Athens Day Cruise Since 1965 | Visit Hydra, Poros & Aegina

Athens Day Cruise: Visit Hydra, Poros & Aegina Since 1965

If you’re dreaming of slipping away from Athens’ bustling streets for a day, this Athens Day Cruise could be just the ticket. Operating since 1965, it’s a tried-and-true way to tick off three iconic Greek islands—Hydra, Poros, and Aegina—in one smooth, scenic trip.

What we really love about this tour is how it balances stunning island scenery with cultural glimpses, all while keeping it relaxed and fun. The delicious buffet lunch, live entertainment, and easy logistics make it a popular choice. One thing to keep in mind is that the timing is pretty packed, so don’t expect hours of free exploration at each stop, especially in Hydra. Still, if you’re after a well-organized, enjoyable day of island-hopping, this cruise hits the mark.

This experience suits travelers who want a convenient way to see multiple islands in a single day, especially if you’re short on time but craving authentic Greek scenery and culture. It’s also great for families, couples, or groups who enjoy a bit of sightseeing mixed with relaxing on the water.

You can check if your dates are available here:

Good To Know

• Seamless island-hopping experience with nearly 60 years of operation
• All-inclusive day with buffet lunch, drinks, and live entertainment
• Flexible options including hotel transfers (additional fee) for added convenience
• Well-paced itinerary that balances sightseeing, swimming, and free time
• Authentic experiences like exploring Hydra’s cobblestone alleys or tasting pistachios in Aegina
• Knowledgeable crew and guides enhance the overall experience

What We Love About the Athens Day Cruise

This cruise offers a perfect snapshot of Greek island charm with a mix of sightseeing, culture, and relaxation. It’s especially appealing if you want to maximize your time without the hassle of organizing transport or ferries on your own.

First, the boat itself is described as large and comfortable, with amenities that ensure a smooth journey. As one reviewer noted, “The boat was very large and islands were so pretty and beautiful,” which means you won’t feel crowded during the cruise. The outdoor seating areas are perfect for enjoying the sunshine and sea breeze, with some reviews mentioning that the ship doesn’t sway too much, making for a comfortable ride.

Secondly, the island stops are thoughtfully timed. You get enough time to walk, take photos, shop, or grab a bite. Hydra, with its cobblestone streets and donkeys still carrying loads, offers a timeless feel. The guides or optional walking tours add historical context for those who want to learn more. As one reviewer enthused, “Hydra’s streets are car-free, and the views are stunning,” making it a highlight of the trip.

Third, the food onboard is frequently praised. The buffet includes Greek and Mediterranean dishes that are surprisingly good for a cruise meal, with lots of reviewers noting the quality and variety. “The food was very good, and the service was top-tier,” one traveler shared. Plus, there’s a bar for snacks and drinks throughout the day, which helps keep everyone refreshed.

The Itinerary in Detail

The cruise departs from the old port of Athens, usually from the marina at Faliro, and takes around three hours to reach Hydra. The journey itself is an enjoyable part of the experience, with many reviews mentioning how pleasurable it is to relax on deck and watch the Greek coastlines drift by.

Hydra

Hydra is often the star of the trip. Known for its car-free streets and historic architecture, it feels like stepping into a different era. Visitors get about 1 hour and 45 minutes here, enough to wander the alleys, snap photos of the picturesque harbor, and perhaps visit a traditional café or shop for souvenirs. Some reviews mention that this time feels a bit rushed, with travelers wishing for more. “Wish we had more time at Hydra,” said one guest, highlighting how captivating the island is.

You might also notice the donkeys still used for transportation—an iconic sight that adds to Hydra’s charm. Many travelers take the opportunity to explore with an optional guided tour (available for an extra fee) that covers landmarks and historic sites. The guide, like the one Raju mentioned, can be very knowledgeable, offering insights into Hydra’s unique past.

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Poros

Next, the cruise moves to Poros, a peaceful island famous for its lush greenery, pine forests, and lemon groves. The stop here lasts about an hour, which is enough to stroll along the waterfront, do some quick shopping, or relax on the beaches. Reviewers mention that Poros offers a calm, scenic atmosphere perfect for unwinding. “It’s all about the quiet beauty of this small island,” one traveler noted.

The free time allows for a leisurely walk or a quick dip if you’re feeling brave. Some opt for local snacks or ice cream, enjoying the laid-back vibe. The optional walking tour here can give you more historical context, but many seem happy to just explore at their own pace.

Aegina

The last stop, Aegina, is a pistachio lover’s paradise with its famous nut farms and beautiful beaches. You’ll have around two hours to explore, which includes a visit to the Temple of Aphaia (if you choose the optional bus tour at an extra cost) and time to enjoy the town’s cafes or beaches. Several reviews praise Aegina’s mix of history and seaside fun. “The pistachios are a must-try,” one traveler says, while others appreciate the chance to visit the Byzantine monastery of Agios Nektarios.

The cruise includes an optional guided tour of Aegina’s key sights, but many guests mention that walking around the town freely gives you enough time to soak in the atmosphere and snap photos. The last cruise leg is about 1 hour and 30 minutes, with entertainment and drinks on board to keep spirits high.

Food and Entertainment

The buffet lunch is a highlight, with a good range of Greek and Mediterranean options. Multiple reviews mention it exceeded expectations, with tasty staples like grilled fish, chicken, pasta, salads, and local treats. The onboard live music and dancers add a lively touch, turning the return trip into a mini Greek celebration. One reviewer shared, “Music, dance, history, picture stops, good food, and fun — it was a wonderful experience.”

The bar offers drinks and snacks for purchase, allowing guests to keep refreshed throughout the day. The entertainment, including traditional Greek music and dance performances, helps create an energetic and joyful atmosphere on the boat.

Practical Details and Tips

The tour runs for about 11 hours, with starting times varying based on the option you select. If you choose the hotel transfer, you’ll be picked up from designated hotels in Athens, which adds a lot of convenience, especially after a long day.

The price of $159 per person provides good value considering the inclusiveness — transport, meals, entertainment, and guided options. It’s a fair price for the experience of visiting three islands with minimal hassle.

What to bring: Sun protection (hat, sunscreen), swimwear if you plan to swim, and a towel. The tour doesn’t include drinks or breakfast, so you might want to pack snacks or purchase those onboard.

Important considerations:

• The timing is tight—expect around 1-2 hours per island, so plan your personal exploration accordingly.
• Guided tours in Hydra and Aegina are available at extra costs, but many reviews suggest just wandering on your own can be just as enjoyable.
• The cruise is not suitable for wheelchair users unless they have an escort.
• Book early as this experience remains popular, especially during peak seasons.

Authenticity and Traveler Experiences

Based on the extensive reviews, this cruise consistently delivers a well-organized, enjoyable day. Travelers love the knowledgeable staff, with guides like Georgina and others sharing insights that enrich the experience, especially in Hydra and Aegina. The quality of the food is frequently praised, with many noting it exceeds expectations for a cruise buffet.

One traveler, Daija, mentioned that she still talks about her experience years later, emphasizing how memorable the trip was. Others appreciated the smooth logistics, with many noting that the boat’s size and service helped create a relaxed environment.

The overall balance of sightseeing, leisure, and entertainment makes this cruise a top choice for those who want a genuine taste of Greek island life without the complexity of independent travel.

The Sum Up

This Athens Day Cruise offers an excellent way to see three distinct Greek islands in one day, combining sightseeing, relaxation, and cultural highlights. It’s particularly suited for travelers seeking an organized, hassle-free experience with good food, lively entertainment, and memorable scenery.

While the schedule can be a bit rushed and the time at each stop limited, the overall value for the price is high. The experience is enhanced by the knowledgeable staff, delicious meals, and authentic island charm that they’ve been perfecting since 1965.

If you’re after a fun, comprehensive day trip that covers the highlights of the Saronic Gulf, this cruise is a smart choice—especially if you don’t want the stress of navigating ferries and transfers yourself.

FAQ

Is hotel pickup included?
Yes, if you select the option, you’ll be picked up from designated hotels in Athens. Be ready at least 5 minutes early.

How long is the cruise?
The entire experience lasts about 11 hours, including transfers, island stops, and onboard activities.

What’s the cost?
The tour costs $159 per person, which covers transportation, meals, entertainment, and guided options (if chosen).

Can I swim during the trip?
Yes, free time on each island often includes swimming opportunities, especially at Poros and Aegina.

Are guided tours available on the islands?
Yes, guided tours in Hydra and Aegina are available at an extra fee, but many travelers prefer exploring independently.

What should I bring?
Sun protection, swimwear, towels, and maybe a little spending money for drinks or souvenirs.

Is the boat suitable for everyone?
The cruise is not wheelchair accessible unless accompanied by an escort.

What’s the best way to enjoy the trip?
Arrive early for the best seats, bring your own entertainment for the boat, and take advantage of the free time to explore each island at your own pace.

This full-day cruise to Hydra, Poros, and Aegina remains a fantastic way to sample Greek island life without a ton of planning or expense. The combination of scenic beauty, cultural touches, and lively onboard atmosphere makes it a memorable addition to any Athens itinerary.

You can check if your dates are available here: