swimming spots; they are picture-perfect locations with clear waters and scenic surroundings. One reviewer called the boat and staff “beautiful” and raved about the “wonderful snorkeling and food,” which hints at how well these stops are curated for guests.

Agia Marina offers a two-hour window for swimming and snorkeling. The water is described as “crystal clear,” perfect for a quick swim or some underwater exploring. The shallow waters are ideal for less experienced swimmers or those just looking to relax in the water.

Vagia provides an hour and a half for another swim, with relaxing shallow waters and views of Attica’s landscape from a distance. It’s the ideal spot to unwind after the first swim and enjoy the tranquility of the Greek coast.

The Meal and Drinks

Lunch is served onboard, and based on reviews, it’s a highlight. The menu includes seafood pasta, salads, and appetizers—filling but not overly heavy, perfect after a few hours of swimming. The drinks include bottled water and alcohol (wine and beer), although not unlimited. This means you can toast with a glass or two without worry, but don’t expect to indulge excessively.

Guests consistently praise the quality of the food and service, noting that the crew is friendly and attentive. One traveler shared that the food was “wonderful,” and the entire day was relaxing and enjoyable.

What’s Not Included

You’ll want to plan for transportation to the marina, as hotel pickup and drop-off aren’t provided. Entrance fees to archaeological sites aren’t included either—so if you’re planning to combine this day with sightseeing in Athens, budget accordingly.

The Reviews

Two reviews stand out as excellent indicators of what you can expect. SveinErik_B called it a “beautiful boat and excellent staff” and mentioned that snorkeling and the food made it a repeat-worthy experience. Gayle_S said it was a “fun, relaxing day” perfect after a busy week exploring Athens, and stressed that it suits a wide age range, including teenagers.

Practical Details

• Duration: about 9 hours, leaving plenty of time for swimming, relaxing, and enjoying the scenery
• Price: roughly $2,241 for up to 10 people, which could be a good deal if split among friends or family
• Booking: most travelers book around 82 days in advance, so plan early if you want to secure your spot
• Group size: private, so it’s just your group

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This trip is ideal for those craving a relaxed day at sea with minimal planning. If you enjoy swimming, good food, and scenic sailing, you’ll find plenty to love here. It’s especially suited for small groups, couples, or friends, as it offers an intimate experience without the chaos of large tours.

While it’s not specifically marketed as family-friendly, the shallow bays and calm waters make it suitable for older children, provided they’re comfortable in the water. Keep in mind, it’s a full day out, so it’s best suited for those with some stamina for boat trips.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I meet the tour?
You meet your crew outside the Istion Yachting base at Alimos Marina, right opposite Pier 3. The meeting point is easy to find, and the tour starts at 10:00 am.

What does the package include?
The tour includes nine hours sailing, lunch onboard (seafood pasta, salads, and appetizers), snorkeling gear, fuel, port fees, taxes, bottled water, and a limited amount of alcoholic beverages like wine and beer.

Is there any transportation provided?
No, hotel pickup isn’t included. You’ll need to reach the marina yourself, but it’s near public transportation, making it accessible from central Athens.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering some peace of mind if your schedule shifts.

Are there any additional costs I should expect?
Entrance fees to archaeological sites are not covered. Otherwise, most expenses are included—just remember that alcohol isn’t unlimited.

Is this a private experience?
Yes, it’s a private tour for your group only, which makes for a more personalized and relaxed atmosphere.

Final Thoughts

This Athens private full-day catamaran cruise offers a balanced mix of sailing, swimming, and dining in some of the most scenic bays around Aegina. The positive reviews highlight the quality of the boat and crew, along with the stunning views that make every swim stop memorable. For those who want a hassle-free way to enjoy Greece’s coastal beauty without the crowds, this tour delivers.

While the price might seem steep for some, it reflects the all-inclusive nature and the comfort of having a private boat experience. It’s a great choice for small groups looking for a special day out, especially if you value good food, calm waters, and scenic sailing. If you’re okay with the cost and want a relaxing escape from city touring, this trip could be just what you need.

Remember, booking early is recommended, and always consider your group’s comfort with boat trips and swimming in open water. But overall, this looks like a solid way to enjoy Greece’s marine scenery in style.