Athens Riviera Morning Cruise: Swim Stops, Lunch & Open Bar

Our Athens Riviera morning cruise is a five-hour day on the water aboard a 24-metre traditional wooden sailing boat, leaving Marina Zeas in Piraeus at 10:00 and back by 15:00. You get two swim stops, a Greek buffet lunch and an open bar, all from €32 per person. It is the easiest way to swap the city heat for clear water without planning anything yourself.

What is the Athens Riviera morning cruise?

It is a shared, small-group cruise along the southern coast of Athens on a classic wooden boat with a sun deck, shaded seating, toilets and changing rooms. Up to 35 guests sail together, which keeps the deck relaxed rather than crowded. The day is built around swimming and eating well: two anchorages in calm, protected water, a buffet lunch at sea and drinks that keep coming until you are back in port.

Unlike a private charter, you share the boat with other travellers, so the price stays low and you still get a full crew looking after you. Music plays in the background, the crew speaks several languages and there is printed information about the coast in seven languages.

Where does the cruise go?

The boat leaves Pier D at Marina Zeas, one of the three old harbours of Piraeus, and heads south past Mikrolimano, the small fishing harbour lined with seafood tavernas, and the hill of Kastella above it. From there it follows the Athens Riviera, the stretch of coast where the city meets the Saronic Gulf.

• Hydroussa island: the first swim stop, a small uninhabited islet off Varkiza with clear, calm water.
• Vouliagmeni: the second swim stop, in the sheltered water near the Four Seasons Astir Palace, one of the best-known bays on the Riviera.
• Varkiza and Glyfada: the return leg runs past these beach suburbs, with the mountains of Hymettus behind them.

What happens on the day?

You board at 10:00 and are welcomed with coffee, juice and pastries. The first hour is a gentle sail along the Piraeus coast while you find a spot on deck. Around 11:00 the boat anchors at Hydroussa and you can jump straight off the side into the sea. Masks, snorkels, towels and water noodles are on board.

At midday the crew serves a Greek buffet lunch. Vegetarian, vegan and gluten-free versions are available if you tell us when you book. Around 13:00 the boat anchors again near Vouliagmeni for a second swim, then at 14:00 it turns back north along the coast, reaching Marina Zeas at 15:00.

What is included in the price?

Everything you need for the day is covered. The open bar includes soft drinks, wine, beer, coffee and water without limits, and lunch is part of the ticket, not an extra. The only optional cost is a transfer from central Athens hotels, which we can add for €15 per person.

Is it right for me?

This cruise suits couples, friends, solo travellers and families who want a sociable, easy day at sea. No sailing experience or fitness is needed. Children are welcome and must be supervised by their parents, especially in the water. Life jackets are on board for anyone who wants one. If you would rather have the boat to yourselves, look at our private yacht or catamaran charters instead.

Good to know

• The anchorages are calm and sheltered, so seasickness is uncommon. If you are prone to it, take a tablet before boarding.
• Bring swimwear, sunglasses and sunscreen. Wear your swimsuit under your clothes to save time.
• Tell us about allergies or dietary needs at booking so the crew can prepare.
• Cash is useful for tips, though nothing on board is compulsory to buy.

When is the best time to go?

The Saronic Gulf is at its warmest from late June to September, when the sea is pleasant for long swims. Late spring and early autumn are quieter and cooler on deck, with water that is still good for a dip. The morning departure means you are on the water before the strongest afternoon wind and back in time for a late afternoon in the city. Sailings depend on the weather, and we only go out when the crew is happy with conditions.

How to get there from central Athens

Take metro Line 1 (green) to Piraeus station, then walk about 10 minutes to Marina Zeas and Pier D. A taxi from Syntagma or Monastiraki takes around 35 to 40 minutes depending on traffic. If you prefer not to deal with transport at all, add our hotel transfer when you book and we will collect you and bring you back. Aim to arrive 15 minutes before departure so boarding is relaxed.

Why book with us?

We work with experienced local crews who know this coast well and choose the anchorages on the day for the calmest water. You book online in a few minutes, pay a small deposit and settle the rest on board, with clear rules if the weather turns.