If you’re eyeing a day out on the water during your trip to Naxos, the Cruise to Rina Cave & Ano Koufonissi with BBQ Lunch offers a solid, laid-back way to see some stunning spots and enjoy local flavors. While it’s not a secret off-the-beaten-path experience, it does a good job of balancing sightseeing, swimming, and relaxing without feeling rushed.
What we really appreciate about this tour is the chance to swim in Rina Cave’s clear waters—it’s the kind of experience that feels both adventurous and refreshing. Plus, the lunch served aboard is genuinely tasty, featuring local produce, meat options, and vegetarian choices, all complemented by some good house wine.
However, a possible downside is the long journey back, which can stretch to around 2.5 hours, making the return trip a bit tiring, especially if you’re not used to boat rides. That’s worth considering if you’re prone to seasickness or just prefer a shorter day out.
This tour suits travelers who enjoy relaxed pace, love swimming and scenic views, and want a taste of local cuisine without too much fuss. It’s particularly good for those who appreciate a friendly crew, unpretentious atmosphere, and a bit of island hopping without the heavy crowds.
Key Points
- Ideal for relaxed, water-loving travelers who enjoy swimming and scenic boat rides.
- Includes a flavorful BBQ lunch with local ingredients and options for vegetarians and vegans.
- A lengthy return journey might be tiring but offers more time to soak in the views.
- Stops at Rina Cave and Ano Koufonissi provide opportunities for swimming, exploring, and photos.
- Tour is flexible weather-wise, but bad weather can lead to schedule changes or cancellations.
- Group size tends to be small and friendly, with a knowledgeable crew that keeps things laid-back.
A Closer Look at the Experience
This tour from Agia Anna Port is designed to give you a full 9-hour day of island-side exploration, mainly centered around swimming, scenic views, and good food. Starting early, you’ll set sail along Naxos’s west coast, and from the deck, you’ll enjoy views of the Aegean, with plenty of chances for photos and just soaking in that classic Greek seascape.
The first highlight is Rina’s Cave. After about an hour and a half on the water, you’ll arrive at this well-loved swimming spot. The cave’s clear waters are perfect for snorkeling or just wading in to cool off, and if you’re feeling daring, the water is inviting enough to take a quick dip. If swimming’s not your thing, you can walk along the pebble beach or check out the nearby natural spring—an interesting little detour that adds to the sense of discovery.
One of the reviews highlights how much people appreciated the small crew’s friendliness and the authentic, laid-back vibe. “The crew was small, and incredibly fun and personable,” said Chelsea L. It’s this kind of atmosphere that makes the experience more intimate and relaxed, especially if you’re traveling solo or in a small group.
Next up is lunch time. The boat’s crew serves a hearty BBQ featuring souvlaki, oven potatoes, tzatziki, Greek salad, pasta, and rice with vegetables. The food is homemade and of good quality, according to reviews, and it comes with local house wine and soft drinks, making for a satisfying midday break. Keep in mind, the meal is well-balanced with options for vegetarians and vegans, so everyone can enjoy. The fact that the lunch is included adds value, especially considering the quality and the amount of food served.
The weather-dependent stop near Kato Koufonissi provides a chance to explore an uninhabited island, offering a peaceful beach and unspoiled scenery. It’s a good chance to stretch your legs and take some photos, though the schedule might be flexible based on sea conditions.
The main highlight of the day is the visit to Ano Koufonissi. You get about three hours here—plenty of time to wander the charming village of Chora, relax at the beaches, or hop onto a cheap sea taxi to visit other beaches nearby. Reviews rave about the time spent on Koufonissi, with Ana noting that “three hours was more than enough” to explore the island comfortably. You’ll likely find this is enough time to soak in the relaxed vibe, browse some local shops, or just lounge in the sun.
The journey back is a slow cruise, offering a chance to reflect on the day’s highlights or simply enjoy the tranquil sea views. Just be prepared for the longer return leg, which some reviewers found a bit exhausting, especially if you’re not used to boat trips.
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What’s Included and What Not
The tour’s price of $79 per person is reasonable when you consider the full day of activities, the included BBQ lunch, and drinks. The boat tour itself is the main experience, with the crew providing commentary in English and Greek, but no detailed guide service.
What’s included:
– The boat trip itself
– BBQ lunch with drinks (wine, water, soft drinks)
– Water throughout the day
What’s not included:
– Hotel pickup or drop-off—which means you’ll need to get yourself to Agia Anna Port
– Personal expenses on the islands, like souvenirs or additional snacks
The meeting point at Agia Anna Port is straightforward, and the tour ends back there, so plan transportation accordingly. Flexibility is available with the reserve now, pay later option and free cancellation up to 24 hours before, which is a nice touch if your plans are still a bit uncertain.
The Balance of Pros and Cons
While the tour hits many marks for a relaxing day on the water, the extended return trip can be a bit taxing for some. If you’re prone to seasickness or prefer shorter outings, this is worth considering. Still, the small group sizes and friendly crew make for a pleasant atmosphere, and the scenic stops are genuinely photogenic.
The value is quite good, especially if you’re after a laid-back experience with swimming, good food, and beautiful views. The included lunch and drinks are a big plus, and the stops at both Rina Cave and Koufonissi give you a taste of authentic Greek island life away from the crowds.
Who Would Enjoy This Tour?
This trip is perfect for travelers who appreciate relaxed days, love swimming and scenic vistas, and want to experience local cuisine in a casual setting. It’s great if you’re traveling in a small group or solo and looking for a good mix of activity and downtime.
If you’re after an adventure with lots of guided commentary or a fast-paced itinerary, this may not be the best fit. But if you like doing your own thing on the beaches and want to avoid overly crowded tours, you’ll find this a refreshing option.
More Great Tours NearbyFAQ
Is hotel pickup included?
No, you’ll meet the tour group at Agia Anna Port, so plan your transportation to the dock.
How long is the boat trip in total?
The full experience lasts about 9 hours, with the return journey taking roughly 2.5 hours. Expect a full day of activity and relaxation.
What is the meal like?
The BBQ lunch features a variety of homemade dishes—souvlaki, oven potatoes, tzatziki, Greek salad, pasta, and rice with vegetables. It’s complemented by local house wine and soft drinks.
Can I swim at Rina Cave?
Absolutely. Swimming and snorkeling are the main activities at Rina Cave, and reviews confirm the waters are clear and inviting.
What should I bring?
Make sure to pack a sun hat, swimwear, sunscreen, and perhaps a towel. Having water shoes is optional but helpful on the pebble beach.
Is this experience suitable for children?
While not explicitly stated, the focus on swimming, relaxing, and a friendly crew makes it generally suitable for families with kids who are comfortable on boats and in the water.
What happens in case of bad weather?
The itinerary might be changed or canceled if weather conditions are unsafe. In such cases, you’ll be offered an alternative date or a full refund.
Naxos: Cruise to Rina Cave & Ano Koufonissi with BBQ Lunch
“This was an incredible experience. The crew of the boat was small, and incredibly fun and personable. If youre wanting a detailed guide, this tour …”
Final Thoughts
This boat tour from Naxos offers a straightforward, enjoyable way to experience some of the island’s most picturesque spots—Rina Cave and Ano Koufonissi—without the fuss of complicated logistics. It’s especially suited for those who like a laid-back day with plenty of swimming, scenic views, and good food. The friendly crew, nice food, and beautiful scenery create a comfortable setting for a memorable day at sea.
While the longer return trip might be a drawback for some, most find the calming waters and scenic stops well worth it. Keep in mind the weather can influence the schedule, so flexibility is key. Overall, it’s a reliable choice for anyone wanting a taste of authentic Greek island life with an easygoing vibe.
Happy sailing, and I hope this helps you decide if this trip fits what you’re looking for during your time in Greece.
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