Athens: Cruise to Agistri, Moni & Aegina with Lunch & Drinks

A day spent cruising the Saronic Gulf from Athens offers a wonderful mix of relaxation, exploration, and authentic Greek hospitality. This particular experience, rated at an impressive 4.8 out of 5 from over 1,500 reviews, takes you to three scenic islands—Agistri, Moni (or Methopi), and Aegina—on a traditional wooden boat. The journey is packed with opportunities to swim in crystal-clear waters, explore charming villages, and sample delicious Greek food and drinks all onboard.

What makes this cruise stand out for me are two things: first, the authenticity of the boat—a traditional wooden vessel that adds a touch of nostalgia—and second, the warm hospitality of the crew, especially the guides like Stefano, who ensure every guest feels taken care of. I also appreciate how well-organized the stops are, allowing plenty of time to enjoy each island without feeling rushed.

That said, one consideration is the weather dependency—since the trip involves swimming and boat cruising, less favorable conditions might lead to changes in the itinerary or even cancellation. If you’re looking for a highly flexible, weather-proof activity, this might not be the perfect fit. However, most reviews highlight how attentive and adaptable the crew is, making it worth the potential weather gamble.

This cruise offers a genuine slice of Greek island life, excellent value for the experience, and a friendly, lively atmosphere. Whether you’re alone, a couple, or traveling with friends and family, you’ll find plenty to love about a day on the water with All Day Cruise.

Key points / Takeaways

• Authentic wooden boat — sailing on a traditional vessel adds charm and a sense of history.
• Multiple island stops — explore Agistri’s greenery and Aegina’s ancient sites and pistachio stalls.
• Swim and snorkel — crystal waters at Moni or Methopi make for a refreshing break.
• Excellent food and drinks — Greek buffet lunch paired with unlimited wine, beer, and soft drinks.
• Flexible activities — optional guided bike tour on Agistri and time to relax or shop on Aegina.
• Attentive crew and guides — many reviews praise the friendly staff, especially guides like Stefano.

Discovering the Saronic Gulf: The Full Experience

If you’re after an authentic Greek island day trip that combines stunning scenery, cultural touches, and a lively boat atmosphere, this cruise ticks all the boxes. I’m going to walk you through what makes this experience so appealing, along with some practical considerations to help you decide if it’s right for you.

Setting Off from Athens: The Starting Point

The adventure begins with a pickup option from select hotels or a meeting point near Pasalimani Marina in Pireas. The journey on the bus itself is smooth, and the crew emphasizes safety and comfort from the start. The boat departs around mid-morning, giving you the whole day to explore. Most travelers praise the friendly transfer, noting how the crew is attentive and helpful, often with tips for the day ahead.

You’ll board a charming, traditional wooden sailing boat—a real highlight for those who appreciate having a sense of connection to Greece’s maritime heritage. As the boat sets sail, you’ll enjoy a warm welcome with coffee, juice, pastries, and cookies. Many reviews mention how the crew, including guides like Stefano, helps create a friendly, relaxed atmosphere that feels more like a day with friends than a tour.

Agistri: Greenery and Village Charm

The first stop, Agistri, is a tiny island known for its lush landscapes and tranquil vibe. It’s the perfect place to stretch your legs and soak in authentic Greek island scenery. You might explore Megalochori, a quiet village lined with whitewashed houses and narrow streets. If you’re feeling active, an optional guided bike tour (extra fee) takes you along scenic coastal paths to Skala, offering panoramic views and a chance to see local life up close.

Alternatively, many guests opt for a leisurely walk or simply relax on one of the island’s peaceful beaches. I love how the timing here is flexible enough to suit different interests—some people love wandering through the village, others prefer lounging with a view. The reviews are full of praise for Agistri’s natural beauty and the friendly local vibe.

Swimming and Snorkeling at Moni or Methopi

Next comes the highlight for many—an anchor near Moni or Methopi, an uninhabited islet with some of the clearest waters you’ll see in Greece. Snorkeling gear, masks, water noodles, and floaties are provided free of charge, making it easy for everyone to join in. The water’s turquoise hue, combined with the chance to float and sip wine (yes, onboard wine is unlimited), makes this a memorable part of the trip.

Based on reviews, the crew, especially Mustafa and Stefanos, are attentive, constantly watching over guests and making sure everyone feels safe and comfortable. Several travelers mention how swimming off the boat was a major highlight, with one guest describing it as “so much fun.” It’s a refreshing break from the boat’s deck and a chance to enjoy Greece’s famous waters.

Greek Buffet Lunch and Onboard Libations

After swimming, it’s time for a hearty Greek buffet lunch, prepared onboard. Many reviews rave about how delicious and plentiful the food is—fresh salads, local Mediterranean dishes, and plenty of fruits. The lunch is served with unlimited wine, beer, and soft drinks, which keeps the atmosphere lively and social.

This onboard meal offers excellent value considering it’s a full buffet with drinks included. It’s also a good chance to sit back, chat with fellow travelers, and enjoy the sea views. The crew, praised in many reviews, makes sure everyone is well taken care of, often refilling drinks and checking in on guests.

Aegina: Ancient Temples and Pistachios

The last island, Aegina, has a bit more historical weight. It’s famous for the Temple of Apollo and its ancient ruins, as well as its bustling market stalls selling pistachios—some of the best in Greece. You’ll have about 1.5 hours here, giving enough time to explore the archaeological sites, shop for souvenirs, or relax on the beach.

Guests often mention the charm of Aegina’s town center, with lively markets and local eateries. Many choose to walk along the waterfront or hop on a horse-drawn carriage for a scenic ride along the port. The optional guided tour here adds a bit of context and depth, although many just enjoy wandering and sampling local treats like roasted pistachios and handmade sweets.

Returning to Athens: The Perfect Sea Breeze

As the day winds down, the boat heads back towards Athens. Many reviews mention how enjoyable it is to relax on deck, enjoy music, or keep sipping drinks while watching the sunset. The crew’s attentiveness continues, ensuring everyone reaches their hotel or pick-up point comfortably.

Who Will Love This Cruise?

This experience is perfect for travelers who want a relaxed, fun day out that combines natural beauty with authentic Greek flavors. It’s especially suited for couples, groups of friends, and families who appreciate good food, lively atmospheres, and the chance to see multiple islands in one day. If you’re a fan of swimming in clear waters and enjoying beautiful ocean views, this cruise will really deliver.

Practical Aspects and Value

Considering the price, the full-day journey includes transportation, a hearty buffet meal, unlimited drinks, and multiple island stops—a solid value for the experience. The crew’s friendliness and attentive service are often highlighted as a standout feature. Plus, the flexible itinerary and optional activities like bike tours give you some control over how active or relaxed your day is.

The only minor downside is weather dependence—poor conditions can lead to changes or cancellations, though most reviews note how well the crew adapts. To maximize your comfort, bring sunscreen, swimwear, and comfortable shoes, and be ready for a full, lively day on the water.

The Sum Up

This cruise offers an authentic taste of Greece’s Saronic Gulf, combining scenic sailing, cultural exploration, and delicious food. It’s a great choice if you’re after a full-day adventure that balances relaxation with cultural discovery, all aboard a charming traditional vessel.

The combination of stunning island scenery, friendly guides, and excellent value makes this experience stand out. It’s especially ideal for those who want to see more than one island without the hassle of multiple bookings or transportation logistics. The unlimited drinks and hearty Greek lunch add a festive touch, ensuring a fun, lively atmosphere from start to finish.

If you’re looking for a memorable, well-organized day that captures the essence of Greek island hopping, this cruise is hard to beat. Whether it’s your first visit to Athens or a repeat trip, it promises a delightful escape to some of Greece’s most charming waters and islands.

FAQ

Is transportation included?
Yes, if you choose the pickup option, the activity provider arranges hotel pickup and drop-off, making the day hassle-free.

What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes, swimwear, a towel, and sunscreen are essential. You might also want to bring a hat or sunglasses to stay protected during sunny hours.

Can I join the bike tour in Agistri?
Yes, there’s an optional guided bike tour available for an extra fee, which offers scenic coastal views and a different way to explore the island.

Is food and drinks included?
Yes, a Greek buffet lunch is served onboard, and there are unlimited wine, beer, soft drinks, coffee, and water throughout the day.

What if the weather is bad?
The tour depends on favorable weather. If canceled, you’ll be offered an alternative date or a full refund. The crew is attentive to safety and weather conditions.

How long is each island stop?
Agistri and Aegina each get about 1.5 hours, enough to explore or relax, with the swimming stop at Moni or Methopi lasting around 1.5 hours.

Is there Wi-Fi onboard?
Yes, free Wi-Fi is available for guests during the cruise.

Who is this tour best suited for?
It’s ideal for those who enjoy a relaxed day on the water, good food, and scenic island visits, suitable for couples, families, and groups of friends.

Are there any restrictions?
Pets and unaccompanied minors are not allowed. Be sure to inform the crew of any dietary restrictions—vegetarian or vegan options can be arranged.

How far in advance should I book?
It’s encouraged to reserve early, especially during peak seasons, to secure your spot and preferred departure times.

This full-day cruise offers a lively, scenic, and delicious introduction to the islands near Athens, perfect for those who want a taste of Greece’s maritime charm without fuss or fussiness.