Naousa: Explore Koufonisia, Schinousa, Iraklia & Naxos

If you’re dreaming of a day sailing through some of Greece’s lesser-known islands, this boat tour from Naousa offers a chance to see the hidden gems of the Small Cyclades. While I haven’t personally been on this exact trip, I’ve spent enough time in the region to know what makes these island-hopping days special—and what to watch out for.

Two things we really like about this experience? First, the small group size (limited to just 8 participants), which promises a more intimate and relaxed vibe. Second, the mix of scenic stops and cultural touches, like tasting local Greek delicacies in a traditional taverna. On the flip side, a potential consideration is the pace of the day—it’s quite packed, so if you’re someone who prefers slow mornings or more time on each island, this might feel hurried.

This tour is best suited for travelers who love a balanced mix of adventure, scenery, and local flavor. It’s particularly appealing if you’re keen on exploring a handful of islands in one day without feeling overwhelmed, and if you enjoy the idea of discovering lesser-touristed spots with a small, friendly group.

Key Points

• Small group setting for a more personalized experience.
• Visits to multiple islands including Koufonisia, Schinousa, Iraklia, and Naxos.
• Highlights include swimming, sightseeing, wine tasting, and a traditional Greek lunch.
• Time-efficient itinerary that packs in a lot of exploration.
• Comfortable boat designed for up to 8 participants.
• Includes snorkeling gear and beach towels for a relaxed day at the beaches.

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Closer Look at the Experience

This tour by Cyclades Charters offers an inviting way to see some of the most scenic and lesser-known islands of Greece’s Cyclades. The boat itself is described as comfortable and spacious—a crucial detail when you’re spending around eight hours on the water. It’s designed for just 8 guests, which strikes us as a perfect size: enough to keep the experience cozy but not crowded.

The Itinerary: What You Can Expect

The day kicks off from one of two convenient Naousa starting points, with a quick safety briefing at the visitor center. From there, you’ll hop onto a speedboat that whisks you across the Aegean for about an hour. The first major stop is Koufonisia, famous for its stunning beaches, hidden caves, and surreal rock formations. With about two hours here, you’ll have plenty of time to swim, explore, or just soak up the scenery.

Koufonisia is often described as alien-like for its crystalline waters and unique landscapes. As one review states, “Navigate the crystalline waters to Koufonisi, an island of surreal beauty that seems otherworldly.” It’s the kind of place where a lot of travelers find their camera batteries draining because there are so many alluring spots to capture.

Next up, a quick 15-minute boat ride takes you to Schinousa, which offers scenic views, wine tasting, and more swimming. We love that the tour incorporates a cultural element with wine tasting here—adding a taste of local life beyond just beaches and boats.

Following Schinousa, you’ll head to Naxos for a local restaurant lunch. This isn’t just about a meal—it’s a chance to taste traditional Greek delicacies in a setting that works without electricity, highlighting authentic, simple cooking that connects you to the land and history. The menu probably includes locally sourced ingredients, making it a true feast for the senses.

In the late afternoon, the boat returns, and as the journey winds down, you’ll enjoy a magical sunset while heading back to Paros. That’s an experience many reviews rave about—seeing the sky change colors over the peaceful sea, a perfect photo op.

What’s Included and What’s Not

The price ($158 per person) is quite reasonable when you consider what’s included: a skipper, fuel, snorkeling gear, beach towels, finger foods, wine, soft drinks, and the restaurant lunch. It’s a well-rounded package that balances comfort and local flavor.

However, extras like paddleboards or sea scooters aren’t included. If you’re craving more active water sports, you’ll need to bring your own or look for other options.

The Pros and Cons in Detail

Pros:

• The small group size makes for a relaxed, less commercial vibe.
• Multiple island stops mean varied scenery and experiences.
• The inclusion of local Greek delicacies adds a layer of authenticity.
• Comfortable boat and equipment like snorkelling gear enhance the day.
• The itinerary packs in a lot of sights without feeling rushed.

Cons:

• The packed schedule might be tiring for some, especially if you prefer lingering longer on each island.
• A long day on the water might not be suitable for travelers prone to seasickness or with limited mobility.
• The lack of free time to explore each island more independently could be a downside for those wanting to wander at their own pace.

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Who Would Love This Tour?

If you’re someone who wants a balanced day of island hopping—seeing beautiful landscapes, tasting local food, and enjoying some swimming—this tour fits the bill. It’s especially good if you’re traveling with a small group and value the intimacy of a limited-size boat.

However, if your idea of a perfect day involves more free time on each island or you prefer a more leisurely pace, you might find the schedule a bit tight.

Final Thoughts

This Naousa boat tour offers a well-rounded, engaging way to explore the Small Cyclades in a single day. It combines scenic beauty, cultural taste, and the thrill of the sea—all within a manageable and intimate setting. The value for money is solid, considering the inclusions and the personalized experience.

It’s a good choice for travelers who are eager to see a handful of islands without sacrificing comfort or authenticity. If you’re looking for a dynamic day with plenty of variety and beautiful views, this could be perfect.

Just keep in mind that the itinerary is quite full, so if you prefer to take your time or explore at a slower pace, you might want to consider other options. Otherwise, for a spirited, scenic, and culturally immersive adventure, this trip hits many of the right notes.

FAQs

Is this tour suitable for children? While not explicitly stated, the small boat and full-day schedule might be better suited for older children or teenagers who can handle a day on the water comfortably.

What should I bring? You’ll want to pack sunglasses, a hat, sunscreen, and beachwear. The tour provides beach towels and snorkelling gear, but bringing your own could be a good idea if you have preferences.

Can I cancel if my plans change? Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, giving you some flexibility if your plans shift unexpectedly.

How long is each stop? The stops vary from about 1 to 2 hours, giving enough time to swim, explore, or relax, but not enough for extensive sightseeing.

What language is the guide in? The tour features live guides in several languages, including English, Greek, Italian, French, and Spanish, so you should be able to find a group that suits your language needs.

Is the boat comfortable? Yes, it’s described as comfortable and spacious, with enough room for all guests to enjoy the ride and scenery.

Are drinks and food included? Yes, finger foods, wine, and soft drinks are included, along with the restaurant lunch on Naxos, providing a full experience without extra costs.

Is this a good way to see the less-touristed islands? Absolutely. Since it visits smaller islands like Koufonisia and Schinousa, you’ll get to enjoy scenic spots away from the crowds.

If you’re craving a day that combines the best of sailing, scenery, and local culture, this tour from Naousa offers a solid, memorable way to experience the Small Cyclades. It’s not perfect for those wanting a slow, unstructured day, but for most travelers looking for adventure without the hassle, it’s a great pick.

You can check availability for your dates here: