Samos is a fantastic place for BBQ experiences, especially if you love combining scenic boat trips with a tasty grilled meal. Unlike many Greek islands where the focus is on historical sites or beaches alone, Samos offers unique maritime adventures that blend boat cruising with authentic BBQ feasts. Among the options, the Samos: Boat Tour with BBQ Lunch to Samiopoula stands out for its combination of a full-day cruise along the Aegean and a relaxing stop on an uninhabited island where you can swim and enjoy a hearty BBQ. The chance to photograph Samiopoula’s rugged beauty and tuck into delicious grilled fish or meat makes this tour a top pick.
If you’re after a more coastal-focused experience, the Samos East Coast by Boat with Beachside BBQ provides scenic sailing along the island’s east coast, swimming in crystal-clear waters, and ending with a relaxed beach barbecue on Megali Lakka. For those who prefer a slightly longer or more relaxed itinerary, the Boat Trip and BBQ from Samos offers a full day on the water with stops at Samiopoula and Kakorema Beach, complete with a BBQ lunch prepared on board. Meanwhile, the Samos East Coast by Boat with BBQ emphasizes the stunning coastlines of both Samos and Turkey, with stops for swimming and relaxing at Lakka.
Below, we’ll explore each of these options in detail, helping you decide which best suits your style and expectations.
1. Samos: Boat Tour with BBQ Lunch to Samiopoula
This full-day boat tour takes you along the Aegean Sea aboard a traditional Kaiki boat. What makes this trip stand out is the chance to visit Samiopoula, a small, uninhabited island known for its turquoise waters and relaxed atmosphere. The boat’s crew delivers a friendly, educational experience, sharing stories and local insights as you cruise. Once ashore at Kakorema beach, you’ll have time to swim, sunbathe, or explore, all while enjoying the included BBQ lunch.
The meal typically features both fish and meat options, along with Greek salad and fresh fruit, served on the beach. Reviewers highlight the generous portions and the warm hospitality of the crew, making it a relaxing and tasty way to spend a day. The only quibble is the small fee for sunbeds and umbrellas, but that’s a minor detail in what’s otherwise an excellent experience. You get plenty of swimming time, great photo ops, and the chance to relax on a quiet island away from crowds.
Bottom line: If a full day of sailing, swimming, and feasting on fresh BBQ sounds appealing, this tour offers a well-rounded, enjoyable experience with top-rated reviews. It’s perfect for those wanting a mix of adventure and relaxation.
2. Samos East Coast by Boat with Beachside BBQ
This scenic boat tour along Samos’s east coast combines sailing with swimming and a delicious beachside BBQ at Megali Lakka. Departing from the north part of the island, the trip covers the Mykali Strait, with a stop at Posidonio—a spot renowned for its crystal-clear waters perfect for swimming. The boat then sails past Kasonisi, a small island known for its dramatic cliffs and lovely views.
What sets this tour apart is the balance of gentle cruising, swimming, and a relaxed barbecue. The lunch features grilled local specialties served directly on the beach, with drinks and fruit included. Reviewers love the smooth organization and the quality of the food, describing it as delicious and plentiful. It’s a great choice for travelers seeking a laid-back day with plenty of swimming opportunities and scenic sailing.
Bottom line: For around $62, this tour offers a more intimate, coastal experience with excellent swimming spots and a tasty BBQ. It’s ideal for beach lovers and those who enjoy calm waters and great scenery.
3. Boat Trip and BBQ from Samos
This full-day boat trip provides a relaxing escape from Samos’s busy towns. It cruises along the Aegean Sea, with a stop at Samiopoula Island, where you can sunbathe or swim at Kakorema Beach. The highlight is the BBQ lunch prepared by the captain, featuring steak or fish, Greek salad, and fruit—cooked fresh on the boat.
What makes this tour appealing is the relaxed, unhurried pace and the chance to enjoy a meal prepared on board. The reviews note the friendly crew and the delicious food, making it a good option for travelers who want a laid-back, scenic day. The trip is slightly longer than others, at about 8.5 hours, and offers a balanced mix of swimming, sightseeing, and dining.
Bottom line: If you want a leisurely boat day with great food and a visit to an idyllic island, this tour delivers. It’s well-suited for those prioritizing comfort and authentic Greek seaside moments.
4. Samos East Coast by Boat with BBQ
This option offers a sailing adventure along Samos’s east coast, with stops at Posidonio, Kasonisi, and finally the Lakka beach for a beachside BBQ. The sailing route showcases breathtaking coastlines of both Samos and Turkey, with about an hour at each stop for swimming, relaxing, or exploring. The Lakka stop is especially scenic, with a delicious BBQ served on the beach, featuring local delicacies and plenty of sunbathing.
At just over 8 hours, this tour is designed for travelers who love sailing, swimming, and scenic views. The reviews are modest but positive, emphasizing the stunning coastlines and relaxed atmosphere. It’s suitable for those who want a straightforward, scenic trip with good food and a bit of international flavor.
Bottom line: If you’re interested in experiencing coastal views of Greece and Turkey and enjoy a laid-back, scenic boat ride with a BBQ finale, this tour fits the bill.
How to Choose Your Perfect Samos BBQ Boat Tour
When selecting among these options, consider your budget, time, and interests. For a full-day adventure with a combination of swimming and island exploration, the Samos: Boat Tour with BBQ Lunch to Samiopoula offers the most comprehensive experience. If your focus is on crystal-clear waters and a relaxing beach barbecue, the Samos East Coast by Boat with Beachside BBQ is excellent and more affordable. For travelers wanting a longer, more relaxed day on the water with authentic Greek flavors, the Boat Trip and BBQ from Samos provides a great balance. Lastly, if you’re fascinated by coastal scenery of both Greece and Turkey, the Samos East Coast by Boat with BBQ delivers stunning views and a laid-back vibe.
Booking early is recommended, especially in peak summer months. Check availability and start times to match your travel plans. Consider your comfort with boat trips—if you’re prone to seasickness, opt for tours with calmer waters or shorter durations.
Final Thoughts
Samos offers a variety of memorable BBQ boat experiences that blend scenic sailing, swimming in clear waters, and hearty, authentic Greek food. Whether you prefer a full-day cruise to Samiopoula, a coastal sailing adventure with beach barbecue, or a scenic voyage including Turkey’s coastline, there’s an option for everyone.
For those seeking a romantic getaway, the full-day Samiopoula cruise is perfect. Families or groups who love swimming and beach days will enjoy the scenic east coast tours. Budget travelers will find the more affordable options equally enjoyable, especially if they are flexible on timing and itinerary.
Start planning early, book in advance, and prepare for a delicious, sun-filled day on the waters of Samos—an island that truly shines with its maritime charm and superb BBQ experiences.
