Skiathos: Family Run Group Cruise with Breakfast & Lunch

Planning a day on the water in Skiathos? If you’re after a relaxed, scenic cruise that combines natural beauty, tasty food, and a cozy group vibe, this Family-Run Group Cruise might be just what you’re looking for. It offers an authentic feel, with a smaller, more personal experience compared to larger tours. Plus, the chance to explore some of the island’s more untouched spots sounds pretty appealing.

What caught our eye? First, the small group size — limited to just 9 people — means you won’t be stuck in a noisy crowd or feel like just another number. Second, the combination of sightseeing, swimming, and eating on board creates a well-rounded, leisurely day. That said, a potential downside? The tour is weather-dependent, which could mean rescheduling if the seas get rough or the wind isn’t cooperating.

This experience suits those who love a relaxed, intimate day out, enjoy scenic ocean views, and want to see some of Skiathos’ less accessible spots. If you’re hoping for a quick, social way to see the islands with good food and a small crew, this could be a perfect fit.

Key Points

• Intimate experience with only 8-9 participants for a personalized tour
• Visits deserted islands of Tsougria and Arkos, plus caves and the Skiathos Castle
• Includes breakfast and a meze lunch, with drinks, soft drinks, beers, and wine
• Swimming, paddleboarding, and exploring the north side of the island
• Weather-dependent itinerary, so flexibility is key
• Suitable for travelers looking for a relaxed, scenic day with small-group charm

You can check availability for your dates here:

An Honest Look at the Skiathos Small Group Cruise

If you’re imagining a laid-back day on the water, this cruise might just deliver exactly that. We love how it combines natural beauty with good food and a cozy vibe. The fact that the group is capped at nine people means you get a more personal connection with the crew and a chance to really soak in the surroundings without feeling overwhelmed.

What’s Included and Why It Matters

For $171 per person, this cruise offers quite a bit: breakfast in the morning, a meze-style lunch, towels, soft drinks, beers, wine, and even fresh fruit. It’s a package that feels like good value—especially when you consider the inclusion of drinks and homemade delicacies. It’s not just about sightseeing; it’s about experiencing a taste of local hospitality.

The tour kicks off at Artemida Cruises, conveniently located opposite bus stop 0, with crew members sporting turquoise T-shirts that make them easy to spot. The small group setting is a big plus if you’re looking for a more personal experience, and the fact that the itinerary hinges on weather conditions means you’re likely to get the best possible day out, rather than a rushed, overpacked schedule.

The Itinerary: A Day That Balances Adventure and Relaxation

The day begins with a cruise around Skiathos, where you’ll feel the wind in your hair as you glide along the coast. From the start, you can expect scenic views and the chance to enjoy the refreshing sea breeze. The cruise includes multiple swimming stops, especially in the wild northern part of the island—an area that’s only accessible by boat, so you’re in for a treat.

Highlights include visits to the deserted islands of Tsougria and Arkos. These islands are quiet, uninhabited, and perfect for relaxing on the beach or exploring at your own pace. The caves you’ll see are stunning, and passing by the Skiathos Castle offers a glimpse into the island’s history from the water.

As the boat passes between the Castro islands, you’ll enjoy panoramic views that are hard to beat. The small paradise of Panteleimonas Beach also makes an appearance, offering a serene spot to soak up the sun. The entire route is designed to showcase the diverse natural beauty of Skiathos, from rugged cliffs to tranquil beaches.

Food and Drink on Board

The meals on this tour are a highlight. Breakfast is simple but satisfying, energizing you for the day ahead. The meze lunch is homemade and packed with traditional Greek flavors—think fresh dips, local cheeses, olives, and grilled delicacies. Pair that with soft drinks, beers, and wine, and you’ve got a pretty nice setup for enjoying the turquoise waters around you.

Reviews mention the delicious food and excellent wine selection—a real plus for those who value good eats while traveling. One traveler noted that the meal was a highlight, and another appreciated the homemade touches that made the experience feel more authentic.

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Swimming and Watersports

Swimming stops are typically well-placed, giving you plenty of opportunities to cool off in clear, inviting waters. Some reviews mention the availability of stand-up paddleboarding, which adds an extra bit of fun, although this isn’t the main focus. The water’s clarity makes for excellent swimming, and the scenery around these islands is stunning.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This cruise is best suited for travelers who enjoy a personalized, relaxed day on the water. If you’re after a quick, busy sightseeing trip with lots of stops and a large group, this may feel too intimate or slow. Conversely, if you appreciate small groups, good food, and a scenic, waterside experience, you’ll likely find this tour satisfying.

It’s also ideal for those who want to see parts of Skiathos that are not accessible by car or foot, like the deserted islands and caves. If you’re an active swimmer or paddleboarder, you’ll likely enjoy the swimming stops, but those prone to seasickness or with limited mobility might want to consider the weather dependency and the boat ride itself.

What the Tour Looks Like in Detail

Starting Point and First Impressions

Arriving at Artemida Cruises, you’re greeted by friendly crew members and a small, intimate boat. The tour begins with a brief safety briefing and an overview of the day’s plan. The boat itself is comfortable enough for a day trip, with shaded and open-air seating options.

Cruising Around Skiathos

Once underway, the boat glides smoothly along the coast, giving you your first real tastes of the island from the water. You’ll love the way the landscape shifts from rugged cliffs to sandy coves as you move. The sea breeze keeps things refreshing, and the small size of the group means everyone gets a chance to chat with the crew and ask questions about the sights.

Visiting Tsougria and Arkos

Next come the deserted islands of Tsougria and Arkos, both uninhabited and perfect for relaxing and exploring. Tsougria features quiet beaches and caves, ideal for some peaceful downtime. Arkos is similarly unspoiled, with scenic views and a cozy atmosphere. Here, you can swim, snorkel, or simply lounge on the sand.

Exploring the Caves and Passing the Castles

The caves are a visual treat—rock formations carved by the sea, with some hidden coves perfect for snorkeling. Passing Skiathos Castle, you get a glimpse of the island’s history and watch the coastline unfold behind you.

The North of the Island

The north side of Skiathos remains relatively untouched and wild. As the boat moves through these waters, the scenery is striking—steep cliffs, secluded beaches, and clear waters. This part is often highlighted in reviews as the most beautiful and unspoiled section of the tour.

The Lunch and Final Hours

Back on board, the homemade lunch and meze are served amid stunning views. You’ll enjoy fresh dips, local cheeses, and grilled bites with wine or beer. After lunch, there’s more swimming, lounging, or paddleboarding before heading back.

Ending the Day

The tour concludes at Artemida Cruises, with plenty of memories and photos. Some reviews praise the surprise gifts that add a nice touch to the experience, and the overall friendly, family-run vibe makes it feel less commercial.

Practical Tips for Your Trip

• Bring a sun hat, sunscreen, swimwear, and a towel—the Greek sun can be relentless.
• Comfortable sandals or flip-flops are perfect for getting on and off the boat.
• If you’re prone to seasickness, consider medication or avoid the roughest waters, as the itinerary depends on weather.
• The tour is not suitable for wheelchair users, non-swimmers, or very young children under 1 year.
• Since the trip is weather-dependent, flexible plans help if you need to reschedule.
• The small group size means booking ahead is recommended, especially in peak season.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

If you’re craving a laid-back, scenic day with a focus on natural beauty and good food, this cruise hits the mark. It’s great for couples, small groups of friends, or solo travelers wanting a more intimate experience. If you love exploring off-the-beaten-path spots, you’ll appreciate the deserted islands and caves.

However, this isn’t the best choice if you’re looking for a fast-paced or extensive sightseeing tour. It’s a slow, relaxing day designed for those who want to enjoy the sea, scenery, and good company.

Summary: Is It Worth It?

All in all, this small-group cruise offers a genuine taste of Skiathos’ natural charm. The combination of stunning views, homemade food, and a cozy boat makes for a memorable day. The intimate size ensures you’ll get personalized attention, and the stops at deserted islands and caves are genuine highlights.

If you’re comfortable with the weather-dependent nature of boat trips and value a relaxed, authentic experience, this tour can be a real treat. It’s especially suited for those who enjoy small groups, scenic cruising, and good local food in a peaceful setting.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the price of $171 per person worth it?
Considering that meals, drinks, towels, paddleboarding, and a small-group experience are included, it’s quite reasonable. The value is enhanced by the personalized service and unique stops including deserted islands and caves.

How long is the tour?
The experience lasts around 7 hours, with flexible starting times depending on availability.

What should I bring?
Bring a sun hat, swimwear, towel, sandals, and sunscreen. You might also want a camera or waterproof phone case for photos.

Can I swim during the tour?
Yes, swimming stops are an integral part of the experience. The waters are clear and inviting, perfect for a dip or snorkeling.

Are drinks included?
Yes, soft drinks, beers, and wine are all included along with homemade delicacies.

Is this suitable for families?
It’s suitable for most travelers but not recommended for very young children or those with mobility issues, as the boat ride depends on weather and some stops are on deserted islands.

What happens if the weather is bad?
The itinerary is weather-dependent, so if conditions aren’t suitable, the tour may be rescheduled or adjusted for safety.

Is the tour accessible for wheelchair users?
No, it’s not suitable for wheelchair users due to the boat’s setup and the nature of the stops.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

To sum it up, this Skiathos small-group cruise offers a well-balanced day of scenery, swimming, and local flavor. It’s perfect for travelers looking for a relaxed, authentic experience with a touch of intimacy. Just remember to pack your essentials and keep an eye on the weather forecast for the best possible day out on the water.

You can check availability for your dates here: