Samos East Coast by Boat with BBQ

If you’re dreaming of a day on the water exploring parts of Samos that are a little more relaxed and scenic, the Samos East Coast by Boat with BBQ might catch your eye. This tour offers a chance to cruise along the island’s east coast on a traditional caique, with stops for swimming and a laid-back beachside barbecue. It’s marketed as a mix of sightseeing, refreshment, and local flavor, and from what I’ve read, it seems to deliver that in a straightforward, no-fuss way.

What I really appreciate about this trip is its focus on stunning coastal views and relaxing swim spots. Plus, the included barbecue adds a tasty, social element to the day. On the downside, some reviews point out that the facilities at the beaches could use some sprucing up, and the itinerary isn’t always exactly as advertised. That said, if you’re after a simple, scenic day with a small group, this tour could be just what you need.

This experience feels well-suited for travelers who enjoy a relaxed pace and are happy with a mostly outdoor, informal outing. It’s not a deep cultural dive or an adventure-packed tour, but rather a gentle day on the water with good company, great scenery, and a tasty meal—perfect if you want to avoid heavy crowds or complex schedules.

Key Points

• Beautiful coastal scenery and the chance to see both Samos and Turkey from the water.
• Flexible swimming stops in crystal-clear waters, ideal for cooling off and relaxing.
• A laid-back beach barbecue with local dishes, making for a tasty and social experience.
• Small-group setting with up to 14 travelers, which keeps things intimate and manageable.
• Good value at around $65.85, considering the trip includes transportation, stops, guide, and barbecue.
• Some logistical issues noted regarding the beach facilities and itinerary accuracy, so expectations should be realistic.

A Closer Look at the Tour Itinerary

Starting Point and Timing

The trip kicks off bright and early at 9:00am from the main portside in Pythagorio, a lively spot on Samos. As you step onto the caique, you’ll immediately notice the traditional style, which adds a charming, authentic touch to the adventure. With a duration of about 8 hours, the day is planned to give you ample time to enjoy each stop without feeling rushed.

First Stop: Mykali Beach

The journey begins with a cruise through the peaceful strait of Mykali. Here, you’ll get your first taste of the local coastlines — a highlight for anyone who appreciates scenery. From the boat, you’ll witness the coastlines of both Samos and Turkey, which is quite a striking view. This part of the trip is about appreciating the landscape and the calmness of the sea.

Second Stop: Posidonio

Next, it’s time for a swim at the picturesque Posidonio. The water here is often described as crystal-clear, perfect for cooling off after the morning sun. Travelers who’ve been on this trip mention enjoying this break, with one reviewer specifically noting the “refreshing morning swim.” The stop lasts about two hours, giving plenty of time to float, snorkel, or just relax on the boat or the small nearby beach.

Third Stop: Kasonisi

Sailing past Kasonisi island is a feast for the eyes — a small, charming island that adds to the scenic value of the trip. This part of the journey is a bit shorter, about an hour, but it’s a great chance to soak in the views and maybe snap some photos. The scenery here gets rave reviews, although some mention that the route might not always match the map perfectly.

Final Destination: Megali Lakka Beach and BBQ

The highlight for many is the last stop at Megali Lakka, a secluded beach that offers a peaceful setting away from the crowds. The 3-hour stay here includes a delicious BBQ with local flavors, which is a big part of the appeal. The reviewers rave about the food, describing it as “delicious” and a perfect way to unwind. Just keep in mind that the beach’s infrastructure might not be top-notch; some reviewers suggest it could do with some renovations, especially for the comfort of visitors.

Return and Wrap-up

After lunch, the boat heads back to Pythagorio, with about an hour of sailing during which you can relax, take photos, or simply enjoy the sea breeze. The tour ends back at the start point around 5pm, giving you the rest of your evening free.

What’s Included and What’s Not

The tour price of $65.85 per person covers the boat trip, a guide, and the BBQ lunch. That’s quite reasonable considering the length of the trip and the included meal. But a word of warning: drinks like soda or pop are not included, so you’ll want to bring some extra cash if you’d like to sip on something other than water.

The small group size (max 14 travelers) makes for a more personal experience, preventing the boat from feeling crowded. However, some reviews suggest the amenities at the beaches are basic, so don’t expect luxury facilities. It’s more about enjoying the natural beauty and good food.

Real Traveler Feedback

The reviews paint a mostly positive picture but with some caveats. One reviewer mentions, “The trip was ok, beautiful views, the crew very helpful but there are two things which needs to be said: the food was only good, and the infrastructure on the destination beach requires renovation.” That’s a pretty honest take, and it’s worth considering if comfort at the beach is a priority for you.

Another review highlights the discrepancy in the itinerary, noting that the boat didn’t stop at Samos city as shown on the map, and that the “Lakka” pinpoint was on the mainland. It shows that tour details can sometimes be a bit off, so it’s good to keep expectations flexible.

On a more positive note, one traveler describes the day as “enjoyable,” appreciating the swim in the bay and the relaxing wait for the BBQ, mentioning the usefulness of beach shoes because of rocky areas. That’s good advice for anyone considering this trip.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This trip is best suited for travelers looking for a relaxed, scenic day out with a small group. It’s perfect if you enjoy boat rides, scenic swimming spots, and casual beaches. If you’re after a structured cultural tour or high-end amenities, this probably isn’t the right fit. It’s also a good choice for those who want a laid-back day with good food and beautiful views, without feeling rushed or overwhelmed.

Final Thoughts

The Samos East Coast by Boat with BBQ offers a straightforward way to enjoy some of the island’s best coastal scenery from the water. The combination of swimming, sightseeing, and a tasty BBQ makes for a relaxing day, especially if you’re traveling with the idea of kicking back and soaking up the sun.

While some aspects could be improved — like the beach facilities and clarity in the itinerary — the overall experience seems to deliver on its promise of a laid-back, scenic day. At a fair price, you get a guide’s expertise, a memorable boat ride, and a delicious meal in a beautiful setting.

If you’re okay with a simple, unpretentious trip that focuses on natural beauty and good company, this tour might just be what you’re looking for. Just remember to bring beach shoes and some extra drinks if you want to stay comfortable. It’s a relaxed adventure that offers a genuine taste of Samos’ stunning east coast.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for children?
The tour is generally suitable for most travelers, but it’s not specifically tailored for children. Keep in mind the boat trip lasts around 8 hours, so young kids might get tired or restless. Also, the trip isn’t recommended for those with travel sickness.

What should I bring for the day?
Bring beach shoes for rocky areas, sunscreen, a hat, and some extra drinks since soda or pop are not included. A towel and swimwear are also a good idea for swimming stops.

How long is each stop?
Mykali Beach is about 1 hour, Posidonio is 2 hours, Kasonisi is 1 hour, Megali Lakka is about 3 hours, and the return sailing is 1 hour. This allows enough time to relax, swim, and enjoy the scenery.

Is the BBQ lunch included?
Yes, the tour includes a BBQ lunch with local delicacies. The reviews mention it’s quite tasty, making it a great part of the experience.

What are the main attractions?
The main attractions are the scenic boat ride, swimming in crystal-clear waters, viewing the coastlines of Samos and Turkey, and relaxing at the secluded Megali Lakka beach with a barbecue.

What if the weather isn’t good?
The tour requires good weather to run. If canceled due to poor weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

This straightforward, scenic tour is a good choice if you want to spend a relaxing day on the water with beautiful views, swimming, and good food. Just keep expectations in check regarding facilities and itinerary accuracy, and you’ll likely have a lovely outing on Samos’ east coast.