Blue Lagoon-Vourvourou Lunch Cruise from Ouranoupolis

Exploring the Blue Lagoon-Vourvourou Lunch Cruise from Ouranoupolis: An Honest Look

If you’re eyeing a day on the water in Halkidiki, this Blue Lagoon-Vourvourou Lunch Cruise might be on your radar. We haven’t personally hopped on this boat, but from what we gather, it offers a mix of scenic cruising, swimming, and a taste of Greece—all wrapped up in a manageable 6-hour package. It’s designed for travelers who love to swim and enjoy clear, calm waters while appreciating beautiful surroundings.

What really catches the eye are two standout features: spectacular views from the glass-bottomed boat—perfect for snapping photos without getting wet—and the hearty Greek lunch, including souvlaki—vegetarian options are available if you give a heads-up. Meanwhile, the boat’s water slides and snorkeling gear make it more than just a scenic ride; it’s a chance for some light-hearted fun.

A small but worth noting possible downside is the crowding issue. Multiple reviews mention that tickets are sold well beyond capacity, which might mean you’ll want to arrive early if you want to enjoy the outdoor seating at the bow. Besides that, the tour is generally well-loved but folks should be prepared for a day that’s focused on swimming and scenery, rather than extensive sightseeing or culture.

This tour suits anyone who enjoys being in the water, relaxing on a boat, and wanting a straightforward, enjoyable day out with friends or family. If you’re after a laid-back experience with some fun added, this cruise could fit the bill.

Key Points

• Great for swimming and snorkeling in calm, beautiful waters.
• Includes a hearty Greek lunch with vegetarian options upon request.
• Offers stunning views from the glass-bottomed boat, especially at the Blue Lagoon.
• Crowd levels can be high, so arrive early if you want a good outdoor seat.
• Water slides and swimming toys add an element of fun, especially for kids or the young at heart.
• Good value at around $46 per person, considering the included meals and activities.

Why We Think This Cruise is Worth Considering

This cruise is a solid pick if you’re looking to really enjoy the clear waters of Halkidiki without much fuss. The itinerary hits two of the most photogenic spots—Vourvourou’s Blue Lagoon and Alikes Lagoon—both renowned for their calm, turquoise waters and scenic beauty.

The boat itself sounds quite comfortable and modern, with a glass-bottomed feature that makes viewing marine life a fun bonus. According to reviews, the boat was clean and well-maintained, which always makes a difference. Plus, the inclusion of snorkeling gear and swimming toys indicates a relaxed, family-friendly vibe, though it’s equally great for friends or solo travelers who just want to unwind.

The experience’s core appeal is undoubtedly the scenery. You’ll love the views from the boat and the chance to see underwater life through the glass. Many reviewers mentioned the stunning landscapes and the pleasant sailing route, which makes the time spent on the water feel special.

The Itinerary — What You Can Expect

The day kicks off at 11:00 am from the Byzantine Tower of Prosphorion in Ouranoupolis. From there, the boat departs on a roughly 6-hour adventure across two main stops.

First Stop: Vourvourou Bay

You’ll spend around 1 hour and 30 minutes at the iconic Blue Lagoon, a spot famed for its crystal-clear waters and postcard-perfect scenery. You’ll be able to swim and snorkel around the islet, with water depths around 3 meters, making it accessible even for less experienced swimmers. The boat provides free snorkeling equipment and floating toys, so everyone can get a bit of fun in the water.

The reviews highlight how much people enjoy this part—one reviewer called jumping into the water from the boat “super fun.” The natural beauty here is undeniable, and many mention the clear, shallow waters that are perfect for relaxing or exploring marine life.

Second Stop: Alikes Lagoon

Next, the cruise takes you to Alikes Lagoon, where you’ll again have 1 hour and 30 minutes. The port of the beach is the jumping-off point for swimming, and the waters here tend to be calm and inviting for a lazy swim or paddle.

Both stops are well-timed for enough swimming and relaxing without feeling rushed. Plus, the chance to see two distinct and beautiful natural areas makes the day feel varied and satisfying.

The Meal and Additional Amenities

One of the tour’s highlights is the Greek lunch, included in the ticket price. The meal features souvlaki—a Greek staple—plus vegetarian options if you ask for them a day in advance. Reviewers have found the food to be of good quality, with many appreciating the plentiful servings and the chance to eat locally inspired dishes while enjoying the sea breeze.

Onboard, you’ll find additional snacks for purchase, which is handy if you want to nibble throughout the day. The boat’s overall cleanliness, friendly crew, and the ability to enjoy a relaxing meal while floating in beautiful waters seem to add to the appeal.

The Experience and Crowd Management

A few reviews point out that tickets are sold in excess of available seats, especially at the outdoor bow. To secure a good spot, especially if you want to be outside, plan to arrive at least an hour early—something to keep in mind if you prefer a more relaxed start.

The boat is described as modern and comfortable, but with up to 100 travelers, it can get lively. If you’re bothered by crowds, try to be strategic about where you sit and arrive early. Despite this, most find the overall atmosphere enjoyable and social.

What Folks Are Saying: Authentic Insights

One review calls it a “great family trip” with helpful crew members, mentioning how jumping from the boat to see in two locations was especially fun. Another reviewer appreciated the beautiful scenery and fun water slides, which added a playful element, especially for kids.

Some users mention the high number of tickets sold as a downside, but they also acknowledge that the beautiful destinations outweigh this inconvenience. Many reviewers praise the cleanliness of the boat and the quality of the lunch—which is quite impressive for a day trip at this price point.

A few comments highlight the importance of arriving early to secure outdoor seating, and that the viewing experience from the glass-bottomed boat is a real highlight for those who love marine life and scenic landscapes.

Practical Details

• Duration: About 6 hours, including stops and lunch
• Price: Around $46.44 per person, which includes lunch, snorkeling gear, and swimming toys
• Meeting Point: Byzantine Tower of Prosphorion in Ouranoupolis, at 11:00 am
• Availability: Book 14 days in advance on average; flexible cancellation up to 24 hours
• Group size: Up to 100 travelers, so expect a lively atmosphere
• Weather Dependency: The tour requires good weather; cancellations are fully refunded if weather conditions are poor

Is It Worth It?

For travelers who love water activities and beautiful scenery, this cruise hits the right notes. The price includes quite a bit—two swimming stops, snorkeling gear, a hearty Greek meal, and the chance to relax and soak in views that are genuinely stunning.

If you’re seeking an experience that balances relaxed sightseeing with some fun in the water, and you don’t mind sharing space with a crowd, this trip could be a real highlight of your Halkidiki visit. It’s especially suitable if you’re traveling with friends or family who enjoy swimming and outdoor activities.

However, if you prefer a quiet, more intimate boat ride or want to explore cultural sites, this might not be your best choice. The emphasis here is on scenery, swimming, and casual fun, not on deep cultural engagement or secluded experiences.

FAQs

How long is the cruise?
The entire experience lasts about 6 hours, from departure at 11:00 am to returning to the starting point.

What’s included in the price?
You get the boat cruise with stops at Vourvourou and Alikes Lagoon, snorkeling gear, swimming toys, and a Greek lunch with options for vegetarians if booked in advance.

Can I bring my own snacks and drinks?
Snacks and additional drinks aren’t included in the ticket price, but you can purchase snacks onboard at reasonable prices.

Is there any entertainment or water activities?
Yes, water slides from the boat are available, and snorkeling is included, making it more than just a scenic cruise.

Is the boat accessible for people with service animals?
Yes, service animals are allowed.

What happens if the weather is bad?
The tour requires good weather. Poor weather may lead to cancellation, but you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

Do I need to arrive early?
Yes, arriving at least an hour early is recommended to secure a good outdoor seat, especially since tickets sell out quickly.

Is this suitable for children?
While not explicitly family-oriented, the fun water activities and shallow swimming spots make it suitable for children, especially those comfortable in the water.

Final Thoughts

This Blue Lagoon-Vourvourou Lunch Cruise offers a straightforward and enjoyable way to spend a day in Halkidiki. It combines the natural beauty of calm, clear waters with fun activities like snorkeling and water slides, all while serving up a decent Greek meal. The views from the boat and the opportunity to experience two distinct lagoons make it a memorable day out.

It’s best suited for travelers who prioritize swimming, scenic cruising, and casual relaxation. Those who enjoy a lively environment and don’t mind sharing space with other travelers will likely have a great time. Just remember to plan ahead if you want a prime spot outside, and be prepared for a day that’s as much about enjoying the water as it is about taking in the views.

If you’re after a relaxed, fun-filled day with good value and stunning scenery, this tour could be just the ticket. Just pack your swimsuit, arrive early, and get ready to enjoy the beauty of Halkidiki from the water.