Private Half Day Cruise from Varkiza on a Wooden Boat

A traditional wooden boat with only your own group on board is one of the nicest ways to spend a day on the Athens Riviera. Our private half day cruise leaves Varkiza on a renovated 10 metre traditional boat for about 4 to 5 hours of swimming, snorkelling, paddleboarding and lazy time on deck. Skipper, crew, a light meal and drinks are included, from €900 for the boat.

What is the Varkiza half day cruise?

It is a private cruise on a traditional Greek motor boat, rebuilt and kept in the old style, with a professional skipper and crew. The boat is yours for the trip, so the pace follows your group: longer swims, more time at anchor or a few extra stops along the coast. Fuel, VAT and taxes are included in the price, so there are no surprises on the day.

Where does the cruise go?

The boat explores the Athens Riviera from Varkiza, stopping at secluded coves that can only be reached from the sea. Places on the route include:

• Lemos, Vouliagmeni: the rocky peninsula of Vouliagmeni with clear water around its point.
• Astir Beach: the sheltered bay at Vouliagmeni, seen from the water.
• Cape Sounio: the tip of Attica, where the Temple of Poseidon stands above the sea.

The skipper plans the exact route on the day according to the wind and what your group wants most, and will suggest the calmest bays for swimming.

What happens on the day?

You meet the skipper at Varkiza Marina, at the point we email after booking. After a short welcome, the boat heads along the coast to the first cove. At each stop you can swim, snorkel with the masks and fins provided or take the stand-up paddleboard out. Between stops the crew serves a light meal of homemade snacks and fresh fruit, with water, soft drinks, wine and beer. After about 4 to 5 hours the boat returns to Varkiza.

What is included?

• Private cruise for your group
• Professional skipper and crew
• Snorkelling gear (masks and fins)
• One stand-up paddleboard
• Light meal: homemade snacks and fresh fruit
• Water, soft drinks, wine and beer
• Fuel, VAT and taxes

Is it right for me?

It suits families, couples, groups of friends and travellers of all ages who want a private day at sea without the crowd of a shared boat. No experience is needed, and swimming is optional. A traditional wooden boat travels at an easy pace rather than at speed, so this is a cruise for enjoying the coast, not for covering long distances. It also works well for small celebrations such as birthdays and bachelorette parties: tell us your plans when you send a request.

Why choose a private wooden boat?

A private boat changes the feel of the day. There are no strangers on board, no fixed schedule set for a large group and no queue for the paddleboard. You decide how long to stay at each cove, when to eat and whether to swim again before heading back. A traditional wooden boat also has a character that modern motor boats lack: wide wooden decks, a slow and steady ride and a style that has worked these waters for generations. It is a relaxed way to see the coast of Attica at sea level, with time to enjoy each bay properly.

When is the best time to go?

The best months are from late spring to early autumn, when the sea is warm enough for long swims. June and September are calm and less busy, while July and August are the warmest. The skipper checks the weather before every trip, and if the wind is too strong the cruise is moved to another day.

How to get there from central Athens

Varkiza is on the coast road of the Athens Riviera, past Glyfada and Vouliagmeni, roughly 30 to 40 minutes from the centre by car or taxi depending on traffic. Coastal buses also run along this road. The exact meeting point and the skipper’s contact details are emailed once your booking is confirmed.

Good to know

• Private boat: only your group on board.
• Bring swimwear, a towel, sunscreen, a hat, sunglasses and a camera.
• Snorkelling gear and one paddleboard are provided.
• A light meal and drinks are included, so there is no need to bring food.
• Price from €900 for the boat, confirmed with availability when you send a request.
• Tell us about dietary needs or a celebration when you book.