All inclusive day sailing tour from Naxos to the small cyclades

Introduction

If you’re dreaming of a day spent on the gentle Aegean Sea, this all-inclusive sailing tour from Naxos to the Small Cyclades might just be your perfect escape. Priced at $209 and lasting roughly 9.5 hours, this small-group experience offers a blend of sailing, swimming, and relaxing on some of Greece’s most picturesque waters. The tour departs from Naxos’s main marina early in the morning at 8:30 am, giving you plenty of daylight for adventure and leisure.

What I find particularly appealing about this tour is its intimate size—capped at just 10 travelers—and the way it combines the pleasures of the sea with authentic local food and expert guides. Plus, the opportunity to take home professional-quality photos of your day makes it feel both special and memorable. It’s a balanced experience that seems to emphasize both comfort and discovery, especially for those who love learning about their surroundings while enjoying the sea breeze.

Two standout features that travelers frequently rave about are the delicious barbecue lunch, served onboard, and the friendly, knowledgeable crew. Many reviews highlight how the guides, like Konstantinos, make the trip engaging with stories and insights, which adds a personal touch. The other is the opportunity to snorkel in crystal-clear waters—a highlight, though it’s worth noting some reviews mention that snorkeling spots may not be as dramatic as expected, so don’t pick this trip solely for underwater adventures.

One consideration to keep in mind is the weather—if it’s windy or choppy, the ride can be a bit rough, which might not suit everyone. A few guests noted that if you love sailing under its own power, this might feel a bit more like a motor cruise, as the boat is equipped with an engine and not necessarily under sail. Still, the crew does their best to ensure everyone remains comfortable and entertained.

Key Points

• Small group size means a personalized experience with attentive guides.
• All-inclusive format covers food, drinks, snorkeling gear, and floating toys—no hidden costs.
• Experienced crew and guides like Konstantinos are praised for their friendly, informative approach.
• Multiple swimming stops allow for a relaxed pace, but snorkeling spots might be less dramatic than some expect.
• Delicious barbecue lunch and local drinks elevate the experience.
• Weather dependency can influence the route and comfort level.

The Experience: A Detailed Look

Starting Point and Departure

Your day begins at Xanemo Sailing in Naxos Port—easy to reach if you’re staying nearby or using public transportation. Be ready at 8:30 am, as this is when the crew, led by friendly guides like Konstantinos and Anastasia, will warmly welcome you aboard. The boat is cozy, designed for just up to 10 guests, which means plenty of space to relax without feeling crowded.

The Itinerary Breakdown

While the specific stops can vary depending on weather and conditions, most guests will appreciate the carefully curated swimming and snorkeling locations. These are selected for their clear waters and scenic surroundings—ideal for floating toys and underwater exploration. Several reviews mention visiting three different swimming spots around Paros, which adds variety to your day.

What’s unique about this trip is the personal touch. Guests like Marylee and Holly appreciated the guides’ warmth and storytelling, making the journey not just about the scenery but also about the company. You might find Konstantinos sharing fascinating insights about the islands, enhancing the connection to the landscape. The boat’s smaller size makes it easy to navigate tighter bays and secluded spots inaccessible to larger vessels.

The Meal: A Highlight

One of the most praised aspects of this tour is the lunch. A barbecue with freshly grilled meat, complemented by a crisp salad, is served onboard. Many reviews describe it as “fabulous” or “delicious,” with some even calling the chef/crew fabulous. Guests have even mentioned that the food rivals what you’d find at a good Greek taverna, making this a true highlight for those who appreciate authentic local cuisine.

The Water Activities

Snorkeling equipment and floating toys are included, making it easy to cool off and explore. Many travelers enjoyed swimming in the water, often quoting how the waters were “crystal clear” and perfect for sunbathing afterward. However, a few reviews note that snorkeling in this area may not be as spectacular as in other parts of Greece, so if snorkeling is your main goal, manage expectations accordingly. Still, the overall experience of swimming in the calm, warm waters of the Aegean is pretty delightful.

The Return and Photos

As you relax on deck, you’ll likely enjoy the views of the Greek coastline stretching out in every direction. The crew offers high-quality downloadable photos as a free souvenir, which many guests find charming and useful for sharing their trip. The boat ride back generally feels relaxing, with some guests noting that the crew tried to minimize the impact of windy conditions when possible.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This cruise is best suited for travelers who enjoy small, intimate group experiences and want to avoid large tourist crowds. Since the trip is not available for children under 16, families with teenagers or older kids will appreciate the quiet, relaxed vibe. It’s ideal for those who love a mix of sailing, swimming, and good food—especially if you’re happy to have a flexible schedule that depends partly on weather.

If you’re looking for a deeply sail-powered experience, this might not be your ideal choice, as the boat relies on an engine. But if your priority is friendly guides, scenic stops, and delicious Greek cuisine, this tour ticks all the boxes.

Practical Tips for Travelers

• Arrive early at the meeting point to get settled and meet your crew—particularly if you want to exchange some stories before departure.
• Bring sunscreen, a hat, and sunglasses—there’s little shade onboard, and you’ll be exposed to the sun during swimming and lounging.
• Book in advance, especially in peak season, as the small group size fills up quickly.
• Be prepared for movement; if you’re prone to seasickness, consider taking precautions. Some guests mentioned that windier days made for choppier rides.
• Remember, snorkeling spots may not be dramatically underwater, so manage expectations if snorkeling is your main goal.

The Sum Up: Is It Worth It?

For travelers eager to combine a relaxed day of sailing with Greek island scenery, excellent local food, and a personal touch, this Naxos Small Cyclades tour offers solid value. It’s clear from reviews that the dedicated crew, like Konstantinos and Anastasia, work hard to make it memorable, not just another boat ride. The inclusion of drinks, snacks, and a hearty barbecue lunch means you won’t be scrambling for food or drinks—just sit back and enjoy.

While weather plays a role, most guests are leaving with broad smiles and great photos. It’s an experience that appeals most to those looking for a peaceful, authentic taste of Greek island life—away from the large crowds and hurried tours. This cruise strikes a good balance for active travelers and leisure seekers alike, making it a worthwhile addition to any Naxos itinerary.

FAQs

What time does the tour start and end?
The tour departs at 8:30 am and typically lasts about 9.5 hours, returning to Naxos marina in the late afternoon.

Is transportation to the meeting point included?
No, hotel pickup and drop-off are not included. You’ll need to get to Xanemo Sailing in Naxos Port yourself, but it’s near public transportation.

What’s included in the price?
Beverages (beer, wine, juices, water, soda), onboard lunch (barbecue), snacks, snorkeling gear, floating toys, local taxes, and fuel surcharge are all covered.

Can I snorkel during the trip?
Yes, snorkeling equipment is provided, and there are several swimming spots. However, reviews mention that snorkeling may not be as spectacular as in other parts of Greece.

Are children under 16 allowed?
No, this tour is not available for kids under 16, making it more suitable for adults or older teenagers.

Do I need to worry about weather?
The trip is weather-dependent. If conditions are poor (such as high winds), the tour might be canceled, or the route may be adjusted. Good weather ensures a smoother, more enjoyable experience.

What should I bring?
Sunscreen, hat, sunglasses, swimming attire, and a camera for photos. A light jacket might be useful if the wind picks up.

This sailing tour from Naxos offers a winning combination of scenic beauty, delicious food, and personalized service. If your idea of Greek island fun involves relaxing on deck, swimming in peaceful waters, and enjoying authentic flavors, you’ll find this trip well worth the price. Just pack your sense of adventure and a love for the sea—and let the crew take care of the rest.