Athens Floating Bar Cruise

If you’re looking for a memorable way to enjoy Athens from a different perspective, the Athens Floating Bar Cruise offers a unique blend of scenery, relaxation, and lively fun. This is not your typical sightseeing tour; it’s a chance to unwind under the moonlight, sip Greek cocktails, and experience the Aegean Sea in style. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply want to add a splash of adventure to your trip, this cruise promises a night you’ll talk about long after you leave Greece.

What we love about this cruise are its casual yet vibrant atmosphere and the opportunity to enjoy stunning sunset views while floating on a traditional wooden boat. The combination of a relaxed setting with moments of lively fun — like swimming, dancing, and turning the boat into a mini-party — makes it an experience well worth considering. However, keep in mind that this tour is weather-dependent, and poor conditions could lead to cancellations. It’s best suited for travelers who appreciate authenticity, some spontaneity, and a good dose of Greek nightlife.

This experience is perfect if you’re after a romantic evening, a group adventure, or simply want to see Athens from a different vantage point. It’s also a fantastic value at just around $31, especially considering the included features like snorkeling gear, bottled water, and the lively atmosphere.

Key Points

• Unique setting: The only floating bar cruise in Athens with a lively, party vibe.
• Stunning views: Experience breathtaking sunset and moonlight scenery over the Aegean.
• Flexible itinerary: Stops include swimming at a private island and enjoying Greek music.
• Affordable value: At around $31.28, it offers good value for the all-included experience.
• Limited weather dependency: Weather can cancel the cruise, so flexibility is key.
• Small group size: Max 25 travelers, making for an intimate experience.

What Is the Athens Floating Bar Cruise?

This 2.5-hour cruise offers a chance to see Athens from the water, but with a twist — it’s a floating bar. Starting from Porto Rafti, a scenic port east of Athens, the cruise sets sail on a traditional wooden boat. Unlike typical daytime tours, this experience is all about the nighttime ambiance, with chances to dance, swim, and enjoy Greek drinks under the stars.

The cruise operates most evenings, beginning at 9:00 pm, making it ideal for those who want a relaxed yet festive night after a day of sightseeing. The mobile ticket system means you can easily secure your spot in advance, which is recommended given its popularity.

The Itinerary: A Closer Look

Departure from Porto Rafti

The adventure begins at the Resalto Terminal in Porto Rafti, a charming seaside town known for its quiet beaches and local tavernas. The setting is perfect for a peaceful pre-sail atmosphere, and the boat departs promptly at 9:00 pm.

Stop 1: South Euboean Gulf

The initial 30-minute sail takes you across the Bay of Porto Rafti. This stretch is more about the journey — feeling the breeze, watching the coastline drift away, and getting into the relaxed mood. The fact that this part is free of charges makes it a nice warm-up for the evening. During this time, you can enjoy your drinks, soak in the views, and settle into the vibe.

Stop 2: Prasonisi Island and Swimming

The highlight for many is the two-hour stop at the tiny island of Prasso. Here, the boat drops anchor near a quiet islet, allowing for a night swim — a rare treat in Greece. According to reviews, this is a highlight: “We enjoyed the privacy of the island so we could turn the boat into a tropical tiki bar.” The water is calm enough for swimming, and the boat crew makes it easy to indulge in a spontaneous dip.

This anchoring spot lets you forget the crowds of Athens and enjoy some peaceful, starry swimming. The boat transforms into a tropical party, with colorful lights and music, making it feel like a private island party.

Drinks, Snacks, and Atmosphere

While the cruise’s mini bar offers bottled water and snorkeling equipment, alcoholic drinks like cocktails, wine, and beer are available for purchase. This setup allows you to enjoy a variety of drinks without the cruise included alcohol, keeping the price reasonable. One happy traveler shared, “Started off with snacks, beer, and wine, then came the mixed drinks and more snacks, more beaches, and an incredible sunset with Greek music.”

The lively, colorful lights turn the boat into a party boat. Expect to dance, relax, and enjoy live Greek melodies, creating an authentic and festive vibe. The boat’s small size (max 25 travelers) keeps the experience intimate and lively, but not overcrowded.

Swimming and Night Swim

The swim stop adds a special touch. With the boat anchored near the island, you can hop into the water — perhaps the best chance to experience Greece’s clear waters at night. It’s also a unique way to beat any heat or just enjoy a peaceful moment beneath the stars.

The Sunset and Night Views

One of the biggest draws is the stunning sunset that can be seen as the boat sails through the bay. Travelers have described it as “an incredible sunset with Greek music,” which makes it a perfect setting for romance or simply capturing memorable photos. As night falls, the moonlight and stars create a magical backdrop, enhancing the party atmosphere.

Practical Considerations

The cost of approximately $31.28 per person is quite reasonable given the experience. It includes all fees and taxes, bottled water, and snorkeling gear. However, alcohol isn’t included, so budget for drinks if you want to indulge.

The meeting point is easy to find in Porto Rafti, and the tour is suitable for most travelers, including families above 18, with the caveat that anyone prone to seasickness might want to reconsider, as the open water can sometimes be bumpy.

Weather can impact the cruise — if conditions aren’t right, the cruise may be canceled. The provider offers full refunds or alternative dates if this happens. The small group size ensures a personalized experience but means booking in advance is wise to secure your spot.

Authenticity and Value

This cruise is about more than just drinks — it’s about experiencing Greece’s beautiful waters, enjoying good company, and seeing Athens from a fresh angle. With reviews praising the knowledgeable guides and the beautiful views, it’s clear this tour offers genuine value. The combination of swimming, scenic sailing, and lively ambiance makes it a standout evening activity.

Who Will Love This Experience?

This cruise is perfect for romantic couples, groups of friends, or even solo travelers seeking a lively yet relaxed night. If you enjoy a party atmosphere, stunning scenery, and authentic Greek music, you’ll find plenty to love. It’s also ideal for those wanting an affordable yet memorable way to experience the Aegean at night.

However, if you’re very sensitive to seasickness or prefer daytime sightseeing, this might not be your best choice. Also, be prepared for possible weather cancellations, and plan flexibly.

The Sum Up: An Authentic Aegean Night Out

For travelers seeking a different perspective of Athens — one that combines scenic beauty, lively fun, and authentic Greek vibes — this floating bar cruise checks many boxes. It delivers a relaxed, fun-filled evening with the chance to swim, dance, and sip under the stars. The reasonable price, small group atmosphere, and the chance to experience the sea at night make it a worthwhile addition to any Athens itinerary.

Whether you’re celebrating, looking for a romantic outing, or just want to enjoy Greece’s famous sunsets from a new vantage point, this cruise offers a memorable experience that’s both authentic and lively.

FAQ

Is this cruise suitable for children?
This cruise is only for travelers 18 and above due to Greek law regarding alcohol service. Minors can be served non-alcoholic drinks but should be accompanied by an adult and understand the night swim and boat environment.

What should I bring?
Bring swimwear, a towel, and perhaps a light jacket or sweater for the evening. Since drinks are purchased on board, you might want to budget for additional beverages if you prefer specific drinks.

Can I cancel if the weather is bad?
Yes, the cruise offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance if weather conditions are poor. The provider may cancel the cruise for safety reasons and will offer a full refund or alternative dates.

How long does the cruise last?
It lasts approximately 2 hours 30 minutes, including the sailing, swimming, and party time.

Are there any included snacks or meals?
Snacks are available on board, but no meals are included. You can purchase drinks from the mini bar, and some reviews mention enjoying snacks and Greek music during the cruise.

Where exactly do I meet the cruise?
The meeting point is the Resalto Terminal in Porto Rafti, a scenic port east of Athens. It’s accessible and easy to find.

Embark on this lively, scenic cruise for a taste of Greece’s vibrant night life on the water. It’s authentic, fun, and offers a memorable way to see Athens from the sea.