Naxos: Small Cyclades Sailing Trip with Lunch & Drinks

If you’re dreaming of soaking up the Aegean sun while cruising on a beautifully maintained yacht, this Small Cyclades Sailing Trip might be worth your consideration. We haven’t personally taken this exact tour, but based on the glowing reviews and detailed info, it seems like a smart choice for travelers craving a blend of comfort, authenticity, and stunning scenery.

What really catches our eye? First, the fact that it’s limited to just nine guests, which promises a more intimate experience with less crowding and more personalized attention. Second, the opportunity to enjoy a delicious, freshly cooked Greek lunch and a variety of drinks right on the boat — quite different from the usual rushed sightseeing tours.

On the flip side, one thing to keep in mind is the strict adult-only policy, meaning this isn’t suitable for children under 16 or those with mobility or health restrictions. It’s designed for grown-ups seeking peace and tranquility at sea. If that sounds like your vibe, then this trip should definitely be on your radar.

This tour suits anyone who loves sailing, appreciates good food, and is eager to explore the quieter corners of Naxos and nearby islands. Whether you’re traveling solo, as part of a couple, or with friends, you’ll find plenty to love here.

Key Points

• Intimate Small Group: Limited to nine guests, ensuring a relaxed atmosphere.
• Comfort & Authenticity: A well-maintained yacht with private cabins and a warm crew.
• Beautiful Scenery: Focused on unspoiled coastline, quiet coves, and crystal waters.
• Delicious Food & Drinks: Fresh snacks, a full lunch, and a good selection of wines and beers.
• Snorkeling & Swimming: Explore tranquil waters and hidden beaches.
• Adult-Only Experience: Not suitable for children under 16 or those with certain health restrictions.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Setting Sail in the South Aegean

Imagine feeling the wind in your hair as you glide across the calm, shimmering waters of the Aegean. This small Cyclades sailing trip sets the scene perfectly for those craving a peaceful, authentic escape, away from the crowds. The tour departs from Naxos Marina aboard the ANGEL II, a charming 49-foot Jeanneau yacht, which promises both style and comfort.

The overall vibe is laid-back and luxurious, designed specifically for adults who want a serene day at sea. And with a local skipper at the helm, you can expect a boat ride that’s both safe and informative, with plenty of stories about the islands and the sailing experience itself.

The Itinerary: What to Expect

The trip is planned to showcase the best of the southern Naxos coastline and the nearby Small Cyclades islands like Schoinousa and Iraklia. You’ll spend the majority of your day enjoying the gentle motion of sailing, with multiple stops to swim, snorkel, and explore.

Sailing Experience

The highlight for many is just being out on the water. Feel the sail catch the wind as the boat moves smoothly along the coast. Unlike larger tours, this trip focuses on a relaxed, more authentic sailing experience, with the boat moving without a motor at times, which adds to the sense of adventure and quiet.

Snorkeling & Swimming

The waters here are famously clear, perfect for snorkeling. The reviews mention exploring quiet coves and discovering hidden beaches, which means you’ll likely enjoy some peaceful moments submerged in nature. The boat is equipped with snorkeling gear, making it easy to jump in and experience the underwater world.

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The Lunch & Drinks

Meals onboard are a big selling point. You’ll enjoy a freshly cooked lunch paired with seasonal fruits and a variety of drinks, including soft drinks, beers, and wine. Travelers found the food generally very good, with some noting it as “delicious” and highlighting the attentiveness of the crew.

Atmosphere and Group Size

With up to nine guests, the environment remains intimate and relaxed. It’s perfect for those who prefer personalized service and a more private vibe. The boat deck is covered in pillows, creating a sun-drenched space where you can lounge comfortably all day.

What the Reviews Say

Multiple guests have praised the friendly, knowledgeable guides, especially how they add to the overall enjoyment. One review mentions, “The guides were really nice,” emphasizing the warmth of the crew. Another highlights the spectacular scenery and “crystal waters,” which are exactly what you hope for in a sailing trip.

