Astypalaia: Daily Cruise to Koutsomiti, Kounoupa, Red Rock & more

If you’re dreaming of a day spent navigating the crystal-clear waters of Greece’s Dodecanese islands, this Astypalaia daily cruise promises an intimate, luxurious, and genuinely enjoyable experience. While we haven’t personally sailed with this tour, reviews and details paint a vivid picture of a journey that combines breathtaking scenery, excellent hospitality, and authentic touches that turn a typical boat trip into a memorable adventure.

What we love about this experience? First, the small-group setting ensures a cozy, friendly vibe rather than a crowded spectacle. Second, the itinerary packs in a variety of scenic stops, from beaches to caves, giving you a well-rounded taste of the area’s natural beauty. Third, the all-inclusive approach means you can relax without worrying about hidden fees or extra costs, enjoying drinks, snacks, and a delicious lunch in comfort. Yet, a potential consideration is that the itinerary can change depending on weather, so some spontaneity is part of the adventure.

This tour is best suited for travelers who want a laid-back day out with excellent amenities, stunning views, and a touch of exclusivity. If you love personalized service, snorkeling, and exploring unspoiled spots that are tough to reach on your own, this cruise could be your perfect escape.

Key Points

• Intimate Experience: Small-group setting with a maximum of 14 guests guarantees a personal touch.
• All-Inclusive Value: Drinks, snacks, a hearty lunch, and snorkeling gear included in the price.
• Variety of Stops: Scenic beaches, caves, and iconic rock formations ensure diverse photo opportunities.
• Expert Guides: Friendly crew, including hosts named Michael, add both professionalism and local insight.
• Relaxing Pace: Plenty of time at each stop for swimming, sunbathing, or exploring without feeling rushed.
• Weather Flexibility: The itinerary may change if weather conditions aren’t ideal.

An In-Depth Review of the Cruise Experience

The Start: Setting Sail from Pera Gialos

The adventure begins at the port of Pera Gialos at 11:00 AM, where you’ll board the luxurious 19-meter Ferretti yacht, Merillo. With a maximum of 14 guests, the vessel offers ample space and comfort, making it feel more like sailing with friends than joining a large tour group. The crew, led by hospitable guides like Michael, is known for their warmth and attentiveness—something that reviewers consistently praise, especially the two Michaels who seem to go above and beyond to make everyone feel at home.

First Stop: Kounoupa Island (60 Minutes)

Your first destination, Kounoupa, is renowned for its double beach—an unusual sight that sets the tone for this trip’s focus on natural beauty. After a smooth 45-minute sail, we arrive at this unspoiled spot where guests usually spend about an hour. Reviewers like Dianna describe it as the highlight of their trip, noting the crystal-clear waters that are perfect for swimming. The beach’s calm, emerald waters invite you to float around, while the onboard snack bar offers refreshing cocktails if you want to unwind in style.

What makes Kounoupa special? Its secluded nature and clear waters give a sense of discovering a hidden gem. The yacht provides plenty of towels, and the canopy offers shade, allowing for a comfortable experience regardless of the sun’s intensity.

Koutsomiti Beach: A Snorkeler’s Paradise (40 Minutes)

Next, the boat heads to Koutsomiti, just a 10-minute sail away. Here, you’ll have 40 minutes to dip into the turquoise waters, with plenty of snorkel gear available for underwater exploration. Reviewers like Yasmin rave about the breathtakingly clear water and the opportunity to see underwater life close-up. They also mention the generous open bar, which makes relaxing between swims effortless.

A key advantage of this stop? It’s close enough to the previous spot to maximize your swimming time without feeling rushed, yet different enough to offer new views and underwater scenery. The provided snorkel equipment is noted to be of good quality, and the calm waters make it accessible even for less experienced snorkelers.

Red Rock and the Cave: A Mix of Relaxation and Adventure (30 Minutes)

After Koutsomiti, the yacht sets course for Red Rock, a 20-minute sail away. This stop features not only more snorkeling and swimming but also an exciting cave exploration. For those who love a bit of adventure, the crew offers a guided into the nearby cave, giving you a chance to see a different side of the coastline’s geological features.

Reviewers like Andy highlight the helpful captain and friendly crew, who ensure everyone feels safe exploring the cave. The 30-minute window means you can enjoy a quick dip or relax on the yacht, soaking in the views of the iconic red cliffs towering above the water.

Final Stop: Agia Kyriaki (1 Hour 30 Minutes)

The last part of your journey takes you to Agia Kyriaki, a serene island split by a natural channel. Spend about an hour and a half here, with ample time for swimming, snorkeling, or simply lounging on the boat. The crew prepares a delicious shrimp pasta lunch, complemented by fresh fruit dessert, which reviewers find to be surprisingly tasty and more than enough to satisfy hungry travelers.

