Naxos: Naxos Catamaran Sailing Cruise with Lunch and Drinks

Imagine gliding across the turquoise waters of the Cyclades on a spacious, modern catamaran, with the sun warming your skin and the scent of Greek cuisine drifting through the air. That’s exactly what you get with the Naxos Catamaran Sailing Cruise offered by Santa Maria Catamaran. This seven-and-a-half-hour adventure is a well-reviewed, highly-rated experience that promises a blend of scenic beauty, delicious food, and relaxing swimming spots — perfect for those craving an authentic and luxurious Greek island day trip.

What we love about this cruise is its perfect balance of comfort and adventure: the large Lagoon 450F catamaran with its ample deck space, the opportunity to snorkel in crystal-clear waters, and the mouthwatering onboard Greek lunch. Plus, the crew’s friendly professionalism and the inclusion of Wi-Fi make it easier to share your day on social media or stay connected. One potential consideration is that weather conditions can alter the itinerary, so flexibility is key. This cruise fits travelers who love stunning scenery, good food, and a laid-back vibe without sacrificing comfort.

Good To Know:

• Spacious and Modern Catamaran: Comfort and plenty of space to relax or socialize
• Scenic Swim and Snorkel Spots: Clear waters around Naxos and Paros with options for adventure
• Authentic Greek Cuisine: Homemade moussaka and fresh salads served onboard
• Flexible Itinerary: Weather and sea conditions may lead to route adjustments
• Great for Social and Family Groups: Intimate experience with around 15 guests maximum
• Free Wi-Fi: Stay connected and share your trip instantly

An In-Depth Look at the Catamaran Cruise Experience

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The Setting: A Beautiful Departure Point and Well-Equipped Vessel

The cruise begins at the mooring of the “Santa Maria” catamaran, conveniently located opposite Rendezvous Cafe in Naxos harbor. This spot is easy to find and offers a quick check-in process, especially since you need to provide some personal details like passport or ID information beforehand due to local port regulations. The vessel itself is a modern Lagoon 450F, known for its stability, spaciousness, and sleek design. With around 15 guests on board, the atmosphere feels intimate yet lively, making it ideal for families, couples, or solo travelers eager to meet fellow adventure-seekers.

The Itinerary and Stops: What to Expect

The cruise typically starts in the morning, with a departure time that varies based on availability. Once underway, the captain and crew, including knowledgeable guides like Nikos and Manolis, focus on providing a safe, enjoyable ride. They’re praised for their friendly attitude, with many reviewers mentioning how they go out of their way to make the experience memorable.

The boat’s route is flexible, depending on weather conditions, which can influence the exact stops. Guests have praised the staff for adjusting plans to optimize safety and enjoyment—this is especially important since the waters between Naxos and nearby islands can be choppy at times.

Most trips include several swim and snorkel stops at picturesque beaches or hidden caves—places that travelers describe as “crystal clear,” “beautiful,” and perfect for relaxing or exploring underwater life. For example, one reviewer noted, “The waters were crystal clear, and the waterside spots were stunning,” highlighting how the actual swimming locations often exceed expectations.

Snorkeling and Swimming: A Highlight for Many

Snorkeling equipment is included, making it easy to dive into the blue waters. Guests often describe the experience as delightful—”a paradise for underwater exploration,” according to reviews. Multiple stops allow everyone to enjoy the sea at their own pace, whether lounging on the deck or diving into the water with friends and family. Reviewers like Holly mentioned how the crew “took us to multiple swim stops,” emphasizing the variety and quality of these locations.

Food and Drinks: A True Greek Feast Onboard

One of the standout features is the onboard Greek cuisine. The menu includes homemade dishes like moussaka, fresh salads, bread, and fruit salad, all served with warm hospitality. The food is generally praised as delicious and generous, with many reviewers commenting on how it exceeded expectations for a cruise meal. Matthew called the food “great,” and others appreciated the variety of snacks, cake, and small bites offered throughout the day.

Drinks are plentiful, with beer, wine, and cold refreshments available, plus complimentary coffee, tea, and bottled water. The reviews often mention how the crew keeps guests refreshed and satisfied, making the experience feel like a true luxury outing.

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Comfort and Connectivity

With Wi-Fi onboard, you can upload photos or keep in touch during your trip. Reviewers like Liz said, “The boat felt new, clean, and modern,” emphasizing the comfort level. Sunbathing on the deck is a favorite pastime, with many guests noting how relaxing it is to soak up the sun while enjoying panoramic views.

Timing and Pacing: What to Expect

The cruise generally ends back at the original port around 4:30 pm, offering a full day of sun, swimming, and relaxation. Some reviews mention that despite weather challenges—like wind or choppy seas—the crew managed to maintain the schedule and deliver a satisfying experience. Flexibility is key, but most guests leave with a sense of having enjoyed a well-organized, value-packed day.

Who Will Love This Cruise?

This tour is best suited for travelers who appreciate a balance of leisure and activity, enjoy good food, and want to experience the stunning scenery of Naxos and Paros from the water. Families, couples, solo travelers, and small groups will find it a relaxed, social environment where they can soak up the sun, explore underwater landscapes, and indulge in authentic Greek flavors.

The Value of a Full-Day Catamaran Cruise

When considering the price, this cruise offers excellent value for money. For around 7.5 hours of sailing, swimming, eating, and relaxing, you get a lot more than just a boat ride. The inclusion of homemade Greek dishes, drinks, snorkeling equipment, and Wi-Fi means that you’re paying for a comprehensive experience, not just transportation. The personalized attention from the crew and the intimate group size further enhance the feeling of exclusivity.

Why It Stands Out

• Luxury and Comfort: The Lagoon 450F provides a stable, comfortable platform for the day’s activities.
• Authentic Cuisine: Homemade Greek dishes make the onboard meal memorable.
• Flexible, Personalized Route: The crew adapts based on weather, ensuring safety and enjoyment.
• Small Group Atmosphere: Around 15 guests create a friendly, social environment.
• Excellent Reviews: Consistently high ratings (4.7/5 from 88 reviews) speak to its popularity and quality.

Practical Tips for Booking and Enjoying Your Day

• Bring essentials: Hat, towel, sunscreen, and swimwear are must-haves, even if the boat supplies snorkeling gear.
• Arrive early: To ensure a smooth start, arrive at the meeting point a little ahead of time.
• Dietary needs: Let the crew know about any dietary requirements in advance for a smooth lunch experience.
• Weather considerations: Be prepared for possible itinerary changes; this is normal in open-water activities.
• Relax and socialize: The small group size encourages friendly interactions, so don’t be shy about chatting with your fellow travelers or crew.

FAQs

How long is the cruise?
The cruise lasts about 7.5 hours, starting in the morning and returning by mid-afternoon, depending on availability and weather conditions.

Where does the cruise depart from?
It departs from Naxos port, specifically moored opposite Rendezvous Cafe. You’ll recognize the “Santa Maria” catamaran easily.

What is included in the price?
The price covers snorkeling equipment, coffee, tea, bottled water, cold drinks like beer and wine, homemade Greek lunch, snacks, and Wi-Fi.

Are there any additional costs?
Hotel transfers, towels, hats, swimwear, and sunscreen are not included. You may want to bring your own for added comfort.

Can dietary restrictions be accommodated?
Yes, reviewers mention that dietary requirements, like vegetarian preferences, are quickly accommodated if notified in advance.

What should I bring onboard?
Bring a hat, towel, sunscreen, and your swimwear. The crew provides snorkeling gear, but personal items like cameras are welcome.

Is the itinerary fixed?
No, it can be modified due to weather or sea conditions. The crew prioritizes safety and makes adjustments accordingly.

Is this cruise suitable for families?
Absolutely, especially since the reviews include families with young children. The small group size and safety focus make it family-friendly.

The Sum Up

Choosing this Naxos Catamaran Sailing Cruise means investing in a day of comfort, scenic beauty, and authentic Greek flavors. The modern vessel, friendly crew, and fresh home-cooked lunch create an experience that’s both relaxing and engaging. It’s a fantastic way to see Naxos and Paros from the water, with plenty of swimming, snorkeling, and picture-perfect moments along the way.

This cruise is best for travelers who value a well-organized, intimate experience that balances leisure with a touch of adventure. Whether celebrating a special occasion or simply wanting a memorable day on the water, you’ll find it hard to beat this combination of stunning views, delicious food, and genuine hospitality.

If you’re after a smooth, memorable day of sailing in the Cyclades—especially if you love good food and small-group vibes—this cruise is a top choice. Just remember to be flexible with plans and bring your sunscreen!

Note: Please check availability early, as these popular cruises tend to fill up quickly, especially during peak season.

You can check if your dates are available here: