Athens isn’t just about ancient ruins and lively street cafes—its coastal location makes it a perfect starting point for boat tours and cruises that reveal another side of Greece’s capital. Picture yourself sailing on a traditional wooden boat, swimming in turquoise waters, or watching the sunset from a sleek catamaran. We love experiences like the Athens: Cruise to Agistri, Moni & Aegina with Lunch & Drinks for its comprehensive itinerary and lively atmosphere, or the Riviera Catamaran Cruise for its luxury feel and gourmet meal. Whether you’re after a relaxed day with family, a romantic sunset sail, or an active island exploration, Athens offers a variety of options that suit different tastes and budgets.
In this list, you’ll find full-day island-hopping adventures, half-day scenic cruises, luxury yacht experiences, and specialized gastronomic voyages. Some tours focus on snorkeling, others on exploring charming villages, and a few highlight the best spots for swimming and sunbathing. Each offers a unique perspective on Athens and its surrounding islands—perfect for both first-time visitors and seasoned sailors. For a taste of Greece from the water, check out the full lineup below.
1. Athens: Cruise to Agistri, Moni & Aegina with Lunch & Drinks
This 10-hour coastal journey takes you from Athens on a traditional wooden boat to Agistri, Moni, and Aegina. The tour includes swimming, snorkeling, and sightseeing, with breakfast, a Greek buffet lunch, and unlimited drinks served onboard. The boat’s classic design enhances the authentic feeling of this trip, which is well-loved for its friendly crew and well-organized schedule. Highlights include visiting Agistri’s beaches or biking around its peaceful streets, and exploring Aegina’s markets and pistachio stalls. Reviews consistently praise the delicious food and the relaxed atmosphere, with travelers especially enjoying swimming off the boat and the scenic island stops. This tour is perfect for those wanting a full day of variety, comfort, and authentic Greek island charm.
Bottom Line: A great all-around choice for families or couples seeking a full-day, relaxing cruise with local flavor.
2. Athens Day Cruise: Agistri, Moni & Aegina + Lunch & Drinks
For around $150, this 10-hour full-day cruise offers an expert-led exploration of the Saronic Gulf, aboard a spacious, traditional motor sailer. The tour includes swimming in crystal-clear waters, and free time on land to explore Agistri’s beaches or Aegina’s historic sites. An especially appealing feature is the pistachio tasting on Aegina, which many travelers find memorable. The itinerary balances scenic cruising with land excursions, like walking through quaint villages or enjoying scenic bike rides. Guests often highlight the friendly hosts and delicious buffet lunch with drinks.
This tour suits travelers who want a comprehensive experience with some active options but also ample relaxing time. The value for money is good, especially with the included food and drinks, making it a solid choice for a full-day escape from Athens.
Bottom Line: Ideal for those who want a mix of swimming, sightseeing, and local tastings in one well-organized package.
3. Athens cruise: Agistri, Moni/Metopi, Aegina with lunch & drinks
This luxury yacht experience stands out for its personalized touch and immersive island-hopping. Starting from Piraeus, the full-day sailing adventure includes snorkeling gear, Wi-Fi onboard, and stops at Agistri, Moni or Metopi, and Aegina. The crew is dedicated to making your experience relaxing and memorable, handling all the sailing while you unwind. The tour features stops for swimming, snorkeling, and exploring charming villages. The all-inclusive buffet lunch with unlimited beer and wine makes it feel like a true indulgence. With rave reviews like “the crew was attentive and the boat was comfortable,” this is perfect for travelers seeking comfort and exclusivity.
Bottom Line: For those wanting a luxury, all-inclusive sailing with intimate service, this yacht cruise offers a top-tier experience.
4. Athens: Agistri, Metopi & Aegina Cruise with Meals & Drinks
This 10-hour cruise combines scenic island stops with all-inclusive Greek buffet lunch and unlimited drinks. Starting from Athens with convenient hotel transfers, it explores Agistri’s natural beauty, Aegina’s architecture, and Moni or Metopi’s swimming spots. The tour includes free time to walk, shop, or bike, and snorkeling gear is provided. The reviews note the delicious food and friendly staff, with many travelers praising the smooth logistics and diverse itinerary. It’s a good choice for travelers who want a balanced mix of land exploration and water activities.
Bottom Line: A well-rounded, all-in-one cruise ideal for families and active explorers wanting reliable comfort.
5. Athens: Riviera Catamaran Cruise with Meal and Drinks
This luxurious 5-hour cruise along the Athens Riviera offers a gourmet BBQ meal and breathtaking views from a sleek catamaran. You’ll enjoy sunbathing, swimming, and snorkeling in secluded bays, with the coastline as your backdrop. The reviews rave about the delicious food and friendly crew, with many guests citing it as a highlight of their trip. It’s perfect if you’re seeking a more upscale experience and want to combine relaxation with scenic splendor.
Bottom Line: Best suited for travelers craving a luxury feel and scenic coastline views in a short but memorable trip.
6. From Athens: Hydra, Poros, and Aegina Day Cruise with Lunch
This full-day cruise takes you to three iconic Saronic Islands: Hydra, Poros, and Aegina. The 12-hour trip includes self-guided exploration on each island, buffet lunch onboard, and scenic sailing along the coast. The reviews highlight the well-organized schedule and delicious food, with some travelers enjoying free time for shopping, sightseeing, and taking photos. The upgraded transfer options make logistics easier, particularly if you stay outside central Athens.
Bottom Line: Perfect for those wanting a comprehensive island experience with time to explore each location at a relaxed pace.
7. Athens: Half-Day Morning Catamaran Cruise with Meal & Drinks
This 5-hour morning cruise offers a beautiful way to start your day exploring the Athens Riviera, with stops at Vouliagmeni Bay and Hydroussa islet. You’ll enjoy swimming, snorkeling, and snack-style Greek tapas paired with regional wine. The reviews mention the friendly crew and stunning views. It’s suitable for those looking for a short, scenic morning with a relaxed pace and no long commitments.
Bottom Line: Ideal for travelers wanting a morning escape with water activities and scenic views in a shorter timeframe.
8. Athens: Half-Day Sunset Catamaran Cruise with Meal & Drinks
Experience the magic of a Greek sunset on this 4-hour cruise along the Saronic Gulf. The modern catamaran offers opportunities for swimming, snorkeling, and relaxing as you watch the sun dip behind Athens’ coast. The included dinner and drinks enhance the experience, and reviews praise the friendly crew and spectacular scenery. Perfect for a romantic evening or a quiet way to end your day.
Bottom Line: Best for those seeking a romantic or peaceful sunset experience with light water activities.
9. Athens Semi Private Sunset Catamaran Cruise with meal & drinks
This intimate cruise limits groups to just 10 people, ensuring a personalized experience. It features sunset views, a delicious meal, and local wine or beer. You’ll stop at Vouliagmeni and Kavouri Beach, with the option to swim and snorkel. Travelers love the calm, private atmosphere and praise the delicious food and hospitable crew. It’s ideal if you’re after a romantic mini escape or a peaceful, small-group outing.
Bottom Line: Best suited for couples or small groups seeking a more exclusive, relaxed sunset cruise.
10. Greek Gastronomy & Wine Pairing Cruise with a Sommelier in Athens
This 5-hour trip combines Greece’s culinary delights with wine tasting. Led by a sommelier, you’ll enjoy multi-course Greek dishes onboard, paired with local wines. The tour includes snorkeling gear, sunbathing, and intimate group size for a personalized experience. The reviews emphasize the quality of the food and the knowledgeable host. It’s perfect for food lovers who want a gastronomic journey mixed with sailing.
Bottom Line: Ideal for those wanting to experience Greece through its food and wine in a relaxed setting.
11. Athens: Semi private Morning Catamaran cruise with meal & drinks
This small-group tour (up to 10 travelers) is a gentle morning cruise along the Athens coastline. It features swimming, snorkeling, and a hearty onboard lunch with drinks. Reviewers mention friendly hosts and stunning scenery, making it a peaceful, laid-back way to enjoy the water before the day heats up.
Bottom Line: A great choice for small groups or couples looking for a serene start to their day.
12. Athens: All Day Cruise to Agistri Moni Aegina with Lunch & Drinks
This full-day, island-hopping cruise packs in three islands—Agistri, Moni, and Aegina—with swimming, snorkeling, and exploring on land. The round-trip transfer from Athens and delicious buffet lunch make it very convenient. The reviews mention how well-organized the trip is and the friendly crew, with many appreciating the balanced schedule that allows plenty of exploration.
Bottom Line: A smart pick for travelers wanting to maximize island visits in a single day with minimal hassle.
13. Snorkeling Boat Excursions in Nea Makri, Athens
If snorkeling is your priority, this half-day tour near Athens is perfect. It includes private boat trips to Dipsa Island, Marathon Cape, and Schinias Bay, with snorkel gear, snacks, and drinks provided. Reviewers mention the friendly guide and top-notch snorkeling spots. The tour is suitable for families and those wanting a short, active water adventure close to Athens.
Bottom Line: Excellent for snorkelers wanting a personalized, scenic experience just outside the city.
14. Sail the Athenian Coastline on a Catamaran with Meal & Wine
This 5-hour small-group cruise along the Athens Riviera offers swimming, sailing, and snorkeling. The home-cooked Greek lunch, combined with wine and soft drinks, makes for a relaxing day. Many reviews mention the friendly crew and breathtaking coastline views. It’s suitable for travelers looking to escape the city in style while enjoying authentic Greek hospitality.
Bottom Line: Perfect for travelers seeking luxury and tranquility with great food and drinks in a small group.
15. Athens Riviera Catamaran tour with fresh Meal Drinks and Swimming
This 5-hour tour takes you along the Athens Riviera, offering two swim stops, snorkeling gear, and a home-made Greek lunch. The reviews highlight the friendly team and delicious food, making it a popular choice for families and couples wanting a more intimate experience. The small group size guarantees personal attention.
Bottom Line: A great option for those wanting a relaxed, personalized sailing adventure with plenty of swimming.
How to Choose the Best Boat Tour in Athens
Picking the right boat experience depends on your priorities. If you want a full-day island-hopping adventure with plenty of swimming and sightseeing, options like the Athens: Cruise to Agistri, Moni & Aegina or the All-Day Cruise to Agistri Moni Aegina are excellent. For a luxury feel, try the Yacht or Catamaran tours offering gourmet meals and smaller groups. Budget-conscious travelers will find the half-day cruises or snorkeling excursions appealing. Consider logistics: some tours include hotel transfers, making your day more seamless, especially for beginners or those short on time. booking early is advisable during peak season to secure your preferred date.
In summary, Athens is a treasure trove of maritime adventures—from full-day island explorations to romantic sunsets and culinary cruises. For a classic Greek island experience, the full-day cruises such as the Athens: Cruise to Agistri, Moni & Aegina are hard to beat. If luxury and intimacy top your list, the yacht and semi-private catamaran tours deliver just that. For a more active day, snorkeling excursions and short cruises offer plenty of fun without the long commitment.
Whatever your style, booking your boat tour early ensures you won’t be disappointed. Many trips have excellent reviews, with travelers raving about the friendly crews, delicious food, and breathtaking scenery. So hop aboard, and see Athens from the sparkling waters—you won’t regret it.