Yasmin describes the experience as feeling really special, emphasizing the quality of the food and the relaxed atmosphere. The time here also allows for some gentle exploration or just floating in the peaceful waters, leaving you refreshed and content as the day winds down.

End of the Day

The cruise returns to Pera Gialos around 5:00 PM, completing a roughly six-hour journey packed with natural beauty and comfort. The entire experience is designed to give you a taste of Astypalaia’s stunning coast with minimal hassle, thanks to the seamless, all-inclusive setup.

What Sets This Tour Apart?

Personal and Luxurious Atmosphere

Unlike larger boat trips, this cruise’s small-group size ensures personalized attention, quiet comfort, and a more intimate vibe. Reviewers repeatedly mention how much they appreciated the friendly crew, especially guides like Michael, who provided local insight and made everyone feel welcome.

Diverse and Unreachable Spots

You get access to hidden beaches and caves that are difficult to visit alone, making this tour ideal for those craving authentic scenery without the crowds. The itinerary’s flexibility, defined by weather conditions, can mean some surprises but also tailored experiences depending on what the sea offers that day.

All-Inclusive Convenience

With drinks, snacks, snorkeling equipment, and a hearty lunch included, you won’t need to carry extra cash or worry about small expenses. This makes the tour great for travelers who prefer a hassle-free, comfortable day.

Expert Guidance and Safety

The crew’s reputation for helpfulness and friendliness is backed by reviews describing how they assist with snorkeling, cave exploration, and making guests feel at ease. Their knowledge of the local sites adds value beyond just the scenery.

Value for Money

At approximately $142 per person, the tour offers a full day of exploring, swimming, and dining. When you consider the exclusivity, personalized service, and all equipment provided, the cost is competitive—especially for a luxury yacht experience.

Practical Details and Tips

• Timing: The tour departs at 11:00 AM and lasts around six hours, ending back at the starting point.
• Group Size: Limited to 14 guests, which enhances comfort and interaction.
• Inclusions: Drinks (beer, wine, soda, water), snacks, snorkeling gear, towels, and a lunch of shrimp pasta plus dessert.
• Weather Dependency: The itinerary may shift depending on weather, so flexibility is key.
• Children: Allowed but must be accompanied by an adult.
• Vegetarian options: Available if advised at booking.
• Meeting Point: Easy to find near public transportation at G9X3+4C Astypalea.
• Cancellation Policy: Free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This cruise is perfect for travelers who want a relaxed, luxurious day on the water, with plenty of time for swimming, snorkeling, and enjoying stunning scenery without the chaos of larger groups. It suits those who value personal attention, local knowledge, and high-quality amenities. If you’re a foodie, the included lunch is a bonus, and adventure seekers will enjoy cave exploration and multiple swim stops. It’s ideal for couples, small groups of friends, or solo travelers seeking a tranquil yet engaging day at sea.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, children can join but must be accompanied by an adult. The relaxed pace and snorkeling options make it suitable for kids who are comfortable in water.

What should I bring?
You might want to bring swimwear, a towel, sunscreen, and a hat. The tour provides towels and snorkeling gear, but personal items are up to you.

Will the itinerary change?
Yes, based on weather conditions, the crew might adjust the stops or order of destinations for safety and comfort.

Is the yacht comfortable?
Absolutely. The 19-meter Ferretti yacht has ample space, shade, and modern amenities, ensuring comfort throughout the day.

What drinks are included?
Unlimited beer, wine, soda, and water are available onboard, so you can hydrate and toast as you wish.

How long are the stops?
Each stop ranges from 30 to 60 minutes, providing enough time for swimming, snorkeling, or relaxing on deck.

Can I snorkel at every stop?
Yes, snorkeling gear is provided at every swimming stop, and reviewers confirm the waters are clear and inviting.

Is vegetarian lunch available?
Yes, vegetarian options can be arranged if advised at the time of booking.

What if the weather is bad?
The tour is weather-dependent; if canceled due to poor conditions, you can reschedule or get a full refund.

Final Thoughts

This Astypalaia small-group cruise offers a blend of luxury, adventure, and authentic Greek island charm. From the well-curated itinerary to the friendly crew and stunning locations, it seems to check all the boxes for a memorable day at sea. The all-inclusive setup and manageable group size make it an excellent choice for those wanting to explore without the hassle, while the variety of stops ensures a well-rounded experience.

If you’re seeking a day that combines scenic beauty, personalized service, and genuine immersion in the Greek islands, this cruise is a fantastic option. It’s especially suited for travelers who appreciate comfort, quality food, and the freedom to swim and snorkel at their leisure.

In essence: Expect a thoughtfully curated, relaxing, and scenic day on the water, with opportunities to explore unspoiled spots, enjoy local cuisine, and bask in the unique beauty of Astypalaia’s coastline. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply want to treat yourself, this cruise promises a memorable, well-rounded adventure.

Happy sailing!