From Votsalakia : West Coast Boat Cruise with Lunch

An Authentic Day on the Water: Votsalakia’s West Coast Boat Cruise with Lunch

Taking a boat trip along Greece’s North Aegean coast is a wonderful way to experience the region’s natural beauty without the hassle of driving or navigating. This 4-hour cruise from Votsalakia, offered by RHENIA TOURS, is designed for travelers who want to relax, see gorgeous scenery, and enjoy a simple, well-organized outing. The highlight is the chance to explore deserted bays, caves, and beaches that are only accessible by boat, with a lively captain, Vaggelis, at the helm.

What I appreciate most about this cruise is how it balances stunning scenery with practical comfort. You’ll love the crystal-clear waters at Limnionas, perfect for a refreshing swim, and the impressive sea cave near Limnionas, which makes for some memorable photos. The included sandwich lunch keeps your energy up, and the free WiFi onboard is a nice touch for sharing your trip in real-time.

One thing to keep in mind is the timing and weather dependence of the trip. As with any sea excursion, your experience hinges on good weather, so it’s worth planning for a clear day. Also, this tour isn’t suited for those with mobility issues or non-swimmers, because of the swimming and boat-access nature of the trip.

Key Points / Takeaways

• Unique access to hidden beaches and caves that are unreachable by land.
• Captain Vaggelis is praised for his friendly, knowledgeable guidance.
• Swim stops are timed perfectly for relaxing dips in turquoise waters.
• Lunch included is a simple sandwich—great for energy, but some travelers note it’s a bit dry.
• WiFi onboard makes it easy to share photos and stay connected.
• Weather-dependent activity—good weather makes a big difference in your enjoyment.

A Closer Look: The Itinerary and What to Expect

The cruise departs from Votsalakia pier at 10:00 AM, so plan to arrive a little early—around 9:50—to get settled and find the boat. The boat, named Cleopatra, sets sail towards some of the most picturesque spots on the west coast of Samos. The first highlight is a photo stop near a deep sea cave by Limnionas, which is worth the camera battery and patience for those perfect shots.

The boat then heads to Klima, arriving around 11:00 AM. Klima is a scenic little port famous for its colorful houses and traditional charm. While the main focus is on the water, this stop offers some excellent photo opportunities of the charming coastal village. The real star of the trip is the swim in Limnionas, where you can jump into crystal-clear turquoise waters at a spectacular location. Here, you’ll get roughly 40 minutes to relax, swim, or snorkel, which many guests say is the highlight.

After the swim, the boat cruises back, with an additional stop in Limnionas for another chance to dip in the water or explore the caves. The return to Votsalakia pier is scheduled for about 2:00 PM. Along the way, the crew provides commentary—often in English—about the sights, adding context to the natural beauty.

The Experience of the Guide and Atmosphere

Guests consistently mention the friendliness and knowledge of Captain Vaggelis, who makes the cruise engaging and relaxing. His commentary, combined with the stunning scenery, helps you appreciate the landscape without feeling rushed. The boat itself is comfortable enough for a small group, and the free WiFi allows you to upload photos or contact friends during the trip.

The sight of Mount Kerkis’s towering peak provides a dramatic backdrop throughout the cruise, emphasizing how captivating the natural setting is. The experience is about relaxed exploration, not high-adrenaline adventure—perfect for families, couples, or solo travelers looking for a laid-back day.

The Food: Simple but Appreciated

The sandwich lunch included is a convenient touch, but one reviewer noted it was a “terribly dry baguette”. Given the price point, it’s a decent snack to keep you going, but you might want to bring some extra snacks or drinks if you’re particular about your food. The tour does not include drinks, so bringing cash for refreshments is advisable if you want to purchase any beverages onboard.

Logistics, Price, and Value

The cost of the tour is quite reasonable for a half-day boat trip, especially considering the included lunch and WiFi. Keep in mind that hotel pickup and drop-off are not included, so you’ll need to arrange your transportation to Votsalakia pier. The departure time at 10:00 AM allows for a relaxed morning, and the 4-hour duration fits well into a day of exploring Samos.

This experience is best suited for those comfortable with boat travel, non-mobility issues, and swimmers eager to enjoy secluded swimming spots. It’s a great choice for travelers seeking authentic scenery and a small-group atmosphere, rather than large cruise ships or heavily commercialized tours.

Who Will Enjoy This Tour?

If you’re looking for a relaxed, scenic outing that delivers both natural beauty and a touch of local charm, this cruise fits well. Families with children who are good swimmers, couples wanting a romantic day on the water, or solo travelers wanting a manageable adventure will all find value here.

However, if you are not comfortable on boats or prone to seasickness, this might not be your best option. Also, those who prefer more extensive meals or drinks might want to bring their own supplies, given the modest lunch.

The Sum Up

This boat cruise from Votsalakia with RHENIA TOURS offers a simple yet memorable way to see the scenic west coast of Samos. The combination of stunning geography, friendly guides, and easy swimming stops makes it a solid choice for travelers who want a relaxing day on the water without over-complication.

The tour’s value lies in its access to secluded beaches, caves, and iconic views of Mount Kerkis, making it an authentic and enjoyable outing. While the lunch might not win culinary awards, the overall experience—especially the views and the swim stops—delivers real value for the price.

This cruise is best suited for those in good health, comfortable with water activities, and seeking a taste of local nature. It’s a wonderful way to enjoy Samos’s natural side without the fuss of land-based tours or crowded excursions.

Frequently Asked Questions

What time does the cruise depart?
The cruise departs at 10:00 AM from Votsalakia pier. It’s best to arrive at least 10 minutes earlier.

How long is the cruise?
The total trip lasts about 4 hours, with the boat returning around 2:00 PM.

Is lunch included?
Yes, a simple sandwich is provided, perfect for a quick bite to keep you energized during the day.

Do I need to bring my own drinks?
Yes, drinks are not included, so bring cash if you want to purchase refreshments onboard.

Is WiFi available on the boat?
Yes, free WiFi is offered, allowing you to share your experience in real-time.

Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, as long as they are comfortable swimming and able to handle boat trips, it’s family-friendly.

Can non-swimmers participate?
Swimming is part of the experience, so non-swimmers may find it difficult to fully enjoy the water stops.

Are there any restrictions for mobility-impaired travelers?
Yes, this tour is not suitable for people with mobility issues due to the nature of boat access and water activities.

What should I bring?
Bring sunglasses, a sun hat, swimwear, sunscreen, water, and cash for additional drinks or souvenirs.

What happens if the weather is bad?
The tour is weather-dependent; if conditions are unsafe, the trip may be canceled or rescheduled, with full refunds available if canceled in advance.

In summary, this boat cruise offers a taste of authentic Greek coastline, accessible natural beauty, and a relaxed atmosphere. For those eager to explore the hidden corners of Samos’s west coast and enjoy a leisurely swim, it’s an experience worth considering.