From Naxos: Cruise to Iraklia and Ano Koufonisi Island

Taking a cruise around the Cyclades can be the highlight of your Greek island-hopping adventure, and this tour from Naxos to Iraklia and Ano Koufonisi offers a relaxed way to experience a couple of lesser-visited gems. While it doesn’t promise the bustling nightlife or dramatic landscapes of bigger islands, it excels in providing a peaceful escape, scenic views, and authentic island charm.

We like this tour for its simplicity and focus on genuine experiences: great value for the price, beautiful beaches and quiet villages, and the chance to capture memorable sunset photos of Portara. However, it’s worth noting that some travelers find the stops less engaging if they’re looking for lively towns or full-day adventures.

This tour is best suited for travelers craving a calm, scenic day with plenty of time to relax, swim, and explore at your own pace. If you’re after a quick, no-fuss day on the water with lovely island scenery, this could be just what you need.

Good To Know

• Affordable experience with a focus on relaxing island stops.
• Includes free time to swim, walk around villages, or enjoy a leisurely lunch.
• Beautiful scenery with options for sunset photography at Portara.
• Short travel time from Naxos ensures a gentle, manageable day.
• Limited guided activity—most of your time is free, perfect for independent exploration.
• Weather dependent: bad weather can lead to rescheduling or refunds.

You can check if your dates are available here:

An In-Depth Look at the Itinerary

This cruise begins early in the morning, departing from the small port in Naxos at 9:30 AM. The first leg of the journey takes roughly 45 minutes to reach Iraklia, a quiet island often overlooked by the crowds. Here, the main attraction is the port of St. George, a tiny but charming spot perfect for a quick stroll. The quality of this stop lies in its tranquility; you can enjoy the laid-back pace and listen to the gentle splash of waves, or snap some photos of the simple, authentic harbor setting.

A noteworthy point, according to some reviews, is that Iraklia doesn’t deliver a high-energy experience—some travelers feel that the beaches are better in Naxos itself. One traveler mentioned, “It is not really interesting. The beaches are better in Naxos, the village is okay but I wouldn’t travel for an hour and a half just to see it.” This sentiment suggests Iraklia’s appeal is more about peaceful scenery rather than bustling activity.

After roughly an hour on Iraklia, the boat heads toward the main highlight of the day: Ano Koufonisi. You’ll arrive with plenty of time—about 4.5 hours—to explore the tiny main village, stroll along narrow streets lined with whitewashed houses, and get a feel for local island life. Many find Koufonisi’s sandy beaches particularly attractive, with clear, inviting waters perfect for a cooling swim or simply lying back on the sand.

The free time in Koufonisi also allows for a relaxed lunch, with options to enjoy local tavernas or pack your own picnic. The beaches tend to be less crowded, giving you a peaceful environment for relaxation. One review mentions spending time walking around the village and enjoying the beautiful scenery, while another points out that “the islands are wonderful,” despite feeling that the main value is transportation.

In the late afternoon, the boat departs back to Naxos. As the day winds down, travelers often take the opportunity to photograph the Portara—the iconic marble gate of Apollo’s temple—particularly stunning at sunset, making for a memorable end to the trip.

What’s Included and Practical Details

The ticket price of $51 per person covers the round-trip boat transfer and the free time in Iraklia and Koufonisi. This straightforward setup means you’re paying for transportation and your personal exploration time, with no guided tours or scheduled activities, allowing flexibility.

The boat departs from the Naxos small port at 9:30 AM—a convenient start time for those wanting to maximize their day. The journey is relatively short, making it ideal for travelers who prefer a mellow, manageable day without long boat rides.

The tour is hosted in English, and there’s an option to cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund—perfect if your plans shift unexpectedly. The provider, San Med Travel Hub I.K.E, ensures a reliable experience, and in case of bad weather or strong winds, alternative dates or refunds are available.

Authentic Perspectives from Travelers

While most reviews are positive, some travelers noted that the experience may not satisfy those seeking lively, bustling destinations. One reviewer wrote, “In the end, you only pay for transportation, but the islands are wonderful,” emphasizing the scenic value rather than guided entertainment. Another shared, “It’s not really interesting. The beaches are better in Naxos,” suggesting that for beach lovers, Naxos itself might be a better base for beach days.

However, many appreciated the quiet beauty of Iraklia and Koufonisi, calling them perfect spots to unwind. The sunsets, especially over Portara, are highlighted as a memorable photography opportunity—an excellent way to end the day.

Final Thoughts: Is This Tour Right for You?

This cruise offers a straightforward, budget-friendly way to experience some of the Cyclades’ quieter sides. It’s ideal if you’re looking for a relaxed day on small islands, with ample free time for swimming, strolling, and soaking in the views without the pressure of guided schedules.

If you enjoy peaceful beaches, scenic vistas, and the chance to capture sunset photos of iconic landmarks, this tour will serve you well. It’s less suitable if you’re after lively villages, full-day guided excursions, or island nightlife—this is a slow-paced, scenic escape rather than an adventure-packed day.

For those who value authentic, uncrowded environments and simple pleasures, this tour delivers a gentle, memorable slice of Cycladic life, all at a reasonable price and with flexible cancellation options.

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FAQ

How long is the total tour?
The total duration is approximately 9.5 hours, including boat travel, free exploration time, and return to Naxos.

What time does the cruise start?
The boat departs from Naxos small port at 9:30 AM.

Is there guided commentary during the trip?
No, the experience is primarily free time, with the host providing information in English but no guided tours at the stops.

Can I swim during the stops?
Yes, you’ll have plenty of time to swim in the clear waters at Iraklia and Koufonisi beaches.

What should I bring?
Bring swimwear, sun protection, water, and perhaps a picnic or snacks for lunch. Some travelers pack a camera for photos, especially at sunset.

Are the islands crowded?
Typically, these islands are quieter than larger destinations—perfect for relaxed exploration without heavy crowds.

What if the weather is bad?
In case of bad weather or strong winds, the tour provider offers alternative dates or full refunds.

How much free time do I get on each island?
You’ll have about 1 hour in Iraklia and 4.5 hours in Koufonisi, enough for a quick explore and some relaxation.

Is this tour suitable for families?
Yes, it’s generally suitable for families, especially those looking for a calm, scenic day. Just consider the boat ride duration for young children.

This Naxos cruise to Iraklia and Ano Koufonisi captures the essence of relaxed island life, offering scenic beauty without the fuss. Perfect for tranquil days, stunning sunset photos, and quiet beaches—this trip is a small piece of Cyclades magic, ideal for travelers seeking peace and authentic charm.

You can check if your dates are available here: