Sounion stands out as a prime spot for cruises and boat tours thanks to its stunning sea views, proximity to iconic sites like the Temple of Poseidon, and easy access to nearby islands. Whether you’re after a private escape, a scenic day trip, or a luxurious sunset cruise, Sounion offers a variety of options that promise memorable experiences on the water. We particularly love the private sunset cruises for their exclusivity and spectacular views of Cape Sounion, especially at sunset when the sky turns pink over the ancient temple. For those seeking a more active adventure, the Aegean day private cruise combines island hopping with swimming and ancient ruins, making it perfect for explorers. For a taste of Athens from the sea, the Athens private catamaran experience offers onboard dining and snorkeling, ideal for relaxing while enjoying the coast.
Quick Overview
In this guide, you’ll find a mix of private charters, group day trips, and half-day cruises. Some tours focus on island hopping like the Aegean day – private cruise to west Cyclades, which combines visits to Kea and Kythnos, while others emphasize a luxury experience, such as the Athens private catamaran experience. If you’re interested in sunset views, the Private Sunset Cruise to Cape Sounio & Athenian Riviera ranks high for its scenic beauty. Budget travelers may prefer the half-day private swimming cruise, while those seeking full-day adventures can opt for the full-day private cruise to Athens Riviera.
1. Aegean day – private cruise to west cyclades
Imagine setting sail from Athens on a private cruise exploring the Cyclades in one day. This trip combines visits to two islands—Kea (Tzia) and Kythnos—offering a true taste of Greece’s island charm. The tour includes seven pickup locations around Athens, making logistics easier, and the itinerary is packed with highlights like Kolona beach, Merichas, and the ancient city of Kathraia.
What makes this tour stand out is its balance of privacy and adventure. You can swim at Kolona Beach, known for its sandy cove and shallow waters, and explore Kythnos’ charming ports of Korissia and Vourkari. The boat moves smoothly through the Cyclades, with short speedboat intervals that keep the pace lively. Guests frequently comment on the well-planned stops and the scenic beauty. The tour’s 8-hour duration offers enough time to enjoy swimming, sightseeing, and relaxing onboard, making it perfect for those who want an immersive day without the hassle of planning.
Bottom Line: This private trip is ideal for small groups seeking a full day of island hopping, swimming, and ancient sites—a great mix of culture and leisure.
2. Athens: Private Catamaran Experience with Meal & Open Bar
For a luxurious day on the water, the Athens private catamaran experience delivers. This tour offers a flexible schedule—morning, sunset, or full day—that caters to your preferred pace. The experience includes fresh onboard meals like seafood, chicken fillet, and sausages, along with an open bar featuring local white wine and soft drinks. The boat itself is a comfortable, modern catamaran designed for relaxing and socializing.
What sets this experience apart is the personalized service and scenic route along the Athens coastline. As you sail, you’ll enjoy the sea breeze and panoramic views of the city’s skyline, with plenty of opportunities for snorkeling in the crystal-clear waters of the Saronic Gulf. Guests rave about the relaxing atmosphere and how well the crew handles all aspects of the cruise, making it suitable for couples, friends, or families. The 5 to 10-hour duration means you can opt for a quick escape or spend the entire day soaking up the sun.
Bottom Line: This is the perfect choice if you’re after an elegant, private escape with excellent food, drinks, and beautiful views.
3. Private Sunset Cruise to Cape Sounio & Athenian Riviera
Few experiences match the magic of a sunset cruise, and this private tour hits the mark perfectly. Starting from Athens, you’ll cruise along the Athenian Riviera, heading toward Cape Sounio to see the famous Temple of Poseidon. The tour is tailored to your preferences, with a 4-hour duration that balances scenic cruising with plenty of time for photos and relaxation.
What makes this cruise special is the combination of private comfort and breathtaking views. As the sun sets, the sky turns shades of pink, casting a glow on the ancient temple and making for stunning photos. There’s a swimming stop in the waters of a private island, plus snacks and soft drinks onboard. The English-speaking skipper keeps things smooth and informative, sharing insights into the coastline’s history and lore.
Guests frequently mention the serenity of the experience and how private cruises like this are often the most memorable way to end a day in Greece. Its small group or private setting ensures a peaceful, exclusive atmosphere, perfect for couples or small groups looking for an intimate experience.
Bottom Line: This tour offers unmatched sunset views and exclusivity, making it ideal for romance or special occasions.
4. Athens Riviera 5 hour Catamaran Cruise with Lunch and Drinks
If you want a half-day escape with good food and stunning scenery, this catamaran cruise from Athens is a top pick. The 5-hour trip takes you past the hidden coves and dramatic cliffs of the Athenian Riviera, with plenty of time for swimming, snorkeling, and relaxing onboard.
The highlight is the lunch onboard, which includes a delicious meal with drinks—a perfect way to unwind during your cruise. Guests enjoy snorkeling gear to explore the waters, and the boat’s large deck offers ample space for sunbathing. The itinerary is flexible, with 45-minute segments on the water, allowing you to soak up the sun and take in the views.
Reviews praise the friendly crew and high-quality food, making this a well-rounded experience for families, couples, or friends. It’s a great value for the time, especially if you want a quick but comprehensive sea adventure.
Bottom Line: Perfect for those wanting a relaxed afternoon, good food, and a taste of Greek coastlines—all in just five hours.
5. Half-Day Private Swimming Cruise along the Athenian Riviera
This is the best-selling private cruise from Athens for a reason. The 4-hour tour focuses on swimming in the crystal-clear waters of the Saronic Gulf, with seriously stunning scenery like Cape Sounio and the Temple of Poseidon as a backdrop. It includes private transportation from Athens and tailored stops at private island beaches or coves.
What makes this tour stand out is its flexibility and private nature. The boat can accommodate up to 11 people, making it perfect for families or small groups seeking a personalized experience. Snacks and soft drinks are included, and the skipper is fluent in English, ensuring smooth navigation and local insights.
Guests appreciate the intimate setting and swimming stops in secluded coves—ideal for cooling off without crowds. Since it’s a private tour, you can customize the itinerary if you wish. The 4-hour duration is perfect for a quick yet fulfilling escape from Athens.
Bottom Line: An excellent choice for small groups wanting a private, flexible, and relaxing day on the water.
6. The Athenians – full day private cruise to Athens Riviera
For those who want to explore more of the Athens coastline in one go, this full-day private cruise is a standout. The 8-hour itinerary takes you to hidden beaches and caves, with plenty of opportunities to swim and snorkel. It includes multiple pickup options—from Athens, Glyfada, or Vouliagmeni—making logistics easy.
The tour offers a comprehensive look at the coast, with the ability to customize stops based on your interests. Guests comment on the peacefulness of the cruise and the chance to see parts of the coast inaccessible by land. The cost per group offers good value considering the length and private nature of the trip.
It’s perfect for travelers who want an active day on the water with personalized service—ideal for families or small groups who want to explore at their own pace without the crowds.
Bottom Line: This private, full-day option is great for those wanting an in-depth, relaxed experience along the Athens Riviera.
7. Lavrion: Kea and Sounion Private Cruise with Snacks & Drinks
Last on our list is a luxury private cruise departing from Lavrion, taking you to Kea and Sounion. This 7-hour adventure is fully customizable, with snacks, soft drinks, and snorkeling gear included. It’s perfect for travelers who want a private, all-inclusive experience in the Aegean.
The tour features swimming in Kea’s clear waters, exploring hidden coves, and visiting the Temple of Poseidon at Sounion. The private boat accommodates up to 10 people, and the skipper is experienced and English-speaking. The route offers freedom to tailor stops—whether you want more swimming, sightseeing, or just lounging.
Guests often mention the comfortable boat and the personalized attention, which makes this a luxurious choice. The price reflects its exclusivity, so it’s best suited for couples or small groups seeking a premium experience.
Bottom Line: If a private, customizable cruise with snacks and snorkeling gear sounds appealing, this is a top-tier choice.
How to Choose the Right Cruise or Boat Tour in Sounion
When selecting a cruise, consider your budget, time available, and interests. If you want a luxury experience with onboard dining and sunset views, the Private Sunset Cruise to Cape Sounio & Athenian Riviera is unbeatable. For a full-day adventure exploring multiple islands, the Aegean day – private cruise to west Cyclades offers a well-rounded experience.
If swimming and privacy are your priorities, the Half-Day Private Swimming Cruise provides a flexible, intimate setting. For a group or family looking for a memorable adventure, the full-day Athens Riviera cruise balances exploration with comfort.
Be sure to book early, especially for private tours or popular sunset cruises, to secure your preferred date. Always check availability and consider the time of year—summer months bring the best weather but also more crowds.
Final Thoughts
From private luxury excursions to lively group tours, Sounion and its surrounding waters offer something for every traveler. The private sunset cruise is perfect for romantics, while the island-hopping options suit those craving adventure. For a laid-back, scenic day, the catamaran or swimming cruises shine.
No matter which you choose, booking early will ensure you get the experience that best matches your style. After all, there’s no better way to enjoy Greece’s stunning coastline than from the deck of a boat with good company and beautiful views.