From Naxos: Schinoussa and Iraklia Sailing Cruise with BBQ

Exploring the Greek islands often means hopping between popular spots like Mykonos or Santorini, but for those who want a mix of stunning scenery, history, and relaxed cruising, the Naxos: Schinoussa and Iraklia Sailing Cruise with BBQ offers a wonderful alternative. This 9-hour adventure whisks you across the lesser-visited islands of the Cyclades, with highlights like snorkeling over a WWII airplane wreck, swimming at pristine beaches, and enjoying a hearty, local-style BBQ lunch on deck.

Two things I particularly like about this trip are the opportunity to see a WWII wreck site at Alimia — a real standout for history buffs or anyone curious about maritime stories — and the chance to relax on beautifully sandy beaches like Fidou and the popular Iraklia beach, with turquoise waters and shaded picnic spots. The crew is friendly, and the inclusion of snorkel gear and sunbeds makes it easy to unwind.

A potential snag is the itinerary’s reliance on weather and boat conditions — as one viewer noted, a very windy day can make the trip somewhat bumpy, and the schedule might shift or change, especially when it’s not possible to stick exactly to the planned stops like Schinoussa or Iraklia. Still, most find the experience well worth the price, given the scenic stops and authentic touches like the homemade BBQ.

Key points / Takeaways

• Highlights include swimming above a WWII plane wreck and exploring charming island villages.
• The BBQ lunch is a standout feature, with local wine, fresh fruit, and vegetarian options, making it value-packed.
• Timing and flexibility depend heavily on weather; some reviews mention schedule shifts or less time on planned islands.
• The experience suits travelers looking for a balance of adventure, relaxation, and cultural interest, especially those who enjoy snorkeling and beaches.
• The boat’s amenities like snorkel gear, sunbeds, and life jackets add comfort and fun, especially for families or casual swimmers.
• Price point at $79 per person offers good value considering the length, stops, and included lunch.

Starting Point and Logistics

The tour departs from Agia Anna port at 10:00 AM, with the boat docked at a spot marked Mikros Kosmos II. You’ll want to arrive a bit early to find your spot and get your bearings. The return is around 7:30 PM, which means you get a solid nine hours exploring and relaxing. The fee of $79 per person is quite reasonable considering the full-day itinerary, lunch, and gear included.

The experience is led in English, making communication straightforward whether you’re traveling solo, as a couple, or with family. Keep in mind, this trip isn’t suited for wheelchair users or non-swimmers, so it’s best suited for those comfortable in the water and able to handle a boat trip of this length.

What You’ll Do and See

The Journey Along Naxos’ Coast

The cruise kicks off with a scenic sail along the west coast of Naxos, giving you your first taste of the Cyclades’ rugged and beautiful coastline. As the boat heads toward Iraklia, you’ll notice the natural scenery changing from rocky cliffs to calmer, greener waters.

WWII Plane Wreck at Alimia

The first major stop is Alimia, where you’ll see the wreck of a WWII Arado AR196 aircraft. According to reviews, this is an absolute highlight. One traveler called it “worth every cent,” mentioning that you can take photos and even snorkel around the wreck. It’s a rare chance to see a piece of history underwater, and the crew typically offers time to swim and explore. This stop alone elevates the trip from a simple beach cruise to a meaningful adventure.

Beaches of Iraklia and Schinoussa

Next, the boat visits Karvounolakos, a secluded bay with clear, green-blue waters, possibly with goats grazing nearby—adding a rustic, authentic touch. Travelers should watch for sea urchins, particularly when snorkeling around rocky areas. The Fidou beach offers a sandy, shaded spot for a relaxing swim, though it’s less developed, so bring your own shade if you prefer it.

The main event is the lunch stop at Fidou, where a BBQ featuring pork or chicken skewers (souvlaki), salads, fresh fruit, and local wine await. The meals are described as hearty and full of Greek flavors, with vegetarian and vegan options available—most travelers find it more than enough for a satisfying meal.

Iraklia’s Capital Village: Agios Georgios

After lunch, you’ll anchor at Agios Georgios, Iraklia’s quaint main village. This spot is perfect for a leisurely stroll, with traditional tavernas, shops, and shaded benches. The yellow sandy beach here is popular, with clear waters and plenty of space to swim or relax. Some reviews mention the helpful crew and the friendly atmosphere, making it a nice way to wind down after the morning’s adventures.

The Overall Experience

The cruise combines a good mix of history, natural beauty, and island culture. The wreck site offers a unique photo opportunity and a glimpse into WWII stories, while the beaches provide a peaceful, scenic escape. The friendly crew is often praised for their helpfulness and service, especially during meal times.

While weather can influence the experience—windy days might mean choppier waters or schedule adjustments—most travelers find the day well worth the price. The $79 fee includes snorkel equipment, sunbeds, and soft drinks, making it an overall good value.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This cruise is ideal for those who love a relaxed day on the water, want authentic Greek island experiences, and enjoy snorkeling and beaches. It’s particularly appealing if you’re interested in seeing a WWII wreck or exploring small, less-touristed islands. However, if you have mobility challenges or aren’t comfortable in the water, this might not be the best fit.

Price and Value

At $79 per person, this trip offers a lot — around nine hours of cruising, multiple stops, a hearty BBQ lunch, and equipment for snorkeling and relaxing. When you consider the cost of private boat rentals or guided day trips elsewhere, it’s a sensible way to enjoy a full day without breaking the bank. Most reviews suggest the experience surpasses expectations, especially when the crew maintains a friendly, helpful attitude.

If you’re after a day that combines scenic sailing, historical intrigue, and authentic Greek island charm, this cruise hits the mark. It’s a solid choice for travelers who enjoy laid-back adventures, beaches, and good food. Families, couples, or solo explorers looking for a balance of fun and cultural insights will find plenty to love here.

While the itinerary might shift depending on weather or operational issues, the core experiences—wreck snorkeling, beautiful beaches, and a tasty BBQ—remain the highlights. Be prepared for a relaxed pace, bring your sun protection and swim gear, and you’ll leave with a fresh appreciation for the quieter, less-commercialized side of the Cyclades.

FAQ

Is the cruise suitable for non-swimmers?
This trip isn’t ideal for non-swimmers, as some stops involve snorkeling and swimming. If you’re not comfortable in the water, check with the provider for exact details, but generally, this experience is best suited for those who can handle being in the sea.

What should I bring?
Bring sunglasses, a sun hat, swimwear, a towel, sunscreen, and beachwear. The boat provides snorkel gear, sunbeds, and noodles, but take your own shade or umbrella if you prefer extra shade at beaches.

How long do we stay at each stop?
There’s about 30 minutes at Alimia for photos and snorkeling, two hours at Fidou for swimming and lunch, and two hours at Iraklia’s village for strolling and relaxing.

What’s included in the price?
Your fee covers the BBQ lunch, drinks (water, soft drinks, local wine), snorkel equipment, sunbeds, and life jackets. Additional drinks are available for purchase.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, giving you flexibility if your schedule shifts.

Is this tour suitable for families?
Yes, provided children are comfortable in the water and are not wheelchair users or non-swimmers. The relaxed pace and amenities make it family-friendly.

What about the weather?
Weather can influence the trip’s comfort level. Windy days might make the boat choppier, and some stops could be shortened or altered. Most travelers find the experience enjoyable regardless.

Where does the tour end?
The cruise concludes back at Agia Anna port around 7:30 PM, so plan your transport accordingly.

This sailing trip from Naxos offers a fine mix of history, beaches, and Greek island life. It’s a good pick for curious travelers who want a day of scenic cruising without the crowds — and who enjoy a tasty BBQ with a view.