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The 12 Best Sailing Experiences in Athens
Athens isn’t just about ancient ruins and bustling streets; it’s also a fantastic place to enjoy sailing. The Athenian coastline offers crystal-clear waters, secluded beaches, and stunning views of the city’s skyline from the water. Whether you prefer a relaxing half-day tour, a romantic sunset cruise, or a full-day adventure with Greek gastronomy, Athens has a sailing experience for you. Some tours, like the Athens: Half-Day Morning Catamaran Cruise with Meal & Drinks, stand out for their combination of comfort, scenery, and delicious local food. Others, such as the Private Luxury Sunset Sailing Cruise, offer intimate experiences perfect for romantic getaways. We’ve selected the best options so you can find the perfect match for your Athens visit.
Quick overview
In this list, you’ll find half-day cruises, sunset sails, full-day adventures, and private charters. Tours range from small group experiences to luxury private cruises, with options that include snorkeling, swimming, local Greek cuisine, and even island-hopping. For those who want a lively social atmosphere, the Athens: Half-Day Morning Catamaran Cruise with Meal & Drinks is a top choice, thanks to its reviews highlighting “stunning views” and “delicious food.” For romance, the Private Luxury Sunset Sailing Cruise offers a peaceful, intimate escape. If you’re seeking an all-inclusive experience, the ATHENS SAILING & GASTRONOMY DAILY CRUISE combines a full day of sailing with gourmet meals. Read on for detailed reviews of each.
1. Athens: Half-Day Morning Catamaran Cruise with Meal & Drinks
This 5-hour morning cruise is a favorite for its balance of relaxation, scenery, and good food. The tour takes you along the Athenian coastline, with stops at Vouliagmeni Bay, perfect for swimming and snorkeling. Onboard, you’ll enjoy Greek tapas and regional wine, making it a delightful way to start the day. The modern catamaran ensures comfort, and the crew’s friendly vibe gets rave reviews, with one traveler calling it “the BEST activity” they did in Athens. The cruise is praised for its cleanliness, delicious lunch, and engaging crew, who enhance the experience with Greek music and local stories.
This tour suits travelers who want a scenic, laid-back outing without spending a full day at sea. Its value for money is high, given the combination of food, drinks, swimming, and stunning views. The main drawback? Some reviewers noted a late departure and early return, so plan accordingly. Overall, it’s a top pick for first-timers and those craving a relaxed day on the water with good company.
Bottom Line: Ideal for those wanting a short, enjoyable introduction to Athens’ coastline with excellent food and friendly service.
2. Athens: Half-Day Sunset Catamaran Cruise with Meal & Drinks
Watching the sunset from a boat is a classic Athens experience, and this 4-hour cruise delivers just that. Departing in the late afternoon, you’ll sail the Saronic Gulf, with spectacular views as the sun dips behind the coastline. The cruise includes snorkeling and swimming in the evening waters, along with Greek-style dishes and wine. Reviewers consistently mention how magical the sunset is, calling it “probably one of the highlights of my trip.” The crew’s hospitality and the chance to capture stunning photos make it a favorite.
What sets this tour apart is its focus on romance and tranquility. It’s perfect for couples or anyone wanting a peaceful way to unwind after sightseeing. The food and drinks are highly praised, with diners raving about the buffet-style lunch and hospitable hosts. Some guests mention that the crew Alexandra and Nikos made them feel right at home.
Bottom line: Best suited for those seeking a romantic, relaxed evening with excellent views and good food.
3. Athens Private Full Day Sailing Cruise with Greek Gastronomy
This 11-hour private tour offers a true deep dive into Greece’s culinary and scenic delights. It includes stops at Aegina, Moni Island, and Agistri, with plenty of time for swimming, snorkeling, and exploring. The highlight? The chef-prepared, traditional Greek meals featuring local ingredients. You’ll taste freshly made desserts, snacks, and main courses, all served in a relaxed, private setting.
Based on the reviews, this tour is considered “more than just a cruise” — it’s an immersive experience combining gastronomy, scenery, and culture. The itinerary is flexible, tailored to your preferences, and includes all necessary equipment for watersports. The personalized service and authentic cuisine make it a great choice for food lovers and those wanting a luxury experience.
Bottom line: Perfect for travelers wanting a full day of luxury, local flavor, and island exploration with a private, customizable touch.
4. Athens Riviera Private Catamaran Cruise with Meal and Drinks
This 5-hour private cruise offers an exclusive experience along the Athens Riviera. It’s ideal for up to 15 people, making it perfect for families or friends. The luxurious catamaran provides plenty of space to relax, sunbathe, and enjoy swimming and snorkeling. The tour features a light, freshly prepared meal, served with drinks, all in a very private setting.
Guests rave about the privacy, comfort, and personalized service. The boat’s itinerary includes breaks at Vouliagmeni and Voula, with photo stops and opportunities for marine life viewing. Reviewers also mention how the hosts make everyone feel “right at home,” adding a special touch to the experience.
This tour is best suited for those seeking luxury and privacy, especially groups celebrating special occasions. Its value is reflected in the personalized service, but it’s pricier than shared options. It’s a great choice if you want a tailor-made day at sea.
Bottom line: An elegant, private experience designed for comfort, good food, and stunning views with a small group.
5. Athens Riviera: Private daily sailing cruise with lunch
For those seeking a flexible, private experience, this 6-hour cruise is a top option. It includes a secluded island, where you can swim, snorkel, and relax, plus a Greek-style meal cooked onboard. The tour’s focus on personalized service makes it ideal for families or small groups who want to customize their day.
The reviews highlight the opportunity to see Athens from the water and enjoy local cuisine in a tranquil setting. The option to explore secluded beaches and snorkel equipment are added perks for watersports enthusiasts. Since it’s a private tour, you can tailor the itinerary to your interests, whether that’s more swimming or sightseeing.
Bottom line: Best for travelers looking for a private, customizable day of sailing with good food and the chance to explore lesser-known spots.
6. Athens Riviera: Half-Day Private Catamaran Cruise
This 5-hour private cruise caters to up to 2 people, making it perfect for couples or small families seeking an intimate experience. The tour includes sailing along the Athens coast, swimming, and a barbecue meal onboard. The guide’s narration about the area’s history adds an educational touch.
Guests note the fabulous boat, tasty food, and the chance to relax in style. The itinerary features swimming stops at Voula and Vouliagmeni, with free time for photos and sightseeing. The personalized service and flexible schedule make it stand out.
This tour is ideal for those wanting luxury and privacy in a relaxed environment. The main consideration is the cost per group, which is higher, but the exclusivity often justifies the price.
Bottom line: Perfect for romantic getaways or intimate celebrations on a private yacht.
7. Athens Full-day catamaran cruise with meal & drinks
Spanning around 9 hours, this full-day cruise takes you around Aegina, one of Greece’s most popular islands. It’s a comprehensive day trip for those who want more than just a boat ride. You’ll have opportunities to swim, snorkel, sunbathe, and enjoy a lunch prepared onboard. Guests love the relaxed pace and the chance to explore Aegina’s traditional streets after sailing.
The tour is praised for its value for money, providing meals, drinks, and multiple swimming stops. It suits travelers who want a full day of activity without the hassle of planning. The friendly guide and good itinerary ensure a fun, stress-free experience.
Bottom line: Best for active travelers eager for a full day of sailing, sightseeing, and island exploration.
8. Athens Riviera Private Luxury Sunset Sailing Cruise
This 5-hour cruise is all about romance and serenity. It offers a private experience on a 52-foot sailing yacht, perfect for couples or small groups. The highlight is sailing along the Athens coast at sunset, with beautiful views and champagne tasting.
Reviewers mention how Eleni and Stavros create a warm, welcoming environment that feels like a family gathering. The boat’s smooth sailing, beautiful scenery, and local cuisine onboard make it a memorable experience. The secluded beaches for swimming add to the exclusivity.
This cruise is best suited for romantic occasions or those wanting a peaceful escape from city life. Its price point reflects the luxury and privacy offered.
Bottom line: An excellent choice for romance, luxury, and sunset views.
9. Athens: Private Full-Day Sailing and Gastronomy Cruise
This 11-hour private tour combines sailing, swimming, and authentic Greek cuisine. It includes multiple stops at secret beaches and islands, with local dishes served during the day. The tour features wildlife viewing and snorkeling, making it suitable for active travelers.
Guests appreciate the personalized approach and the opportunity to customize the experience. The professional crew shares Greek history and culture, adding educational value. This tour is ideal for those wanting a full immersion in Greek life, food, and scenery.
Bottom line: Perfect for food lovers and culture enthusiasts who want a luxury, customizable, full-day experience.
10. ATHENS SAILING & GASTRONOMY DAILY CRUISE ALL INCLUSIVE
This 10-hour all-inclusive cruise offers breakfast, a four-dish meal with drinks, and free water toys. Starting from Alimos, it takes you to the Saronic Islands with multiple swimming stops. Guests love the comprehensive package, which covers almost everything, from snorkeling gear to meals and drinks.
The tour’s value is high, especially for those wanting a full day of sailing without extra costs. The itinerary includes visits to Moni Island and Aegina, with plenty of time for swimming and sightseeing.
Bottom line: Best suited for travelers who want an all-inclusive, no-hassle day on the water with a balanced mix of activities and relaxation.
11. Athens to Mykonos Island Hopping 7 Day Sailing Tour
For those seeking a week-long adventure, this 7-day island-hopping tour covers Athenian coast to Mykonos, with stops at Poros, Hydra, Kythnos, and Syros. It’s ideal for sailors who want to explore multiple islands without the hassle of booking separate ferries.
The tour features curated experiences on each island and skipper-led sailing, providing a relaxed way to see Greece’s most famous islands. It’s perfect for adventure seekers or long-term travelers looking for a more immersive experience.
The main consideration? It requires a full week and is priced accordingly — but many find it worth the experience for the variety, scenery, and convenience.
Bottom line: Best for long-term travelers or those craving an extensive island-hopping adventure.
12. From Athens to Poros and Hydra Islands Private 8H Yacht Tour
This 8-hour private yacht tour offers a luxurious way to explore Poros and Hydra. You’ll enjoy swimming in clear waters, strolls through charming towns, and visiting historic sites. It’s tailored for up to 10 people, offering flexibility and intimacy.
Guests appreciate the stunning views, personalized service, and the chance to explore off-the-beaten-path spots. The tour highlights include crystal waters, historic landmarks, and local cuisine enjoyed on board or in port.
Ideal for families or small groups wanting a private, upscale experience. Its high cost is offset by the exclusivity and comfort.
Bottom line: Perfect for luxury travelers seeking a bespoke day exploring Greece’s beautiful islands.
How to Choose the Right Sailing Experience in Athens
When selecting your ideal sailing trip, consider your budget, time available, and interests. For a quick, scenic escape, the Half-Day Morning Catamaran or Sunset Cruise are excellent. If you want a luxury, private experience, the Luxury Sunset or Half-Day Private Catamaran suit smaller groups. For full-day adventures with local food, the Full-day Sailing with Greek Gastronomy combines sightseeing with culinary delights.
Those interested in island-hopping should consider the 7-day Mykonos tour, which offers an extensive experience across Greece’s iconic islands. Lastly, if privacy and exclusivity are your priorities, the Poros and Hydra private yacht tour provides a luxurious, tailored day at sea.
Remember to book early during peak season (May-September) to secure your preferred date, especially for private options.
Final thoughts
From quick scenic sails to multi-island tours, Athens offers something for every sailing enthusiast. If you seek relaxation and great food, the Morning Catamaran and Sunset Cruise provide ideal options. For luxury and privacy, the Private Luxury Sunset Cruise and Half-Day Private Catamaran stand out.
Those wanting a full immersion in Greek culture, with gastronomy and island visits, should consider the Full-day Sailing with Greek Gastronomy. For the adventurous, the 7-day Mykonos tour offers a longer, more comprehensive experience.
Whatever your choice, Athens’s sailing options promise bools of blue water, stunning scenery, and a touch of Greek magic. Book early, pack your swimsuit, and prepare for a memorable sea adventure.