Athens Semi private Morning Catamaran cruise with meal & drinks

If you’re planning a trip to Athens and want a break from city sightseeing, a semi-private morning catamaran cruise offers a wonderful way to soak up the stunning waters of the Athens Riviera. This tour, offered by YachtHop, promises a five-hour escape filled with swimming, snorkeling, delicious food, and incredible scenery. It’s designed for those who want a more intimate experience on the water without the hefty price tag or hassle of chartering your own boat.

What we really like about this cruise is its small group size — limited to just 10 travelers — which naturally creates a more relaxed atmosphere. Plus, the included lunch and drinks make it a hassle-free day, letting you focus on enjoying every moment. On the flip side, keep in mind that it’s a morning trip starting at 9:30 am, which might not be ideal if you prefer sleeping in or have a flexible schedule.

This experience is especially suited for travelers who love the water, good food, and beautiful views without feeling crowded. If you’re after a lively party vibe, this might be more subdued than some party cruises. But if a peaceful, picturesque day at sea sounds perfect, then this tour could be just the ticket.

Key Points

• Comfortably small groups mean more personalized service and space to relax.
• Includes a tasty onboard lunch featuring seafood pasta, salads, and appetizers.
• Multiple swim and snorkel stops in crystal-clear waters, ideal for cooling off and exploring.
• Beautiful scenery of the Athens Riviera with views of the Acropolis and Athens cityscape.
• Flexible and easy booking with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.
• Perfect for those wanting a laid-back day at sea with drinks and good company.

A Detailed Look at the Catamaran Cruise Experience

Starting Point and Logistics

The tour kicks off at Istion Yachting – Alimos Charter Base around 9:30 am, giving you plenty of time to arrive and settle in. The meeting point is conveniently located near public transportation, making it easier to reach without fuss. The booking process is straightforward, and you’ll receive confirmation immediately, which is reassuring.

Since this is a semi-private trip limited to just 10 guests, you won’t feel crowded, and the crew can give more attentive service. While the tour includes fuel, port fees, and taxes in the price, you’ll need to arrange your own transportation to the marina — a detail to keep in mind if you’re staying farther from the departure point.

The Itinerary: What You’ll Do

The tour’s itinerary features two main swim stops, each carefully chosen for their beauty and calm waters.

Stop 1: Megalo Kavouri

Your first stop is off the coast of Voula and Hydroussa islet — a favorite among locals and travelers alike for its shallow, crystal-clear waters. Expect a relaxed hour and a half to swim, snorkel, and take in the scenery. Guests rave about this spot being one of the best swimming locations on the Athenian Riviera. One review states, “A dip and some swimming till lunch is served in this spectacular spot,” capturing the essence of a refreshing start to the day.

Stop 2: Vouliagmeni Beach

Next, you’ll head to one of Athens’ most prestigious beaches, near the Astir Beach Hotel. With two hours here, you’ll have ample time to relax on deck or jump into the water. Known for its upscale reputation, it provides a perfect setting for a luxurious beach break without the crowds typically associated with tourist spots. Many reviews highlight how pleasant and well-managed the experience is, with guests noting the professional crew and the enjoyable atmosphere.

Food and Drinks: What’s Included

The onboard lunch is a highlight for many. It features seafood pasta, salads, and appetizers, prepared fresh on the boat. The reviews speak highly of the homemade quality of the food, with one guest calling it “absolutely delicious.” The included drinks—wines, beers, bottled water—are at a moderate level, enough to enjoy during the cruise but not unlimited.

Guests often mention that the staff are attentive, asking if they want more drinks and making sure everyone is comfortable. If you’re a foodie, this relaxed, well-cooked meal paired with scenic views really elevates the experience.

Snorkeling and Water Activities

Snorkeling gear is provided, and the calm, clear waters make for excellent viewing of underwater life. Many travelers have shared stories of memorable swims and snorkeling adventures — one reviewer even mentioned that the snorkeling was “amazing” with guides leading the way. The stops are well-suited for those who want to cool off and explore beneath the surface, with the added bonus of drone shots capturing everyone in action.

The Crew and Atmosphere

From the reviews, it’s clear that the crew, including the captain and stewards, are friendly, professional, and genuinely committed to making your day special. Guests appreciate the casual but attentive service, with comments like, “Nikki was a great host” and “Captain Nikos and Chief Stew Johana were the utmost professionals.” The atmosphere is described as intimate and relaxed — perfect if you’re looking to escape the crowds and enjoy a peaceful day on the water.

The Overall Experience

This cruise has garnered glowing reviews, with a 4.9/5 rating based on over 114 reviews. Travelers constantly praise the combination of beautiful scenery, friendly staff, and tasty food. Many mention how the experience exceeded expectations, with others calling it a “must-do” while in Athens.

One guest said, “It was a top-notch experience,” emphasizing the smooth, well-organized nature of the tour. The small group size means you’ll have plenty of space for lounging and chatting — a big plus for those who prefer a more intimate vibe compared to large boat tours.

Things to Consider

While the experience is highly rated, keep in mind that this is a morning trip starting at 9:30 am. If you’re not an early riser or prefer a more flexible schedule, this might not fit your plans. Also, since it’s a semi-private tour with limited spots, booking well in advance — usually about 30 days — is advisable to secure your place.

It’s worth noting that tips and gratuities are not included and are always appreciated if you enjoyed the service. Also, no transfers to/from the port are included, so plan your transportation accordingly.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This cruise is ideal for travelers who want a peaceful, scenic day at sea with a small group, delicious onboard food, and opportunities to swim and snorkel. It’s well-suited for couples, friends, or small groups looking for an intimate experience. If you’re after a lively party or a large group atmosphere, you might find this cruise a bit subdued. But for those seeking relaxation, stunning scenery, and high-quality service, it’s quite a find.

Families with older children or teenagers can enjoy the water activities, but since children must be accompanied by an adult and the minimum drinking age is 18, it’s not geared towards very young kids.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is transportation to the marina included?
No, you’ll need to arrange your own transport to Alimos Marina, but the location is near public transit, making it fairly accessible.

What is the duration of the cruise?
The cruise lasts approximately five hours, starting at 9:30 am and returning to the port around 2:30 pm.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel free of charge up to 24 hours before the trip for a full refund.

Are drinks unlimited?
No, alcoholic beverages are included but at a moderate level, not unlimited. Bottled water is also provided.

Is snorkeling equipment provided?
Yes, snorkeling gear is included, allowing you to explore underwater during the stops.

Is this experience suitable for children?
Children must be accompanied by adults, and the minimum drinking age is 18. It’s best for older kids comfortable in and around the water.

What if the weather is poor?
The tour requires good weather. If canceled due to bad weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

Final Thoughts

This semi-private Athens Riviera cruise offers an elegant way to enjoy Greece’s stunning coastline without the hassle or expense of private charters. The small group size, attentive crew, and quality food make for a memorable and relaxed day on the water. It’s particularly well-suited for travelers who appreciate comfort, good company, and scenic beauty without the loud party atmosphere found on larger boats.

If you want a peaceful escape, a chance to swim in crystal-clear waters, and enjoy a delicious meal with scenic views, this cruise ticks all those boxes. Just remember to book early, pack your swimwear, and prepare for a day of sun, sea, and serenity.

Happy sailing, and I hope this helps you decide if this Athens catamaran cruise is right for your trip!