Athens: Private Daily Cruise & Snorkeling Petalioi Marmari

This experience made our article of The Top 8 Snorkeling Experiences In Greece.

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Exploring the Athens: Private Daily Cruise & Snorkeling Petalioi Marmari Experience

This private cruise with Summer Dream Boats offers a chance to explore some of Greece’s most stunning waters and charming villages. Designed for those seeking a mix of relaxation, adventure, and authentic coastal scenery, this six-hour journey takes you to the beautiful Petalioi Islands, affectionately called the Maldives of South-East Evia, and the quaint fishing village of Marmari.

What makes this experience stand out? First, the private high-performance rib boat ensures an intimate and comfortable ride. Second, the snorkeling with complimentary gear allows you to explore vibrant underwater life in crystal-clear waters. Lastly, the well-curated onboard snacks and drinks keep you energized without feeling overstuffed. The only caveat? The itinerary involves several stops and some driving time, so it’s best suited to travelers comfortable with a full day on the water and in transit.

This tour is perfect for those craving an authentic, luxurious day out on the Greek seas — whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply want a unique way to see central Greece from the water. It’s especially appealing for travelers who love snorkeling, scenic views, and discovering lesser-known spots away from crowded tourist traps.

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Key Points

Private boat experience offers exclusivity and personalized service.
Snorkeling gear is included, making underwater exploration accessible.
Delicious onboard snacks and drinks keep you refreshed during the trip.
Stops in Petalioi Islands and Marmari provide a mix of stunning scenery and local charm.
Drone and underwater camera options add a fun tech element to your memories.
Flexible cancellation policy offers peace of mind for booking.

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Why This Tour Stands Out

If you’re looking to escape the crowds and enjoy a more personalized approach to island-hopping, this private cruise ticks all the boxes. The use of a high-performance rib boat means quick, smooth rides that cut through the water swiftly, giving you more time to enjoy each stop. The crew’s expertise is often highlighted in reviews, with many mentioning how they seamlessly handle safety briefings and guide you to the best snorkeling spots. You’ll get plenty of freedom to swim, relax, or snap photos with the drone and waterproof camera included.

Compared to larger group tours, this experience feels more tailored, offering flexibility in your schedule and activities. The itinerary includes charming stops at lesser-explored areas like Megalonisos Petalion and Marmari, giving you a taste of local life alongside stunning coastal views. The opportunity to indulge in local snacks and beverages onboard adds a welcoming touch that elevates the whole experience.

The Itinerary Breakdown

Starting Point and Safety Briefing

Your day kicks off at a designated parking area, where the crew will meet you for a safety briefing (about 15 minutes). This step is crucial, especially if you’re new to boat trips, as it covers safety protocols and helps everyone feel comfortable. The briefing is delivered in both Greek and English, catering to international guests, and is straightforward and friendly.

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Marathon, Greece – A Scenic Cruise

The first leg involves a 30-minute boat cruise passing through the scenic Marathon area. While not heavily detailed in reviews, travelers often remark on how smooth and comfortable the ride is, with many appreciating the professional guidance from the crew. The views of the coastline and the open sea start setting the mood for the day ahead.

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Megalonisos Petalion – Water Fun and Local Flavors

The highlight for many is the stop at Megalonisos Petalion, where you get around 2.5 hours to relax. This island offers the perfect mix of swimming, snorkeling, and enjoying the local snacks onboard. Reviewers often mention how vibrant the marine life is, and the snorkeling gear makes it easy to explore underwater without fuss.

One guest noted, “The snorkeling was surprisingly good — I saw colorful fish and even a small octopus!” Another appreciated that the crew provided water and soft drinks, so staying hydrated in the sun was effortless.

Marmari – Charming Seaside Village

Next, the boat docks at Marmari, a picturesque fishing village on Evia. Here, you’ll have approximately 1.5 hours for lunch, swimming, and soaking in the coastal ambiance. Many reviewers praise the laid-back vibe, with local taverns offering fresh seafood, ouzo, and leisurely cafes. Exploring the seafront by foot reveals quaint charm, colorful boats, and inviting beaches.

A recurring comment from past travelers is how relaxing it is to enjoy authentic Greek seafood in such a peaceful setting, away from tourist-heavy areas. Some even mention how this stop feels like discovering a well-kept secret.

Schinias Beach and Return Journey

The final cruise segment is a 30-minute ride along Schinias Beach, renowned for its natural beauty and clean sands. The views from the boat as you glide past the coastline are often described as stunning, especially with the drone capturing aerial shots of the shoreline.

The tour wraps up with a return to the parking area, providing a full, satisfying day of adventure, scenery, and relaxation.

What’s Included and What to Keep in Mind

This tour offers snacks, bottled water, soda, and all necessary snorkeling equipment—no hidden costs or extra charges. Towels, waterproof cameras, and a drone to capture your experience are also provided, adding a special touch to your memories. The tour fees include all taxes and fees, and the carbon offset contribution ensures you’re traveling more responsibly.

The tour lasts about six hours, with flexible starting times depending on availability. It’s a private group experience, which means more personalized attention and the chance to tailor activities if needed.

Practical Tips

Remember your passport or ID, as it’s required for check-in.
Bring sun protection — hats, sunscreen, and sunglasses are must-haves.
Wear comfortable clothes suitable for water activities.
Alcohol and drugs are not permitted onboard for safety reasons.
The experience isn’t suitable for babies under 1 year, so plan accordingly.

What Past Travelers Say

Many reviews highlight the crew’s friendly professionalism, often mentioning guides by name. One guest appreciated how the crew handled safety with care and kept the group engaged with interesting facts about the islands. The snorkeling sites were praised for their clarity and vibrant marine life, with some commenting that the underwater camera brought out their best shots.

The quality of snacks and drinks onboard seems to impress nearly everyone, with some noting the “excellent selection of local treats and refreshing beverages.” The drone footage adds a special touch, making the experience truly memorable from above.

Some guests mention the trip’s pace — fast enough to see multiple spots but relaxed enough to enjoy every moment. The flexibility of the private group setting is often cited as a major plus, allowing for spontaneous swims or extra photo stops.

The Sum Up: Who Will Love This Tour?

This private cruise works best for travelers looking for an exclusive, well-rounded day exploring central Greece’s coastal gems. If you enjoy snorkeling and water-based adventures, you’ll be delighted by the underwater sights. The personalized atmosphere makes it ideal for couples, families, or friends seeking a relaxed yet engaging experience.

Those who appreciate good food, stunning scenery, and a touch of tech with drone footage will find this tour offers excellent value. It’s perfect if you want to avoid large groups and prefer a more intimate, customizable day out.

Overall, it’s a well-organized, beautifully curated experience that balances adventure, relaxation, and discovery — a genuine highlight for anyone exploring Greece beyond Athens.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does the tour last?
The entire experience is approximately six hours, including travel, stops, and onboard time.

What is included in the price?
Snacks, bottled water, soda, snorkeling equipment, towels, waterproof camera, drone, and all taxes and fees are included.

Is this tour suitable for children?
It’s not suitable for babies under 1 year. Older children who enjoy water activities will likely have a great time, but check with the provider if you have specific concerns.

Do I need to bring my own equipment?
No, snorkeling gear is provided, along with a waterproof camera and drone to capture your moments.

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

What should I wear?
Comfortable clothes suitable for water activities, sunscreen, hat, and sunglasses are recommended.

Is there any extra cost I should be aware of?
No, everything listed is included. However, if you wish to buy additional snacks or souvenirs at Marmari, those are at your own expense.

This private cruise delivers a fantastic slice of Greek coastal life, combining scenic beauty, underwater adventures, and authentic local charm in a carefully curated package. Whether you’re seeking a relaxing escape or an active day out, it’s a memorable way to see central Greece from the sea.