Athens: Saronic Islands Cruise with VIP Area Seating & Lunch

Discovering the Saronic Islands: A Fairly Luxurious Day Trip from Athens
This Athens: Saronic Islands Cruise with VIP Area Seating & Lunch offers a well-rounded taste of Greece’s charming islands, all wrapped in comfort and style. For around $294, you get a full 11-hour adventure, including visits to Hydra, Poros, and Aegina—each with its own personality. The cruise’s highlight is the VIP area designed to seat just 55 people, giving you a more private, relaxed experience amid a lively multi-national crowd. Plus, the round-trip transfer from your Athens hotel makes planning easier, and the included business class buffet in the VIP lounge is a definite perk.

What I really like about this experience is how it balances comfort with authentic island charm. The guided walking tour in Hydra is a highlight, as it allows you to wander cobblestone streets and take in the island’s unspoiled beauty without feeling rushed. Also, I appreciate the all-you-can-drink water, soft drinks, and coffee, keeping you well-hydrated as you soak up the sun.

A possible consideration is that, despite the VIP setting, the overall experience still involves a good deal of group time on the boat, which can feel a bit crowded if you’re looking for complete privacy. Also, some travelers might find the 11-hour duration a long day, especially if you’re not accustomed to full-day excursions. Still, with so many options for shore visits and the promise of a modern, comfortable vessel, this cruise offers solid value.

Key Points / Takeaways

• Luxury and Comfort: The VIP area seats only 55 people, giving you a more relaxed space to enjoy the cruise away from the busier general areas.
• Expert Guided Tours: The included walking tour in Hydra is a real highlight, led by knowledgeable guides that help you uncover the island’s unique character.
• All-Inclusive Refreshments: Unlimited water, soft drinks, and filter coffee keep you comfortable on the deck, plus the business class buffet offers tasty, well-curated food.
• Multiple Island Experiences: You get a taste of Greece’s diverse islands—Hydra’s timeless charm, Poros’ lush landscapes, and Aegina’s renowned pistachios and temples.
• Convenient Logistics: The round-trip hotel transfer simplifies the day, with multiple pickup points in Athens, ensuring you’re not wandering around looking for the dock.
• Additional Options: For a small fee, you can book excursions like a swim to Agistri or visit historical sites like the Temple of Aphaia, adding to the trip’s flexibility.

The Cruise Vessel: Comfort in Style

The boat itself is a modern, well-equipped vessel measuring 70 meters long with a capacity of 600 passengers, though the VIP section limits this to about 55. Multiple bars and lounges, along with high-quality audiovisual systems, ensure entertainment and comfort throughout the day. The VIP lounge and bar area are perfect for those who prefer a quieter space or simply want to enjoy a drink while taking in the views.

The vessel’s design speaks to a desire for a comfortable and luxurious experience, making the long day at sea feel more like a treat than a chore. The state-of-the-art kitchen and modern amenities make the onboard experience pleasant, with a focus on quality food and drinks.

Itinerary Breakdown: What to Expect on the Day

The cruise departs from Athens early in the morning, with a pickup from several hotels in the city center. Once on board, you’ll start your journey with a 3-hour cruise across the Saronic Gulf—ideal for soaking up the sun, enjoying the sea breeze, and maybe snapping a few photos of the coastline.

The first stop is Hydra, a picture-perfect island with cobblestone pathways, traditional donkeys, and charming architecture. Here, you’ll have around 105 minutes to explore, take photos, shop, or simply relax in a café. One guest noted that “Staff was friendly, good food and nice atmosphere,” which perfectly describes the general vibe.

Next, you’ll cruise for an hour before arriving at Poros. This island is smaller but lush, with pine trees and quiet beaches. The stop allows for a walk, photo opportunities, and some shopping time, often with scenic views on the way. The reviews point out that “The trip was globally fantastic,” and many appreciate the calm, natural beauty.

Following another hour of sailing, you reach Aegina, famed for its pistachios and temples. Here, you have about two hours to visit the Temple of Aphaia or stroll through the town, with plenty of time to enjoy local snacks or shop. One traveler mentioned that “The trip was fantastic and I would recommend it for anyone needing privacy and comfort,” appreciating the balance of guided tours and free time.

The final cruise back to Athens takes about 1.5 hours, giving you a chance to relax, enjoy the views, and reflect on your day.

Who This Cruise Is Perfect For

If you’re after a comfortable, well-organized day trip with a mix of guided sightseeing and free time, this cruise hits the mark. It’s especially suited for travelers who want a touch of luxury, without paying a premium for an exclusive experience. The VIP section makes it appealing for those craving a quieter space to unwind, chat, or simply enjoy the scenery in peace.

Families, couples, or groups of friends will find this a smooth, enjoyable way to see some of Greece’s most iconic islands without the hassle of separate travel arrangements. The included hotel pickup and drop-off make it ideal for visitors staying in Athens, saving the headache of transportation logistics.

Travelers who value good food, friendly guides, and a relaxed atmosphere will find this cruise offers great value. The positive reviews about the staff and the food suggest that the onboard experience is more than just a scenic ride—it’s a memorable part of the trip.

Price and Value Analysis

At $294, this experience offers a lot—round-trip transfer, guided tours, a quality buffet, VIP lounge access, and multiple island stops. Considering the private transportation alone, plus the well-designed vessel and guided excursions, it’s a fair deal for a full day of sightseeing and relaxation.

Compared to smaller, less organized tours, this package minimizes stress and maximizes comfort. It’s especially attractive for those who might find a crowded group tour too overwhelming. The discount on boutique products and optional excursions also add value, giving you chances to customize your day.

Practical Tips for a Great Day

• Arrive 5 minutes early for your hotel pickup, as timing is crucial for a smooth experience.
• Bring swimwear and a towel if you want to take a dip or relax on the beaches.
• Prepare for a long day—wear comfortable shoes for walking tours and bring sun protection.
• Take advantage of the VIP lounge for a quieter space or a drink away from the crowds.
• Consider booking optional excursions in advance if you want to visit specific sites like the Temple of Aphaia or take a swim at Agistri.

Who Should Skip This Tour?

If you’re not comfortable with a full-day commitment, or prefer more private, smaller tours, this might not be ideal. Also, travelers seeking a more in-depth exploration of each island’s history or culture may find this itinerary somewhat rushed.

Those unenthusiastic about large boats or moderate group sizes might also prefer a more intimate or private experience. Lastly, if you’re not a fan of organized tours or long travel days, this could feel a bit overwhelming.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is hotel pickup included?
Yes, the cruise includes round-trip transportation from several hotels in Athens city center, so you won’t need to worry about arranging your own transfer.

How long is the cruise each way?
The entire day lasts about 11 hours, with cruise segments of approximately 3 hours to start, and about 1 to 1.5 hours for the return trip, along with time spent on each island.

What’s in the VIP area?
The VIP lounge hosts about 55 guests, offering a quieter environment with access to the bar, WiFi, and a more comfortable space for relaxing or socializing.

Are meals included?
Yes, a business class buffet is served in the VIP area, with finger foods and unlimited soft drinks, water, and coffee to keep you fueled throughout the day.

Can I book additional excursions?
Yes, for an extra fee, you can arrange shore excursions such as visits to ancient sites or swimming at Agistri. These can be booked through the tour provider.

Is there free time on each island?
Yes, you get between 1 to 2 hours on each island, allowing time for sightseeing, shopping, or simply relaxing.

How crowded does it get?
While the overall ship can hold 600 people, the VIP area limits the crowd to 55, making it a much more comfortable choice for those who prefer a less congested experience.

This Saronic Islands cruise strikes a thoughtful balance between comfort, authentic exploration, and scenic beauty. It’s particularly well-suited for travelers who want a luxurious, worry-free day filled with stunning views, good food, and delightful island visits. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply want to enjoy Greece’s famed hospitality without the hassle, this trip offers a memorable way to see some of the country’s most beloved islands.