Top Athens Day Cruises

There are plenty of high-quality Athens day cruises. Ratings and reviews previously given by customers rank these as the best tours available right now:

• All Day Cruise - 3 Islands to Agistri, Moni, Aegina with Lunch and Drinks Included
• Luxury Catamaran Cruise from Athens with Traditional Greek Meal and BBQ
• Athens Day Cruise: 3 Islands Tour in the Saronic Gulf with Lunch
• Sailing & Gastronomy in Athens - 10 Dishes From All Over Greece
• Hydra, Poros and Egina Day Cruise from Athens with Optional VIP Upgrade

Yes, a day cruise in Athens is a superb way to discover nearby islands in the Saronic Gulf, like Aegina, Poros, and Hydra. Soak up the sun and admire stunning views across the Mediterranean. You can also snorkel off the boat and indulge in traditional Greek cuisine as you sail to unspoiled hidden gems and pass picturesque coastlines.

Athens day cruises with lunch start from around US$140. The price per person will be higher if your cruise includes more upmarket dining prepared by an onboard chef. Private cruises or VIP upgrades, including arrival drinks or exclusive lounge access, will be more expensive. Lastly, any stop-off excursions or direct pickup and drop-off at your hotel will add to the cost.

Athens day cruises vary from around 90 minutes up to 10 hours, so make sure you select one that fits your schedule. Many cruises last a couple of hours, including lunch and some sightseeing, while island-hopping trips can last for a full day (up to 10 hours).

It depends on the operator, so it takes time to compare options. A short cruise (around 2 hours) might include lunch or onboard entertainment, with a stop for snorkeling and swimming. For foodies, there are many culinary cruises with everything from traditional meals to gastronomic experiences. Adventure-seekers might choose a cruise with island-hopping and sightseeing or a planned excursion, such as a visit to Egina's ancient Temple of Aphaia.

On a day cruise, you can visit several nearby Greek islands, including Hydra, Poros, Moni, Aegina, Agistri, Andros, and Spetses–some just a one-hour journey away from Athens. Further afield–– but still within reach for a day trip––is the beautiful island of Mykonos.

There are tons of fun tours and excursions in Athens aside from day cruises. According to previous travelers, these are the best activities to book for your next trip:

• Archaeology 

• Sailing

• Port Transfers

• Hop-On Hop-Off Buses

• Spas

Athens day cruise prices vary depending on duration and inclusions. If you’re looking for high-quality experiences on the lower end of the price range, these are the best tours to book now: 

• Athens Floating Bar Day Cruise

• Athens Cruise Tour With Mediterranean BBQ

• From Athens: Aegina Island guided tour in a Day

• Athens Riviera Sunset Cruise with Snacks and Drinks Included

• Swimming Cruise From Athens With Free Lunch, Wine, & DJ on Board

There are a lot of Athens day cruises out there, so be sure to research all of your options—you can likely find something that fits your exact budget and needs, whether it’s a private full-day tour to Greek islands or a day cruise with a multi-course Greek lunch prepared by an onboard chef. Some cruises require a passport or photo ID, so check all the details before booking.

The best way to enjoy an Athens day cruise is to arrive early and secure a good spot on the boat—prime seating and deck space fill up quickly. Wear comfortable clothing, bring a light jacket for the sea breeze, and apply sunscreen. If your cruise includes a meal, come hungry to savor the onboard Greek cuisine. Ask the tour guide about ideal deck spots for the best views and photo opportunities.

The best time to book an Athens day cruise is from late spring to early fall (May–October) when the weather is warm and the seas are calm. July and August are the busiest months, so book in advance if traveling then. Consider May, June, or September for fewer crowds and pleasant temperatures.