Central Macedonia offers some fantastic opportunities to enjoy the region from the water. Whether you’re dreaming of sailing along the Halkidiki coastline or exploring lush lakes and vineyards inland, this area has a boat experience for you. Personally, I find the Nikiti: Private Catamaran Day Cruise with Open Bar particularly appealing for its blend of luxury, water activities, and expert sailing. Watching the sunset from a private boat, with a drink in hand, is hard to beat. Plus, the chance to explore underwater caves at Turtle Island makes this trip uniquely memorable.
On the other hand, if you’re more interested in combining scenic boat rides with local food and wine, the From Thessaloniki: Lake Kerkini, Boat Ride & Winery Day Tour offers a different flavor of adventure. It’s perfect for those who want a mix of nature, culture, and delicious bites, all in one day. Both tours showcase the diversity of boat experiences available in Central Macedonia.
Below, you’ll find a quick summary of these tours and what makes them stand out, followed by detailed insights into each. Whether you’re after a private luxury cruise or a full-day cultural excursion, there’s something here to suit your style.
1. Nikiti: Private Catamaran Day Cruise with Open Bar
At number 1, this luxury private catamaran cruise from Nikiti ranks highly for its personalized experience. The 6-hour adventure is perfect if you want to escape the crowds and enjoy the Halkidiki coast in style. The boat can accommodate up to 10 people, so it feels intimate and exclusive, with a captain who knows the waters like the back of his hand.
This tour includes several highlights: sailing from Nikiti to Kalogria Beach, exploring Kelifos Island, and swimming in crystal-clear waters, including underwater caves near Turtle Island. Water activities like snorkeling are available, and an open bar offers drinks throughout the trip. A traditional Greek lunch is served on board, rounding out the experience. The guide’s local knowledge makes all the difference, providing insights into the region’s geology and marine life.
What makes this cruise stand out is its combination of privacy, comfort, and active exploration. It’s a fantastic choice for couples, small groups, or anyone wanting a tailored day on the water. The high review rating (5/5) reflects how much travelers appreciate the personal touch and quality.
Bottom line: If you’re seeking a luxurious, private day on the water with plenty of swimming, sunbathing, and drinks, this cruise is hard to beat.
2. From Thessaloniki: Lake Kerkini, Boat Ride & Winery Day Tour
Coming in at number 2, this full-day tour offers a different kind of water adventure—combining a boat ride on Lake Kerkini with visits to local food producers and a winery. It’s an excellent choice if you’re interested in experiencing both the natural beauty and culinary traditions of Central Macedonia.
The day starts with a pickup in Thessaloniki, followed by a scenic 75-minute drive. The boat cruise on Lake Kerkini lasts about 1.5 hours and is a great way to see the area’s birdlife and tranquil waters. Afterwards, the tour includes a visit to a family-run bakery, where you can taste products made from buffalo’s milk, like creamy cheeses and yogurt. Then, you’ll visit a nearby winery in Serres for a tastings session paired with local bites. The landscape of Serres’ agricultural areas provides a lush backdrop for this relaxing day.
This tour has received a high rating (4.9/5), reflecting how well travelers enjoy the combination of nature, food, and wine. The small group size (up to 2 people) makes it feel personalized, and the price offers good value considering the variety of experiences packed into one day.
Bottom line: Perfect if you want a balanced mix of scenic boat rides, authentic regional snacks, and wine tasting—all comfortably organized from Thessaloniki.
How to Choose Between These Water Adventures
Deciding between these two tours depends on what kind of experience you’re after. If you’re craving a personalized, high-end day on the sea with plenty of swimming and sunbathing, the Nikiti private catamaran is an ideal choice. It’s best suited for those who prioritize comfort, privacy, and active water fun.
On the other hand, if you prefer a combination of scenic boat riding, tasting regional cheeses, and sampling local wines, then the Lake Kerkini & winery tour offers a more diverse, cultural experience. It’s great for small groups interested in a relaxed, full-day journey into the countryside.
Consider your budget, how much time you want to spend on water, and whether you prefer a private luxury cruise or an organized day with food and wine. Booking early is recommended, especially in peak season, to secure your preferred times.
To sum it up, Central Macedonia provides a variety of boat-based adventures that showcase its stunning coastlines and inland lakes. For sheer luxury and private exploration, the Nikiti catamaran is hard to beat. If you’re looking for a well-rounded day that combines nature, food, and wine, the Lake Kerkini tour hits just the right notes. Both options promise memorable experiences, so pick what suits your style and enjoy every minute on Greece’s beautiful waters.
