Not every island trip from Athens needs to be a marathon. This all-day cruise takes in three islands in the Saronic Gulf that are close enough to leave plenty of time for swimming: Agistri, a pine-covered island with clear water; Moni, a tiny, uninhabited islet that is a favourite stop for a swim; and Aegina, the largest of the three and a short sail from the mainland. The booking page shows a ten-hour day with lunch and drinks included, and it has been reviewed by several thousand travellers with a rating that stays close to the top of the scale, which makes it one of the most popular day trips from Athens. Because the distances are short, you spend more of the day in the water or on the beach and less on the boat than on longer cruises, which suits families and anyone who wants a holiday day rather than a sightseeing day. The format is simple and relaxed: board, sail, swim, eat, explore and return, with time on Aegina for a stroll through its harbour town.
How it differs from the Hydra, Poros and Aegina cruise: that trip covers more distance and more culture, with three distinct island towns in a long day, while this one is shorter on sailing and longer on swimming. Agistri and Moni are known for their swim stops and quieter coasts; Aegina is known for its harbour, its pistachios and its ancient temple.
Pick the Hydra cruise for towns and architecture, and this one for beaches and sea. The page shows lunch and drinks as included; ask the operator what the meal consists of if you have dietary needs.
Practicalities
Does not publish the pier or boarding time, so confirm both in your booking and allow time to reach the departure point, because boats leave on time. Bring swimwear, sun cream, a hat, a towel and a light layer. Sea shoes help on pebble beaches. Seasonal schedules apply, with cruises running mainly from spring to autumn, and rough seas can alter the route or cancel a sailing. Children are welcome on most cruises, but check any age rules and life-jacket arrangements for small ones.
Who it suits
Families, groups of friends and couples who want a beach day with a Greek flavour, and visitors for whom three nights in Athens is enough ruins and who want to feel the sea. Because the day is long, it is better placed late in a trip than on arrival day.
Alternatives within the same set of trips include the Athens Riviera catamaran cruise for a shorter outing and the Saronic Islands cruise for a more cultural day. Book early for July and August, when this popular cruise sells out, and read the cancellation terms at checkout.
What to expect
The experience
A ten-hour day cruise to Agistri, Moni and Aegina with lunch and drinks on board and time to swim and explore.
Best time
May to October, with the warmest water and calmest seas from June to September.
How long
About ten hours.
Tips
Bring swimwear, towel, sun cream and a hat, confirm the pier and boarding time in your booking, and tell the operator about dietary needs.
Quick picks
- Best for
- Travellers who want swimming and island scenery without a long ferry ride.
- Families
- Works well for families with children who enjoy swimming; check age and life-jacket rules.
- Couples
- A relaxed day with sea views and a shared lunch on board.
- Pair with
- A quieter day in Athens afterwards, perhaps the Acropolis Museum or Lake Vouliagmeni.
- Time needed
- A full day.
Good questions
Is lunch included?+
Yes. The booking page shows lunch and drinks included in the ticket.
Which islands do we visit?+
Agistri, Moni and Aegina.
How long is the day?+
About ten hours according to the booking page.
Can I swim?+
Yes. Swim stops are a central part of the day. Bring swimwear and a towel.
What if the sea is rough?+
Routes can change or sailings be cancelled for weather. Read the refund terms at booking.
