Skiathos: Family Run Group Cruise with Breakfast & Lunch

Discovering Skiathos on a Family-Run Group Cruise

Our review of the Skiathos: Family Run Group Cruise with Breakfast & Lunch offers a glimpse into an authentic, relaxed way to explore this beautiful Greek island. While we haven’t done it ourselves, the detailed descriptions and traveler insights paint a picture of a memorable day on the water.

What immediately draws us in? The small group size of just 8-9 guests promises a more personal experience, away from the crowds. We love the combination of scenic cruising and active swimming stops, along with homemade Greek delicacies served on board. The visit to deserted islands like Tsougria and Arkos sounds like a genuine escape, perfect for those craving nature and tranquility.

A potential consideration? The tour’s dependence on weather conditions can lead to a flexible itinerary, which might mean some stops are subject to change. This is typical for boat trips, but it’s worth noting if you’re eager to hit specific spots.

This cruise seems best suited for adventurous travelers who enjoy natural beauty, small-group intimacy, and a taste of local cuisine. It’s ideal for those who want a relaxed yet engaging day exploring Skiathos from the water.

Good To Know

• Intimate experience with limited group size for a personalized journey
• Visiting deserted islands for solitude and unspoiled scenery
• Multiple swimming stops in crystal-clear waters, perfect for cooling off
• Homemade Greek food and drinks offered on board, adding local flavor
• Wild north of Skiathos accessible only by boat, offering untouched landscapes
• Flexible itinerary based on weather, ensuring safety and comfort

You can check if your dates are available here:

A Detailed Look at the Skiathos Family Cruise Experience

This cruise offers a well-rounded day on the water, blending scenic views, island exploration, and good food. It’s operated by Artemida Cruises, a family-run outfit, which often translates into a more heartfelt, personal touch—something experienced travelers value highly.

The Itinerary and What to Expect

The day begins at Artemida Cruises’ meeting point opposite bus stop 0 in Skiathos. The crew, easily identifiable in turquoise T-shirts, welcomes you aboard a cozy vessel designed for small groups—limiting capacity to just 9 guests. This small size makes for a comfortable and relaxed atmosphere, where you can easily chat with the crew or fellow travelers.

Once underway, you’ll enjoy the breeze in your hair as the boat glides around the island, giving you a chance to take in the stunning coastline with its rugged cliffs and lush green hills. The north side of Skiathos is a major highlight, as it’s largely inaccessible by land, meaning you’ll see untouched landscapes and dramatic coastlines.

Visiting Tsougria and Arkos: Deserted Islands and Caves

A big selling point? The visit to deserted islands Tsougria and Arkos. These tiny spots are the perfect escape from busy tourist areas, offering quiet beaches and the chance to explore caves. One review mentioned that “the caves were breathtaking, and it was wonderful to swim in waters so clear they looked unreal.” These islands are a true slice of Greece’s unspoiled nature.

Swimming and Water Activities

Multiple swimming stops in the turquoise waters are included, allowing guests to cool off, snorkel, or even try stand-up paddleboarding (which is provided). Reviewers appreciated the well-timed stops that enable everyone to get in the water and enjoy the scenery. One guest noted, “the water was so inviting, and I loved the paddleboarding aspect—it was a highlight of the day.”

More Great Thing To Do Nearby

Visiting the Caves and Skiathos Castle

Another visual treat? The beautiful caves along the coast, which can be admired from the boat or explored if conditions allow. Passengers also get a glimpse of Skiathos Castle and the Castro islands, adding a hint of history and local charm. While not a full tour of these sites, seeing them from the water offers a unique perspective.

Relaxing at Panteleimonas Beach

Later, the boat visits Panteleimonas Beach, a small paradise with shallow waters and soft sand. It’s a peaceful spot for lounging, sunbathing, or enjoying a drink from the onboard bar. Travelers mention how perfect it was to soak up the sun with a cold drink in hand, making the cruise a balanced mix of activity and relaxation.

Food and Drinks: Homemade Greek Delights

The breakfast and meze lunch are a big part of this cruise’s appeal. The meals are homemade, traditional Greek dishes, served with soft drinks, beers, and wine included. Guests rave about the delicious flavors and generous portions, often citing the meze lunch as a highlight. One reviewer said, “the homemade delicacies were so tasty, I wish I could learn the recipes!”

