Boat Trips & Tours from Athens to Greek Islands

Make the most of your time in Greece with a boat tour from Athens to explore the capital city's surrounding, from the charming islands in the Argosaronic, to the seaside resorts on the Athens Riviera and the East Coast of Attica. On your journey, you will get to go snorkeling and diving, as well visit ancient ruins and find time to relax under the Aegean sun.

Here's everything you need to know about boat tours, one of the most exciting outdoor activities in Athens.

Best Athens Boat Tours

Argosaronic Island-hopping Day Tours

At just a stone's throw away from Piraeus, the Argosaronic is the top choice for a day of island hopping! These fun-filled all-day adventures typically include visits to multiple islands, with time set aside for exploring, swimming and snorkeling.

Our pick: Hydra, Poros & Aegina Cruise

• Visits: Hyrda, Poros and Aegina
• Includes: Buffet lunch, multilingual guide, optional hotel transfers
• Price: €141 per person, +€14 with hotel transfers
• Duration: 12 hours

Athens Riviera Catamaran Cruises

Bask under the Athenian sun in style, as you cruise along the coast of Attica on a luxurious catamaran! For a more enchanting experience, you can also book a sunset cruise.

Our pick: Luxury Catamaran Cruise

• Visits: Agios Kosmas, Voula, Vouliagmeni
• Includes: Swim stops, hotel transfers, barbecue lunch, drinks
• Price: €170 per person
• Duration: 5 hours

Private Athens Boat Tours

For the ultimate in luxury and relaxation, look no further than a private boat tour in Athens! These cruises are typically all-inclusive affairs that offer flexibility, customization and privacy, for an even more hassle-free experience.

Our pick: Private Cape Sounio Cruise

• Visits: Cape Sounion, Temple of Poseidon, Arsida, Vrachos Pothito
• Includes: Hotel transfers, guide, snorkeling gear, snacks & drinks
• Price: €890 per group (up to 8)
• Duration: 7 hours

Snorkeling Boat Tours

Discover the wonders beneath the waves on a relaxing snorkeling tour from Athens. These excursions typically focus on the eastern coast of Attica, near Nea Makri and Marathon.

Our pick: Nea Makri Snorkeling Excursion

• Visits: Nea Makri, Marathon Cape, Schinias Beach
• Includes: Snorkeling equipment, professional guide, photos and videos, snacks
• Price: €80 per person
• Duration: 4.5 hours

Prices for Athens boat tours

The most affordable options are half-day cruises and snorkeling tours, which generally cost about €80 per person, while full-day Athens cruises cost €100 to €120.

Athens Riviera catamaran cruises generally cost €120 to €170, while prices for island hopping tours from Athens start at around €130 per person.

Private Athens boat tours cost €140 to €350 per person, depending on the type of vessel, itinerary and amenities. Typically, they can also be booked on a group basis.

Duration of Athens boat tours

Boat trips from Athens are generally half or full-day affairs, from as little as 4 hours, to 1o-12 hours. The overall length depends on the itinerary, the number of stops and any additional activities included.

Athens boat tour departure points

The Athens Riviera is the city's sailing hub, with most boat tours starting at the Port of Piraeus, Kallithea Marina, or Zea Marina. Services typically include direct pickups from central Athens hotels or the airport. Additionally, other harbors like Flisvos, Agios Kosmas, Alimos, and Glyfada along the coast also offer boat trips around the Saronic Gulf.

Best places to visit on an Athens cruise

Aegina

Aegina, which belongs to the Saronic islands, is one of the most popular tourist destinations as it is the closest island to Athens, making it a favorite for quick getaways. On this idyllic island you will find amazing beaches, archaeological sites, traditional fishing villages, along with everything you would expect to find on a Greek island and even much more.

Poros

Poros is an extremely popular destination near Athens that stands out for its lush greenery and beautiful beaches, such as Askeli Beach, Vagionia and Cove of Love. After a swim, make sure you take the time to wander through the picturesque capital town and enjoy a coffee near its iconic Clock Tower.

Hydra

Located just off the Argolic coast, Hydra is one of the more cosmopolitan islands in Greece, with a rich naval history and vibrant yachting culture. Cars are not allowed on Hydra, but you easily get around on foot. The island's small harbor is surrounded by many cafés, restaurants and traditional shops, while stone houses and mansions dot the hills.

Nea Makri

Nea Makri is one of the best seaside resorts near Athens. Easily reachable by car and public transportation, Nea Makri is a laid-back town offering plenty of opportunities for snorkeling, scuba diving and enjoying Aegean blue waters on the East Coast of Attica. Nearby, you will also find the cape and cliffs of Marathon, where an epic battle was fought between Ancient Greeks and Persians.

Cape Sounion

Cape Sounion is the promontory at the southernmost tip of the Attic peninsula. Situated at the top of the cliff, you will find the Temple of Poseidon, dedicated to the ancient Greek god of the sea. During the day, you can enjoy a refreshing swim beneath the temple and explore the surrounding area, before taking the magical ambiance at sunset.

Agistri

Despite being the smallest of the Saronic islands, Agistri manages to pack in quite a lot, thanks to its impressive pine forest and inviting turquoise waters. Amongst the island's many highlights are the beaches of Aponisos and Dragonera, along with the more family-friendly sandy Skala beach.

Moni

Nestled between Aegina and Agistri, the islet of Moni is an excellent destination for sailing enthusiasts and nature lovers alike. On the one hand, there are stunning beaches with crystal clear waters and unrivalled views of the sea sett against a striking Aegean landscape. Head further inland though to discover a beautiful forest, clambering up a steep mountain, covering most of Moni's northern area.

Spetses

Spetses, conveniently close to Athens, is ideal for day trips and popular with holidaymakers, boasting stunning beaches and a vibrant nightlife. If you're planning a visit in September, don't miss "The Armata" festival, which commemorates a naval victory during the Greek Revolution with a spectacular display of boats, fireworks, and music.

Accessibility for Athens Boat Tours

Unfortunately, while most travelers can join boat tours in Athens, these are not accessible to wheelchair users.

Best time for a boat tour in Athens

The best time to go on a boat trip from Athens is from March to November. The summer months from June to August are particularly hot, but they are often windy, offering some relief from the heat. Winter is still mild, but the tourist areas in this period are not very busy, and you may find many facilities closed.

Other water activities in Athens

• Scuba diving in Athens
• Kayaking in Athens
• Rafting in Athens
• Canoeing in Athens
• Jet ski in Athens

Travel Tips

• Prepare for the Sun: The Greek sun can be strong. Bring sunscreen, a hat, and sunglasses to protect yourself from sunburn. Also, staying hydrated is crucial, so carry enough water.
• Wear Appropriate Clothing: Wear comfortable clothing and shoes. Flip-flops or sandals are ideal for getting on and off the boat. It’s also a good idea to bring a light jacket or sweater, as it can get breezy, especially in the evening or early morning.
• Respect Marine Life: If your tour includes swimming or snorkeling, enjoy watching marine life but maintain a respectful distance. Avoid touching or feeding the animals.
• Book in Advance: Especially during peak tourist season, boat tours can fill up quickly. It's wise to book your tour in advance to ensure you get a spot on the day you prefer.