Private Catamaran Cruise to Cape Sounio: Full Day from Athens

This is a full day private sail from Athens to Cape Sounio on a Lagoon 400 catamaran, for your group of up to 10 guests. Over about 10 hours you cruise the length of the Athens Riviera, anchor in the bay below the Temple of Poseidon, swim at Sounio and Vouliagmeni, and sail home with the sunset. Hotel transfers, two Greek meals and drinks are included, for €3,000 per boat.

What is the private catamaran cruise to Sounio?

It is a long day at sea on a 40-foot sailing catamaran, with skipper and crew, reserved only for your group. The Lagoon 400 has two hulls, a wide beam, shaded seating, loungers and trampoline nets at the front where you can lie above the water. With a maximum of 10 guests, everyone has room to spread out.

The round trip covers about 60 nautical miles, which is why this is a full day rather than a half day. It is a relaxed way to see Cape Sounio and its temple from the sea, with the cliffs rising straight out of the water below the columns.

Where does the cruise go?

From the marina you sail south past Vouliagmeni, Varkiza and Anavyssos, a stretch of coast with rocky headlands, beaches and clear bays. After about three hours you reach Cape Sounio, the southern tip of Attica, where the Temple of Poseidon stands on the cliff above the sea. The catamaran anchors in the bay below the temple for the first swim.

On the way back, the skipper stops in a secluded bay at Vouliagmeni for more swimming and sunbathing. The return leg is timed so you see the sun go down over the Saronic Gulf before reaching port.

What happens on the day?

A chauffeur or minivan collects you from your accommodation in central Athens and drives you to the marina. On board you get a welcome drink, an orientation and a safety briefing, then you set sail.

At Sounio you swim and snorkel while the crew prepares lunch: Greek salad, tzatziki, grilled vegetables and barbecued meats. Later, at the Vouliagmeni stop, there is a seafood meal with squid, octopus and shrimp. Greek wine, beer and soft drinks are unlimited all day. After sunset you return to the marina and the driver takes you back to your accommodation.

What is included?

• Transport: pick-up and return from accommodation in central Athens.
• Crew: skipper and crew, with orientation and a safety briefing.
• Food: two freshly prepared meals on board, a Greek barbecue lunch and a seafood meal.
• Drinks: a welcome drink, then unlimited Greek wine, beer and soft drinks.
• Swimming: two to three swim stops, snorkelling gear and fresh towels.

Is it right for me?

It suits families, groups of friends and couples who want a full day on the water and a sight of one of the most famous temples in Greece, without a coach tour. No sailing experience is needed. Children are welcome, typically from age 6, and must be supervised while swimming. Vegetarian and vegan meals can be prepared if you tell us your dietary needs when you book.

Good to know

• The price is for the whole catamaran and up to 10 guests.
• It is a long day, so plan a quiet evening afterwards.
• The catamaran is stable, which helps if you are prone to seasickness.
• You see the temple from the sea; the cruise does not include a visit to the site on land.

When is the best time to go?

The best months are June to September, with warm sea and long days that let you enjoy the sunset on the way home. Wind on the open stretch towards Sounio can be stronger in midsummer, so the skipper may adjust the timing or the swim stops. Peak dates sell out quickly, so book at least two weeks ahead.

How to get there from central Athens

You do not need to make your own way. Pick-up and return from your accommodation in central Athens are included, and we confirm the pick-up time and the departure marina after you book. If you are staying outside the centre, tell us your address and we will arrange the best meeting option.

What to bring

Bring swimwear, high-factor sunscreen, sunglasses, a hat and a camera. Towels and snorkelling gear are on board. A light jacket or sweater is useful for the sunset sail home.