Additional Perks

The cruise also offers towels and fruit, ensuring comfort and refreshment all day. A surprise gift adds a thoughtful touch, and the friendly crew makes everyone feel at home. The option to stand-up paddleboard adds an active element, and the small group size allows personalized attention from the crew, often praised for their local knowledge and warmth.

The Practicalities: Price, Duration, and What to Pack

For $171 per person, this cruise offers a good deal considering the inclusions—meals, drinks, and activities—are all covered. It’s a full 7-hour experience that balances sightseeing, swimming, and relaxing. The price reflects the intimate nature of the tour and the quality of homemade food and attention to detail.

The duration of 7 hours means you’ll have plenty of time to explore without feeling rushed. Starting times vary, so checking availability is a good idea. The tour operates in Greek, English, and French, making it accessible for most travelers.

What should you bring? The essentials include a sun hat, swimwear, towel, sandals, and sunscreen. This helps you stay comfortable in the sun and enjoy the water. Note that pets, weapons, smoking, nudity, and non-folding strollers are not permitted, which keeps the environment friendly and safe for all.

Suitability and Limitations

This experience isn’t suitable for wheelchair users, non-swimmers, or those prone to seasickness, as the boat’s movement can be unpredictable. Babies under 1 year and travelers over 95 might also find this tour challenging due to physical or safety reasons.

Why We Think This Cruise Stands Out

This trip offers real value for those seeking a more authentic and intimate way to experience Skiathos. The small group setting ensures plenty of space to unwind and chat with the crew, who are passionate about sharing their local knowledge.

The visit to the wild north of the island is a unique aspect, as it’s an area that remains largely untouched, accessible only by boat. This means travelers get a glimpse of untouched nature and hidden caves, far from crowded tourist spots.

The delicious homemade meals and drinks elevate the experience from just sightseeing to a true taste of local Greek hospitality. Plus, the relaxed pace, with swimming and lounging, caters to both adventurous and laid-back travelers.

Who Would Love This Experience?

This cruise is perfect for small groups and couples who want a personalized, relaxed day on the water. It’s excellent for nature lovers and water enthusiasts eager to explore inaccessible parts of Skiathos.

Travelers craving authentic Greek cuisine and beautiful scenery will find plenty to enjoy. However, if you prefer a more active, full-day adventure with lots of land-based activities, this may not be the best fit.

The Sum Up

In essence, the Skiathos Family Run Group Cruise with Breakfast & Lunch offers a genuine, intimate way to explore the island’s coastline, deserted islands, and hidden caves. The combination of stunning scenery, delicious homemade food, and small-group comfort makes for a memorable day—especially for those who value authenticity and quiet beauty.

While weather-dependent, this cruise provides a peaceful escape into nature, away from busy tourist hubs. It’s ideal for travelers seeking a balance of adventure, relaxation, and local flavor, all wrapped into one well-organized package.

If you’re after a meaningful way to see Skiathos from the water, appreciate good food, and enjoy unspoiled landscapes, this small-group cruise could be exactly what you need.

FAQ (Frequently Asked Questions)

Is this tour suitable for non-swimmers?
This tour is not recommended for non-swimmers, as there are multiple swimming stops and water activities. If you’re uncomfortable in the water, you might find it challenging to fully enjoy the experience.

What is included in the price?
The price covers breakfast, a meze lunch, soft drinks, beers, and wine, towels, fruit, stand-up paddleboarding, and a surprise gift. All meals are homemade and traditional Greek.

How long is the cruise?
The cruise lasts about 7 hours, providing ample time for sightseeing, swimming, and relaxing at beaches and islands.

What should I bring with me?
Pack a sun hat, swimwear, towel, sandals, and sunscreen. These help you stay comfortable during the day on the water and at the beaches.

Are there any restrictions I should be aware of?
Yes, the tour limits access to those over 95 years or under 1 year, and it’s not suitable for wheelchair users, non-swimmers, or those prone to seasickness.

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

Is the itinerary fixed?
The itinerary depends on weather conditions, so some stops may vary to ensure safety and comfort. The crew aims to maximize your experience within these constraints.

This detailed review highlights why the small group Skiathos cruise offers a balanced, authentic way to enjoy the island’s natural beauty, delicious food, and calming waters. Whether you’re seeking peaceful beaches, stunning caves, or a taste of local hospitality, this trip promises a memorable day on the Aegean.

You can check if your dates are available here: