3 hours Neos Marmaras: Day or Sunset Sailing Tour Coves & Islands

If you’re dreaming of a relaxing escape on the water, the Neos Marmaras: Day or Sunset Sailing Tour offers an excellent way to see some of Halkidiki’s most beautiful spots that are unreachable by car. This small-group experience promises a blend of stunning scenery, gentle sailing, and authentic Greek charm—all within just three hours. We’re here to tell you what makes this trip a worthwhile addition to your Halkidiki itinerary, as well as a few considerations to keep in mind.

What we love about this tour is how intimate and personalized it feels, thanks to the small group size of just 11 travelers. Plus, the opportunity to sail to Kelyfos Island—a highlight for nature and water lovers—is a real treat. On the flip side, if you’re expecting a vigorous sailing adventure or wind-filled sails, you might be disappointed, especially in October when the wind can be gentle. Still, this tour is perfect for families, couples, or anyone seeking a peaceful, scenic voyage.

This experience is ideal for those who want to escape the crowded beaches, enjoy crystal-clear waters, and take advantage of Halkidiki’s natural beauty from a different perspective. If you appreciate relaxed, no-fuss excursions that focus on scenery and authenticity, you’ll find this tour suits you very well.

Key Points

• Small group size ensures a more personal, relaxed experience.
• Stunning views of turquoise waters and secluded coves are the main highlight.
• Uncrowded beaches and islands accessible only by boat make this a unique adventure.
• The 1-hour stop at Kelyfos Island offers a peaceful break in pristine surroundings.
• Tour options include daytime and sunset sailing, catering to different preferences.
• At just around $40 per person, this trip offers good value for a scenic, half-day experience.

An in-Depth Look at the 3-Hour Sailing Experience

Starting Point and Logistics

The tour departs from Harbor pontoon no. 2 in Neos Marmaras, a charming town known for its lively waterfront and relaxed vibe. The meeting location is convenient for travelers based in Halkidiki, especially those in Neos Marmaras, Potidea, or Nea Moudania. The tour’s mobile ticket system makes planning straightforward, and confirmation is immediate after booking.

If you’re staying nearby, you’ll appreciate how this excursion fits into a day of exploring Halkidiki’s coast without the hassle of arranging transportation. For those coming from further afield, the providers can assist with transportation options, making this a flexible option for most travelers.

What the Tour Offers

The core of this sailing trip is a leisurely cruise in the afternoon or during sunset, depending on your selection. The highlight is the visit to Kelyfos Island, often called “Turtle Island” because of its shape, which is free to explore. You can expect to sit back with some coffee or tea and bottled water, included in the price, as you sail along turquoise waters that are iconic of the region.

The all-fees-included price makes it easy to budget, with no surprise costs. However, dinner isn’t included, so if you’re craving a full Mediterranean feast, you’ll want to plan that separately.

The Itinerary and Key Stops

Kelyfos Island (1 hour):
The main attraction, this island’s peaceful atmosphere is perfect for a swim or just soaking up the scenery. As one reviewer noted, “If you want to spend 3 beautiful hours with nature, swim in pure turquoise waters, this journey is right for you.” The island’s natural setting lends itself to quiet contemplation or a quick dip in the clear waters.

Sailing Along the Coast:
The rest of the trip involves sailing past some of Halkidiki’s scenic coves and smaller islands. The gentle breeze and calm waters make for a relaxing ride, especially if you’re in search of a break from busy beaches. While the tour’s description emphasizes sailing in the afternoon breeze, be aware that wind conditions can vary, and at times, there might be little to no wind — as one reviewer lamented during a sunset trip when “leider kein Wind zum Segeln,” meaning “unfortunately no wind for sailing.”

Sunset Option:
The sunset tour is especially popular, promising a spectacular view as the sun dips below the horizon, casting a golden glow over the water. This is a magical time to experience Halkidiki’s coastline, and many travelers consider it a highlight.

What Travelers Say

The reviews paint a picture of a generally positive experience, with a 4.7-star average from three reviews. One guest summed it up perfectly: “Absolutely wonderful experience! If you want to spend 3 beautiful hours with nature, swim in pure turquoise waters, this journey is right for you.” They appreciated the professionalism and politeness of the captain, which added to the relaxed atmosphere.

Another traveler appreciated the small group size, describing the trip as “Sehr angenehm war die geringe Teilnehmerzahl” (very pleasant due to the small number of participants). The quiet, intimate setting seems to be a big plus for those seeking tranquility rather than a crowded tour.

Someone pointed out that during a sunset trip in October, lack of wind meant no sailing, which could be disappointing if you’re hoping for a traditional sailing experience. However, even without active sailing, the scenery and peaceful waters still make for a memorable outing.

What’s Included and What’s Not

The included amenities—coffee, tea, bottled water, all taxes and fees—make the experience straightforward and comfortable. It’s worth noting that dinner isn’t part of the package, so plan for a meal before or after the trip if you’re hungry.

The tour lasts approximately 3 hours, which fits well into a half-day plan and leaves plenty of time to explore other parts of Halkidiki once you return.

The Price and Overall Value

At around $40.72 per person, this tour is quite reasonable considering the personalized service and scenic stops. It’s a value-packed experience for those who want quick access to secluded spots and an escape from crowded beaches. The modest cost covers the boat, fuel, and the guide’s expertise, making it an accessible way to see Halkidiki’s coast from a different angle.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This sailing trip is best suited for travelers who appreciate calm waters, scenic beauty, and relaxed pace. It’s ideal for families with children, couples seeking a romantic sunset, or solo travelers wanting a peaceful getaway. If you’re an adventure seeker looking for vigorous sailing or wind-filled sails, this might not be your trip. Instead, it’s a gentle, scenic ride that emphasizes natural beauty and tranquility.

The Sum Up

For those wanting a taste of Halkidiki’s stunning coastline without the rush of large tours, this 3-hour sailing experience from Neos Marmaras offers genuine value. It’s a perfect way to explore secluded coves, enjoy turquoise waters, and experience Greece’s maritime charm in a small, intimate setting. While the sailing can vary depending on wind conditions, the overall atmosphere is peaceful and scenic—ideal for relaxing, picture-perfect moments.

It’s well-suited for families, couples, or anyone who simply wants to spend a few hours on the water soaking up Halkidiki’s natural beauty. For a modest price, you get to escape the crowds and enjoy some of Greece’s most beautiful waters in comfort and style.

FAQs

What is the duration of this sailing tour?
It lasts approximately 3 hours, making it a manageable half-day activity that leaves time for other sightseeing.

Where does the tour start and end?
The departure point is Harbor pontoon no. 2 in Neos Marmaras. The tour returns to the same location at the end.

Is this experience suitable for children?
Yes, the tour is described as a good activity for families with children. The calm waters and short duration make it family-friendly.

What is included in the price?
Bottled water, coffee or tea, and all fees and taxes are included. Dinner is not included, so plan accordingly.

Can I choose between day and sunset tours?
Yes, the tour offers both options—daytime sailing in summer or a sunset trip, which is particularly popular for its beautiful views.

What if the weather is bad?
The experience requires good weather. If canceled due to poor conditions, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

This sailing tour from Neos Marmaras offers a gentle, scenic taste of Halkidiki’s best spots. It’s a relaxing way to enjoy Greece’s famed waters, especially if you favor small groups and natural beauty over high-energy adventure.