Exclusive Full Day Private Cruise from Varkiza: 18 m Wooden Boat to Cape Sounio

This is the big boat day on the Athens Riviera. You and your guests have a renovated 18 metre traditional wooden motor boat to yourselves for the whole day, with room for up to 49 people, a captain and crew, a Greek barbecue on board and all the drinks. The route follows the coast from Varkiza with stops to swim and snorkel, then ends at Cape Sounio, where you watch the sun set behind the Temple of Poseidon.

What is the boat like?

The boat is a classic Greek wooden motor boat, 18 metres long, built in the traditional style and fully renovated. It has a wide open deck, shaded seating and plenty of space to spread out, so it works for a large family group as well as a party. It cruises at a relaxed pace of about 10 miles per hour, which leaves time to enjoy the coast between stops.

Where does the cruise go?

• Varkiza Marina: you board at about 10:30. The time is flexible and we confirm it when you book.
• The Athens Riviera: the boat follows the coast past Lemos in Vouliagmeni, Astir beach and Varkiza, stopping in clear bays and around small islets for swimming and snorkelling.
• Cape Sounio: in the evening you anchor below the Temple of Poseidon to watch the sunset over the Aegean.
• Back to Varkiza: the boat returns to the marina after sunset.

The skipper adapts the route to the wind and sea on the day so you always swim in sheltered water.

What is there to do on board?

Swim from the boat, snorkel over rocky reefs, try the stand-up paddle board or relax on the floating platform and water toys. Or stay on deck in the shade with a drink. The crew looks after everything, so you can simply enjoy the day.

What do you eat and drink?

Lunch is a home made Greek barbecue with Greek salad and fresh fruit, served on board. Water, soft drinks, beer, wine and ouzo are included throughout the day. If anyone in your group has dietary needs, tell us when you book.

Why end the day at Cape Sounio?

The Temple of Poseidon has stood on the cliffs of Cape Sounio since the 5th century BC, and sunset there is one of the most famous views in Greece. From the land, it is often crowded. From the sea, you see the white columns high above you on the headland, with the sun dropping into the Aegean behind the islands, and you have the moment to yourselves. It is a fitting end to a day on the water, and a natural backdrop for a toast, a proposal or a group photo.

How does a day on board run?

A typical day has two or three swim stops before lunch, a long relaxed lunch at anchor in a sheltered bay, more time to swim in the afternoon and then the slow cruise down the coast to Sounio for sunset. The crew sets up the barbecue, serves food and drinks and handles the anchor and the water toys, so your group can relax from start to finish.

Who is it for?

The boat is ideal for any celebration that needs space: birthdays, anniversaries, marriage proposals, weddings, bachelor and bachelorette parties, company days and photo or video shoots. It also suits large families or groups of friends who want to spend a whole day at sea together.

What is included?

• Private cruise on an 18 metre renovated wooden motor boat
• Experienced captain and crew
• Snorkelling gear, SUP board, floating platform and water toys
• Greek barbecue, Greek salad and fresh fruit
• Water, soft drinks, beer, wine and ouzo
• Fuel, VAT and all equipment

What should you bring?

• Swimwear and a towel
• Sun cream, hat and sunglasses
• A camera
• A light cover up for the evening at Sounio

How to get there

Varkiza Marina is on the coast road about 30 to 40 minutes south of central Athens. Drive along Poseidonos Avenue through Glyfada and Vouliagmeni, or take a bus along the coast. Parking is available near the marina. We send the exact meeting point and the crew’s phone number once your booking is confirmed.

Good to know

• The price is for the whole boat, not per person.
• Book early for summer weekends, as there is only one boat of this size.
• If the weather is unsafe, the skipper may change the route or we move you to a new date.
• The balance is paid on the day.