Athens: Hydra, Poros & Aegina Day Cruise with Lunch

Getting a taste of Greece’s iconic islands without the hassle of multiple bookings or ferry lines sounds ideal, right? That’s exactly what this full-day cruise from Athens offers. Operating since 1965, this experience has become a trusted way for travelers to soak in the beauty, culture, and flavors of Hydra, Poros, and Aegina—all in one trip.

What we love about it? First, the comfortable boat with plenty of outdoor and indoor space makes for a smooth sailing experience. Second, the well-organized itinerary ensures you get ample time on each island to explore or relax. And third, the delicious Greek-Mediterranean buffet lunch, accompanied by live music, really elevates the whole day.

One thing to keep in mind? The time allocated on each island can feel a bit tight, especially if you want to dig deep into local life or try more activities. This cruise is best suited for those who enjoy a balance of sightseeing, leisure, and social vibes—perfect for couples, small groups, or anyone wanting to tick off multiple islands from Athens in one go.

Key Points

• Comfortable boat with onboard amenities for a relaxing journey
• Balanced itinerary with enough free time on each island
• Authentic Greek buffet lunch with live entertainment adds local flavor
• Optional guided tours available for deeper insights into each stop
• Ideal for short trips seeking a snapshot of the islands’ beauty
• Good value for money, considering the all-inclusive nature of the trip

You can check availability for your dates here:

The Itinerary: What to Expect on This Day Cruise

This cruise offers a well-paced day that combines sightseeing, leisure, and authentic Greek hospitality. Starting from the Athens old port in Faliro, you’ll board a spacious boat that’s designed to make long hours at sea comfortable. The journey begins with a scenic 2.5 to 3-hour sail to Hydra, where stunning views of the Aegean are guaranteed.

Hydra: The Charm of the Old Port

Hydra is famous for its cobblestone streets, historic homes, and donkeys that still serve as the main transportation. Many reviewers, like Bridesdale, highlight the welcoming atmosphere and the stunning scenery. You’re free to wander, shop for local products like olive soap, or take an optional guided walking tour to learn about Hydra’s history and architecture. The island’s relaxed vibe, combined with its hilly terrain, means comfortable shoes are a must.

Reviewers loved the ample free time here—around an hour and a half—though some wished for a little longer. Maria recommends upgrading to VIP for more comfort and priority access, which is worth considering if you want a more leisurely experience.

Poros: Green and Scented

Next, the boat heads towards Poros, just under an hour away. Known for its pine forests and lemon groves, Poros offers a quaint town with a lively yet laid-back atmosphere. Here, you can walk along the waterfront, explore local shops, or enjoy a quick ice cream break—a favorite among many travelers. Reviewers like Diane mention that the scenery along the shore is especially beautiful, making for some great photo moments.

While the stop here is around an hour, some guests, such as Austin, found it just enough time to enjoy a quick walk and a swim. For those keen on sightseeing, an optional bus tour of the Temple of Aphaia and the Byzantine monastery can be arranged for an extra fee, offering a deeper dive into the island’s history.

Aegina: Pistachios and Beaches

Finally, the cruise arrives at Aegina, which is famed for its pistachio farms and beaches. This stop is a favorite for those interested in local food products and casual seaside walks. The 90-minute stay gives you a chance to visit the local market, relax on the beach, or take an optional bus tour to see the Temple of Aphaia and the Monastery of Agios Nektarios.

Reviewers, like Raju, appreciated the panoramic tour and the chance to walk around independently. However, some felt the time in Aegina was a bit short, especially if they wanted to linger longer at the monastery or enjoy a more extended swim.

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The Onboard Experience: Food, Music, and Atmosphere

A major highlight of this cruise is the Greek-Mediterranean buffet lunch, which features a variety of dishes—pasta, rice, potatoes, chicken, and fish—serving as a satisfying fuel for the day. According to reviews like Mike’s, the lunch is well-organized and tasty, exceeding expectations for a boat buffet.

Throughout the day, live music and entertainment keep the vibe lively—dancers, Greek artists, and folklore shows turn a simple cruise into a celebration of local culture. Many reviews, like those from Sarah and Diane, mention how the musical performances and dancing made the journey especially memorable.

The bar onboard offers snacks and drinks for purchase, letting you enjoy a cold beverage as you gaze at the endless blue. For those who upgrade to VIP, amenities include quicker access to lunch and a dedicated space to relax, making the experience more comfortable, especially during busy periods.

Practical Details: What to Know Before You Go

This cruise is priced at $139 per person, a reasonable rate considering the all-day itinerary, lunch, and entertainment. The experience is particularly good value for travelers wanting to see three different islands without the hassle of individual ferry rides or multiple bookings.

Transfers to the port are available if you opt for the package with hotel pickup, making the start of your day hassle-free. If you choose to make your way there independently, the meeting point is at the marina, accessible within 30 minutes of downtown Athens.

What to bring? Pack a sun hat, swimwear, towel, and sunscreen—the Greek sun can be intense even during the early hours. Pets are not allowed, and smoking is prohibited indoors, so plan accordingly.

Timing & Duration

• The cruise departs in the morning and returns in the evening, making it a full-day experience
• Expect around 2.5–3 hours of sailing each way
• Island stops vary from 90 minutes to an hour, depending on the island

Additional Options

• Guided walking tours in Hydra and Aegina are available for an extra fee
• Optional bus tours, including visits to historic sites, can be booked onboard
• Upgrading to VIP is highly recommended for more comfort and priority access

Accessibility & Restrictions

• Not suitable for wheelchair users unless accompanied by an escort
• Assistance dogs are permitted
• Passengers with disabilities should plan for additional support

Insights from Travelers: What Makes This Tour Stand Out

The reviews consistently praise the organization and professionalism of the crew, with some mentioning specific staff like Tomas, who stood out as an excellent host. Many are impressed by how well the schedule is maintained, ensuring everyone gets a fair amount of time on each island.

The scenic views, especially during sailing, are frequently highlighted, along with the authentic Greek music that sets the tone for a fun, lively atmosphere. Guests also appreciated the local souvenirs like pistachios and olive soap, which they bought during their free time.

However, some travelers noted that the time at each stop can feel limited, particularly in Hydra and Aegina, which might leave those eager to explore more a bit disappointed. The boat’s crowded feeling and restroom cleanliness were mentioned occasionally, but overall, these minor issues didn’t overshadow the positive experience.

The Sum Up: Who Is This Tour Perfect For?

This full-day cruise offers a fantastic snapshot of the Saronic Gulf’s beauty and culture. Its value-packed price, combined with delicious food, lively entertainment, and the chance to visit three different islands, makes it a strong pick for anyone short on time but eager to see Greece’s iconic islands.

It suits couples seeking a romantic escape, families wanting a relaxing day, and groups of friends ready for a fun social experience. If you prefer longer stays or more personalized tours, this cruise may feel a bit rushed, but for those wanting a well-organized, lively day out in Greece, it hits the mark.

For travelers who value good organization, authentic local vibes, and beautiful scenery, this cruise delivers a memorable taste of Greece that’s hard to beat in a single day.

FAQ

How long is the cruise?
The full-day cruise lasts roughly 8–10 hours, including sailing time, island stops, and onboard entertainment.

What is included in the price?
Your ticket covers the entire cruise, buffet lunch, live music and entertainment, and round-trip transfers if you select that option.

Can I upgrade to VIP?
Yes, there’s an option to upgrade for more comfort, quicker lunch access, and a dedicated space onboard, which is highly recommended for a more relaxed experience.

Are guided tours available on the islands?
Yes, guided tours in Hydra and Aegina are optional and come at extra cost, allowing for a deeper understanding of each island’s highlights.

Is swimming possible during the cruise?
Yes, some stops, like Hydra and Aegina, offer opportunities to swim or relax on beaches, with optional transfers to swimming spots from Aegina.

Are there any restrictions?
Pets are not allowed, and smoking is prohibited indoors. Passengers with disabilities need an escort to travel on the ship.

Is the cruise suitable for children?
Yes, families enjoy the trip, but keep in mind the sailing duration and the limited time on each island. Strollers and wheelchairs may face accessibility issues.

How do I get to the departure point?
If you don’t have included transfers, the meeting point is at the marina in Faliro, accessible via taxi or car within 30 minutes of Athens city center.

This cruise combines the charm of Greek island life with the convenience of a well-organized day trip, making it a smart choice for those wanting a memorable yet practical way to explore the Saronic Gulf.

You can check availability for your dates here: