Sunset Cruise Athens Riviera Half Day Swimming&BBQ onBoard

Planning a trip to Athens and want to enjoy a different side of Greece’s iconic coastline? The Sunset Cruise Athens Riviera offered by Wonderful Cruises promises a relaxing half-day adventure filled with swimming, Greek cuisine, and spectacular sunset views. While it’s not a full-day tour, this 5-hour experience packs enough beauty and fun to make your Greek vacation truly memorable.

What we love about this cruise is how it combines beautiful scenery, authentic food, and laid-back leisure without the hefty price tag. The unlimited drinks keep the mood light, and the stunning stops at Varkiza and Hydrousa are perfect for cooling off in crystal-clear waters. Plus, the friendly crew and comfortable boat create an inviting atmosphere.

One potential consideration is the duration – at just over five hours, some travelers might wish for more time to relax or explore. Also, the timing of the stops can change depending on weather or traffic, so flexibility is key.

This experience suits those looking for a romantic, social, or family-friendly outing, especially if you enjoy water activities and delicious local food with a view. It’s ideal for travelers wanting a taste of the Athenian Riviera’s charm without overcommitting.

• Spectacular sunset views over the Saronic Gulf create perfect photo ops.
• Swimming stops at Varkiza and Hydrousa offer crystal-clear waters for cooling off.
• Greek BBQ buffet and unlimited drinks provide great value and authentic flavors.
• Comfortable, traditional wooden boat with spacious lounging areas makes for a relaxed vibe.
• Flexible cancellation policy—cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.
• Includes all necessary swimming equipment—no extra costs or fuss.

The cruise departs from Alimos Marina, a convenient starting point for most Athens visitors. Expect to arrive about 15 minutes early so you can settle in and get ready for your journey. The boat itself is a traditional wooden vessel, which adds a charming, nautical touch to the outing. It’s not a large ferry or a jet boat but a cozy, spacious craft suited for smaller groups, making the atmosphere intimate and friendly.

The Itinerary Breakdown

First Stop: Varkiza
As the cruise begins, you’ll be sailing along the Athenian Riviera with panoramic views of the coastline, luxurious villas, and the shimmering waters of the Saronic Gulf. Varkiza is the first swimming spot, and it’s praised for its crystal-clear waters and gentle surroundings. Reviewers mention that jumping from the boat into the water is a thrilling and refreshing experience. You can use provided swimming equipment, allowing you to focus on enjoying the cool, clean waters.

Second Stop: Hydrousa
After reboarding, the boat heads toward the small island of Hydrousa, a lesser-known gem opposite the Riviera. Here, you’ll get a second chance to swim and relax. Many guests find this stop especially scenic, with tranquil waters ideal for unwinding. The boat often provides relaxing music during this leg, making it easy to unwind while soaking up the sun or snapping photos of the sunset.

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Food & Drinks

A highlight of the cruise is the Greek BBQ buffet, which features traditional delicacies that are both hearty and flavorful. Reviewers highlight that the food is tasteful and plentiful enough to satisfy most appetites, though some note it’s not quite a full dinner. It’s more of a generous lunch served during the cruise, paired with a welcome drink upon boarding.

The unlimited drinks include beer, wine, soft drinks, and water—an excellent value considering the 5-hour duration. One reviewer from the UK appreciated the drink selection, but also mentioned that a bit more variety in beer could enhance the experience.

The Sunset & Lounge Experience

As the boat cruises back along the coast, the real show begins: the golden hour when the sun dips into the sea, casting warm hues across the water. The boat’s decks are perfect for lounging and capturing photos. The panoramic views allow for a relaxed, almost meditative experience. Many guests mention how romantic and beautiful the scenery is, making it a worthwhile activity for couples or those celebrating a special occasion.

Relaxed music and friendly crew members contribute to the laid-back vibe, making it easy to chat or simply soak in the atmosphere.

Duration & Timing

The cruise lasts around 5 hours, with the departure times varying based on the day and availability. Arriving 15 minutes early helps avoid rushing and ensures a smooth start. The stops at Varkiza and Hydrousa are scheduled, but weather conditions or port traffic might lead to adjustments, so flexibility is advised.

Price & Value

At $130 per person, this cruise offers good value for a half-day of entertainment, scenery, and food. When you consider the included swimming equipment, Greek BBQ, unlimited drinks, and beautiful sunset views, it stacks up as a worthwhile splurge for those seeking a relaxed, scenic escape.

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What to Bring

Pack the essentials: hat, sunscreen, swimwear, towel, and beachwear. The boat doesn’t provide towels, so bring your own for comfort after swimming. Comfortable clothing, sunglasses, and a camera or phone for photos are also recommended.

Restrictions & Tips

Pets are not allowed on board, and the order of stops can change depending on weather or traffic. It’s always wise to arrive early and stay flexible. Also, note that the food isn’t a full dinner, so you might want to eat beforehand if you’re especially hungry.

One guest from Hungary Raved, “We had a wonderful day with this nice crew and boat. Christina was super attentive and provided us everything we needed. Jumping from the boat was a thrilling experience and truly memorable.”

Meanwhile, a guest from the Netherlands expressed some disappointment, noting, “It takes over 3 hours, and the music system needs improvement. The food was a bit small for a full dinner.” This highlights that while the experience is generally positive, some aspects like entertainment and food portions could be improved.

A traveler from the UK called it “very romantic,” emphasizing how the views and friendly host made for a memorable outing, even if the beer selection could be broader.

This cruise is perfect for couples seeking a romantic sunset, for families wanting two fun swimming stops, or for small groups looking for a relaxed social outing. It’s ideal if you appreciate scenic views, authentic Greek hospitality, and simple pleasures like good food and drinks.

Travelers who want a short, scenic escape from Athens’ hustle and bustle will find this a satisfying way to unwind while soaking up the beauty of the Athenian Riviera. Just remember, if you’re after a full-day adventure or more extensive sightseeing, this might feel a little light.

The Sunset Cruise Athens Riviera offers a balanced mix of scenic beauty, swimming fun, and delicious food at a reasonable price point. With stunning sunset views, crystal-clear waters, and friendly service, it’s a relaxing way to enjoy Greece’s coastline away from the busy city streets.

The experience excels in providing authentic Greek hospitality—from the BBQ to the welcoming crew—and creates ideal conditions for romantic moments or laid-back afternoons with friends and family.

While it isn’t a full-day extravaganza, the 5-hour timeframe keeps it manageable, especially for those with limited time or seeking a light, scenic escape. It’s best suited for travelers who value authentic experiences, beautiful vistas, and refreshing swims over extensive sightseeing or nightlife.

Overall, if you’re looking for a value-packed, scenic, and relaxing excursion along Athens’ coast, this cruise fits the bill, offering a memorable taste of Greece’s beautiful waters and hospitality.

How long is the cruise?
The cruise lasts approximately 5 hours, including stops for swimming and enjoying the sunset.

Where does the cruise depart from?
It departs from Pier 1 at number 151 at Alimos Marina, a convenient location near Athens.

What is included in the price?
The price covers a traditional wooden boat cruise, Greek lunch, unlimited drinks, swimming equipment, two lavatories, spacious lounges, sun decks, and welcome sweets.

Are towels provided?
No, towels are not included, so bring your own for after swimming.

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

Is this experience suitable for children?
While not explicitly stated, the activity’s relaxed nature and swimming stops make it family-friendly, but check with the provider if you have specific age considerations.

This cruise offers a charming and relaxed way to enjoy the Greek coast, with enough flexibility and value to appeal to a wide range of travelers. Whether you want a romantic evening or simply to escape the city for a few hours, the Sunset Cruise Athens Riviera delivers a memorable taste of Greece’s stunning waters.

You can check if your dates are available here: