Thessaloniki: Sarti Cruise with 3 Swim Stops and Lunch

Thessaloniki: Sarti Cruise with 3 Swim Stops and Lunch – A Detailed Review

If you’re looking for a way to escape the hustle of Thessaloniki and enjoy a day on the water, the Sarti cruise offers a tempting mix of swimming, scenic views, and local flavor. Designed as a full-day excursion, this experience takes you from the city’s vibrant streets to the tranquil waters of Sithonia, one of Greece’s most beautiful peninsulas. It’s a chance to enjoy not just the scenery but also authentic moments like tasting fresh souvlaki and learning traditional Greek dances.

What we particularly like about this tour is how well it balances relaxation and activity — with three swim stops, a delicious lunch, and some lively dance lessons. Plus, the small group size ensures a more personal experience, which is often missing in larger boat tours. On the flip side, the 2-hour drive from Thessaloniki to Sarti might be a long day for some, especially if you’re not keen on coastal boat rides or seasickness. Still, if you enjoy being on the water and soaking up the sun, this tour could be a charming way to spend your day.

This experience suits travelers who appreciate a laid-back, authentic Greek adventure—ideal for those comfortable in the water and eager for a taste of local culture. Families, couples, and solo travelers who want a day of scenic cruising, good food, and fun could find this trip just right. Just keep in mind, non-swimmers and those prone to seasickness might want to think twice before booking.

Key Points

• Multiple swim stops allow plenty of time to cool off in crystal-clear waters.
• Delicious Greek lunch featuring souvlaki and local wine enhances the authentic feel.
• Small group size (limited to eight participants) offers a more intimate experience.
• Dance lessons in sirtaki and belly dancing add a lively, cultural touch.
• Comfortable transfer from Thessaloniki makes logistics easier.
• Flexibility in booking with free cancellation and pay later options.

You can check availability for your dates here:

The Journey Begins: From Thessaloniki to Sarti

We loved the efficiency of the pickup from Thessaloniki, which takes about two hours to reach Sarti. The organized transportation means you can relax and enjoy the scenery without worrying about navigating yourself. Once in Sarti, the boat awaits, and you’ll quickly feel the anticipation of a day on the water. The small group limit (up to 8 people) means you don’t get lost in the crowd, making the experience more engaging.

The cruise departs at 9:30 am, giving you plenty of daylight to enjoy the stops. As you set sail, the breeze and the views of the coast are immediately captivating. If you love the idea of spending your day cruising along the Greek coast, this trip offers a perfect blend of sightseeing and leisure.

First Stop: Orange Beach – Sithonia’s Crown Jewel

The first swim stop at Orange Beach is probably the highlight for many. Known as the most famous beach in Sithonia, it’s celebrated for its crystal blue-green waters and soft sandy shore. It’s a classic Greek postcard scene—ideal for swimming, sunbathing, or even a quick contest for a bottle of wine, which adds a fun, competitive edge.

Reviewers frequently mention the quality of the water, calling it “refreshing” and “crystal clear.” Many appreciated the opportunity to splash around, take photos, and just soak in the scenery. Given how popular this beach is, be prepared for some fellow travelers, but the boat’s location offers enough space for everyone to relax.

Second Stop: Diaporos Island and Vourvourou

Next, the boat heads to Diaporos Island, opposite Vourvourou. Here, the waters remain just as inviting, and the island’s tranquil vibe makes it a perfect place for a second swim and some downtime. The island’s lush landscape and calm waters provide a peaceful contrast to the bustling Orange Beach.

On the boat, you’ll enjoy a delicious lunch around midday—souvlaki, fresh salad, bread, and a choice of wine, ouzo, or soft drinks. The food is straightforward but flavorful, and the wine adds a nice touch, especially as you look out over the scenic coastline. This meal is often praised for its authenticity and good quality, offering a true taste of Greece.

The Final Swim and Return Voyage

On your way back to Sarti, there’s a third and final swim stop, giving you yet another chance to enjoy the clear waters. It’s a relaxed way to wrap up the day’s water activities, leaving you refreshed but not exhausted.

Throughout the cruise, the crew adds a lively element by teaching sirtaki and belly dancing, making the return journey more engaging and fun. For many, these lessons become a highlight—an authentic way to connect with Greek culture, even if your dance moves aren’t perfect.

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The Value of the Experience

Considering the cost, the tour covers transportation, three swimming stops, a hearty lunch, and dance lessons. That’s quite a package when you think about how much time and effort is included — especially given the small group size. The value lies not just in the sights but in the chance to relax, eat well, and participate in local traditions.

A number of reviews mention that the wine selection is particularly good, which adds to the overall enjoyment. The inclusion of drinks with lunch is a simple but appreciated bonus that enhances the authentic Greek vibe.

Practical Tips for Travelers

• Bring essentials like sunglasses, hat, swimwear, towel, camera, and sunscreen to stay comfortable.
• The drive from Thessaloniki takes around two hours, so plan for a full day.
• The cruise departs at 9:30 am, so arriving early helps you settle in.
• If you’re not a swimmer or prone to seasickness, consider whether this trip is suitable—it’s not recommended for non-swimmers.
• Cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering flexibility if your plans change.
• As the experience is conducted in English and Greek, English speakers will have no trouble following along.

Who Should Book This Tour?

This cruise appeals most to travelers who like water-based activities but want more than just lounging. The multiple swim stops, along with the engaging dance lessons, make it a lively and authentic day out. It’s especially suited for those who enjoy good food, cultural experiences, and scenic boat rides. Because of the small group size, it’s perfect for travelers seeking a more personal and intimate outing.

However, non-swimmers or those sensitive to seasickness should approach with caution. The long drive from Thessaloniki may also be a consideration for some, but the scenic ferry ride and the overall value can outweigh this for most.

The Sum Up: Is This Tour Worth It?

This Sarti cruise offers a thoughtful blend of relaxation, culture, and good food — a true taste of Greece’s coastal charm. The three swim stops allow plenty of time to cool off and enjoy the beautiful waters, while the lunch and dance lessons add a genuine local flavor. For travelers who want a manageable, intimate experience with a dash of adventure, this tour hits the right notes.

The excellent wine selection and the chance to learn traditional dances make this outing stand out from more generic boat trips. It’s a solid choice for those looking to combine scenic beauty with authentic Greek hospitality, especially if they appreciate small-group travel and a relaxed pace.

In short, if you’re after a day of sun, sea, and culture with friendly guides, this cruise provides excellent value—offering a memorable slice of Greek coastal life.

FAQ

How long is the drive from Thessaloniki to Sarti?
It takes about 2 hours to reach Sarti from Thessaloniki by bus or car.

What time does the cruise start?
The cruise departs at 9:30 am from Sarti.

What’s included in the tour?
Transportation from Thessaloniki to Sarti, the cruise ticket, three swimming stops, lunch, and dance lessons.

Are drinks included besides the lunch?
No, only the drinks provided with lunch—wine, ouzo, or soft drinks—are included.

Is the tour suitable for non-swimmers?
No, it’s not recommended for non-swimmers due to the swimming stops.

Can I cancel the booking?
Yes, cancellations are free if made at least 24 hours in advance.

What should I bring?
Sunglasses, hat, swimwear, towel, camera, and sunscreen are advisable.

Are there language options?
The tour is conducted in Greek and English.

What is the group size?
Limited to 8 participants for a more personal experience.

Is there any cultural activity?
Yes, you’ll learn to dance sirtaki and belly dance during the return journey.

This comprehensive review hopefully helps you decide if this cruise fits your travel style. It’s a chance to experience Greece’s stunning coastline, enjoy local food, and have some fun—if you’re ready for a full day on the water.

You can check availability for your dates here: