Athens isn’t just about ancient ruins and bustling markets; it’s also a surprisingly good place for snorkeling. The waters around the coast are clear and inviting, offering a chance to see marine life without venturing too far from the city. We especially like the Athens: Marathon Cape and Bay of Schinias Snorkeling Trip because it combines a scenic boat ride with two prime snorkeling spots, all in a natural park setting. Plus, the guided support helps even beginners feel comfortable slipping beneath the surface (https://theabroadguide.com/athens-marathon-cape-and-bay-of-schinias-snorkeling-trip/).
If you prefer a more exclusive experience, the Athens Private Cruise Snorkeling Marathon Nea Makri Schinias offers a private, personalized day on a high-performance boat with underwater photos and snacks included (https://theabroadguide.com/athens-private-cruise-snorkeling-marathon-nea-makri-schinias/). For those wanting a full day at sea with lots of exploring, the Athens: Private Cruise with Snorkeling and Swimming provides a flexible itinerary around small islands and caves, perfect for a more adventurous spirit (https://theabroadguide.com/athens-private-cruise-with-snorkeling-and-swimming/). And for a straightforward, no-fuss half-day adventure, the Athens Private Snorkeling and Swimming Cruise with pick up combines ease and comfort, with round-trip transport from your hotel or cruise port (https://theabroadguide.com/athens-private-snorkeling-and-swimming-cruise-with-pick-up/). Below, we explore each in detail to help you find the best fit.
1. Athens: Marathon Cape and Bay of Schinias Snorkeling Trip

At number 1, this speedboat tour immerses you in the waters of central Greece, exploring two distinct snorkeling spots along Marathon Cape. The trip lasts about 4.5 hours, perfect for a half-day escape from city life. It starts at Frinis 20 and includes a scenic 30-minute cruise along the coast, giving you views of Marathon Cape and Schinias Bay. The highlight is slipping into the clear waters of Schinias Bay, part of Schinias National Park—a protected natural landscape teeming with marine life. The tour also includes a pause for local snacks and a chance to relax on a sandy beach.
What makes this trip stand out is the combination of a boat ride with guided snorkeling, making it friendly for beginners and experienced snorkelers alike. The support and guidance from the instructor ensure everyone gets the most out of the experience. Reviewers rave about the well-maintained equipment, fun boat ride, and Dimitri’s attentive care. One says, “All the equipment needed was provided. Dimitri is awesome and took care of us very well!” With a 4.8-star rating from 133 reviews, it’s a reliable choice for a memorable day at sea.
Bottom line: This tour offers a balanced mix of scenery, marine life, and comfort, making it ideal for those who want a guided, relaxed snorkeling experience with local natural beauty.
2. Athens Private Cruise Snorkeling Marathon Nea Makri Schinias

Number 2 on our list is the Private Cruise Snorkeling experience—a 2.5-hour journey perfect for travelers seeking exclusivity. This tour features a high-performance Rib Boat for a smooth, private ride along the coast, with the flexibility to tailor your day. The itinerary includes a brief safety briefing, a scenic cruise around Marathon, then a longer stop at Schinias Beach for snorkeling.
What makes this tour stand out is its personalized approach and the inclusion of underwater photography via GoPro and drone footage, giving you memorable keepsakes. The experience is relaxed yet adventurous, with delicious snacks and drinks. The small group size and private nature mean you get plenty of attention from the guide and captain, which guests appreciate—one reviewer said, “Fabulous guide with local knowledge and a beautiful boat.”
Given the excellent 5-star rating from just 6 reviews, this tour is best suited for couples or small groups wanting a luxurious, private day on the water. It’s a bit pricier but offers a level of personalization hard to match.
Bottom line: Perfect for those who want a tailored, intimate experience with professional photos and a high-end vibe—great for honeymooners or couples celebrating a special occasion.
3. Athens: Private Cruise with Snorkeling and Swimming

This 6-hour private cruise offers a comprehensive day exploring uninhabited islands and hidden caves. It’s ideal for travelers looking for an active, flexible itinerary that mixes snorkeling, swimming, and some light exploration of ruins and caves off the beaten path. Your guide, George, customizes the trip based on your interests, which could include navigating to a lesser-known cavern or relaxing on remote beaches.
This tour’s appeal lies in its personalized service. Guests rave that George makes the trip feel more like a day with a friend than a formal tour. The itinerary includes visiting different islands, swimming among rocks, and exploring caves, making it the best choice for adventure lovers. The reviews highlight the experience’s thoughtful planning, great equipment, and friendly atmosphere. One reviewer called it “fantastic” and praised the ability to navigate when and where they wanted.
Because of its longer duration and customizable nature, this tour suits those with more time and a desire for a tailored experience, especially travelers eager to explore less-touristed areas. The main drawback is the price—at $339 per person, it’s more costly but offers significant flexibility.
Bottom line: If you want a private, personalized day on the water that combines adventure and relaxation, this cruise offers a fully customized experience.
4. Athens Private Snorkeling and Swimming Cruise with pick up

Last but not least, the 6-hour private cruise with hotel or port pickup provides a hassle-free way to enjoy snorkeling without worrying about logistics. This tour features a skippered RIB boat in the Saronic Gulf, making multiple stops for swimming, snorkeling, or just lounging on the boat. It includes snacks, water, snorkeling gear, and an underwater camera, making it a convenient choice.
This trip is designed for travelers who want comfort and ease—your transport is taken care of, and the boat is private, accommodating up to eight people. The reviews are positive, with one traveler noting, “George (owner) picked us up at Port Piraeus and zipped us down to the marina for an awesome day on water.” It’s a straightforward, all-in-one option that suits those who prefer to relax and just enjoy the water.
Best suited for those short on time or visitors who want a private, guided experience with everything taken care of. It’s slightly more expensive at $373.85 per person but offers the convenience of round-trip transportation.
Bottom line: This is the perfect choice if you want a private, no-fuss snorkeling day with all amenities included.
How to Choose the Right Snorkeling Experience in Athens
When deciding between these options, consider your budget, time available, and interest level. If you prefer a guided, relaxing half-day, the Marathon Cape trip is excellent. For a luxurious, private adventure with photos, the Nea Makri cruise fits best. Travelers eager for an active, customizable day should look at the full-day private cruise exploring islands and caves. Finally, those seeking convenience and comfort with a private boat and round-trip pickup will appreciate the snorkeling cruise with hotel pick-up.
Booking early is wise, especially in the peak summer months, to secure your preferred date. All tours offer different flavors of ocean adventure—whether you want a guided tour, private boat, or full-day exploration, Athens’s waters won’t disappoint.
To sum it up, Athens offers a variety of snorkeling experiences that cater to different tastes—from guided speedboat trips to private, personalized excursions. For a relaxed half-day with marine life, the Marathon Cape and Schinias Bay trip is a top pick. For those seeking exclusivity, the private cruises provide memorable photos and tailored adventures. No matter which you choose, early booking will ensure you don’t miss out on some of Greece’s best underwater moments.