Located in the heart of the Aegean Sea, Paros is part of the Cyclades island group. Close to Naxos and a major hub for ferries and boats traveling out to smaller islands, Paros is a slice of heaven filled with sunlight, golden beaches, and deep blue water perfect for swimming and snorkeling.
Paros itself is a great example of Cyclades architecture, with its beautiful whitewashed walls and blue-painted roofs and doors. It’s also filled with great restaurants, buzzing cafes and nightlife, seafood taverns, and inviting beaches just steps away from the town center.
A walk around Paros is a photographer’s dream too – from the blue-domed St. Nikolas chapel to the crystal-clear bay and fishing boats by the pier, you’ll find plenty of picture-perfect spots to shoot with your camera (or phone!).
Then, of course, Paros is also an excellent location for island hopping. Get on a boat in Paros and within minutes you’ll reach serene and secluded beaches, swimming holes perfect for enjoying the blue sea and the wild beauty of cliffs, soft sand, and cobblestone streets zigzagging through tiny traditional villages.
Some of the best snorkeling and swimming in Greece can be found around Paros, where islands are filled with wild beauty and teeming with rich marine life. You don’t even have to worry about renting equipment – if you take a boat tour or day cruise, the snorkeling gear is usually included.
No matter how busy Paros gets, peace is just one island away. Luckily, some of the best boat tours in Paros run for most of the year, so even if you arrive in the low season, you still will be able to explore the Greek islands easily and comfortably.
Whether you’re looking for a relaxed day out to a neighboring island, an exclusive boat rental for privacy (and a touch of luxury), or an action-packed day out in the water, there’s a boat tour to suit your needs.
1 – Mykonos and Delos
Ancient Delos and cosmopolitan Mykonos couldn’t be more different, which is why combining them into a single trip is such a great idea. Not only do you get access to two of the most popular day trips from Paros but you also get to travel in the comfort of a cruise, enjoying the views over the sea and even getting a chance to swim.
Your full-day 10-hour cruise starts when you’re picked up at your hotel from central Paros and taken straight to the cruise. Remember to pack plenty of snacks and drinks for the day, as the tour doesn’t include this.
From there, you’ll sail to Delos, the mythological birthplace of the god Apollo. Today, the uninhabited island is covered in ruins of temples, homes and ancient mosaics. There’s even an on-site museum showcasing artifacts recovered during excavations on the island.
You’ll have three hours to enjoy the archeological park on your own or you can hire a private guide or join a group tour after arrival. The entrance fee to the park is not included in this tour, so make sure you bring cash if you want to enjoy the ruins.
Also, there’s very little shade in Delos, so bring a hat, plenty of water, and sun protection, especially if you’re traveling during the summer. Swimming is not allowed on Delos, but don’t worry, you’ll have a chance to do just that on your next stop.
Next, you’ll head to Mykonos, famous for its cubic Cycladic architecture, great restaurants offering great grilled meats and moussakas, and traditional white and blue houses.
Use your three free hours on the island to go for a swim, wander the narrow alleyways and discover boutique shops and cozy cafes, and climb the hill to visit the historic windmills and enjoy the views over the deep blue seas.
You will then head back to Paros, arriving in the early evening.
Read more about: fun things to do in Mykonos
2 – Santorini
At the top of the list of the best boat tours in Paros is a trip to Santorini. The island of Santorini is famous for its blue-domed churches, white houses against breathtaking turquoise waters, and stunning bays and beaches that are known around the world.
While you could easily spend a week exploring the beauty of Santorini, the island is often packed with tourists and very expensive during the high season.
A good alternative to staying there is to take a full-day cruise tour so you can enjoy the best that Santorini has to offer before heading back to Paros.
After being picked up at your centrally located hotel (or arriving to the port on your own if you’re staying nearby at Piso Livadi), this 11-hour tour takes you to the two most popular stops in Santorini, the whitewashed towns of Firá and Oia.
You’ll sail through the Aegean Sea until you get close to the beautiful caldera cliffs of Santorini and dock at Athinios Port. Here, you’ll get on a private bus for your land tour of Santorini.
You’ll first head to Oia, a picturesque village known for its cave houses built right into the volcanic rock, as well as the charming little passageways and alleys connecting old buildings.
Your next stop is Fira, Santorini’s capital, where you’ll have free time to explore on your own, grab lunch or take the cable car from the port to the heart of the town (if you don’t want to take the cable car, you can walk up the 600 steps up to the town center).
Fira is famous for its stunning volcanic landscape, but the town also offers picturesque old churches, panoramic bay views, and some great shopping. After a long day exploring the beauty of Santorini, the bus will pick you up and drive you back to the port to start your way back to Paros.
TIP: Make sure you pack sun protection, plenty of water, and snacks for the trip.
Read more about: best things to do in Santorini
3 – Iraklia and Schinoussa
You don’t have to travel far from Paros to enjoy an incredible day out in the water. Neighboring islands Iraklia and Schinoussa offer direct access to the beautiful blue Aegean Sea for all the swimming and snorkeling you might want.
If you’re ready for it, this full-day tour (which is available as either a private or small group tour for up to 10 passengers) will pair you with an experienced captain and crew for a day filled with fun, sun, and incredible scenery.
Your tour starts as you board the boat at the port of Piso Livadi at 9:30 am. Located in the Eastern coast of Paros island in a low-key beach resort town, the port is surrounded by great cafes, unique boutique shops, and some beautiful views. Make your way there with some extra time for a nice walk along the coastline as you wait for your tour to start.
Once on board, you’ll set sail towards your first stop in Iraklia. The island’s secluded Alimia beach is perfect for snorkeling (all gear is included), as you can easily explore a sunken WWII hydroplane. Prefer to just relax in the sea? The tranquil blue waters here are perfect for swimming.
Back on the boat, you can grab a snack as you sail toward your next destination on Schinoussa island. Part of the Small Cyclades islands, Schinoussa is famous for its crystal clear waters and secluded beaches of golden sands where you can relax on the sand or jump into the sea for swimming and snorkeling.
Get back on the back for lunch prepared with fresh local food. Sip on wine as you enjoy your food in the relaxing surroundings before you start sailing again. There’s one extra stop in Naxos, the largest of the Cyclades Islands, where you’ll have a chance for one last swim before you grab some dessert and fruit on board as you make your way back to Piso Livadi.
4 – Catamaran cruise
Discover the islands that sit around Paros as you sail aboard a catamaran in this full-day cruise. You’ll stop by five different locations to discover breathtaking seascapes and beautiful coastlines, plus sail past many islands for great photos and views.
There’s even WiFi on board so you can share your pictures on social media or with loved ones as you take them.
Your day starts as you’re picked up from your hotel and taken to the port. Here, a crew of two professionals will welcome you aboard and help you get acquainted with the boat.
After a few minutes, it’s time to sit back, relax and start enjoying the sea breeze as you set sail among emerald waters and past the neighboring uninhabited islets of Panteronisi and Glaropounta, and the small peninsula of Tigani with its castle ruins.
Your captain will find the perfect spot to stop around the islands so you can enjoy time swimming, snorkeling or laying back on the sand under the morning sun. Snorkeling equipment and beach towels are included, but don’t forget to bring sun protection for your trip.
Next, there’s a short stop at the tiny and secluded Faneromeni beach, before continuing on along the southwest coast of Antiparos Island. Here, hidden coves and sea caves offer plenty of opportunities for more snorkeling, but also canoeing and even cliff jumping.
Once back on the catamaran, you’ll find snacks and drinks as you continue to sail past hidden, uninhabited islands surrounded by the most stunning turquoise waters. You’ll stop at Despotiko next, which is uninhabited but home to ancient ruins and excavation sites.
After some free time to explore and play in the water, it’s back to the boat for a freshly prepared traditional Greek lunch and unlimited local beers, wine, soft drinks, and bottled water. As you sail back to the point of departure, there’ll be plenty of time to relax with a glass of wine as you watch the sun fall over the sea.
5 – Small Cyclades
Ever wondered what it’s like to steer a sailboat into the sea and lose yourself in the lulling of the waves? While you won’t be getting a captain’s license in one day, this all-day tour not only takes you to explore some of the most beautiful islands around Paros, but you’ll also have a chance to learn the basics of sailing. Who knows? You might have a new passion to pursue once you get home!
This 10-hour-long sailing cruise on a modern yacht takes you around the Small Cyclades, a cluster of tiny islands and islets that are mainly uninhabited and famous for their beauty.
Your day starts at the Piso Livadi Port, located about 20 minutes by taxi from Naoussa. Once at the port, the professional English-speaking crew will help you board and get you acquainted with the yacht before you set sail into the deep blue waters of the Aegean Sea.
Your itinerary for the day will depend on the weather, as winds and rain can affect the best route. Not to worry, though – Your captain will guide you around the Small Cyclades to find the perfect remote beaches for swimming and snorkeling.
If the weather allows, you’ll visit the island of Iraklia, famous for its World War II plane wreck, which you can explore as you snorkel in the crystal clear waters. All equipment and gear required for it will be included.
Your next stop will either be at Schinoussa or Koufonisia islands. After enjoying some time in the water, you’ll head back to the yacht for a lunch prepared using fresh ingredients. Unlimited local wine, soft drinks, and bottled water are all included.
After lunch, you’ll have a chance to either lie back on the deck to enjoy the sun, or to join your experienced captain to learn the basics of sailing. This is a great break to unwind and relax before you set sail again, this time towards the coast of Naxos Island for another swim.
If the winds are strong, your captain will head towards Antiparos and Despotiko instead, as these islands offered sheltered coves perfect for a relaxed afternoon of swimming and exploring.
You’ll be back at Paros around 7 pm.
6 – Koufonisia Islands
Koufonisia consists of two islands: the lively Ano Koufonissi with its many restaurants and landmarks, and the uninhabited Kato Koufonissi. Both provide easy access to stunning turquoise waters and golden sand, perfect to unwind and relax.
While there are ferries available to visit the islands, coordinating times to get to both can be tricky, so a full-day boat trip that brings you to the best stops on each island is the perfect solution.
The tour provides round-trip transfer from a number of locations in Paros directly to the port. When you book the trip, make sure you confirm which pick-up spot works better for you.
Your trip starts at the Piso Livadi port, from where you’ll depart in the morning for the 1.5-hour long trip to Pano Koufonissi. Once you get there, you’ll have plenty of free time to explore the village of Agios Georgios, grab a coffee, or walk along the coastline.
This is also a great island to explore on a bike – and rental bikes are available throughout town. Would rather walk? A short hike to the east coast will bring you to soft sandy beaches and hidden coves. Or you can walk through the town center to enjoy the architecture.
Next on the list is the uninhabited island of Kato Koufonisi, where you’ll have time to explore sea caves and natural pools of blue water. There’s a little tavern on the island but nothing else, so go ahead and jump into the sea for a swim surrounded by unspoiled natural beauty.
There are no cars (and not even bicycles) on this island, so make sure you wear comfortable shoes if you’re up for some hiking. The farther away you are from the pier, the more quiet and less crowded the beaches are, so don’t be afraid to explore.
You’ll depart from the island in the late afternoon, arriving back in Paros by 7:30 pm.
7 – Antiparos and Despotiko
Antiparos and Despotiko are two significant islands located just minutes away from Paros. If you don’t want to spend a lot of time on your way to faraway islands, this seven-hour boat trip will get you to these nearby islands so you can spend most of your day just enjoying the water, sand and sun.
Just off the coast of Paros, the island of Antiparos remains largely untouched and off the radar. You won’t find large crowds or wild parties here, but the islands are still lively and filled with great boutiques, fun cafes, and plenty of restaurants facing the sea.
Once you’ve toured the island’s main village, you can also head off to the coast to discover the beaches, crystal-clear waters, and impressive caves.
Uninhabited Despotiko – just 700 meters from Antiparos – is best known for its archeological sites and ancient Greek ruins. Excavations are still ongoing, but the island is open to visitors who manage to catch a boat tour to the island.
Your island tour departs from Paroikia Port at 9:30 am. Make sure to arrive half an hour before so you’ll have time to meet the crew and familiarize yourself with the traditional wooden boat that will be your transportation for the day. Once on board, just sit back and relax as you enjoy the sea breeze on your way to your first stop.
The tour will take you to several stops famous for their amazing swimming: turquoise waters, secluded spots, and serene waters where you can just lie back and float your stress away. Stops include the quiet Agios Spyridonas beach, the small and wild Faneromeni Beach, and the stunning coastal town of Agios Nikolas.
Snorkeling equipment is available from the crew at any stop. There’s also Wi-Fi on the boat if you want to stay in touch with loved ones or share photos.
You’ll also get to discover the Sea Caves of Antiparos, filled with emerald waters and offering swimming in an intimate setting, and the small cluster of rocky islets that make up Pantheronissia, a small cluster of islets and rocky islets that offer plenty of snorkeling opportunities.
You’ll get to enjoy plenty of ice cream, finger food, fruits and ouzo (an anise-flavored alcoholic aperitif) as you sail between the islands.
Your last stop is Despotiko, where you will enjoy a traditional Parian BBQ lunch including meat or fish (or vegetarian options on request), salads, soft drinks and wine. From there, you’ll head back to your point of departure and arrive by 5 pm.
8 – Amorgos
Amorgos is the easternmost island in the Cyclades group. Because of its distance to other major islands, Amorgos doesn’t receive as much tourism as other destinations, so it’s the perfect place if you’re looking for a day away from the crowds.
With over 2,000 permanent residents, Amorgos is actually one of the largest islands in the Cyclades group, so there’s much to see and do here. Much of the island’s authentic character is intact and waiting to be discovered.
Plenty of trails and walking paths zigzag through the island so you can explore for hours, walk through Chora town (filled with old churches and charming alleyways), and discover amazing landmarks like the Hozoviotissa Monastery.
If you just want the freedom of exploring Amorgos and its many attractions on your own, this full-day excursion boat covering the Paros-Amorgos-Paros route would be perfect for you.
After being picked up at your hotel or a nearby location, you’ll be taken to the Piso Livadi port, where you’ll board your boat and be ready to go by 9:15 am. From there, it’s a beautiful 2.5-hour sail around the islands of the South Aegean Sea until you reach Amorgos.
From the moment you reach the port, you’ll be able to see the stunning mountains and endless blue sea all around you. From there, you can walk to beaches like the popular Aghia Anna, Kalotaritissa, and Mouros. Swim, sunbathe or just relax by the coastline before you head into town for a late lunch or some coffee and sweets.
Head back to the port so you can board your boat back to Paros at 5 pm.
9 – Sailing week
If you have more than just a couple of days in Paros, why not plan the trip of a lifetime and spend an entire week exploring the Cyclades and either Santorini or Mykonos? A week aboard a yacht is an experience you won’t forget.
Start your trip by meeting the experienced, English-speaking captain and hostess crew you’ll be sharing the week with and figuring out what life on a modern yacht is like.
Then you’ll be shown to your accommodations, which include double bed cabin accommodation with a private WC/shower and air-conditioning, linen and towels. The yachts can usually accommodate up to eight guests in four double-bed cabins.
Week-long trips usually include breakfast and lunch, as well as snacks and drinks. Breakfasts consist of traditional Greek food, while lunches are likely to offer a mix of Mediterranean dishes and local specialties made with fresh seasonal ingredients.
Wine and bottled water are also included. Dinner is not included, so you’ll have a chance to try different restaurants at each stop of your trip.
Daily schedules usually include at least two stops for swimming and exploring local beaches, one in the morning and another in the afternoon. You’ll be able to borrow snorkeling gear, kayaks, and stand-up paddles from the yacht crew as well.
After your second stop, you’ll dock at a different port every day, with plenty of time to explore and relax before you set sail again the next morning.
Destinations vary depending on what cruise you choose, but you could be spending a day on the lively island of Ios or walk the streets of beautiful Santorini.
You can visit the cliff-perched villages in Folegandros (where the sunsets are majestic as well), Kimolos and its beautiful coves and turquoise waters, and Milos Island, which boasts over 90 different beaches, a natural harbor, and plenty of cafes and shops to indulge yourself.
The sheltered coastline of Sifnos and the azure waters of Antiparos are perfect for swimming, while Irakleia is a popular snorkeling destination that even includes a sunken WWII plane.
Big destinations like Koufonissi, Naxos, and Mykonos are often included in the list of stops as well, so you can enjoy plenty of great local cuisine and entertainment.
10 – Boat rental in Paros
Some of the best boat tours in Paros might be the ones you build yourself! If you can’t find the right tour that fits your schedule or needs, why not look into renting your own boat for the day (or a week!) and create your own itinerary?
With so much to see around Paros, your choices are truly endless. Explore the beautiful Cyclades, head to Santorini and Mykonos for great food and stunning sunsets, or spend some time navigating the hidden coves and golden beaches of the Aegean Sea.
There are lively islands with great nightlife where you can dock for an evening out, but also isolated, uninhabited islands for a quiet day away from the crowds and all the sand and sun you might want.
Even better, boat rentals offer a truly long list of options. From simpler catamarans and basic motorboats to larger houseboats and yachts, there’s plenty to choose from.
Traveling in a group? Some boats can accommodate as many as 24 guests and offer all the bells and whistles you can hope for, including several bathrooms, spacious indoor and outdoor areas, air conditioning, and even full kitchens.
Smaller yachts are perfect for couples or families hoping for lots of privacy, while catamarans are surprisingly affordable for day trips and even short overnight stays.
You will need a valid boating license to rent a boat on your own, except for boats with a motor smaller than 30hp. Some rental companies might even require a co-skipper (a second person with a license) if you’re renting a large boat.
If you don’t have a license, it’s often possible to rent the boat with a captain so you can just sit back and enjoy the beautiful seas.
Final thoughts
As you can see from our list of the best boat tours in Paros, there’s no excuse not to jump aboard for a water tour. From private rentals and week-long adventures to great day tours to some of the most famous neighboring islands, there’s a perfect boat tour for you out there.
Have you already tried any of these tours? Do you have a favorite boat tour that’s not part of this list but you think it should? Let us know in the comments below!
If you haven’t had a chance to explore Paros yet, make sure you spend some time on land too, as there are plenty of interesting things to do in Paros.
From its own fantastic beaches (Paros’ most famous beach, Kolymbithres, offers great emerald waters and plenty of activities) to walks through the traditional Lefkes Village to museums and old ports, you’ll find plenty of things to fill your days here.
So what are you waiting for? Book a tour and start sailing!