Samos is a fantastic place for boat tours. The crystal-clear waters, the stunning coastlines, and the chance to explore nearby islands make it a top choice for marine adventures. Whether you want a laid-back day of swimming and sunbathing or an immersive cultural journey, Samos offers options that suit different tastes. For example, the Samos: Boat Tour with BBQ Lunch to Samiopoula stands out for its full-day experience that combines swimming, delicious food, and scenic views.
The list below covers a variety of boat tours and cruises: from relaxing beachside barbecues and island-hopping trips to full-day excursions exploring Patmos and the surrounding waters. Each offers a unique perspective on Samos and its nearby islands, helping you choose an experience that matches your style and schedule.
1. Samos: Boat Tour with BBQ Lunch to Samiopoula
At number 1, this full-day boat tour takes you along the beautiful Aegean Sea on a traditional Kaiki boat. The highlight is swimming at Samiopoula, a small uninhabited island with turquoise waters perfect for snorkeling or simple relaxation. Afterward, you’ll enjoy a hearty BBQ meal on Kakorema beach, with options like fish or meat served with fresh Greek salad. The captain and crew are praised for their hospitality, making the day both educational and fun. The tour lasts about 8 hours, starting from Samos’ southern coast.
What makes this experience special is the combination of scenic beauty, warm service, and the chance to connect with nature in a laid-back setting. Many reviews highlight the delicious BBQ and the unspoiled charm of Samiopoula, with comments like, “The lunch was delicious, and Samiopoula is a very beautiful bay for swimming.” The extra cost for sunbeds and umbrellas might be a minor inconvenience but doesn’t detract from the overall value.
Bottom line: If you want a relaxed day with swimming, a scenic cruise, and a tasty grill, this tour offers excellent value for just $79 and is well-rated.
2. Kassonisi Day Cruise From Samos
This half-day trip is ideal for travelers short on time but eager to see the iconic Kassonisi islet. Starting from Pythagorion harbor, you’ll cruise along the east coast, with your first stop being the tiny, rocky Kassonisi, separated from Samos by a narrow strait. Here, you can jump straight into the clear waters directly from the boat. The second stop is Posidonio, a secluded beach with turquoise waters, perfect for swimming and relaxing.
What sets this tour apart is the simplicity and focus on two unique spots with minimal fuss. The boat ride itself offers a chance to enjoy the scenery of the narrow strait and the chance to swim in one of Greece’s less crowded beaches. Reviewers love it for its straightforward approach, and the price of around $60 makes it an affordable way to spend a day.
Bottom line: Perfect for travelers who want a quick, scenic escape with time for swimming and sunbathing, especially if you prefer a more laid-back day.
3. Samos East Coast by Boat with Beachside BBQ
At number 3, this eight-hour tour offers a scenic journey along Samos’s east coast on a traditional caique. You’ll enjoy swimming at Posidonio with its crystal-clear waters, sail past Kasonisi Island, and finish with a beachside BBQ at Megali Lakka, known for its quiet beauty. The tour emphasizes relaxing stops, comfortable sailing, and a delicious barbecue, with reviews praising the organized lunch and the fun atmosphere onboard.
This trip appeals to those who want a full day on the water with opportunities to swim, take photos of the coastline, and taste authentic Greek grilled fare. It’s an excellent option for families or groups who appreciate a balance of sightseeing and leisure. The tour’s price of $62 is reasonable considering the length and included meal.
Bottom line: If you’re after a relaxed, scenic cruise with great food and swimming, this tour offers solid value and a comfortable experience.
4. Day Cruise Patmos Monastery The Holy Island from Samos
This ten-hour sightseeing cruise takes you beyond Samos to explore the nearby island of Patmos, famed for the Monastery of St. John and the Cave of the Apocalypse. Starting with a pickup from your hotel, the tour includes visiting the medieval Hora town, the monastery, and the cave where St. John received his visions, believed to be the basis for the Book of Revelation.
It’s ideal for travelers interested in history, religion, and culture, with knowledgeable guides sharing insights into Byzantine and religious traditions. The tour is priced higher at around $160 but includes round-trip transport, making it a convenient way to see some of the most significant sites in the Aegean. Reviewers highlight the compelling visit inside the cave of Revelation and the impressive monastery, though some noted that tickets for certain sites aren’t included.
Bottom line: Perfect for history buffs and those eager to experience the spiritual side of the islands, with the convenience of guided transportation.
5. Boat Trip and BBQ from Samos
This relaxing full-day tour provides a chance to escape the crowds and enjoy the Aegean waters. Starting from Samos, you’ll cruise to Samiopoula Island, where you can sunbathe or swim at Kakorema Beach. The highlight is a barbecue lunch prepared by the captain, featuring steak or fish, Greek salad, and fresh fruit. The reviews are positive, with one describing the trip as “super and full of good food and fun,” emphasizing the friendly atmosphere.
This tour is suited for travelers wanting a leisurely day, with plenty of time to swim, relax, and enjoy local cuisine. The $81 fee covers the boat trip, swimming, and barbecue, making it a good value for a laid-back day on the water.
Bottom line: If your priority is relaxing with good food and swimming in a quiet setting, this tour fits the bill.
6. Samos East Coast by Boat with BBQ
Finally, this eight-hour cruise along Samos’s east coast offers a similar experience to number 3 but at a lower price point ($65.85). Sailing through the Mykali Strait, you’ll stop at Posidonio for swimming, cruise past Kasonisi, and end with a beachside BBQ at Megali Lakka. The reviews are mixed, with some noting it’s a good value but others wishing for more detailed itineraries.
This trip is best for budget-conscious travelers who want to experience the coast without fuss. It’s straightforward, focused on swimming, scenery, and food, with flexible timing.
Bottom line: A cost-effective choice if you’re interested in a relaxed day of swimming, sailing, and grilling.
How to Choose the Best Boat Tour in Samos
When selecting the right boat tour in Samos, consider your priorities: Do you want a full-day, immersive experience like the Samos: Boat Tour with BBQ Lunch to Samiopoula, or are you looking for a quick dip at Kassonisi? Budget, time constraints, and interests matter—if you’re keen on exploring Patmos, the Day Cruise Patmos Monastery offers a structured cultural outing, while those craving sun and relaxation will appreciate the Boat Trip and BBQ from Samos.
Book early during peak summer months, as popular tours fill quickly. Think about whether you prefer a guided experience or a more independent day on the water. For example, if history and religion are your passions, the Patmos cruise is ideal, whereas families might lean toward the Samos: East Coast by Boat with Beachside BBQ.
In summary, Samos offers a range of boat tours and cruises that cater to every taste—from relaxing beach barbecues to cultural explorations. For those seeking a full experience, the Samos: Boat Tour with BBQ Lunch to Samiopoula is a standout with its combination of swimming, scenic views, and hearty meals. Budget travelers can enjoy the straightforward charm of the Samos East Coast with BBQ, while cultural explorers will appreciate the Patmos Monastery cruise.
No matter which you pick, early booking is wise, and you’ll find plenty of ways to enjoy Samos from the water—each trip offering a different slice of island life.
