Athens: Cruise to Agistri, Moni & Aegina with Lunch & Drinks

Imagine gliding across the shimmering waters of the Saronic Gulf aboard a traditional wooden boat, with the breeze in your hair and Greek music whispering in the background. That’s exactly what you get with this full-day cruise from Athens—visiting three stunning islands, swimming in crystal-clear waters, indulging in a hearty Greek buffet, and sipping unlimited wine or beer.

We’re here to unpack what makes this experience so popular. Think beautiful scenery, friendly crew, and authentic touches that elevate this trip beyond just another day at sea. But keep in mind, it’s a packed schedule, so if you’re craving total relaxation or longer explorations, it might be worth considering how the itinerary fits your style.

This tour suits travelers looking for a balanced mix of adventure, culture, and leisurely indulgence. If you love discovering new places with a lively, welcoming vibe and appreciate good food and drinks along the way, you’re in for a treat.

Good To Know

• Authentic Experience: Traditional wooden boat with a friendly local crew
• Multiple Island Visits: Agistri, Moni, and Aegina in one day
• Activities & Relaxation: Swimming, snorkeling, optional bike tours, exploring markets
• Quality Food & Drinks: Greek buffet lunch with unlimited wine, beer, and soft drinks
• Great for All: Suitable for families, couples, and solo travelers seeking a fun, cultural day
• Weather Flexibility: It depends on conditions, so check the forecast, especially for swimming and snorkeling

You can check if your dates are available here:

The Experience: A Complete Breakdown

Starting Off: Setting Sail From Athens

Your day begins at Marina Zeas in Piraeus, a bustling hub known for its lively port atmosphere. The crew, including guides who speak both English and Greek, will greet you with coffee, juice, pastries, and cookies—an excellent way to start fueling up for the day ahead. As the boat departs, you’ll notice the charm of the vessel: a traditional wooden design that adds to the authentic feel.

Many reviews highlight how smoothly everything runs from the outset. Guests like Tim Viktor remarked on the “very fun and awesome guide” and the friendly crew, which sets the tone for a relaxed yet organized trip. The boat is spacious, with both sun and shaded areas, so you can settle in comfortably as you cruise across the Gulf.

Agistri: A Green Paradise and Relaxing Stop

The first island you’ll visit is Agistri, a small but lush getaway known for its greenery and tranquil atmosphere. Here, you have several options:

• Wander through Megalochori, a quiet village featuring traditional houses and charming streets. It’s ideal if you want to soak in local life away from tourist crowds.
• Opt for the bike tour to Skala, a scenic ride along coastal paths (extra fee), praised by travelers like Lina who called it “highly recommended” for the views.
• Or simply relax at one of Agistri’s peaceful beaches, soaking up the sun and enjoying the clear waters.

Reviews note that the island’s natural beauty and unspoiled vibe are major draws. Plus, the optional bike tour is a highlight for many, offering stunning coastal vistas and a chance to work up an appetite before lunch.

Snorkeling at Moni or Metopi: Crystal Waters and Fun in the Sun

Next, the boat anchors near either Moni or Metopi, small uninhabited islets renowned for their turquoise waters. Water lovers will appreciate the free snorkeling gear, masks, water noodles, and floaties provided, making it easy to get in and out of the water.

Many reviews mention how the swimming stops are a major highlight—Laurie called the experience “awesome,” emphasizing how the crew’s attentive service and the quality of the water made it memorable. Guests often quote how floating in those waters, sipping wine, and relaxing on the deck created a perfect, chilled-out vibe.

More Great Thing To Do Nearby

A Greek Feast on the Water

After working up an appetite, you’ll enjoy a Greek buffet lunch served onboard, prepared fresh with local ingredients. The menu includes a variety of Mediterranean dishes, salads, and fresh fruits—enough to satisfy even the heartiest appetites. And the unlimited drinks—wine, beer, soft drinks, coffee, and water—are a big plus. Many travelers mention the quality and variety of the food, with some calling the lunch “delicious” and “generous,” like Giulia who appreciated the “really good” meal.

Aegina: A Blend of Archaeology and Local Flavors

The final stop is Aegina, known for its pistachios and ancient sites. You’ll have approximately 1.5 hours to explore:

• Visit the Temple of Apollo and the archaeological museum, both accessible and offering a glimpse into Greece’s distant past.
• Stroll through the town’s markets and sample local treats such as roasted pistachios or handmade sweets. Many reviews, including Katherine’s, highlight how the pistachio stalls are a must-visit and contribute to the island’s charm.
• Optional activities include a horse-drawn carriage ride along the port, adding a fun and classic touch.

Travelers like Alexandra praise the balance of sightseeing and leisure, saying, “the islands were beautiful, and the whole day highly recommended.”

The Return Journey: A Relaxed Sail Back

As the boat heads back to Athens in the late afternoon, you’ll enjoy the sea breeze, music, and unlimited drinks. This downtime is perfect for reflecting on the day or making new friends. Reviewers like Jessica shared how the crew’s attentiveness made the whole experience feel special, with many quoting the “amazing” hospitality and “delicious” onboard lunch.

The Practical Details: What to Expect

Transportation & Timing

The tour begins at Marina Zeas in Piraeus, with optional hotel pickup available if you choose the package. The full day lasts approximately 10 hours, with a flexible schedule that depends on weather conditions and sea safety considerations—an important point since the itinerary may shift if necessary. Many guests appreciate how smoothly everything runs, with comments backing that up, including the staff’s helpfulness and punctuality.

Group Size & Atmosphere

While the exact number of participants isn’t specified, reviews suggest a comfortably sized group that allows for socializing but still feels intimate. The boat’s deck space and shaded areas mean you won’t feel crowded, even during peak season.

Food & Drink

The onboard Greek buffet is hearty and refreshing, with many noting the quality and variety. Unlimited wine, beer, and soft drinks are included, making it easy to toast to a day well spent without worrying about extra costs. For travelers with specific dietary preferences like vegan or vegetarian, the tour offers options—just make sure to specify when booking.

Activities & Optional Extras

The snorkeling stops are weather-dependent but highly praised when conditions are favorable. Optional bike tours in Agistri add a fun, active element but come at an extra cost. No entry fee is required for the archaeological sites in Aegina, but you might want to budget for souvenirs or local treats.

What To Bring

Comfortable shoes for walking or cycling, swimwear, a towel, sunscreen, and perhaps a hat or sunglasses are recommended. The boat does not allow pets or unaccompanied minors, which is worth noting for families or pet owners.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This cruise is best suited for those who want a taste of island life without the hassle of planning multiple trips. It’s perfect for travelers who enjoy a mix of sightseeing, swimming, and good food, with the convenience of an organized experience. Families, couples, or solo travelers will find the laid-back yet lively atmosphere appealing.

If you’re looking for a relaxing day filled with stunning views, friendly company, and genuine Greek flavors, this tour hits the mark. However, if you prefer long, unstructured days or don’t enjoy packed schedules, you might find the itinerary a bit rushed.

Final Thoughts: Why This Tour Is a Solid Choice

This full-day cruise from Athens offers more than just a boat trip—it’s an opportunity to experience Greece’s Saronic Islands in a way that’s fun, cultural, and delicious. The combination of beautiful scenery, engaging guides, and top-quality food and drinks makes it a standout activity.

The reviews consistently highlight the professionalism of the crew, the high standard of onboard meals, and the value for money—especially considering the multiple stops, swimming opportunities, and included extras. The flexibility to explore islands either independently or with optional guided tours adds to its appeal, catering to different traveler preferences.

For those wanting a snapshot of Greek island life packed into one enjoyable day, this cruise is a reliable choice. It’s especially well-suited for travelers who value authentic experiences, friendly staff, and a cheerful, social atmosphere.

FAQ

Is hotel pickup included in this tour?
Yes, if you select the package that includes pickup, the activity provider will confirm your pickup time the day before. The pickup is from designated locations, and you should wait 5 minutes before your scheduled time.

What should I bring for the cruise?
Comfortable shoes, swimwear, a towel, sunscreen, and a hat or sunglasses are recommended to enjoy the day comfortably.

Are meals included?
Yes, a Greek buffet lunch is served onboard, and it includes unlimited wine, beer, and soft drinks. Special dietary requests like vegan or vegetarian options are available if specified.

Can I swim and snorkel during the trip?
Absolutely. Water gear such as masks, floats, and noodles are provided free of charge. The swimming stop depends on weather conditions, but when available, it’s one of the trip’s highlights.

How long is each island visit?
Agistri and Aegina each get about 1.5 hours for exploring or relaxing. The boat ride between stops varies from 20 to 30 minutes.

What is the group size?
While not explicitly specified, reviews suggest a comfortably sized group, allowing for social interaction but still feeling intimate and relaxed.

Is this tour suitable for children or families?
Yes, but children must be accompanied by adults. The boat does not allow unaccompanied minors, and pets are not permitted.

What if the weather is bad?
The tour depends on favorable weather conditions. If canceled due to bad weather, you will be offered an alternative date or a full refund.

How much free time do I have in Aegina?
About 1.5 hours, enough to visit historic sites, wander markets, or enjoy local treats. Many guests find this window perfect for a quick exploration.

In summary, this cruise offers a well-rounded taste of Greece’s island charm, combining scenic boat rides, cultural sights, and delicious food. It’s a flexible, value-packed day that caters well to those who want to enjoy Greece’s famous islands without the fuss of traveling independently.

You can check if your dates are available here: