Chalkidiki: Blue Lagoon & Ammouliani Island Cruise & Lunch

Exploring Chalkidiki’s Blue Lagoon & Ammouliani Island by Boat: A Detailed Review

If you’re dreaming of a day on the water in Greece, a boat tour exploring the Blue Lagoon, Sithonia, and Ammouliani Island could be just what you need. This 6-hour cruise, offered by Eirinikos Glassbottom Cruises, promises a relaxing yet lively experience—complete with swimming stops, a traditional Greek barbecue, and plenty of opportunities for memorable photos.

We love the way this tour combines natural beauty with cultural touches like a homemade BBQ and lively music. The views of yellow corals through the glass-bottom boat add a special touch, making the experience more immersive. The second highlight is the chance to swim in crystal-clear waters at the Blue Lagoon and Ammouliani, perfect for families and water lovers alike.

However, one consideration is the timing—since the tour is about 6 hours, it’s best suited for travelers with a flexible schedule and a love for boat trips. Also, the first swimming spot requires comfort with swimming at a depth of 2 meters, so it’s ideal for confident swimmers or those willing to enjoy the VIP deck.

This tour suits those looking for a mix of scenic beauty, engaging activities, and authentic Greek flavors—all wrapped up in a well-organized, affordable package. Whether you’re traveling with family, friends, or solo, this experience offers a wonderful way to explore central Macedonia’s stunning coastline.

Good To Know

• Stunning Scenery: You’ll get to see the famous reef and yellow corals through the glass-bottom boat, which adds a unique perspective.
• Two Swimming Opportunities: The Blue Lagoon and Ammouliani Island both offer clear waters perfect for swimming and relaxing.
• Authentic Greek Meal: The included BBQ features traditional souvlaki, Greek salad, and tzatziki, providing a taste of local flavors.
• Lively Atmosphere: A DJ and the VIP deck create a fun, party-like vibe on the boat.
• Family Friendly: Many reviews highlight how much kids enjoy the trip, especially the swimming stops.
• Good Value: At $47, the tour offers a lot—excellent scenery, a meal, and activities—making it a worthwhile day out.

You can check if your dates are available here:

An In-Depth Look at the Chalkidiki Blue Lagoon & Ammouliani Tour

Starting Point and Logistics

The tour kicks off at the port of Ouranoupolis, near the tower of Prosforion. It’s recommended to arrive about 30 minutes early to find parking and check in comfortably. The boat departs in the morning—most likely around 11:00, based on typical scheduling—so planning your arrival is important. The vessel is operated by Eirinikos Glassbottom Cruises, known for friendly staff and well-maintained boats, according to glowing reviews.

The Glass-Bottom Boat Experience

One of this tour’s standout features is the glass-bottom boat itself. As it glides over the reefs, you’ll peer down through the keel to see yellow corals and vibrant marine life. Reviewers mention the guides do a good job explaining what you’re seeing, and many appreciate the opportunity to learn about the local underwater landscape without getting wet—although swimming is optional at the stops.

The boat’s layout includes a VIP deck with a DJ, perfect for those who want a lively atmosphere while enjoying drinks and dancing. The main deck offers plenty of space, but the VIP area tends to be more popular, especially for those looking for a bit of privacy or a more upscale vibe.

First Swimming Stop: Diaporos Island in Sithonia

The first major stop is at Diaporos Island, famous for its pristine beaches and turquoise waters. You’ll anchor about a few meters from the shore, with about 1.5 hours allocated for swimming. The water at this spot is typically around 2 meters deep, making it suitable for confident swimmers. For those less comfortable in deep water, the VIP deck offers an excellent alternative to stay onboard and enjoy the views or sip a cocktail.

One reviewer, Ralica, pointed out that “the water is wonderful,” and many guests found this first swim to be the highlight of their day. Bringing beach shoes might be useful, as the shoreline can be rocky or have seaweed.

More Great Thing To Do Nearby

The Blue Lagoon: A Picture-Perfect Lagoon of Crystalline Waters

Next, the boat makes its way to the famed Blue Lagoon area. Here, the waters are so clear they seem almost unreal, with a depth of about 2 meters, suitable for swimming and snorkeling. The stop lasts about 1.5 hours, giving ample time to relax, swim, or just float and soak up the scenery. Several reviewers mentioned that this part was particularly memorable, with comments like “the crystal clear water was simply amazing”—perfect for families and couples alike.

Some travelers have noted that in cases of strong winds, the stop might be moved to the port of Ammouliani, but the experience remains equally beautiful.

Lunch: Greek Souvlaki & Traditional Flavors

What really sets this tour apart is the included barbecue lunch. The buffet features Greek souvlaki, typically pork, along with fresh Greek salad, tzatziki, and bread. Several reviews highlight the meal’s quality—many say it’s simple but tasty, authentic, and plentiful. The option to request a vegetarian meal is available if notified a day in advance, which is helpful for dietary restrictions.

Guests also enjoy a glass of wine or beverages suitable for children, making the meal a social highlight. The relaxed atmosphere on the boat, with music and good food, helps everyone unwind after the swimming.

Second Stop: Ammouliani Island and Alikes Beach

After lunch, the boat heads towards Ammouliani Island, famous for its peaceful beaches and charming harbor. The main stop here is Alikes Beach, where you can enjoy another 1.5 hours of swimming or just lounge at the beach bars with a cocktail—reviewers often mention how enjoyable this part is, especially for relaxing and people-watching.

Some guests appreciate the flexibility—if the weather isn’t perfect, the stop might be at the port of the lagoon, but the overall experience remains enjoyable.

The Return Journey

The cruise concludes back at Ouranoupolis in the evening. The entire experience, from boarding to disembarking, is designed to be relaxed and enjoyable, with many reviews echoing how well-organized and friendly the crew is.

Practical Details and Tips

• Price: At $47 per person, this tour offers excellent value, especially considering the included lunch, the scenic stops, and the boat experience.
• Duration: Six hours, which is just enough to explore the key sights without feeling rushed.
• What to Bring: Pack swimwear, a towel, sunscreen, snacks, and a waterproof bag if you plan to swim ashore.
• Special Dietary Needs: Vegetarian options are available with prior notice.
• Group Size: While not specified, reviews suggest a friendly, lively atmosphere with many families; the boat likely accommodates a comfortable number of travelers.
• Timing: Arrive early—preferably 30-45 minutes before departure—to find parking and settle in.
• Comfort: If you’re prone to seasickness, consider taking precautions, but the smooth waters of Halkidiki generally make this a gentle cruise.

Final Thoughts

This boat tour offers a nicely balanced experience of scenic beauty, activity, and laid-back Greek hospitality. The combination of crystal-clear swimming spots, a lively atmosphere aboard the boat, and authentic food makes it suitable for a wide range of travelers—from families with kids to singles and couples looking to unwind.

The knowledgeable guides, well-maintained boat, and beautiful stops all contribute to a memorable day. The reviews consistently mention the clean boat, helpful staff, and good value, which are all reassuring points for anyone planning their Greek holiday.

If you’re after a fun, scenic, and hassle-free way to explore central Macedonia’s coast, this tour ticks a lot of boxes.

FAQ

How long is the tour?
The experience lasts around 6 hours, including swimming stops, lunch, and cruising time.

Are there swimming stops?
Yes, there are two main stops – at Diaporos Island and Ammouliani’s Blue Lagoon, each with about 1.5 hours for swimming and relaxing.

Do I need to know how to swim?
Swimming at the first stop requires comfort with 2-meter-deep water. If you’re not a confident swimmer, you can enjoy the VIP deck and views instead.

What’s included in the price?
The tour price covers the boat trip, safety equipment, a traditional Greek BBQ buffet, and entertainment like a DJ onboard.

Can I get a vegetarian meal?
Yes, vegetarian options are available if you notify the organizers a day in advance.

Is there a dress code?
Casual, beachwear is perfect—swimsuits, cover-ups, and sunscreen are recommended.

In summary, this Chalkidiki boat tour presents a fantastic mix of natural beauty, cultural flavors, and lively atmosphere—all at an accessible price point. It’s especially ideal for those wanting a relaxing day on the water with plenty of opportunities to swim, unwind, and enjoy Greece’s stunning coast.

You can check if your dates are available here: