Full Day Mount Athos & Ammouliani Cruise From Thessaloniki!

Set out on a captivating journey that seamlessly blends history, culture, and natural beauty. The Full Day Mount Athos & Ammouliani Cruise from Thessaloniki promises an unforgettable 11-hour adventure, taking you through the stunning Sithonia Peninsula and offering a rare glimpse into the awe-inspiring monasteries of Mount Athos. Along the way, you’ll enjoy a relaxing stop at the picturesque Banana Beach, learn about the lively Greek traditions, and return home with memories that will linger long after the voyage. Prepare to be enchanted by this captivating cruise that showcases the very essence of Greece.

Good To Know

• This full-day cruise from Thessaloniki offers a scenic tour of Mount Athos and a visit to the picturesque Banana Beach on the island of Ammouliani.
• The 11-hour tour includes a 3-hour sightseeing cruise along Mount Athos, with the opportunity to visit up to four monasteries along the peninsula.
• After the monastery tour, the cruise stops at Banana Beach for 2 hours, where passengers can relax and enjoy the beach amenities.
• The return journey features live Greek music and dancing, providing a lively cultural experience for passengers.
• While the tour is advertised as a "small group" experience, customer feedback suggests the boat can accommodate up to 150 passengers, leading to overcrowding.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Overview of the Cruise

This full-day Mount Athos & Ammouliani Cruise from Thessaloniki delivers a comprehensive sightseeing experience.

The 11-hour tour costs $166.71 per person and departs from Ormos Panagias. Passengers can expect scenic views of the Sithonia Peninsula and the iconic Mount Athos, with a possibility of spotting dolphins in Siggitikos Bay.

The itinerary includes a hop-on hop-off stop, a 3-hour sightseeing cruise to Mount Athos, and a 2-hour visit to Banana Beach for swimming and relaxation.

The return cruise features live Greek music and dancing, providing an immersive cultural experience.

With private transportation, a light lunch, and multilingual audio guides, this cruise offers a well-rounded and convenient way to explore the region.

Itinerary Details

The tour begins with a pickup from Thessaloniki, located approximately 1.5 hours away by car.

Passengers will then stop for 45 minutes before embarking on a 3-hour sightseeing cruise to Mount Athos.

After a 30-minute photo stop and sightseeing, the cruise will head to Banana Beach where guests can spend 2 hours swimming and relaxing.

The return cruise lasts 1.5 hours back to Ormos Panagias.

Finally, passengers will be dropped off in Thessaloniki, arriving around 5:00 PM.

The full-day excursion covers scenic views, potential dolphin sightings, and a chance to visit up to four monasteries along the way.

Highlights and Activities

Visiting up to four monasteries, including the Holy Monastery Docheiariou, H.M. Xenophontos, H.M. Panteleimonos, and H.M. Xiropotamou, is a highlight of this cruise.

Guests can enjoy the rich history and spiritual significance of these ancient structures during the scenic monastery tour.

After the monastery visit, travelers can relax and unwind at Banana Beach, where sunbeds and umbrellas are provided.

The return trip features live Greek music and dancing, creating a lively and enjoyable atmosphere.

An optional guided audio tour in multiple languages is available for those seeking a deeper understanding of the sights and experiences.

Inclusions and Additional Information

For this cruise, private pickup and drop-off services are provided, along with an air-conditioned vehicle to ensure a comfortable journey.

The cruise ticket, which costs 35€ per person, grants access to the scenic Monastery Tour and a light lunch at the picturesque Banana Beach.

Safety equipment and insurance are included, providing peace of mind throughout the adventure.

Plus, all taxes and port fees are covered, leaving travelers worry-free about unexpected costs.

While tips and personal expenses aren’t included, the all-inclusive nature of this offering makes it a convenient and seamless experience.

• Private pickup and drop-off
• Air-conditioned vehicle
• Cruise ticket (35€ per person)
• Light lunch at Banana Beach

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Customer Feedback

Based on the provided customer feedback, it seems the cruise experience didn’t live up to the expectations set by the marketing materials.

The cruise received an overall rating of only 2 out of 5 stars, with the reviewer highlighting several major issues.

Contrary to the advertised "small group" of 8 participants, the actual boat capacity was 150 people, leading to overcrowding.

Plus, the reviewer was disappointed by the limited monastery visits and the poor music and atmosphere at the beach stop.

Scenic Monastery Tour

The Mount Athos & Ammouliani Cruise offers passengers a unique opportunity to witness the grandeur of the Orthodox Christian monasteries that dot the slopes of Mount Athos.

The cruise includes visits to up to four iconic monasteries, including:

• The Holy Monastery Docheiariou, renowned for its intricate Byzantine architecture and priceless religious artifacts.

• The Holy Monastery Xenophontos, known for its stunning frescoes and ornate iconostasis.

• The Holy Monastery Panteleimonos, a sprawling complex with a rich history dating back to the 10th century.

• The Holy Monastery Xiropotamou, renowned for its impressive library and collection of ancient manuscripts.

During these stops, passengers can enjoy the serene atmosphere and learn about the centuries-old traditions of the monastic community.

Beach Relaxation at Banana Beach

After the scenic cruise along the Sithonia Peninsula and the monastic sites of Mount Athos, passengers disembark at the picturesque Banana Beach. The beach offers a peaceful respite, with soft golden sands and crystal-clear waters. Guests can relax on provided sunbeds and umbrellas, taking in the stunning views.

Amenities	Facilities	Activities	Dining
Sunbeds	Changing rooms	Swimming	Light lunch
Umbrellas	Showers	Sunbathing	Refreshments
Towels	Beach bar	Beach games	–
–	–	Exploration	–

With live Greek music playing in the background, the beach provides the perfect setting to unwind and soak up the Mediterranean sun before the return journey.

Live Greek Music and Dancing

As the cruise boat departs Banana Beach, the sound of lively Greek music fills the air, inviting passengers to join in the celebration.

The upbeat rhythms of bouzouki and the infectious energy of traditional folk dances captivate the crowd. The crew encourages everyone to participate, fostering a convivial atmosphere:

• Passengers sway and clap to the familiar beats, their faces alight with joy.

• Groups form spontaneously, as seasoned dancers teach the newcomers the steps.

• Laughter and cheers echo across the water as the boat glides back towards Ormos Panagias.

The return journey is a lively celebration, a fitting end to a day of exploration and discovery.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the Cruise Wheelchair Accessible?

The cruise does not appear to be wheelchair accessible. The itinerary includes boarding a boat, visiting monasteries, and spending time at Banana Beach, which may present accessibility challenges for those with mobility needs. Specific accessibility information is not provided in the details.

Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks Onboard?

Passengers are generally allowed to bring their own food and drinks onboard, though the cruise may provide some light refreshments. It’s best to check with the operator beforehand to confirm the policy and any restrictions.

Are Animals Allowed on the Cruise?

Animals are generally not permitted on the cruise. The cruise operator’s policy aims to ensure the safety and comfort of all passengers. Guests are advised to leave their pets at home for this particular excursion.

How Flexible Is the Departure Time?

The departure time is flexible, with a scheduled pickup from Thessaloniki and an approximate 5:00 PM return time. However, the cruise operator may adjust the schedule based on weather, traffic, or other unforeseen circumstances to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience.

Can I Extend the Duration of My Stay at Banana Beach?

The duration at Banana Beach can be extended, but it’s subject to the cruise schedule. Guests can opt to spend more time relaxing on the beach, though the overall tour length remains fixed. Additional fees may apply for extended beach time.

The Sum Up

The Full Day Mount Athos & Ammouliani Cruise from Thessaloniki offers a captivating blend of history, relaxation, and culture. Witness the stunning landscapes of the Sithonia Peninsula and Mount Athos, explore historic monasteries, and unwind at the picturesque Banana Beach. The return trip’s live music and dancing complete this unforgettable 11-hour adventure, providing a memorable experience for travelers seeking to enjoy the rich heritage of Greece.

You can check availability for your dates here: