From Athens: Hydra, Poros, and Aegina Day Cruise with Lunch

If you’re considering a day trip from Athens to explore some of Greece’s most beloved islands, this cruise to Hydra, Poros, and Aegina might seem appealing. It promises a scenic boat ride, opportunities to swim, explore charming towns, and enjoy traditional Greek food—all wrapped into one day. But, like many tours, it’s a package with both highlights and some quirks.

What really draws us to tours like this are the stunning views of the islands and the chance to taste authentic local cuisine on board. We also appreciate the opportunity to stretch our legs on each island, rather than just cruising past them. That said, it’s important to know that the schedule might feel a bit rushed—you’ll spend a lot of time on the boat, so if your priority is maximum island exploration, this might not be the perfect fit.

This cruise suits travelers who want a comfortable, all-in-one experience—a taste of Greece’s island charm without the hassle of multiple bookings. Families with older children, first-timers, or anyone craving a relaxing, scenic day with good food and live entertainment will likely enjoy it, provided they’re okay with the boat-centric pace.

Key Points

• Comfortable boat ride: The cruise offers a well-equipped vessel with amenities and friendly crew, making the journey pleasant.
• Island exploration: You get free time on each island to explore or swim, though the time is limited.
• Diverse experiences: Visit vibrant Hydra, lush Poros, and pistachio-filled Aegina, each offering a different vibe.
• Meals and entertainment: Enjoy a buffet-style lunch and live Greek music, adding to the overall experience.
• Some downsides: The boat time can be lengthy relative to your time on land, and food quality has been noted as less stellar in reviews.
• Flexibility and convenience: Optional extras like guided tours and hotel transfers can be added, but they come at an extra cost.

You can check availability for your dates here:

The Itinerary Breakdown

Departure from Athens and the Journey Begins

Your day starts early at the Athens old port of Faliro, where the boat departs for what promises to be a full day of island hopping. The boat itself is described as comfortable, with amenities that help pass the time on the approximately 11-hour journey, including a buffet lunch and live entertainment. You’ll likely be on the water for a significant chunk of the day, so bringing some snacks or your favorite water is wise.

Hydra: The Iconic Town and Its Castles

Once you arrive in Hydra, you’ll have some free time to explore. This island is famous for its cobbled streets, traditional architecture, and the donkeys that still serve as public transport. It’s a place where stepping back in time feels real, with quiet alleys and historic buildings. For those interested, there’s an optional walking tour available to see landmarks and learn more about Hydra’s past, though this incurs an additional fee.

What to expect: Many visitors love the charm of Hydra, but some note that the time here can feel limited. As one reviewer pointed out, “Lots of boat time for little time spent on the islands,” which is worth considering if you’re eager to explore every corner.

Poros: Green, Calm, and Scenic

Next stop is Poros, known for its lush greenery, pine forests, and lemon groves. It’s a peaceful place to walk around, shop for souvenirs, or simply soak in the relaxed atmosphere. Some travelers choose to swim here, taking advantage of the calm beaches. The island’s laid-back vibe offers a welcome break from the busy city.

Tip: If you’re interested, you can take a walk to enjoy the scenery, or sit at a taverna and sample local dishes. The reviews note that this is a good spot for a leisurely stroll, but again, the limited time may restrict how much you can explore.

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Aegina: Pistachios and Ancient Ruins

The final island is Aegina, famous for its pistachio groves and beaches. You’ll get some free time to wander around, taste the local nuts, or even visit the Temple of Aphaia if you choose to pay for an optional bus tour. The island also boasts a historic monastery, adding a cultural touch.

What to consider: The food on the boat is described as “filthy” in one review, which hints at the importance of managing expectations if you’re a foodie. But the highlight here is probably the pistachios and the chance to relax by the water.

The Return and Evening Entertainment

On the way back, you can enjoy extra drinks from the bar, and the crew provides entertainment with live Greek music and dancing. It’s a lively way to wind down after a busy day of sightseeing. The cruise ends back at the original port in Athens, with optional hotel transfers available for added convenience.

The Practical Aspects

Duration and Timing

The full-day nature of this tour means you’ll be out from early morning until evening. The exact start times depend on availability, but most departures are planned to maximize island time while balancing travel. If you’re short on time or prefer a more relaxed pace, this might feel a bit intense.

Price and Value

At around $159 per person, the price includes the boat ride, buffet lunch, live entertainment, and free time on each island. Considering Greece’s typical costs, this offers a decent value—especially if you’d rather not fuss with multiple bookings or transportation logistics. However, extra activities like guided tours or transfers cost more, and some reviews suggest the meal quality might not meet high culinary expectations.

Comfort and Accessibility

The boat is described as comfortable and friendly, but it’s not suitable for wheelchair users or pregnant women, and unaccompanied minors aren’t permitted. If you have mobility restrictions, this tour might not be the best fit. Also, it’s best suited for those who can handle a full day on the water, with some stair climbing and walking on uneven cobblestones.

Authentic Traveler Insights

One review notes, “Lots of boat time for little time spent on the islands,” providing a realistic picture of the experience. The same reviewer mentions that the crew is friendly, which can really make a difference on a long day. The food, however, got a mixed review—they pointed out it was “filthy,” so perhaps bring some snacks or plan for a meal ashore if you want to avoid that.

Another traveler appreciated the scenic views and relaxed pace—if your main goal is to see the islands from a comfortable boat and enjoy some Greek music and food, this cruise delivers. But, if you’re eager to explore every island in depth, you might find the limited time a bit frustrating.

Who Will This Tour Suit Best?

This experience is ideal for travelers looking for a stress-free way to tick off multiple islands in one go, especially if they enjoy boat rides, live entertainment, and sampling local cuisine. It’s great for those who want a taste of Greece’s island life without the hassle of booking separate ferry tickets or arranging their own transport.

If you’re after an in-depth exploration or a quiet day on the beach, this might not be your best option. Also, it’s not suited for travelers with mobility issues or those who prefer a more leisurely, land-focused day.

The Sum Up

All in all, this cruise offers a delightful snapshot of Greece’s popular islands, wrapped in a comfortable package. The scenic boat ride, combined with the chance to explore Hydra’s historic streets, Poros’ greenery, and Aegina’s pistachios, makes for a memorable day. The buffet lunch and live music add to the festive atmosphere, while the limited time on each island encourages a quick but enjoyable visit.

For travelers wanting a convenient, well-organized day trip with a bit of everything, this could be a good fit—especially if they’re happy to accept the boat’s pace and food quality as part of the experience. On the other hand, if you’re craving in-depth exploration, better food, or a more relaxed day, you might want to look for alternatives.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tour suitable for families with children?
While no specific mention of children is made, it’s generally suitable for older kids who can handle a full day on a boat and walking around. Younger children or those with mobility issues might find the schedule challenging.

What is included in the price?
The tour includes the full-day cruise, buffet lunch, live music and entertainment, and round-trip transfers if you select that option.

Can I swim during the trip?
Yes, you’ll have free time on the islands to swim, so bringing swimwear and snorkeling gear is recommended.

Are the guides bilingual?
The tour is offered in English and Greek, so guides should be able to communicate comfortably in both languages.

Is the food on board good?
Reviews are mixed, with some mentioning the food as “filthy” and others enjoying the variety offered. Bringing your own snacks is always an option if you’re picky.

What should I bring?
Bring swimwear, sunscreen, a camera, towel, sunhat, flip-flops, and your passport or ID.

Is the tour wheelchair accessible?
No, it’s not suitable for wheelchair users or those with mobility impairments.

Can I cancel or reschedule?
Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours in advance, offering some flexibility if your plans change.

If you’re looking for a lively, scenic day with good food, live entertainment, and a chance to see multiple islands with minimal planning, this cruise could be a solid choice. Just keep in mind the trade-offs—limited time on land and variable food quality. It’s a package that suits travelers who want a taste of Greece’s famous islands without the fuss.

You can check availability for your dates here: