This catamaran outing is a simple way to swap city streets for open water and salt-air views. You get swim stops off the Athenian Riviera, snorkeling gear, and a freshly made onboard Greek meal with wine, all on a small boat that keeps things friendly and hands-on. One thing to keep in mind: it runs on the sea’s mood, so if weather turns rough you’ll need to be flexible.

You’ll likely spend the day anchored in classic Athens Riviera spots, with time to hop in, rinse off, and then relax while the boat sails between swims. The meal is cooked on board with multiple courses, and the small group size (up to 12) makes it easier for the crew to help with gear and answer questions. The main drawback is that you’re not getting private transfers, so you’ll want to plan how to reach Alimos Marina on your own.

Quick hit points (what makes this trip work)

• Two swim anchors in the Athenian Riviera give you more water time than “one quick stop.”
• Onboard Greek lunch runs multi-course, not a sad snack plate.
• Snorkeling gear plus SUP and kayaks means you can choose your own pace.
• Small group (max 12) helps the skipper keep an eye on everyone.
• Wine and drinks are part of the experience, so you’re not stuck with just water.
• Multiple departure times let you pick a morning or afternoon sail.

Getting to Alimos Marina (and why it matters)

Most Athens sights start with crowds and a lot of navigating. This trip starts in Alimos Marina, and that’s a big deal for sanity. It’s described as near public transportation, and people often find it easier to get to and park compared with busier harbors that can feel like bottlenecks.

Plan to show up a little early so you can settle in, find your spot on deck, and get oriented before you leave. Since transfers aren’t included, you’ll want to budget a bit of time to get yourself to the marina on your schedule. A mobile ticket makes check-in simpler.

Also, think about what you’ll bring. Bring a swimsuit and a dry layer for the ride back, and pack sunglasses and sunscreen. And yes, bring your own towels if you want to stay comfortable after swimming—one of the most repeated practical tips from people who’ve done this.

The catamaran day plan: sailing time, swim time, and real breaks

The whole experience is about 5 hours, built around a few key parts: a sailing stretch, two anchor-and-swim stops, then the return toward Alimos. The pacing feels designed for half-day fun without turning into a full-day production.

You’ll start from Alimos Marina, head out along the Saronic Gulf, and spend a good chunk of the middle of the day in the water. Between swims, you can relax on deck, take in the coastline, and let the crew handle gear and timing.

The best part for most people is that you’re not stuck doing one “activity.” You can swim or snorkel, but you can also just sit back and watch the coastline slide by while the boat does its work.

Stop 1: Nisís Idhroúsa for your first swim break

Your first anchor stop is Nisís Idhroúsa, an uninhabited island area on the Athens Riviera. After about an hour of sailing from Alimos, you drop anchor and get close to calm, open-water swimming.

This stop is special because it’s not a “shoreline attraction.” It’s about water time. Expect pristine clear conditions when the sea cooperates, with nearly an hour available to swim. That stretch is long enough to do a full swim session, take a breath, and still have time to relax on deck afterward.

The one consideration: if you’re sensitive to boat-to-water transitions, understand this is an anchor stop. You’ll be getting in from the boat, which is fun if you like water, and slightly less fun if you want everything super “beach-like.”

Stop 2: Vouliagmeni Bay for the classic Riviera feel

Next you head toward Vouliagmeni Bay, where you get a second swim stop in a very popular area. The sailing between the two swim moments is shorter here—about half an hour—so you don’t lose the day to travel time.

This is the stop with the “premium Athens Riviera” vibe. You’ll be anchored close to rugged coastline scenery, and you’ll get the chance to swim again after the first island break. It’s also a bay where people expect a lively, coastal-energy setting.

A practical note: snorkeling can vary based on visibility that day. If water turns a little cloudy, you can still enjoy the swim and float around, but you might not get the same crystal-clear snorkeling experience you dreamed about. Either way, having snorkeling gear plus a second water break keeps the day from feeling repetitive.

Stop 3: Back to Alimos Marina with Saronic Gulf views

After Vouliagmeni, you sail back toward Alimos, aiming to arrive in about 1 hour 15 minutes. This return leg is a good time to slow down. You’ll see more of the Athens/Saronic Gulf coastline from the water, and it’s often when people stop thinking about what’s next and just enjoy the ride.

If you like photos, this segment is usually when you get clean “from the sea” angles of the coastline and city approach. It’s also the part of the day where you’ll feel the most comfortable to just talk with the crew and ask questions, since you’re no longer gearing up for swimming.

Come prepared for the ride back, especially if the sun shifts. A light layer can help when you’re out on the water for hours and the breeze picks up.

Snorkeling gear, SUP, and kayaks: choose your level

This tour provides snorkeling equipment and also includes SUP and kayak use. That combo is why the day feels flexible. If you’re a confident swimmer, you can spend time in the water with the gear. If you want a calmer activity, you can switch gears and use the board or kayak instead.

One of the nice things about having multiple options is that you’re not forced into one “mode.” You can spend one stop swimming hard, then do something quieter at the next stop. And because the group is capped at 12 people, it’s more likely the crew can help with getting you set up quickly.

If you’re not planning to snorkel much, you still get plenty of value from just being on the catamaran and taking in the scenery between water sessions. The boat setup and deck time make it easy to relax even if your day is more about sun and views than underwater exploration.

Lunch onboard: a real Greek meal, not a snack

The onboard lunch is a major reason this outing earns such strong ratings. A freshly cooked meal is served with 2 salads, 2 starters, a main course, and fruits. That’s a lot of food for a half-day sea trip, and it’s why the “vacation before your vacation” feeling shows up so often.

The lunch is prepared on board by the crew, often run like a small kitchen on the water. Names you may run into include Claudia or Julia, who’ve been described as doing an excellent job with both cooking and service. You’ll likely feel taken care of, not rushed.

Special diets can be catered for, but you’ll need to arrange that in advance (the note says special diets can be catered upon prior reconfirmation). If you have dietary restrictions, don’t wait until the day-of.

Practical tip: eat when it’s served, then let yourself digest before the next swim push. A lot of the enjoyment comes from not feeling rushed.

Wine, drinks, and the small-group difference

This is a meal and wine experience, and people talk about having drinks during the day—not just after the fact. You can expect wine as part of the experience, plus refreshments to keep you comfortable between swim stops and during the sailing segments.

The small group size (max 12) changes the whole vibe. On bigger boats, you spend more time waiting. Here, you’re more likely to get quick help with gear and a clearer sense of what’s happening next. It also tends to make it easier to get to know a few fellow passengers without it feeling like a crowded tour stampede.

If you’re the type who enjoys a relaxed pace, this is a strong match. You’re sailing, swimming, eating well, then sailing some more. It’s built for people who want a break from “checklist travel.”

Price and value: is $163.33 fair for what you get?

At $163.33 per person, this isn’t the cheapest way to spend time at sea. But when you look at what’s included, the value makes sense.

You’re paying for:

• a small group catamaran experience,
• snorkeling equipment, plus SUP and kayak use,
• a full onboard multi-course lunch,
• and wine and refreshments.

For many people in Athens, the typical alternative is a basic cruise where you get one short swim and a light snack. Here, you get multiple courses, multiple water moments, and several ways to be active. That combination is where the money starts to feel worthwhile—especially if this is one of only a few “special” paid activities you’ll do during your trip.

What to expect on the water (and what to bring)

Most people can participate, and the boat is set up for day-on-the-water comfort. But you should still plan like you’re going to spend hours in sun and wind.

Bring:

• swimsuit and a change of clothes
• sunscreen and sunglasses
• a light layer for the ride back
• your own towel (recommended in experience feedback)
• a water bottle if you like to sip frequently

Also note: service animals are allowed, and the start point is near public transportation. If you’re coming without a car, you’ll likely find it easier to handle than tours that leave from harder-to-access ports.

Water conditions matter. If the sea is rough, safety and comfort come first, and the operator requires good weather for the experience to run.

Should you book this catamaran with meal and wine?

I think this is a smart booking if you want a real break from Athens sightseeing. It’s especially good for couples, small families who can handle boat days, and anyone who wants a mix of swim + snorkel + a proper meal without the hassle of changing boats or doing a long day.

Book it if:

• you want two swim stops rather than a single quick splash
• you care about food quality on a tour (this is cooked onboard)
• you like the calm feel of a small group trip
• you want wine included with a relaxed schedule

Skip it if:

• you hate anchor-style swims and prefer a fixed beach setup
• you’re trying to minimize time on the water due to motion or sun exposure
• you can’t get to Alimos Marina without transfers you’ll have to arrange

If you’re doing Athens for the first time and you’re also thinking about adding a sea day, this one is a strong bet for a “vacation before your vacation” reset.

FAQ

FAQ

How long is the catamaran tour?

The experience is about 5 hours.

Where does the tour start and end?

It starts at Alimos Marina (Μαρίνα Αλίμου, Άλιμος 174 55, Greece) and ends back at the same meeting point.

How much does it cost?

The price listed is $163.33 per person.

Are there both morning and afternoon departures?

Yes, you can choose either a morning or an afternoon departure time.

What’s included in the price?

It includes a small group catamaran tour, an English speaking captain and hostess, snorkeling equipment, use of SUP and kayak, and an onboard Greek meal with multiple courses. Wine and refreshments are part of the experience.

Are transfers to the marina included?

No. Transfers to and from accommodation to Alimos Marina are not included.

Can you accommodate special diets?

Special diets can be catered for, but you’ll need to arrange them in advance by prior reconfirmation.

What if weather is bad?

The experience requires good weather. If it’s canceled due to poor weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

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