Athens: Marathon Cape and Bay of Schinias Snorkeling Trip

Exploring Greece’s Marine Wonders: The Marathon Cape & Schinias Bay Snorkeling Trip

If you’re looking for a way to experience Greece beyond ancient ruins and bustling streets, this snorkeling tour at Marathon Cape and Schinias Bay offers a fresh perspective. While we haven’t personally joined this trip, reviews and detailed descriptions suggest it’s a fantastic mix of adventure, scenery, and laid-back relaxation.

What makes this experience stand out? First, the supportive and knowledgeable guides, especially Dimitri, make the trip feel personalized. Second, the crystal-clear waters and vibrant marine life promise memorable underwater moments. And third, the chance to relax on the pristine beaches of Schinias, part of a protected national park, offers a peaceful escape.

A possible consideration? The tour’s duration is around 4.5 hours, so it’s best suited for travelers comfortable with a mid-morning or afternoon activity. It’s not ideal for children under six or non-swimmers, but if you enjoy gentle boat rides and snorkel fun, this could be perfect.

This tour appeals most to those seeking an authentic, small-group experience with expert guidance, especially water lovers and nature enthusiasts who appreciate marine biodiversity and scenic coastal views.

Key Points

• Small Group Experience: Limited to 7 participants, ensuring personalized attention.
• Expert Guide: Dimitri and team are praised for their friendliness and knowledge.
• Beautiful Scenery: Scenic boat rides with views of Marathon’s coastline and Schinias National Park.
• Rich Marine Life: Two snorkeling spots, teeming with colorful and interesting sea creatures.
• Relaxation & Beach Time: Golden sandy beaches for lounging and swimming.
• Flexible & Transparent Booking: Cancel up to 24 hours ahead with full refund options.

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Closer Look at the Athens: Marathon Cape & Schinias Bay Snorkeling Tour

Starting Point & Overall Logistics

The experience kicks off at Kanelakis Diving Experiences in Nea Makri, a short drive from Athens. It’s a manageable meeting point, especially if you’re staying in or near Athens, with no need for complicated transfers. The tour runs for about 4.5 hours, making it a substantial half-day activity without feeling overwhelming.

The group size is capped at 7 people, which means you get plenty of interaction with your guide Dimitri, who is consistently praised for his friendliness, professionalism, and multilingual skills (English and French). The small group format means more space, less waiting, and a more intimate atmosphere—great for conversations and personalized tips.

The Itinerary: What You’ll Experience

Stop 1: Departure from Nea Makri
In most cases, the trip begins with a 20-minute speedboat ride along Marathon Beach. The boat itself is described as cozy and well-equipped, with reviews highlighting the fun of cruising across the waters and the comfort of the vessel.

Stop 2: Schinias Beach
Your first stop is at Schinias Bay, a stretch of protected shoreline. Expect scenic views during the cruise that set the tone for the day. Once there, you can relax on the golden sands or take a dip in the crystal-clear waters. Reviewers mention the water’s clarity as a highlight, making it ideal for snorkeling. This spot is part of Schinias National Park, meaning the natural landscape is well-preserved and offers a tranquil setting.

Stop 3: Marathon Cape
Next, the boat moves to Marathon Cape, where travelers have about 15 minutes to stretch, snack, and soak up the scenery. One reviewer called it the “beautiful area of Marathon,” appreciating the views and the chance to learn about the historic significance of the location. Local snacks are provided, giving you a taste of Greek flavors amid the stunning scenery.

Stop 4: Return to Schinias Bay
The boat cruises back to Schinias Bay for another 30-minute session of sightseeing and snorkeling. This second dive spot allows you to see more marine life and enjoy the waters from a different angle. Travelers shared that the marine environment is teeming with life—fish, octopuses, starfish, and sea cucumbers are frequently observed, thanks to guides like Dimitri who point out these treasures.

Return to the Starting Point
After this relaxing day, the boat heads back to Nea Makri, ending the tour with a sense of calm and plenty of photos and videos captured along the way.

Snorkeling & Marine Encounters

The snorkeling spots are praised for their crystal-clear water, which enhances visibility and makes spotting marine creatures easier. Guides emphasize safety, offering tips on equipment use, since the tour is suitable for beginners and those with some experience. Notably, reviews mention the guides’ care in making sure everyone feels comfortable—Dimitri, in particular, is known for explaining marine life and assisting with equipment.

Visitors have reported seeing starfish, octopuses, sea cucumbers, and even a shy baby octopus that shot ink when approached. Several reviewers highlighted how the guides’ knowledge enriched the experience—they explained the behavior of sea creatures and shared Greek myths, adding a layer of cultural context.

More Great Tours Nearby

The Beaches & Natural Beauty

Schinias Beach isn’t just a snorkel site; it’s a stretch of untouched natural beauty within a protected national park. The golden sands and tranquil waters are perfect for unwinding after snorkeling. One reviewer noted the beach is “a secret escape from busy Athens,” ideal for those seeking peace and natural scenery.

The combination of the coastline’s natural beauty and the boat ride along the coast offers a balanced mix of adventure and relaxation. The scenery during the cruise is often described as scenic and peaceful, with many taking advantage of the opportunity to top up their tan or simply take in the views.

Guides & Support

Dimitri and the team receive high praise for their professionalism and warm approach. Multiple reviews mention Dimitri’s patience, friendliness, and wealth of knowledge about marine life and local history. He’s described as attentive, ensuring everyone is comfortable, and eager to show interesting creatures he finds along the way.

The snorkel equipment is provided, and photos and videos from the trip are included, adding lasting memories. The guides also share stories and facts, enhancing the educational aspect of the tour without making it feel like a classroom session.

Practical Details & Value

The tour’s price point offers good value when considering the included amenities—snorkel gear, guide, photos, snacks, water, and juice. It’s an all-in-one experience for around 4.5 hours that provides both adventure and tranquility.

Meals are not included, but the focus on scenic spots, marine life, and personalized service makes the experience worthwhile. Plus, the flexibility to cancel up to 24 hours in advance or reserve with no upfront payment appeals to spontaneous travelers.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This snorkeling trip suits adventurous water lovers, families with older children, and anyone eager to explore Greece’s underwater world in a relaxed setting. If you enjoy guided experiences with knowledgeable locals, small groups, and a mix of scenic cruising and snorkeling, this outing should tick all your boxes.

Keep in mind, it’s not designed for non-swimmers or very young children under six, but beyond that, it’s perfect for those wanting a gentle, scenic, and educational day on the water.

Final Thoughts: Is It Worth It?

Absolutely. This experience offers a great balance of scenic boat rides, vibrant marine life, and relaxing beach time. The small group setting and experienced guides ensure you get personalized attention and plenty of opportunities to learn about Greece’s marine biodiversity.

The value for money is clear when you consider everything included—the expert guidance, snorkel equipment, photos, snacks, and the chance to see underwater creatures you might never encounter otherwise. Plus, the natural beauty of Schinias Bay and Marathon Cape makes this more than just a snorkeling trip; it’s a mini-adventure in one of Greece’s less touristy, more authentic coastal areas.

If you’re in Athens and craving a day of sun, sea, and underwater discovery, this tour is well worth considering. Just remember to bring your swimwear, a towel, and a sense of curiosity—you’re in for a memorable ride.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for non-swimmers?
It’s primarily designed for those comfortable in water, but non-swimmers may not find it ideal unless they are very confident in shallow water and have flotation devices. Check with the provider if you’re unsure.

What is included in the price?
Snorkel equipment, guide, photos and videos from the trip, bottled water, biscuits or fruits, and juice or tea are included. Lunch and hotel transfers are not.

How long is the boat ride?
The boat departs from Nea Makri and the ride to the snorkeling sites lasts about 20 minutes each way, with scenic views along the way.

Are there any age restrictions?
Children must be at least 6 years old and be accompanied by an adult. The activity isn’t suitable for unaccompanied minors.

What should I bring?
Bring swimwear, a towel, and any personal items you’d like for sun protection or comfort. The tour provides snorkeling gear and essentials.

What happens if the weather is poor?
The tour is subject to favorable weather conditions. If canceled due to bad weather, you can choose an alternative date or receive a full refund.

Can I cancel this tour?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, giving you flexibility if plans change.

In the end, this snorkeling trip balances natural beauty, expert guidance, and relaxed fun. For travelers eager to explore Greece’s waters without a complicated setup, it offers an experience that’s both authentic and memorable.

You can check availability for your dates here: