Naxos: Rina Cave-Koufonisi Cruise & Rina Cave Swim with BBQ

If you’re visiting Naxos and craving a mix of stunning scenery, local flavor, and a taste of the Greek sea life, this Rina Cave-Koufonisi Cruise offers a compelling package. The trip from Agia Anna whisks you away on a traditional IASON wooden boat to explore the Small Cyclades, with three swim stops, an island visit, and a highlight—the dramatic Rina Cave. Along the way, you’ll enjoy a Greek BBQ with local wine, making it not just a sightseeing tour, but a full-on sensory experience.

What I particularly like about this cruise is how it balances relaxation and adventure. The stops for swimming are designed to showcase some of the clearest waters in the Aegean, with snorkel gear provided so you can get a better look at the underwater world. Plus, the visit to Koufonisia, with its charming beaches and tiny town, feels genuinely authentic without the crowds. Another strong point is the knowledgeable crew, often praised in reviews for their friendly, helpful attitude and their tips for making the most of each stop.

However, it’s worth mentioning that the boat can seat up to 100 people, which means it might feel a little crowded during peak season. If you’re someone who prefers more intimacy or quiet, you might find the big group a bit less personal. Plus, the boat doesn’t dock at Kato Koufonissi, so swimming near ladders is your main option there. For those who enjoy more secluded, quiet beaches, this is often still perfect, but it’s something to keep in mind.

This trip offers excellent value considering the duration, food, drinks, and multiple swim stops. It’s a good fit for travelers who want a full day of scenic beauty, local food, and local culture without the hassle of planning each detail themselves.

Key points / Takeaways

• Authentic Greek experience with a traditional wooden boat and a lively crew.
• Multiple swim stops with snorkel gear provided to explore the underwater scenery.
• Delicious BBQ lunch with local wine, accommodating vegan and vegetarian options.
• Visit to Koufonisia offers a peaceful, scenic island experience away from tourist crowds.
• Rina Cave swim offers a unique opportunity to explore a natural wonder, with options to jump or ladder into the water.
• Good value for a full day with food, drinks, and guided stops — reviews consistently praise the crew and the scenery.

You can check availability for your dates here:

The Real Deal: What to Expect on This Naxos Day Cruise

Starting Point and Logistics

Your journey begins at the Agia Anna Port, where you’ll meet the friendly team of Jason Daily Cruises. The boat, a traditional wooden vessel called the IASON, is known for its classic look and spacious deck—perfect for lounging or taking in the views. The trip lasts about 9.5 hours, so you’ll want to check the schedule to see what time it departs each day.

Arriving early is advisable if you want the best spot on the boat—many reviews mention the advantage of sitting at the bow or on the upper deck for the best views and sunbathing opportunities. The cruise includes English and Greek-speaking guides, with the crew often praised for their helpfulness and good humor. They’re great at sharing interesting facts and making everyone feel at home.

Itinerary Breakdown

Stop 1: Kato Koufonissi (105 minutes)

The first leg takes you near Kato Koufonissi, a tiny, almost untouched island with stunning views and crystal waters. The boat does not dock here, but ladders are available for swimming—so be prepared for a refreshing dip right by the boat. It’s a quiet spot perfect for snorkeling and relaxing in the sun. You might find, as one reviewer did, that the water is “freezing,” but they still say it’s totally worth it for the scenery.

Here, the crew will serve refreshing drinks, and those who want can enjoy the multi-dish Greek BBQ with local wine. The food includes meat skewers, salad, tzatziki, bread, and fresh fruit, with vegan options like stuffed grape leaves and gigantes (butter beans). Many reviewers rave about the quality of the food, describing it as “delicious,” “generous,” and “well presented.” For those with dietary restrictions, vegan and vegetarian options can be requested in advance.

Stop 2: Koufonisia (Ano Koufonissi) (3 hours)

Next, you arrive at Ano Koufonissi, a lively but small island with a laid-back vibe. You’ll have around 2.5 hours to explore on foot, walk along beaches, or grab a coffee at a traditional café—many mention the beautiful beaches and vibrant landscape. It’s an excellent opportunity to stretch your legs and soak in local life away from the more touristy spots.

Many reviews mention how friendly and helpful the crew are during this stop. You can shop for souvenirs or simply relax on the beach. The time allows you to enjoy a Greek coffee while taking in views of the Aegean Sea, which many find to be a highlight of the trip.

Stop 3: Rina Cave (1 hour)

The natural wonder of Rina Cave is next—a dramatic sea cave on the south coast of Naxos. You can choose to jump into the water from the boat or go down a ladder for a swim inside. For the more adventurous, climbing rocks and exploring the landscape adds a bit of excitement. Many reviews mention how magical and photogenic the cave is, with some even swimming into it for a closer look.

The Experience of the Boat and Crew

The boat itself is spacious, with pool noodles, life jackets, and snorkel gear provided. The crew was often highlighted for their politeness, helpfulness, and good humor. One reviewer described the atmosphere as “just the right mix of relaxed and lively,” with music that included fun tunes like ABBA from the Mamma Mia soundtrack—adding a playful vibe.

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Food and Drinks

The Greek BBQ lunch is generally considered a highlight. The souvlaki skewers are freshly grilled, and many praise the fresh salad, tzatziki, and fruits. Vegan options are available and include stuffed grape leaves and giant beans—a plus for plant-based eaters. The local wine and soft drinks keep everyone refreshed throughout the day.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This cruise is ideal for those wanting to see multiple scenic spots without the hassle of organizing transportation or boat trips themselves. It’s particularly good for food lovers who enjoy a Greek BBQ on the water and for snorkelers eager to explore underwater. It attracts a mix of couples, friends, and families, with enough activities to satisfy most.

Possible Drawbacks

While the experience is generally praised, some might find the large group size less intimate, especially during peak season. Also, since the boat doesn’t dock at Kato Koufonissi, your swim options are limited to ladders and proximity to the boat. If you’re seeking complete seclusion or prefer smaller, more private tours, this may feel a bit crowded.

Final Thoughts on Value

Considering the full day, lunch, drinks, and snorkel gear, many reviews agree the experience offers good value. It’s a straightforward way to cover a lot of ground, meet friendly guides, and enjoy authentic Greek flavors—all in one package. The reviews consistently rave about the friendly crew, scenic stops, and the delicious BBQ.

Who Is This Cruise Best For?

This trip suits travelers looking for a full day of scenic and cultural exploration with minimal hassle. It’s perfect for those who love meeting fellow travelers, enjoy snorkeling, and want a taste of Greek cuisine in a relaxed setting. If you’re after tranquil beaches or small groups, keep in mind the larger boat capacity. It’s also a great choice for families or couples wanting a memorable day out.

FAQ

How long is the cruise?
The entire trip lasts about 9.5 hours, with departure and return times depending on the schedule.

Are vegan or special diet meals available?
Yes, vegan and vegetarian options can be requested, including stuffed grape leaves and gigantes.

Is snorkeling equipment provided?
Yes, snorkel gear, life jackets, pool noodles, and other safety equipment are included.

Can I swim inside Rina Cave?
Yes, you can choose to jump from the boat or use the ladder to swim inside the cave, which many find to be a highlight.

Does the boat dock at Kato Koufonissi?
No, the boat does not dock there. Swimming is possible near ladders, and you’ll be close enough to enjoy the scenery.

What should I bring?
Bring swimwear, towels, sunscreen, sunglasses, a hat, weather-appropriate clothing, and a camera for those stunning photos.

This cruise from Naxos offers a well-rounded, enjoyable day on the water, blending scenic beauty, local flavor, and adventure. It’s especially suited for those who appreciate good food, friendly guides, and a lively, social atmosphere—all while soaking up some of the most beautiful parts of the Cyclades.

You can check availability for your dates here: More Great Tours Nearby