Discover the allure of the Greek islands with a full-day cruise from Athens. This immersive experience whisks you away to Hydra, Poros, and Aegina, each with its own captivating charm. Indulge in a delectable buffet lunch as you soak in the stunning vistas. Explore the charming alleys of Hydra, stroll through Poros’s picturesque harbor, and uncover the renowned pistachio groves of Aegina. With live entertainment and optional guided tours, this adventure promises both relaxation and insight. Whether you’re seeking a day of leisurely exploration or a deeper dive into the islands’ history, this cruise offers a truly unforgettable experience.
Key Points
- This full-day cruise from Athens visits the islands of Hydra, Poros, and Aegina, offering opportunities to explore historical sites and enjoy local cuisine.
- Prices for the tour range from $108.06 to $152.20 per person, with free cancellation available up to 24 hours in advance.
- The tour includes a buffet lunch featuring Greek and Mediterranean cuisine, as well as live entertainment and dancing on the return journey.
- Guests can choose to participate in optional guided tours for an additional fee, which provide deeper insights into the islands’ history and culture.
- The tour departs from the old port of Athens in Faliro and includes hotel pickup options, with timely arrival at the marina being essential to avoid missing the cruise.
Tour Overview and Pricing
This full-day cruise to the islands of Hydra, Poros, and Aegina offers a savings of up to 29%, with prices ranging from $152.20 to $108.06 per person.
The 11-hour tour departs from the old port of Athens in Faliro and includes free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.
Customers can also take advantage of the reserve now and pay later option.
With a focus on value, this cruise package provides an affordable way for travelers to explore these picturesque Greek islands and experience the local culture and cuisine.
Itinerary and Experience
The itinerary for this full-day cruise takes guests on a captivating journey through the picturesque islands of Hydra, Poros, and Aegina.
Departing from the old port of Athens in Faliro, the cruise offers opportunities to freely explore the charming cobblestone alleys of Hydra, peruse the shops and dine at local tavernas in Poros, and discover the renowned pistachio groves of Aegina.
Onboard, guests can enjoy a buffet lunch showcasing Greek and Mediterranean cuisine. The return trip includes live entertainment and dancing, creating a lively atmosphere.
Optional guided tours and activities, such as visiting the Temple of Aphaia and Monastery of Agios Nektarios in Aegina, are available for an additional fee.
Pickup and Meeting Information
Pickup for the cruise is available from select hotels in the Athens city center, and guests should be ready at least 5 minutes before the scheduled pickup time. The meeting point is the boat at the end of the marina, which can be accessed by taxi or car.
| Pickup Information | Details |
|---|---|
| Hotels Served | Select hotels in Athens city center |
| Pickup Time | At least 5 minutes before scheduled time |
| Meeting Point | Boat at the end of the marina |
| Transportation | Accessible by taxi or car |
Guests should plan their transportation to the marina accordingly to ensure they arrive on time and don’t miss the cruise’s scheduled departure.
Additional Information and Requirements
Along With the core cruise experience, guests can opt for various optional activities and must adhere to certain requirements.
Optional guided tours and swimming at Agistri Island are available for an additional fee.
Dietary requirements need to be advised at least 2 days in advance.
The cruise isn’t suitable for wheelchair users.
Passengers should bring sun hats, swimwear, towels, and sunscreen.
Pets, except for service animals, are prohibited, as is smoking indoors and littering.
The cruise offers a well-rounded experience, but guests should be mindful of the optional add-ons and ensure they meet the necessary requirements to make the most of their day-long adventure.
Customer Reviews and Ratings
Travelers generally praise the full-day cruise experience, awarding it an overall rating of 4 out of 5 stars based on nearly 1,000 reviews.
Highlights include:
- Excellent tour guides who provide informative insights about the islands.
- Well-organized transportation and on-time departures.
- High-quality service from the crew throughout the day.
- Buffet lunch with a satisfactory variety of Greek and Mediterranean dishes.
However, some reviewers note that the optional guided tours on the islands can be overpriced, and the quality of the buffet may vary.
Exploring Hydra
Upon arrival on the island of Hydra, visitors can stroll through the picturesque cobblestone alleys, admiring the island’s unique charm and architecture. The town’s lack of cars creates a tranquil atmosphere, allowing visitors to enjoy the local way of life.
One can wander past the charming houses with their colorful doors and potted plants, pop into local shops, or enjoy a refreshing drink at one of the seaside cafes.
For those interested in exploring further, an optional walking tour is available at an additional cost, providing deeper insights into Hydra’s history and culture.
With its timeless ambiance, Hydra offers a delightful respite from the bustling mainland.
Discovering Poros
After departing Hydra, the cruise continues on to the island of Poros, where visitors can spend time exploring the charming seaside town and partaking in local shopping and dining opportunities. Poros is known for its picturesque harbor, clock tower, and vibrant atmosphere.
Some highlights of the Poros experience include:
- Strolling through the narrow streets lined with quaint shops, bakeries, and cafés.
- Dining at a traditional Greek taverna, savoring local seafood and Mediterranean specialties.
- Visiting the Monastery of Poros, a historic site with stunning views of the island.
- Browsing the local markets for handcrafted souvenirs and artisanal products.
With its relaxed vibe and charming ambiance, Poros provides a delightful respite during the day-long cruise.
Uncovering Aegina
From Poros, the cruise makes its way to the island of Aegina, offering visitors the chance to explore its renowned pistachio groves and historic landmarks. Known for its rich cultural heritage, Aegina is home to the well-preserved Temple of Aphaia and the Monastery of Agios Nektarios, both of which can be visited on optional tours.
| Aegina Highlights | ||
|---|---|---|
| Temple of Aphaia | Monastery of Agios Nektarios | Pistachio Groves |
| Dates back to 500 BC | Impressive Byzantine architecture | Famous throughout Greece |
| Offers stunning coastal views | Houses relics of St. Nektarios | Produce high-quality nuts |
With its charming villages, historic sites, and delectable local cuisine, Aegina provides a delightful end to the day’s cruise adventure.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are There Any Discounts or Group Packages Available?
Yes, there are discounts and group packages available. The full-day cruise offers a 29% discount, and the price per person can be as low as $108.06. Group bookings may also qualify for additional savings.
Can We Bring Our Own Food and Drinks on the Cruise?
Passengers are generally not allowed to bring their own food and drinks on the cruise. The cruise provides a buffet lunch, and alcoholic/non-alcoholic beverages are available for purchase on board. Any special dietary needs should be communicated in advance.
Are There Any Age Restrictions for the Tour?
The cruise does not have any age restrictions. Guests of all ages are welcome to join the tour. Children under a certain height may require adult supervision on the boat for safety reasons.
Can We Extend the Duration of the Cruise?
The duration of the cruise cannot be extended. It’s a full-day tour with a set 11-hour schedule. Extending the duration would require booking a separate tour. The cruise operator cannot accommodate changes to the standard itinerary and timing.
What Is the Dress Code for the Cruise?
The dress code for the cruise is casual and comfortable. Participants are advised to wear cool, breathable clothing and comfortable shoes, as there will be some walking involved on the islands. Swimwear is recommended for those planning to swim.
Recap
This full-day cruise from Athens offers a fantastic opportunity to explore the picturesque Greek islands of Hydra, Poros, and Aegina.
From charming alleys and harbors to historical sights and natural beauty, the journey provides a well-rounded experience.
With a delicious buffet lunch, live entertainment, and optional guided tours, it’s an ideal way to take in the enchanting islands of the Aegean.
