If you’re eyeing a day at sea while in Skiathos, this semi-private trip on a 50ft traditional wooden boat might just catch your attention. From what we’ve gathered, it’s a well-loved option for travelers looking to experience the waters of Greece in a more intimate setting, away from crowded tours.
What we really appreciate about this experience is the small group size—just 16 people—which means plenty of space to relax and chat with your fellow travelers. Plus, the delicious Greek lunch served onboard and the chance to snorkel in serene, less-visited beaches make it stand out as a memorable day at sea.
On the flip side, a potential consideration is the dependence on weather conditions, which can impact the itinerary, especially the stops around Skopelos. If you’re someone who prefers a fully predictable schedule, this slight variability might be worth keeping in mind.
This trip seems ideal for travelers seeking a more personalized, scenic, and relaxed cruise experience—perfect for those who love good food, swimming, and stunning coastlines without the hustle of large group tours.
Key Points
- Small group size enhances comfort and intimacy
- Multiple swimming and snorkeling stops at quieter beaches
- Authentic Greek meal served onboard adds a culinary touch
- Traditional wooden boat offers a picturesque and authentic sailing experience
- Flexible itinerary depending on sea conditions
- Ideal for those who enjoy personalized service and scenic views
An Overview of What to Expect on the Day
This cruise is designed to offer a laid-back yet engaging way to explore the waters around Skiathos and Skopelos. You’ll be on a charming 50-foot traditional wooden boat, which instantly gives the experience a quintessential Greek feel. The boat accommodates a maximum of 16 guests, ensuring a relaxed vibe and plenty of room to unwind.
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The Itinerary Breakdown
Start in Skiathos Town:
Your day begins at the port of Skiathos around 10:30 am, where you’ll meet the crew and get comfortable onboard. From the start, the captain sets a friendly tone, offering a safety briefing before setting sail. The initial 45-minute cruise takes you into the turquoise waters of Western Skopelos or Skiathos—depending on the weather—and gives you your first taste of the scenic views.
Stop at Arkos Island:
Your first swim stop is at Arkos, a tiny green island covered in pine trees. You’ll anchor in a quiet bay perfect for snorkeling or swimming. The underwater gear is provided, making it easy to explore marine life or just enjoy the calm waters. Many reviews mention how peaceful and beautiful this spot is—”a brilliant experience, far exceeding expectations,” as one traveler put it.
Explore Paralia Antrines and Ekatopenindari Beach:
Next, the boat heads to the west side of Skopelos where several remote, turquoise bays await. Ekatopenindari beach is one of the main stops here, giving you the chance to swim, snorkel, or paddleboard. So, if you’re into water activities, you’ll find plenty to do. If you prefer relaxing onboard, the cruise offers comfort and beautiful scenery of limestone cliffs and pine trees nearly touching the water.
Visit Kastani Beach (from Mamma Mia fame):
A highlight for many visitors is the stop near Kastani beach, famous from the “Mama Mia” movies. The boat anchors at a more secluded spot a few meters from the busy shore, giving you both the beauty and privacy. You can swim, snorkel, or just soak in the vibe while enjoying a chilled drink onboard. Here, the captain prepares a fresh Greek lunch, which many reviews rave about—”the best meal in Greece,” one reviewer exclaimed.
Final stop at Tsougrias Island:
Your last swim takes place at Tsougrias, known for its crystal-clear waters and scenic chapel at Lalarias beach. Here, you can walk up to the chapel, enjoy the views, or relax in the shade of olive and pine trees. Refreshing fruit salad and other treats are served, giving you a sweet ending to your water adventures.
Alternative: If weather isn’t suitable for Skopelos:
Sometimes, the captain adapts the route, focusing on the southern bays of Skiathos and nearby islands like Arkos or Diamandi beach. Travelers seem quite happy with this flexible approach—one noted, “a fun day around picturesque bays,” even when Skopelos isn’t on the agenda.
What Makes This Trip Special?
The traditional wooden boat itself is a highlight, evoking genuine Greek maritime charm. The limited group size means no one feels lost in the crowd, and you can chat easily with your captain and fellow travelers. The lunch onboard, packed with Greek flavors, adds a culinary dimension that many other boat trips lack.
The stops are thoughtfully designed for comfort and enjoyment—you’re encouraged to swim, snorkel, paddleboard, or simply relax with a cold drink as you take in the coast’s natural beauty. The reviews frequently mention the quality of the food and the friendly, knowledgeable captain, which elevates the experience from a simple cruise to a memorable day.
The Practical Details
Duration:
This cruise lasts around 7 to 8 hours, starting at 10:30 am and returning in the late afternoon. The long duration allows for multiple stops and plenty of time to soak in the surroundings without feeling rushed.
Price and Value:
At about $154.76 per person, this trip isn’t the cheapest option out there, but the reviews suggest it offers excellent value—especially considering the included lunch, drinks, snorkeling gear, and personalized service. It’s a good deal for travelers who want a memorable, all-inclusive day without fighting crowds.
Group Size:
Maximum of 16 travelers keeps the experience intimate, allowing for personalized attention from the captain and crew.
What’s Included:
A Greek lunch, soft drinks, alcoholic beverages for those over 18, bottled water, snorkeling equipment, WiFi (which is a nice bonus), a stand-up paddleboard, restroom, and shaded areas. These amenities mean you can relax comfortably and enjoy your day without extra hassle.
What’s Not Included:
Coffee/tea and beach towels aren’t included, so plan to bring your own if you need them.
Booking & Cancellation:
Most travelers book around 48 days in advance, so if you’re planning ahead, it’s wise to reserve early. The tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours before, which adds some peace of mind.
Authentic Feedback from Travelers
One reviewer calls it “the best trip ever” and praises the delicious onboard meal, great views, and friendly captain. Others mention how the cooking skills of the captain make the experience stand out, with many saying it exceeded their expectations. Even those who couldn’t attend due to unforeseen circumstances still spoke highly of the captain’s professionalism and warmth.
Several reviews highlight how the calm, quiet beaches and crystal waters make the experience truly special. People love the chance to swim and snorkel in less crowded spots, and the private feel of the boat adds to the sense of a personal adventure.
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Who Is This Tour Best For?
This cruise suits travelers who value personalized service over large-group experiences. It’s perfect for those looking to combine scenic beauty, good food, and water activities in a relaxed, intimate setting. If you’re into snorkeling, paddleboarding, or just soaking up the sun with a cold drink, you’ll find plenty to enjoy here. It’s also ideal for those who want to see remote beaches and avoid the crowds.
While not explicitly advertised as family-friendly, the focus on swimming, snorkeling, and relaxing might appeal to travelers with older children or teenagers—though it’s always good to confirm if younger kids are comfortable with boat trips and water activities.
Questions & Answers
Is the tour suitable for people who don’t like swimming?
Yes, you can relax onboard and enjoy the scenery while others swim or snorkel. The boat is comfortable, and plenty of shaded areas are available.
What is included in the price?
The trip includes lunch, soda, alcohol (for 18+), bottled water, snorkeling gear, WiFi, a paddleboard, and restroom facilities onboard.
Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel for free up to 24 hours before the tour, making it flexible if your schedule shifts.
How many people are on the boat?
A maximum of 16 travelers ensures a semi-private, intimate experience.
What should I bring?
Beach towels aren’t included, so bring your own if you want to lie out. Sunscreen, swimwear, and a hat are recommended for comfort.
What if the weather isn’t good?
The captain can adapt the route based on sea conditions. If the trip is canceled due to bad weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.
Is the lunch onboard really good?
Yes, travelers frequently praise the food, calling it some of the best they had in Greece, with fresh ingredients and authentic flavors.
SemiPrivate Trip on 50ft Traditional Wooden Boat with Greek Lunch
“Captain Kostos was very knowledgeable and interesting. He had a great sense of humor and his cooking was excellent”
Final Thoughts
This semi-private wooden boat trip from Skiathos offers a blend of scenic cruising, water-based fun, and delicious Greek cuisine that many travelers cherish. The small-group setting creates a relaxed, friendly atmosphere, perfect for those seeking a more personalized adventure at sea. The stops at quiet beaches and the opportunity to snorkel and paddleboard make it a well-rounded, enjoyable experience.
While the weather can influence the itinerary, the captain’s flexibility and the overall quality of the trip make it a standout choice. If you’re after a day of sun, sea, good food, and fewer crowds, this cruise could be the highlight of your Greek holiday.
Whether you’re a water enthusiast or someone who just wants to unwind and soak up the views, this trip offers a genuine taste of Greek maritime charm—definitely worth considering.
