The Athenians - full day private cruise to Athens Riviera

Exploring the Athens Riviera with a Private Cruise: A Detailed Review

Imagine spending a full day on a private boat, gliding along the Greek coastline, with the freedom to choose your stops, swim in pristine waters, and enjoy the company of your own group—sounds ideal, right? This is exactly what The Athenians – full day private cruise to Athens Riviera offers. While we haven’t personally boarded this vessel, a close look at the features, reviews, and itinerary paints a detailed picture of what travelers can expect from this experience.

What immediately draws us in is the intimate setting—a private group of up to nine people, which promises a tailored, relaxed atmosphere. The diverse itinerary with multiple stops, including uninhabited islands and caves, suggests plenty of opportunities for swimming and exploration. The fact that the tour includes luxury touches like free Wi-Fi, wine, snacks, and water sports equipment like SUPs and sea scooters makes it feel like a luxury experience at a surprisingly accessible price.

However, one point to keep in mind is that lunch is not included, which means you’ll either want to bring your own or plan to buy something during the stops. For those who prefer all-inclusive days or gourmet meals, this might be a slight downside. Still, for most travelers craving flexibility and authentic adventure, this cruise hits the right notes.

This tour would best suit adventurers who want a private, flexible day on the water—families, small groups of friends, or couples looking for a bespoke experience. If you’re after a more structured, mass-tour experience, this might not be the best fit. But if you value privacy, customization, and genuine exploration, you’ll find this cruise appealing.

This experience made our article of The 7 Most Popular Cruises And Boat Tours In Sounion.

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Key Points

Private and customizable: The tour is tailored to your group, offering flexibility in stops and activities.
Multiple swimming stops: Expect 3-5 different locations for swimming, including caves and beaches.
Inclusion of water sports: SUPs and sea scooters are available, adding fun and variety.
Relaxed, scenic itinerary: Focused on uninhabited islands and hidden beaches rather than crowded tourist spots.
Additional amenities: Free Wi-Fi, wine, beers, and snacks enhance comfort and enjoyment.
Price for value: At $1,129 for up to 9 people, it provides a personalized experience that can be very cost-effective per person.

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The Experience in Detail

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Starting Point and Pickup Options

The tour begins at a convenient location—either Charakas Beach near Sounion or marinas close to Athens’ center. Guests can choose from three pickup points: Glyfada, Vouliagmeni, or Athens, making it adaptable for different hotel locations. The private transfer service is an added bonus, removing the stress of logistics and allowing you to relax from the moment your day begins.

Embarking on the Boat

By 10:00 am, your boat is ready to set sail. The vessel appears well-equipped, with a skipper who speaks English, French, and Greek, ensuring smooth communication. The boat itself is likely a comfortable, modern craft designed for day trips, with plenty of space for lounging, dining, and water sport activities.

The Itinerary: What Stops Make This Trip Special?

Stop 1: Patroklos Island
This uninhabited island serves as your first swim stop. The waters are described as crystal clear, perfect for cooling off after a short sail. Reviewers love the privacy here, noting it’s a peaceful spot with trees providing shade and a sense of untouched nature.

Stop 2: Arsida Island and Hidden Cave
Next, you’ll explore a smaller island, where you can swim inside a concealed cave—an exciting highlight for those who enjoy a bit of adventure and discovery. The cave’s secluded nature means you’ll probably have it to yourself, making for a memorable photo opportunity.

Stop 3: Fleves Island (the “Greek Navy Island”)
This uninhabited island is renowned for its pristine beaches and clear waters. The nickname hints at a naval history, but today, it’s a quiet haven for swimming and relaxing on the sand.

Final Stops: Ydrousa Island and Beyond
The last uninhabited island offers the chance to spot rabbits and find quiet, turquoise beaches. Reviewers mention that you are free to customize your day, so if swimming, sunbathing, or exploring caves is your priority, this is all within reach.

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Water Activities and Amenities

You’re encouraged to use the included SUPs (stand-up paddleboards) and sea scooters, which add a playful element to your day. Many reviewers highlight how these water toys augment the experience, making the trip more fun and active. The free Wi-Fi onboard is a nice touch, allowing you to share moments instantly.

The light snacks, wines, and beers are perfect for relaxing between swims, and the inclusion of fuel, VAT, and insurance simplifies costs, making everything transparent. Keep in mind, lunch isn’t provided, so you might want to bring some snacks or plan to buy food during stops.

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Flexibility and Customization

One of the standout aspects is the ability to tailor your day. If you want more swimming, fewer stops, or to linger longer in a certain spot, the skipper can accommodate. Reviewers appreciate this flexibility, noting that the experience feels more like a day with friends rather than a rigid tour.

Practical Considerations

The tour lasts around 8 hours, which is enough time to enjoy several stops and activities without feeling rushed.
It’s not suitable for wheelchair users, so consider mobility needs when booking.
Cancellation is free up to 24 hours beforehand, offering peace of mind in case plans change.
The total price of $1,129 for up to 9 guests means it can be extremely cost-effective for groups, especially considering the private nature of the tour and included amenities.

Why This Tour Offers Great Value

Compared to larger, less flexible cruises, this private boat experience gives you control over your itinerary, making it feel more like a personalized day out than a commercial tour. The inclusion of water sports and amenities like Wi-Fi and drinks enhance comfort, while the multiple swim stops provide genuinely memorable moments. The price per person, especially with a group of nine, becomes very reasonable, providing a luxurious feel without a luxury price tag.

Who Should Consider It?

This experience is perfect for families, couples, or small groups looking for a relaxed, scenic, and flexible day on the water. It suits travelers who want to escape the crowds, explore uninhabited islands, and enjoy the natural beauty of the Athens Riviera at their own pace. If you’re after a more structured or all-inclusive day, or have mobility restrictions, you might want to explore other options.

FAQs

Is this a full-day tour?
Yes, the cruise lasts approximately 8 hours, giving plenty of time for swimming, exploring, and relaxing.

Are drinks included?
Yes, wine and beers are included, along with light snacks to keep you energized.

Can I customize the stops and activities?
Absolutely. The tour is private, allowing you to decide how long to stay at each location and what activities to prioritize.

What should I bring?
You might want to bring swimwear, towels, sunscreen, and possibly a picnic or extra snacks, since lunch isn’t included.

Is the tour suitable for children?
While most water activities are family-friendly, consider the age and mobility of children, especially as it’s not suitable for wheelchair users.

What languages do the guides speak?
The skipper and crew are fluent in English, French, and Greek.

How do I get picked up?
You can choose from three pickup locations: Glyfada, Vouliagmeni, or Athens. Private transfers to and from your hotel can also be arranged.

What happens in case of bad weather?
Weather-dependent, the tour can be canceled or postponed, and you can cancel free of charge up to 24 hours before.

Is this experience good value?
Given the private, customizable nature and included amenities, many find the price reasonable, especially for groups.

Can I book and pay later?
Yes, you can reserve now and pay later, offering flexibility if your plans change.

Wrapping It Up

If you’re seeking a private, flexible way to enjoy the Athens Riviera—whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply craving a day of sun, sea, and exploration—this cruise offers a wonderful balance of adventure and relaxation. The ability to customize your stops, combined with the amenities and water toys, makes it stand out from more regimented tours. It’s a solid choice for small groups wanting exclusivity and genuine local experience, all wrapped in a scenic, fun-filled package.

While it might not suit those looking for luxury dining or wheelchair accessibility, it’s an excellent option for travelers who prioritize privacy, spontaneous adventures, and authentic natural beauty. Expect a memorable day that blends the comfort of a private boat with the thrill of discovering hidden Greek islands.

Final thoughts:

This tour offers a rare chance to explore the Athens Riviera on your own terms. It’s about freedom, fun, and soaking up Greece’s stunning waters and islands without the crowds. For travelers who cherish personalized experiences and outdoor adventures, this cruise will likely be a highlight of their Athens trip.