Naxos or Paros: Catamaran Day Cruise with Lunch & Drinks

Swim and snorkel from a shared catamaran, with lunch and wine on the water

You’ll board a shared catamaran in Naxos and sail toward Paros or hidden coves nearby, stopping to swim and snorkel in clear Aegean waters. Enjoy a traditional lunch cooked onboard with local wine and beer as you relax under the sun. With friendly guides and plenty of time to soak up sea air, it’s the kind of day that lingers long after you’re back on land.

Step-by-step itinerary

Shared catamaran cruise to Naxos beaches

• Start cruise from Naxos port
• Receive morning trip briefing
• Visit secluded beaches and coves
• Swim and snorkel with provided masks
• Enjoy traditional lunch on board
• Relax with cold drinks, beer, and wine
• Return after approximately 7 hours

The experience

Honestly, I woke up still tasting salt on my lips from yesterday’s catamaran day cruise out of Naxos. The port was already buzzing when we got there: families with sunhats, a couple of older Greek men arguing gently about something (football? olives?), and our guide Yannis waving us over like we were old friends. I didn’t expect the boat to feel so open: bare feet on warm deck, that first whiff of coffee brewing somewhere below. We set off around ten, everyone kind of shy at first except for a kid who kept asking if dolphins would show up.

The water between Naxos and Paros is this unreal blue. I kept staring at it until someone laughed and handed me a mask for snorkeling. First stop was a cove I’d never find alone. You could smell wild thyme on the breeze if you leaned in. Swimming there felt weirdly quiet except for the splash of someone cannonballing off the side (not me, but close). Lunch happened all at once: plates passed around, grilled veggies, something with lemon and olive oil that Yannis called “just home food.” Local wine too, cold enough to make my teeth hurt. Li tried to teach me how to say cheers in Greek but I probably butchered it.

We drifted for hours: sometimes talking, sometimes just lying back listening to the hull creak. There was this moment after lunch where everyone went quiet except for the sound of forks scraping plates and waves tapping the side of the catamaran. I still think about that view looking back at Naxos, sunlight bouncing off white houses on the shore. The crew checked in often but never hovered. It felt easy, like they’d done this forever. Seven hours slipped by faster than I thought they could.

What’s included

• Your day includes pickup at Naxos port by your crew before setting sail toward Paros or secluded beaches nearby.
• all swimming stops come with snorkeling masks provided.
• enjoy bottled water throughout plus local wine and beers.
• snacks appear before a delicious traditional lunch cooked right onboard.
• coffee or tea rounds things out as you drift back toward port together in late afternoon.

Before you book

Days and timesMonday, Tuesday, Saturday and SundayDeparts at 10:00Last departure this season: 31 Oct

Book up toStart time

AgesAdult (4 to 90 years) · Child (under 4)

GroupUp to 21

Live guideEnglish

Meeting point and pickupNo hotel pickup: you go to the meeting point. Ends back at the starting point.

Cancellation and refundsNo refund if you cancel.It may be canceled due to bad weather or if the minimum number of travelers isn't reached. If that happens, you're offered another date or a refund.

Prices and times updated yesterday

Good to know

Easy physical levelInfant seats availablePublic transport nearby

Operated by Naxos Catamaran Sailing Cruises

Is this one for you?Spend a full day sailing with meals and drinks included, sharing a catamaran with other guests while the crew handles all the details.

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Top questions

Can children come?

Yes. Ticket types: Child (under 4).

What happens if it rains?

It may be canceled due to bad weather. If that happens, you're offered another date or a refund. No refund if you cancel.

How long is the catamaran day cruise from Naxos?

The cruise lasts about 7 hours, starting at 10:00 am.

Is lunch included during the cruise?

Yes, a traditional lunch prepared with local products is served onboard.

Are drinks provided on this catamaran tour?

Yes, bottled water, local wine, beer, coffee, tea, and soft drinks are included.

Do I need to bring snorkeling equipment?

No, masks for snorkeling are provided by the crew.

What happens if there is bad weather?

The captain may change the itinerary for safety if weather conditions require it.

Where does the cruise depart from?

The shared catamaran departs from the port of Naxos.

Are there options for public transportation nearby?

Yes, public transportation options are available near the departure point.