Athens isn’t just about ancient ruins and lively streets; it’s also a fantastic place to enjoy Greek-style BBQ on the water. The city’s proximity to the Athens Riviera makes it ideal for combining sightseeing with a delicious grilled feast. We particularly like the private luxury catamaran cruise because it offers an exclusive, personalized experience with top-notch service and spectacular views. Imagine savoring a traditional Greek barbecue while drifting along a shimmering coastline—sounds perfect, right? You can read more about this luxury private cruise.
For travelers who prefer a more social ambiance, the luxury group catamaran offers a lively yet relaxed setting to enjoy Greek cuisine and sea breezes. With hundreds of reviews, it’s clear this tour balances affordability with quality. Both options include authentic Greek meals, an open bar, and swimming stops, making them a great way to combine leisure, culture, and cuisine.
Below, you’ll find a detailed look at these two standout tours, highlighting what makes each unique and who they’re best suited for.
1. Athens Private Luxury Catamaran Cruise with Traditional Greek Meal and BBQ
At number 1 on our list is the Athens Private Luxury Catamaran Cruise, which scores a perfect 5.0 based on 67 reviews. This experience is perfect for those wanting a personalized, upscale day on the water. The tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off, making it hassle-free and ideal for travelers who want to skip the logistical headaches.
Once aboard, you’ll enjoy a welcome drink as your experienced skipper guides you through safety instructions. The boat’s luxury setup allows for relaxing deck time with panoramic views of the Athens Riviera, which you won’t get from land. The crew will prepare a delicious barbecue lunch featuring flavorful appetizers like fresh Greek salad, slow-cooked vegetables, and shrimps saganaki, all served while gazing at the sea.
A key highlight is the opportunity to swim and snorkel in the clear waters, with gear provided. The crew’s friendly service is often praised, with reviews emphasizing the spectacular food and intimate atmosphere. The open bar — with Greek wine and beer — keeps everyone refreshed as you soak up the sun.
Bottom line: This private cruise offers a luxe, all-inclusive experience perfect for celebrating a special occasion or enjoying a peaceful, exclusive day in Athens. It’s a bit pricey, but the personalized service and exclusive setting make it stand out.
2. Luxury Catamaran Cruise from Athens with Traditional Greek Meal and BBQ
Coming in at number 2 is the Luxury Catamaran Cruise, which boasts a stellar 5.0 rating from more than 1,100 reviews. It’s especially popular because of its affordable price point, around $197 per person, offering excellent value for a 5-hour cruise.
This tour caters to small groups or individuals and includes hotel transfers, so you don’t have to worry about logistics. The skipper and crew handle all the sailing, letting you kick back and enjoy the sunshine, sea views, and the breeze. You can choose between a morning cruise with lunch or a sunset cruise with dinner, giving flexibility depending on your schedule.
Onboard, you’ll enjoy a Greek-style barbecue meal, with appetizers like Greek salad, slow-cooked vegetables, and shrimps saganaki, along with unlimited complimentary drinks. The reviews highlight the friendly crew and quality of food, with one traveler noting that it was “the best meal they had in Athens.” Swimming stops allow for cooling off in the turquoise waters, and many reviewers mention how the informative commentary about the coastline adds to the experience.
Bottom line: This tour is ideal for travelers who want a fun, social atmosphere with great food at a reasonable price, making it perfect for couples, families, or groups looking for a memorable day on the water.
How to Choose Between These BBQ Experiences in Athens
When selecting your ideal BBQ cruise in Athens, consider your budget, group size, and what kind of experience you want. The private luxury cruise provides an intimate, exclusive setting perfect for celebrating special occasions or simply enjoying a quiet, high-end day. If you prefer a more social and budget-friendly outing, the group catamaran offers a lively atmosphere with excellent reviews and flexible timing options.
Both tours include authentic Greek meals with barbecue, as well as swimming stops and open bars. For those wanting to maximize comfort and privacy, the private cruise is the way to go. If you’re after a great value with the chance to meet other travelers, the group cruise offers an impressive experience at a lower cost. Be sure to book early, especially during peak season, as these tours tend to fill up quickly.
To sum it up, Athens offers a range of BBQ experiences on the water that cater to different tastes and budgets. Whether you choose the luxury private cruise for its exclusivity or the affordable group cruise for its lively atmosphere, each provides a delicious meal and stunning views that will make your trip memorable. If you’re planning ahead, these tours are best booked in advance to ensure you secure your preferred time and type of experience.
Enjoy your Greek BBQ adventure on the Athenian seas — it’s a fantastic way to combine sightseeing, relaxing, and savoring authentic flavors.
