Athens in 1 Days - Visit 3 Saronic Gulf stops: Agistri, Metopi islet and Perdika (Aegina)
In Collaboration with Athens Swimming Cruise & Athenian Riviera. Updated on February 13, 2026.
Full-day island-hopping cruise from Athens to Agistri, Metopi islet and Perdika (Aegina). Includes multiple swimming stops, Mediterranean buffet, a live DJ on the sun deck, onboard amenities (showers, restrooms, sunbeds) and certified crew. Meet at Marina Delta Kalitheas with optional pickup service available.
This itinerary was created in collaboration with Athens Swimming Cruise & Athenian Riviera, inspired by the tour Athens Swimming Cruise & Athenian Riviera. Please check the tour information during your booking process.
Highlights
- Visit 3 Saronic Gulf stops: Agistri, Metopi islet and Perdika (Aegina)
- Multiple exclusive swimming and snorkeling stops
- Mediterranean buffet, soft drinks and house wine included
- Live DJ and sun-deck party atmosphere
- Onboard showers, sunbeds and inflatable sea toys
More than 47 itineraries in Athens.
Itinerary
Day 1
Full-day cruise across the Saronic Gulf with multiple swim stops, island visits and on-deck entertainment.
Meeting & Boarding — Marina Delta Kalitheas (Kallithea)
Meet at Marina Delta Kalitheas for check-in and boarding. Crew will confirm passenger details required by port regulations, show safety briefing and point out facilities (showers, restrooms, bars, sunbeds). Boarding is at the marina before departure.
Tips from local experts:
- Arrive 15–20 minutes before the scheduled start to complete check-in and security formalities.
- Bring passport or ID – port regulations require full name, gender, DOB, nationality and passport/ID number for each passenger.
- If you requested pickup, expect pick-up windows earlier than marina meeting time — keep phone available for driver confirmation.
Swim Stop & Beach Time — Agistri (Megalochori area)
First extended stop near Agistri for swimming, snorkeling and sunbathing. Time allocated for swimming from the boat and short shore visits near Megalochori where the island’s pine-clad shoreline and beaches are accessible.
Tips from local experts:
- Keep valuables in a waterproof pouch while swimming; beanbags and sunbeds are available on deck if you stay onboard.
- Wear reef-safe sunscreen and a swim shirt for sun protection during extended deck time.
- If you plan to go ashore at Megalochori, a light pair of sandals is useful for short rocky approaches to local beaches.
Swimming & Snorkeling — Metopi islet
Stop at the islet of Metopi for a shorter swim/snorkel session in a calm bay. The stop is intended for open-water swimming from the boat and using onboard inflatable toys and noodles.
Tips from local experts:
- Follow crew directions for safe entry/exit from the water; life vests and noodles are available for less-confident swimmers.
- Bring a waterproof camera or secure your phone before jumping in — Metopi waters are clear but rocky in places.
- If you have motion sensitivity, remain near the main deck while the boat is anchored and ask crew for a shaded spot.
Perdika village (Aegina) — Explore & Lunch
Arrive at Perdika, the traditional fishing village of Aegina. Time ashore to stroll the waterfront, have lunch (Mediterranean buffet available onboard or explore local tavernas in Perdika), and optional short guided excursion to Moni islet if offered by the crew.
Tips from local experts:
- If you plan to go ashore, wear comfortable shoes for cobbled streets and identify a clear meeting time with the crew before disembarking.
- The cruise includes a Mediterranean buffet and non-alcoholic drinks; confirm any dietary needs with crew at boarding.
- Optional short excursion to Moni island may be offered locally — bring small cash if you wish to join (confirm availability with crew).
Itinerary Attributes
| Days | 1 |
| Highlights | 5 |
| Season | - |
| Month | - |
| Persona | Friends |
| Transfers | - |
| Restaurants | - |
| Total Activities | 4 |
| Total Places | 4 |
| Activities Types | Neighborhood, Outdoor |
Why this experience
You board a boat in Athens and within an hour you're anchored in turquoise water so clear you can see the bottom—Metopi islet, a pocket of Saronic Gulf sanctuary where the water temperature is perfect and the crowds are minimal because most people never leave the city. You swim. You float. You forget about the city altogether. Then your boat moves toward Agistri island, where pine-covered hills slope down to pebbled beaches and tavernas serving grilled fish. The island has enough character to wander—narrow paths, locals who still know each other—but remains compact enough to explore in a few hours.
The final stop is Perdika village on Aegina, a waterfront collection of white-washed houses and tavernas where you eat lunch watching your boat and fishermen working. The whole day is water and Mediterranean color, broken by swimming stops and island time. Your captain knows the currents and the best swimming spots; you just show up ready to swim.
This itinerary is for friends who want to feel like you've left Athens without needing a flight or a full overnight commitment. Come ready to be on the water, to swim, and to let a boat set your day's rhythm.
Before you go
- Best time: Late spring through early autumn. Water temperatures are warmest (20-26°C), and weather is most stable for boat travel. Summer sun is intense; autumn offers comfortable temperatures and fewer crowds.
- Budget: Check the booking widget for current cruise pricing. This typically includes the boat, all three island stops, swimming access, and sometimes a light snack or drinks. Lunch is often extra; confirm during booking. Budget for food at Perdika restaurants.
- Difficulty: Easy. Boat travel on calm Mediterranean waters, casual island walks, swimming (optional but encouraged). No special fitness required. Total boat time is approximately 6-8 hours with island stops.
- What to bring: Swimsuit, beach towel, sun protection (hat, sunscreen, sunglasses), light cover-up, comfortable walking shoes for island exploration, water bottle, and cash for island meals and tavernas.
- Getting there: Marina departure is typically in Piraeus or central Athens waterfront. Confirm exact meeting point and arrival time during booking. Plan transportation to the marina in advance.
- Accessibility: Boat boarding involves stepping over rails and navigating a moving vessel. Swimming access from the boat may involve ladders. Perdika village has uneven waterfront walkways. Discuss mobility concerns with your operator before booking.
Frequently asked questions
Is swimming mandatory, or can we just stay on the boat? Swimming is optional. Many travelers swim; many prefer to sunbathe or relax on the boat. The boat will provide swimming stops and you can opt in or out depending on how you feel and the water temperature.
What's the difference between Agistri, Metopi, and Perdika? Metopi is a small islet with water so clear it's ideal for swimming. Agistri is a larger inhabited island with beaches, small paths, and a village atmosphere. Perdika is a charming waterfront village on Aegina where you have time to eat, walk, and settle. Each offers something different.
What's included in this itinerary? This itinerary on TheNextGuide is free to read and follow. Your cruise includes boat transportation, visits to all three island stops, and swimming access. Some operators include light snacks and drinks; others don't. Lunch is usually extra. Confirm all inclusions with your operator during booking.
What happens if the sea is rough or weather is bad? Bad weather may result in modified stops or rescheduling. Your operator will monitor conditions and let you know. The Saronic Gulf is generally calmer than open seas, but rough conditions do occur in winter.
Complete your trip in Athens
Balance water time with land-based exploration back in the city.
- Swimming and sunset experience — Stay closer to Athens and combine water time with an ancient temple at sunset.
- Evening Acropolis walk — Contrast island water time with intimate urban wandering after sunset.
- E-bike classics tour — Explore Athens' land-based highlights and historic neighborhoods.
Browse all Athens itineraries at TheNextGuide.
*Last updated: April 2026*
