From Athens: Day Cruise of the Saronic Islands

Discover the Saronic Islands’ enchanting beauty on a day cruise from Athens. At €155 per person, this excursion whisks travelers to the charming isles of Hydra, Poros, and Aegina, offering ample time to explore each destination. With a midday buffet lunch, optional tours, and seamless logistics, it’s an ideal way to experience Greece’s picturesque island life. The itinerary and activities promise a memorable day, but there’s more to uncover about this captivating cruise.

Key Points

• The day cruise of the Saronic Islands from Athens starts at €155.00 per person with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.
• The cruise itinerary includes stops at Hydra, Poros, and Aegina, with 1 to 1.5 hours of exploration time at each island.
• Organized tours are available on each island for an additional fee, including a visit to the Temple of Aphaea in Aegina.
• The cruise package includes hotel pick-up and drop-off services, coach transfers to the port, and a buffet-style lunch.
• The overall customer rating for the cruise is 3.9 out of 5, with positive feedback on the stunning views and calm day at sea.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Overview and Pricing

The day cruise of the Saronic Islands offers a comprehensive package, with prices starting from €155.00 per person.

The cruise lasts one day and provides free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. Travelers can also opt for the reserve now & pay later option.

The cruise offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance and a reserve now & pay later option.

The tour visits the islands of Hydra, Poros, and Aegina, allowing guests to explore each destination for 1 to 1.5 hours.

With a departure from Athens at 08:15 and a return around 8:30 PM, the cruise promises a full day of island exploration and leisure.

Itinerary and Activities

The day cruise’s itinerary takes guests on a journey through the Saronic Islands, visiting Hydra, Poros, and Aegina.

Guests spend an hour exploring Hydra and Poros, and 1.5 hours in Aegina. Optional organized tours are available on each island for an additional fee.

The Aegina tour includes a visit to the Temple of Aphaea, while guests on their own can relax on the beaches or explore Poros’ charming streets and lemon trees.

With a flexible schedule, travelers can customize their experience to suit their interests.

Transportation and Logistics

For the transportation and logistics, guests are picked up and dropped off at their Athens hotel.

Coach transfers take them to the port for boarding. The cruise returns to the hotel around 8:30 PM.

The meeting point is in front of the Athens Gate Hotel.

• Coach transfer to the port for boarding

• Return to hotel around 8:30 PM

• Meeting point: In front of Athens Gate Hotel

Dining and Amenities

Lunch is included in the cruise package, served in a buffet-style format.

However, any drinks, including water, are subject to additional charges.

The onboard kitchen offers a reasonably good selection, but the choices are somewhat limited.

For those seeking a more premium experience, a VIP lodge upgrade is available on the ship.

While the food is adequate, some customers have suggested that the dining options could be expanded or improved to better complement the overall cruise experience.

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Customer Feedback and Ratings

Overall, customers have rated the day cruise of the Saronic Islands a solid 3.9 out of 5 based on 98 reviews.

The guide rating is 4.1/5, while the transportation rating is 4.3/5. However, the value for money received a lower score of 3.7/5.

Positive comments highlighted the stunning views and calm day at sea, but some suggestions included:

• Choosing optional tours for a better experience, especially on Aegina

• Expanding the food selection beyond the limited buffet choices

• Considering the VIP lodge upgrade for a more premium experience

What to Expect on the Cruise

Passengers can expect a well-organized day cruise that immerses them in the picturesque Saronic Islands.

The itinerary includes visits to Hydra, Poros, and Aegina, each offering unique charms. On Hydra and Poros, travelers can stroll through charming towns and soak up the local atmosphere.

The Saronic Islands offer unique charms, with travelers able to stroll through charming towns on Hydra and Poros.

The stop in Aegina provides the opportunity to explore the Temple of Aphaea, a must-see archaeological site.

Throughout the day, passengers can relax on the ship’s deck, take in the views, and enjoy a buffet-style lunch.

The logistics are seamless, with hotel pick-up and drop-off, ensuring a hassle-free experience.

Preparing for the Day Trip

To prepare for this day cruise, travellers should start by ensuring they’ve all the necessary items.

These include:

• Comfortable walking shoes

• Hat and sunscreen for sun protection

• Water bottle to stay hydrated

The cruise departs from central Athens, so being at the meeting point on time is crucial.

Travellers should plan their transportation to the port accordingly, allowing extra time for any potential delays.

During the excursion, optionally booked activities on each island will require some advance planning.

Frequently Asked Questions

What Is the Dress Code for the Cruise?

There is no formal dress code for the day cruise. Casual, comfortable clothing and shoes suitable for walking are recommended, as passengers will be disembarking on the islands and exploring on foot.

Are There Any Age or Mobility Restrictions?

There are no age or mobility restrictions, though the cruise may not be suitable for those with significant mobility challenges. The islands have uneven terrain that can make walking difficult for some.

Can We Bring Our Own Food and Drinks?

Passengers are not allowed to bring their own food and drinks on the cruise. A buffet-style lunch is included, but extra charges apply for drinks. VIP lodge upgrades are available for those who want a more premium dining experience.

Are There Any Discounts or Package Deals Available?

There are no official discounts or package deals mentioned for this day cruise. However, the tour operator may offer special promotions or combinations with other activities, so it’s best to check their website or inquire directly for any available deals.

How Reliable Is the Schedule, and What Happens in Case of Delays?

The schedule is generally reliable, but delays can occur due to weather or traffic. The tour provider offers flexibility, with a full refund for cancellations up to 24 hours in advance to accommodate any unexpected issues.

The Sum Up

The Saronic Islands day cruise from Athens offers a seamless and immersive experience. Visitors can explore the charming villages, savor local cuisine, and soak in the breathtaking island landscapes. With convenient transportation, ample time for exploration, and exceptional customer feedback, this cruise is an excellent choice for those seeking a memorable day trip from the Greek capital.

You can check availability for your dates here: