If you’re eyeing a day out on the water in Skiathos, this cruise offers a glimpse into some of the island’s most photogenic spots. It’s a good choice if you want to combine relaxing beach time with a dash of local history and scenic beauty. We’ve looked into it, and what stands out are the stunning views at Lalaria Beach and the chance to stroll through the historic Kastro village.
That said, it’s not a perfect fit for everyone. The tour lasts about 7 hours, which can feel long if you’re after a more chill, less structured day. Some travelers mention that certain parts of the trip, especially the last island stop, might not be as exciting as expected. Still, if you’re craving a balanced mix of scenery, culture, and beach relaxation, this cruise could suit you well.
This experience is best suited for those who enjoy scenic boat rides, exploring small villages, and swimming in crystal-clear waters. It’s a solid pick for travelers who appreciate a mix of activity and downtime, and aren’t fussed about sticking to a tight schedule.
Key Points
- Stunning scenery at Lalaria Beach, with white pebbles and transparent waters.
- Historical explore in Kastro, the old capital with medieval charm.
- Beach and village relaxation at Katigioris or Asselinos Beach.
- Time at Tsougris Island for ultimate tranquility and picture-perfect views.
- Flexible free time at key stops, allowing personal exploration or rest.
- Affordable price point around $50, offering a full day of scenery and culture.
An honest look at the experience
Planning a trip to Skiathos and considering this cruise? Here’s what you should know based on what we’ve gathered. The overall vibe of this trip is a lively day spent on the water, with stops designed to highlight the best bits of the island and nearby islets. The price of around $50 per person makes it quite accessible for what you get – a full seven hours of scenic cruising, swimming, and exploring.
Enjoy being on the water? Here are other boat experiences we've looked into in Skiathos Town
The itinerary in detail
The tour starts at Skiathos New Port, where you’ll meet the boat named Kalypso. From here, your journey begins with the beauty of Lalaria Beach. This is often the highlight for visitors — the beach’s stunning white pebbles and crystal-clear waters invite you to swim, relax, or just soak in the views. Expect about one hour of free time here. Many say this part is truly a highlight, with some describing it as “super complete” and “wonderful,” which hints at how impactful the scenery can be.
Right after Lalaria, you head to Kastro, a village that served as Skiathos’s old capital. It’s a place brimming with history, featuring medieval architecture and a sense of stepping back in time. From the main beach, you can admire the fortress-like buildings and take a brief walk to the main gate for a closer look. The reviews highlight the charm of this stop, making it a worthwhile visit for those interested in history or simply wanting to see a different side of the island.
Next, you’ll sail to Katigioris or Asselinos Beach. This part of the tour gives you options: you can explore the quaint fishing village, with its handful of restaurants and relaxed vibe, or spend your time lounging at Asselinos Beach. The latter is known for its relaxed atmosphere and scenic surroundings. It’s a good opportunity for a leisurely lunch or just unwinding by the water.
The final stop is Tsougris Island, often described as a “tropical paradise” with crystal-clear waters. This is for those looking to really unwind, as the island’s serenity and beauty make it perfect for swimming and simply soaking up the sun. Several reviews emphasize the stunning views here, making it an ideal wrap-up for the day.
What’s included and what’s not
Your ticket covers the boat fare, a tour leader, all taxes and fees, and free time at Lalaria Beach and Tsougris Island. It also includes visits to Kastro and either Katigioris or Asselinos Beach.
On the flip side, food and drinks aren’t included, so plan ahead if you want a meal or a snack during the day. Personal expenses are also on you, but that’s typical for tours like this.
The group size and guide
Since this is a guided tour with an English-speaking guide, you’ll have some helpful commentary along the way. It’s not specified how many people are in each group, but tours like this tend to be fairly well-organized, with enough space for everyone to enjoy the scenery comfortably.
More Great Tours NearbyWhat travelers say
The reviews are mixed but generally positive. One traveler raved, “It was a super complete wonderful experience,” highlighting the variety and beauty of the day. Others, however, felt that some parts of the trip, like the fishing village, could be a bit underwhelming, with one mentioning, “The stay was too long at the last stop. You can skip the last island altogether.”
This suggests that while the scenery and historical stops are appreciated, some may find the itinerary a little long or not as engaging throughout. If you prefer a shorter or more focused experience, you might find parts of the day drag a bit.
Practical tips for the trip
- Bring swimwear, a towel, and sunscreen — you’ll want to enjoy the beaches fully.
- Arrive early at the meeting point to ensure smooth boarding.
- Prepare for a full day; wear comfortable clothes and bring some water.
- Consider your swimming ability, especially at Lalaria Beach, which can be quite scenic but sometimes requires a bit of a walk or climb to access certain spots.
- Timing can vary, so check the available start times when booking.
Who is this tour best suited for?
If you enjoy a balanced day of sightseeing, beach time, and cultural exploration, this cruise could be a good fit. It’s ideal for those who want to see some iconic spots without spending too much, and who are comfortable with a longer day on a boat.
Travelers looking for a more relaxing, scenic experience with opportunities to swim and walk around will probably find this tour satisfying. However, if you’re someone who prefers a very curated or shorter experience, or doesn’t enjoy long boat rides, it might not be your top choice.
Final thoughts
This Skiathos cruise to Lalaria, Kastro, and Tsougris offers a satisfying mix of beautiful coastlines, historical sights, and relaxing beaches. For around $50, you get a full day of scenic views and leisurely stops, which many find worth the price. The stunning vistas at Lalaria and Tsougris are particularly memorable, and the chance to explore Kastro’s old streets adds a cultural layer to the day.
While some reviews mention that certain parts can feel too long or not as exciting, the overall experience remains appealing for travelers who want a good overview of what Skiathos has to offer in a single day. It’s a relaxed way to see different facets of the island and its surroundings, especially if you enjoy being on the water and taking in sea views.
If you’re after a straightforward, reasonably priced day trip that balances nature, history, and leisure, this cruise is worth considering. Just keep in mind that it’s a full and somewhat busy schedule, so come prepared for a day that’s both scenic and active.
From Skiathos: Cruise to Lalaria, Kastro, and Tsougris
“It was a super complete wonderful experience”
FAQ
How long is the cruise?
The cruise lasts about 7 hours, with departure times varying, so it’s a full day out on the water.
What is included in the price?
Your ticket covers the boat fare, tour leader, all taxes and fees, and free time at Lalaria Beach and Tsougris Island. You also visit Kastro and either Katigioris or Asselinos Beach.
Can I bring food and drinks?
Food and drinks are not included, so it’s a good idea to bring some snacks or plan to buy lunch during the stops at Katigioris or Asselinos Beach.
Where do we meet?
The meeting point is Skiathos New Port, and the boat is called Kalypso.
Is this tour suitable for children?
While not explicitly stated, the tour involves swimming, boat rides, and walking around small villages, so it’s probably fine for older children comfortable with water activities.
What should I bring?
Bring swimwear, a towel, sunscreen, and comfortable clothing. Don’t forget your camera to capture the views.
How is the group size?
The exact size isn’t specified, but guided tours like this tend to be comfortably organized for small to medium groups.
Can I cancel this tour?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering some flexibility if your plans change.
If scenic coastlines, historic villages, and relaxing beach moments appeal to you, this cruise can be a rewarding addition to your Skiathos trip. Just keep in mind it’s a full day, so plan accordingly and enjoy the views.
You can check availability for your dates here:
