Athens Day Cruise Since 1965 | Visit Hydra, Poros & Aegina

If you’re planning a trip to Athens and want to escape the city’s hustle for a taste of Greece’s scenic islands, this Athens Day Cruise to Hydra, Poros, and Aegina is an appealing choice. Operating since 1965, this tour has become a classic that many travelers rely on to experience the beauty, culture, and flavors of the Saronic Gulf in just one day. With a reputation that spans nearly six decades, it’s a tour that combines relaxed sightseeing, local charm, and good food — all on a comfortable boat with friendly staff.

What we especially appreciate about this cruise is the balance of free exploration and guided highlights. You can wander independently or opt for optional guided tours, which adds flexibility for different types of travelers. The included buffet lunch and live entertainment are also nice touches that elevate the experience beyond just a boat ride. That said, one thing to consider is the timing and duration at each island, which some reviews suggest could feel a bit rushed if you’re eager to explore every corner.

This tour is perfect for those who want a convenient, well-organized day trip that gives a taste of Greece’s most iconic islands without the hassle of organizing transport or multiple tickets. It’s especially suited for couples, families, or groups seeking a mix of sightseeing, relaxation, and local flavor in a single outing.

Key Points

• Well-established tradition: Operating since 1965, it’s a reliable and trusted way to see the islands.
• All-inclusive value: Includes lunch, entertainment, and round-trip transfers (if booked), making it good value for a full day.
• Flexible exploration: Free time on each island allows you to choose between shops, beaches, or simply soaking in the views.
• Educational options: Guided tours are available for those who want a deeper understanding, though they are extra.
• Comfortable boat: Large, stable vessel with outdoor seating ensures a smooth ride and scenic views.
• Authentic local touches: Live music, traditional dances, and local food make the voyage lively and memorable.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An Honest Look at the Experience

The Departure and Logistics

The cruise departs from the old port of Athens in Faliro, about a 30-minute taxi or car ride from downtown Athens. For those with early plans or arriving by cruise, the departure point is straightforward, and many reviews note that the check-in process is seamless if you arrive on time. The tour offers an option for hotel pickup from downtown Athens, which can be a real time-saver, especially if you’re not keen on navigating public transport.

The boat itself is described as large and comfortable, with outdoor seating that tends to fill up quickly — so arriving early for prime spots is advisable. Departure times vary, so checking your specific schedule is important — the entire trip lasts around 11 hours, including travel, exploration, and return.

The Itinerary: What You’ll See and Do

The day kicks off with a three-hour cruise across the Saronic Gulf. The ride itself is a highlight, with many reviewers praising the smooth sailing and stunning views. The boat’s amenities include a bar for drinks and snacks, plus a buffet-style lunch featuring Greek and Mediterranean dishes — a well-received aspect, as several reviews mention the food exceeded expectations.

Hydra: The Iconic Car-Free Town

The first island stop is Hydra, famous for its cobblestone alleys, traditional architecture, and donkeys still serving as public transportation. You’ll have approximately 105 minutes here, enough time for a quick walk, photos, or a coffee. Many enjoy wandering the narrow streets, admiring the neoclassical buildings, and browsing local shops. Several reviews highlight the friendly atmosphere and scenic vistas, describing Hydra as a peaceful escape with plenty of charm.

Optional guided tours are available for an extra fee, which some guests find helpful to learn about the island’s history and culture. Others, however, prefer to explore independently — a flexible approach that suits many travelers.

Poros: Green and Tranquil

Next up is Poros, often called the green island of the group, thanks to its pine forests and lemon groves. The stop here lasts about an hour, giving you time to stroll along the waterfront, browse shops, or relax at a café. Visitors often comment on the serenity and beauty of Poros, perfect for a quick escape into nature.

Aegina: The Historical and Gourmet Highlight

The final island is Aegina, renowned for its pistachio orchards and historical sites like the Temple of Aphaia. The stop here is two hours, allowing ample time to explore the town and enjoy a local meal. Optional tours to the temple or the Byzantine monastery of Agios Nektarios are available, though they come at an extra cost.

Many travelers rave about the delicious pistachios and local cuisine, with the buffet lunch also receiving praise. Several reviews note that the food served onboard exceeded expectations, with a good range of options and flavorful dishes.

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The Return Journey: Entertainment and Reflection

On the way back to Athens, you’ll enjoy live Greek music, dance, and the chance to relax with drinks from the bar. The crew’s friendly service and the lively atmosphere make the journey home enjoyable. The entire day wraps up with the boat returning to the port in the evening, ready for your next adventure in Athens.

Assessing the Value

At $159 per person, this trip offers a comprehensive introduction to Greece’s most famous islands. The all-inclusive nature—including transport, lunch, and onboard entertainment—makes it a straightforward choice for travelers wanting ease and variety. Many reviews mention that the experience is well-organized, with timely departures and good flow between stops.

However, some guests point out that time at each island can feel a bit tight, especially at Hydra, where only about 1.5 hours is allocated. If you’re a dedicated explorer or museum lover, you might find the time limiting, but for most, it’s enough to get a flavor of each place.

The Experience: What You’ll Take Away

Expect stunning views of the Aegean, a chance to snap memorable photos, and the opportunity to taste the local flavors. The live entertainment adds a festive note, making the whole day feel less like a hurried tour and more like a celebration of Greek island life.

From the reviews, many travelers cherish the friendly staff and knowledgeable guides, which help make the day smooth and engaging. The comfortable boat and well-timed schedule help keep fatigue at bay, even after a long day.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This cruise is ideal for first-time visitors wanting a broad snapshot of the Saronic Islands without the stress of separate bookings. It’s perfect for those who enjoy relaxed sightseeing with comfort, live entertainment, and a tasty meal. Families, couples, or groups seeking a fun, social day will find it a worthwhile experience.

If you’re a history buff, the optional tours in Aegina and Hydra add depth, but even without them, you’ll get plenty of scenic beauty. Conversely, if you desire more time on each island or specific cultural activities, you might prefer to plan a longer, more customized visit.

The Sum Up

This Athens Day Cruise to Hydra, Poros, and Aegina offers a comfortable, well-organized way to see three iconic Greek islands in one day. With stunning vistas, delicious food, and friendly service, it delivers a memorable snapshot of Greece’s island charm. The mix of free exploration and optional guided tours caters to a variety of interests, making it a flexible option for many travelers.

While the timing at each stop isn’t lengthy, most visitors find the pace suits their desire for a broad overview rather than an in-depth exploration. The live entertainment and onboard buffet add a lively, hospitable atmosphere that enhances the overall experience.

This tour provides fantastic value for those wanting to check off several islands from their Greece itinerary without the hassle of multiple tickets or transport logistics. It’s best suited for travelers who prioritize convenience, scenic beauty, and good food over exhaustive sightseeing. If that sounds like your kind of day, this cruise is likely to leave you with plenty of happy memories.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is hotel pickup included?
You can choose an option that includes round-trip transfers from select hotels in Athens, making the day more relaxed and convenient.

How long is the total trip?
The entire experience lasts approximately 11 hours, including travel, island stops, and the return to Athens.

What are the main attractions on each island?
Hydra offers cobblestone streets and architecture, Poros is known for its greenery and beaches, and Aegina features pistachio groves and the Temple of Aphaia.

Can I join guided tours on the islands?
Yes, guided tours in Hydra and Aegina are available for an extra fee. They provide deeper insights into the local history and culture.

What’s included in the price?
The ticket covers the cruise, lunch, live entertainment, and, if selected, hotel transfers. Drinks and optional tours cost extra.

Is this trip suitable for children or people with disabilities?
It’s suitable for children, including a family-friendly environment. However, passengers with disabilities need an escort, and the tour may not be suitable for wheelchair users due to the nature of island walking and boat access.

This cruise offers a lively, scenic, and tasty taste of Greece’s islands in one day — perfect for those short on time but eager to experience the true spirit of the Aegean.

You can check availability for your dates here: