Athens & Nea Makri: Small Group Snorkeling Boat Trip

Summary

Snorkeling adventure from Athens to Marathon Cape with local guide

You’ll join a small group boat trip from Nea Makri to Marathon Cape and Schinias Bay, snorkeling with a local guide who knows every cove. Expect easy pickup, all your gear sorted for you, plus snacks and time to just float or sunbathe if you want. It’s relaxed, friendly—one of those days that lingers long after you’ve rinsed off the salt.

What’s the experience like?

I’ll never forget the way our guide, Kostas, grinned when he handed me the snorkel mask at Marathon Beach. He’d just finished telling us about growing up nearby—apparently his dad still fishes off these rocks. The boat wasn’t fancy but felt right for seven of us, plus Kostas and his friend Maria (she brought biscuits that tasted faintly of anise). There was this salty breeze as we zipped away from Nea Makri, my hair already tangled before we even reached the first snorkeling spot.

The water around Marathon Cape is clearer than I expected—almost glassy in the early light. Kostas showed me how to adjust my mask (I kept fogging it up, classic), then pointed out these tiny silver fish darting under the surface. I could hear kids laughing from another boat somewhere behind us. When I dipped under, everything went quiet except for my own breathing and the distant clink of someone’s anchor chain. The sea floor had these ribbons of green grass waving slowly; I tried to follow a little blue fish but lost it in the shadows. So yeah, not exactly Jacques Cousteau material here.

Afterward we floated in Schinias Bay—a protected area, which Kostas explained is part of some Natura thing (I googled it later: means lots of birds and no jet skis). Maria poured juice into plastic cups while we dried off on deck. The sun felt warm but not harsh yet; someone passed around fruit and I remember thinking how much sweeter watermelon tastes when you’re salty and tired from swimming. We didn’t rush back—just drifted for a while, listening to the soft slap of water against the hull and watching clouds move over the hills.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Snorkeling tour at Marathon and Schinias

• Meet at Marathon Beach
• Take 20-minute speedboat ride
• Receive snorkeling gear and guidance
• Snorkel at Marathon Cape spots
• Explore marine life underwater
• Swim and relax in Schinias Bay
• Sunbathe on the boat

Top questions

How many people are on the snorkeling boat tour?

The group size is limited to 7 people for a more personal experience.

Is hotel pickup included in Nea Makri?

Yes, free hotel pickup is available from all hotels in Nea Makri upon request.

Do I need prior snorkeling experience?

No experience needed—basic swimming skills are enough and your guide will help with gear.

What should I bring for the day trip?

Bring your own towel and swimwear; all other snorkeling equipment is provided.

Are snacks or drinks provided during the excursion?

Yes, you’ll get bottled water, juice or tea, biscuits or fruit during the trip.

Can children join this snorkeling tour?

Children aged 6 and above can join if accompanied by an adult.

Where does the snorkeling take place?

You’ll snorkel around Marathon Cape and Schinias Bay near Athens and Nea Makri.

What’s included

Your day includes free hotel pickup in Nea Makri if you ask ahead, a speedboat ride from Marathon Beach with all snorkeling gear provided by your certified guide, plus photos or video from your trip. You’ll have bottled water, juice or tea, biscuits or fruit along the way—and plenty of time to swim or just relax before heading back.