Athens cruises | Discover the magic of the Aegean Sea & the Saronic Islands

Set sail from Athens on the Aegean Sea along the Saronic islands. From quaint towns, bustling markets, and ancient ruins to secluded bays, sandy beaches, and blue waters, these cruises are a great way to get a taste of the natural beauty and local culture of the Greek seaside. Find all the information about your Athens cruises ticket options, what to expect on your cruise, and other essential tips to plan a hassle-free boat tour from Athens.

Navigate your Athens cruise guide

  1. Why go on an Athens cruise?
  2. Know before you book your Athens cruise tickets
  3. Your Athens cruise options
  4. Find your best Athens cruise match here
  5. Athens cruise map
  6. Your Athens cruise boarding points
  7. Your visual guide to Greek island cruises from Athens
  8. Plan your Athens cruise
  9. Frequently asked questions about Athens cruise tickets

Why go on an Athens cruise?

Athens cruises
Athens cruises
Athens cruises
Athens cruises
Athens cruises
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A unique island-hopping experience

Experience the thrill of sailing from one Greek island to another, each offering its own unique charm and attractions—from Agistri’s pristine, secluded beaches to Hydra’s elegant stone mansions and the wildlife on Moni island.

Spectacular views

See stunning vistas of sun-kissed beaches, rugged cliffs, crystal-clear waters, and picturesque villages dotting the islands of the Saronic Gulf.

Things to see in Athens Cruise

Try delicious Greek cuisine

Indulge in a delicious meal onboard featuring Greek and Mediterranean cuisine, including fresh salads, local seafood, and traditional chicken, fish, and pasta dishes.

Relaxation and recreation

Whether you go swimming, snorkelling, diving, or simply lounge and sunbathe on deck, you can indulge in a day of relaxation under the Mediterranean sun.

Sunset spectacles

Watch the sun set over the Aegean Sea, painting the sky with hues of orange, pink, and purple, and watch the Athens Riviera light up – the perfect end to a perfect day at sea.

Know before you book your Athens cruise tickets

  • Different cruises head to different Saronic Islands or take you out to sea for swimming and snorkelling. Pick your cruise based on duration and your schedule. Full-day Greek island hopping cruises last around 10 to 12 hours, while swimming and snorkelling cruises typically last around half a day (5 to 6 hours). Make sure the destinations and activities align with what you want to see and do.
  • Most Athens cruises take place on traditional sailing boats. For a more exclusive experience, opt for a catamaran cruise, which caters to small groups of up to 12 guests.
  • Opt for round-trip transfers and travel in comfort between your hotel and the boarding point. You don’t have to worry about your transportation logistics, and you can focus on enjoying your cruise..
  • Not all Athens cruises are wheelchair accessible. If you have any mobility concerns or specific requirements, ensure that the cruise is accessible for you..

Your Athens cruise options

Greek island hopping cruises

Meals: Greek-Mediterranean buffet lunch included
Duration: 10 to 12 hours
Hotel transfers: Available as an upgrade

  • Explore the charming Saronic Islands of Poros, Hydra, Agistri, Moni, and Aegina on a full-day cruise from Athens. Stroll through vibrant markets, sample local delicacies, and discover historical landmarks.
  • Enjoy a traditional Mediterranean-Greek meal onboard as you soak in the stunning views of the Aegean Sea. 
  • These cruises include swimming and snorkelling opportunities, giving you the full Greek Islands experience.

Recommended cruises:

  • From Athens: Agistri, Moni and Aegina Island Day Cruise with Meals & Drinks
  • Full Day Athens Island Cruise: Hydra, Poros & Aegina With Lunch

Swimming & snorkelling cruises

Meals: Depends on the cruise chosen
Duration: 5 to 6 hours
Hotel transfers: Available as an upgrade

  • Enjoy sun, sand, and swimming in the Saronic Gulf with a half-day cruise from Athens. Discover picturesque bays and secluded beaches where you can snorkel, dive, and paddleboard in the turquoise waters.
  • Take a morning cruise for horizon-to-horizon views of the Aegean Sea, or opt for an evening cruise for dazzling sunsets and themed entertainment. 
  • These cruises offer ample time to sunbathe and relax on deck – a perfect way to escape the bustle of Athens.

Recommended cruises:

  • From Athens: Half Day Swimming Cruise to the Saronic Islands
  • Athens Coastline Catamaran Cruise with Lunch and Wine
  • Athens Riviera Sunset Cruise with Music and Swimming

Athens cruise map

Athens cruise route map highlighting key stops and attractions.

Your Athens cruise boarding points

Your Athens cruise adventure typically starts from one of three convenient boarding points – Marina Delta Kallithea, Marina Zeas, and Alimos Marina. Each pier not only provides easy access to your cruise but also offers a taste of the local culture.

Address: Leof. Poseidonos 20, Kallithea 176 74, Greece | Find on map

Nearest public transport stop: Tzitziphies train station

Nearby landmarks: Kallithea beach, Stavros Park

Distance from Athens airport: 32.5 km

Address: Piraeus 185 36, Greece | Find on map

Nearest public transport stop: Ancient Theater bus stop

Nearby landmarks: Hellenic Maritime Museum, Archaeological Museum of Piraeus, Votsalakia Beach

Distance from Athens airport: 36 km

Address: Alimos 174 55, Greece | Find on map

Nearest public transport stop: Pikrodaphne train station

Nearby monuments/landmarks: Kalamaki Beach, Phaleron War Cemetery

Distance from Athens airport: 31 km

Your visual guide to Greek island cruises from Athens

Aegina island

Aegina island

Delve into ancient history as you explore the remnants of Aegina's past, including the iconic Temple of Aphaia.

Hydra island
Poros island
Agistri
Moni

Plan your Athens cruise

athens cruise timings
  • From Athens: Half Day Swimming Cruise to the Saronic Islands – 10:30am
  • Full Day Athens Island Cruise: Hydra, Poros & Aegina With Lunch – 7:45am
  • Athens Coastline Catamaran Cruise with Lunch and Wine – 9:30am to 3:30pm
  • From Athens: Agistri, Moni and Aegina Island Day Cruise with Meals & Drinks – 8:45am
  • Athens Riviera Sunset Cruise with Music and Swimming – 6pm
cruise from athens to greek islands

Athens cruises operate year-round, so you can experience the Saronic Islands at the time and season that you prefer.

  • Peak season: The peak season, which typically lasts from May to September, is a popular time to go on an Athens cruise, with clear skies, sunny weather, and cool, blue seas. However, these months also see large crowds and higher prices.
  • Low season: If you prefer fewer crowds and a more tranquil experience, consider going on a Greek Islands cruise during the shoulder seasons of April or October.
  • Spacious decks: Enjoy stunning views of the Aegean Sea and the Athens Riviera from the cruise boats’ spacious decks.
  • Comfortable seating: Relax and soak up the Mediterranean sun with comfortable seating arrangements onboard.
  • Snorkelling equipment: Most cruises provide snorkelling equipment, life jackets, and flotation devices, allowing you to safely enjoy water activities during your trip.
  • Drinks: Some cruises offer a welcome drink, tea and coffee, soft drinks, or alcoholic beverages during the cruise. On most cruises, you can also purchase drinks from the onboard bar.
  • Wi-Fi: Most Athens cruises also have free Wi-Fi onboard.
athens cruises
  • Book your Athens cruise tickets at least 2 weeks before your planned dates, and up to a month in advance during the peak season, to avoid last-minute disappointments. Not only does this ensure availability, but it also lets you snag early bird discounts.
  • Carry your digital voucher and a valid photo ID for verification purposes. They are required to board the cruise ship, especially if you have booked discounted tickets.
  • Make sure you arrive at the boarding pier or are ready at the pick-up point 15 minutes before the scheduled departure time.
  • Wear clothing in breathable fabrics and comfortable walking shoes as you'll be spending a significant part of your day exploring the Saronic Islands. Layers are a good idea as temperatures can vary through the day, especially during the spring and autumn months.
  • Don’t forget to bring your swimwear if you are up for swimming and snorkelling.
  • Share any specific dietary requirements you might have with the cruise operator when you book your tickets.
  • Feel free to bring your own alcohol onboard. However, remember that the minimum drinking age is 18 years.
  • The cruises are subject to favorable weather conditions. Itineraries and operating hours can change during the winter period. If canceled due to poor weather, you will be given the option of an alternative date.

Frequently asked questions about Athens cruise tickets

To get your preferred time and date, it’s best to book your cruise at least 2 weeks in advance. Tickets tend to sell out fast, particularly during the peak season (May to September), so booking as early as a month in advance is recommended.

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