Food quality received mostly positive comments, with one guest describing the lunch as “super good,” though a few noted that snacks could be more plentiful or that the wine wasn’t their favorite. Still, overall, the focus on fresh, local food seems to resonate with guests.

Snorkeling and swimming spots received high marks — guests loved the chance to explore quiet beaches and crystal-clear waters free from the crowds of larger tours. Several reviews mention that the trip is suitable even in strong wind conditions, with guests arriving safely, which speaks to the professionalism of the crew.

Value for Money

At $142 per person for a 9-hour day, this tour offers a fair amount of value, especially considering the included meals, drinks, snorkeling gear, and the exclusivity of the small group. Many guests felt they received a more authentic and enjoyable experience compared to larger, more commercial boat trips.

Practical Details & Considerations

• Departure point: Naxos Marina, on the boat called ANGEL II.
• Duration: Around 9 hours, with available starting times depending on the day.
• Included: Skipper, snacks, lunch, fruits, drinks, snorkeling equipment, fuel, and cleaning fees.
• Not included: Towels, sunscreen, transfer services.
• What to bring: Sunglasses, sun hat, swimwear, towel, sunscreen.
• Restrictions: Not suitable for children under 16, pregnant women, or those with mobility issues. No high heels, pets, or smoking onboard.

This experience is curated specifically for adults seeking tranquility, so if you’re traveling with kids or have specific mobility needs, this might not be the best fit.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

If you’re after a peaceful sailing adventure with a small group, good food, and beautiful scenery, this tour hits the mark. It’s perfect for couples looking for a romantic day, friends wanting a laid-back outing, or solo travelers who enjoy intimate experiences.

However, if you’re hoping for a lively party or family-friendly activity, you might find this trip a bit too quiet, as it’s designed to maintain a serene and adult-only vibe.

Final Thoughts

This Small Cyclades Sailing Trip offers a genuine taste of the Aegean, combining luxury, authenticity, and intimacy. The focus on quiet coves, crystal waters, and good food makes it a standout for those wanting a relaxed day at sea, away from the hustle of larger tours. The knowledgeable crew and excellent reviews suggest that this could become a memorable highlight of your Naxos trip.

If you value a personalized experience and the chance to sail on a well-maintained yacht with great food and beautiful scenery, this tour is definitely worth considering.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for children?
No, this cruise is curated exclusively for adults to ensure a peaceful, quiet atmosphere, so it’s not suitable for children under 16.

How many people are on the boat?
The maximum is nine guests, which helps keep the experience intimate and relaxed.

What’s included in the price?
Your ticket covers the skipper, snacks, lunch, fresh fruits, drinks (soft drinks, beers, wine), snorkeling equipment, fuel, and cleaning fees.

What should I bring?
Bring essentials like sunglasses, a sun hat, swimwear, a towel, and sunscreen to stay comfortable and protected.

Are there any restrictions or things I should know?
Yes, no high heels, pets, smoking, or alcohol and drugs onboard. The cruise is not suitable for pregnant women, those with mobility issues, or anyone with health concerns that might be affected by motion sickness.

Can I book a private trip instead of a semi-private one?
Absolutely, there are options for a private day or multi-day cruise, tailored to your group.

What’s the weather like?
While not explicitly mentioned, given the focus on sailing and swimming, expect warm, sunny weather typical of the Greek summer.

How long is the trip?
It lasts about nine hours, giving plenty of time to enjoy sailing, swimming, and dining without rushing.

Is the food local and fresh?
Yes, the meals are freshly cooked, and reviews highlight the delicious quality of the lunch and snacks.

This sailing trip around Naxos and the Small Cyclades could be a highlight of your Greek island adventure—if you’re looking for a quiet, scenic, and well-organized day at sea, it may just be your perfect escape.

You can check availability for your dates here: