Three Islands Cruise Hidden Gems of the Saronic Gulf

This boat tour promises an escape from Athens’s hustle, offering a day of island-hopping, swimming, and authentic Greek flavors. While we haven’t personally set sail, reviews and detailed descriptions suggest it’s a well-rounded experience for those craving sun, sea, and a taste of local life.

What we love about this trip is its balance of relaxing moments and cultural exploration—visiting picturesque islands like Agistri and Aegina, and enjoying secluded swimming spots like Aponisos or Moni. Plus, the all-inclusive nature means no hidden costs, with drinks, snacks, and a traditional Greek buffet included.

The only potential hiccup? The cruise is quite full, so if you prefer quiet, intimate trips, it might be a little crowded. Still, for travelers looking for a comprehensive, fun-filled day with ample opportunities for both lounging and exploring, this tour hits the right notes.

This experience tends to suit those who want a hassle-free way to see a few of Greece’s Saronic Islands without the fuss of arranging transport or meals on their own. It’s perfect for first-timers, families, and anyone eager to enjoy the sea and scenery in comfort.

Key Points

• Island-Hopping: Visit Agistri, Aegina, and a secret swimming spot—Aponisos, Moni, or Metopi.
• All-Inclusive: Enjoy unlimited wine, beer, soft drinks, a Greek buffet, snacks, and fresh fruit.
• Comfortable Boat: Travel on a charming, motorized wooden sailing boat with a professional crew.
• Cultural & Relaxation Balance: Explore charming streets, swim in crystal waters, and lounge on deck.
• Flexible Booking: Reserve now with the option to pay later and cancel up to 24 hours in advance.
• Extra Perks: Snorkeling gear, Wi-Fi onboard, and welcome drinks make it a thoughtful package.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Setting the Scene: What This Tour Is About

Imagine a day spent on the water, away from Athens’s busy streets but immersed in the charm of Greek islands. The Three Islands Cruise from Marina Zeas offers exactly that. It’s a chance to step onto a traditional-looking wooden boat, feel the sea breeze, and visit three different spots—all in one day.

Most guests appreciate the variety: a mix of cultural exploration, outdoor swimming, and culinary delights. The boat itself is described as charming and comfortable, with enough space to relax and enjoy the ride. With a professional crew handling the navigation and hospitality, you can focus on soaking up the views or snapping photos of the turquoise waters.

Detailed Breakdown of the Itinerary

Departure from Athens

The adventure begins from Marina Zeas, a convenient port close to central Athens, making it easy to access without long transfers. The trip typically starts early, ensuring you maximize your time on land and sea. Setting sail on a traditional wooden boat, you’ll immediately notice the blend of authentic maritime charm and modern comforts.

First Stop: Agistri

The first island, Agistri, is a favorite for its quaint charm and laid-back vibe. You’ll have time to explore the narrow streets, sample local treats, or relax on the beaches. Many guests describe Agistri as a peaceful haven, perfect for a gentle stroll or a lazy swim. As one reviewer noted, “The island was so picturesque and quiet, a lovely break from the city.”

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Swimming at Aponisos, Moni, or Metopi

After exploring Agistri, the boat heads to a secret swimming spot—Aponisos, Moni, or Metopi. These locations are praised for their crystal-clear waters and untouched scenery. Guests often mention the joy of slipping into the refreshing sea after a morning of sightseeing. The reviews highlight snorkeling gear availability, making undersea exploration accessible even for first-timers.

Lunch and Relaxation

Midday, everyone gathers for a traditional Greek buffet, prepared with locally sourced ingredients. The buffet is hearty and authentically Greek, with options that appeal to vegetarians and meat-eaters alike. Reviewers consistently point out the quality of the food, describing it as “delicious and satisfying” after a morning of activity. The full buffet includes seasonal fruits and, of course, unlimited wine, beer, and soft drinks—adding to the festive, relaxed atmosphere.

Aegina: The Cultural Stop

After lunch, the boat makes its way to Aegina, an island famous for its pistachios and charming streets. Guests enjoy strolling through the town, browsing local shops, and sampling pistachio treats. Many reviewers remark that Aegina offers a perfect blend of local authenticity and tourist-friendly amenities. You might find yourself lingering on the waterfront or snapping photos of the colorful harbor.

Return to Athens

As the day winds down, the boat heads back to Marina Zeas, carrying new memories and plenty of photos. Fresh seasonal fruit is served during the return journey, and guests can unwind with a drink or chat about their favorite moments.

What Makes This Tour Stand Out?

Comfort and Convenience

The motorized wooden boat combines traditional aesthetics with modern safety and comfort features. It’s a well-maintained vessel, with Wi-Fi onboard so you can share your experiences instantly. Guests appreciate the professional crew and a dedicated host who foster a friendly, welcoming environment.

All-Inclusive Value

At $135 per person, this cruise offers fantastic value considering all inclusions: meals, snacks, drinks, snorkeling gear, and Wi-Fi. No hidden costs or extra charges—everything is covered, making it easy to relax without worrying about extras.

Authentic Experiences

Unlike crowded ferries, this is described as a boutique-style cruise that emphasizes comfort and quality. The smaller group size and attentive crew mean you’ll likely have more personalized attention and a more intimate atmosphere.

Flexible Booking

You can reserve with the option to pay later and cancel up to 24 hours before departure, which offers peace of mind when planning your trip.

The Experience and Guest Insights

Many guests praise the friendly, warm crew, with reviews mentioning how they go out of their way to make everyone comfortable. One reviewer appreciated the welcome drinks and pastries, which set a delightful tone for the day.

The swimming stops are often highlighted as the most memorable parts—crystal waters and quiet spots perfect for snorkeling or just floating in the sun. Guests also love the Greek buffet lunch, citing it as a highlight of the trip for its quality and authenticity.

Some note that the group can be large, which might influence the intimacy factor, but most find it manageable and enjoy the social vibe. The Wi-Fi onboard is an appreciated perk, especially for sharing photos or checking messages during the ride.

Practical Tips for Travelers

• Bring a hat, sunscreen, towel, and camera to capture the moments.
• Dress in comfortable swimwear and layers suitable for the boat ride.
• Arrive early at Marina Zeas for a smooth start and to secure good spots on deck.
• Keep in mind the full-day schedule—grab a good night’s sleep beforehand.
• Consider your swimming ability: snorkeling gear is provided, but if you’re uncomfortable in open water, you might prefer lounging.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This cruise is ideal for travelers wanting a comprehensive, stress-free day of island discovery without the hassle of arranging transport or meal plans. It’s great for first-time visitors to Greece, families, or groups seeking a lively yet relaxed atmosphere.

It suits those who value authenticity and comfort over seclusion—if you’re looking for a quiet, private trip, this might be more lively than you prefer. Still, the mix of sightseeing, swimming, and delicious food makes it a well-rounded choice for most.

The Sum Up

The Three Islands Cruise of the Saronic Gulf offers a thoughtful blend of scenic beauty, cultural charm, and genuine hospitality. Its all-inclusive setup ensures you can fully relax and enjoy each moment, from exploring quaint islands to floating in crystal-clear waters.

While it’s a lively excursion that can feel busy, the care put into the experience—authentic food, friendly crew, and beautiful locations—makes it an excellent value. It’s especially suited for travelers who want to tick multiple Greek island experiences off their list in one day, with comfort and convenience.

Whether you’re after a scenic escape, a fun social outing, or a tasty taste of Greece, this cruise promises a memorable day on the water—and a fantastic way to see the Saronic Gulf’s hidden gems.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for children?
Most reviews suggest it’s family-friendly, with plenty of opportunities for swimming and relaxing, making it suitable for children.

What should I bring on the cruise?
Bring a hat, swimsuit, towel, camera, and sunscreen to stay comfortable and capture the moments.

Does the tour include transportation to and from Athens?
The departure is from Marina Zeas, conveniently close to Athens, but transfers are not included.

Are vegetarian options available for the buffet?
The description says the buffet is made with locally sourced ingredients and is traditional Greek cuisine, which typically offers vegetarian options, but specific dietary needs should be checked in advance.

What is the duration of the tour?
It is an all-day cruise, with plenty of time for exploring islands, swimming, and relaxing onboard.

Can I cancel or reschedule my booking?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, and booking is flexible with the pay later option.

Is snorkeling gear provided?
Yes, snorkeling gear is available and included in the price.

Is Wi-Fi available onboard?
Yes, free Wi-Fi is offered, so you can share your favorite moments instantly.

How many people typically go on this tour?
The reviews indicate a group size that balances social atmosphere with comfort, though the exact number isn’t specified.

What if I don’t want to swim?
You’re welcome to relax on deck, explore the islands, or enjoy the scenery—swimming is optional.

You can check availability for your dates here: