Paros & Antiparos: Catamaran Cruise with Lunch & Swim Stops

Summary

Catamaran day trip Paros to Antiparos with food, swimming, and secret bays

You’ll sail between Paros and Antiparos on a comfortable catamaran with a small group and local guide. Swim in quiet coves only boats can reach, share a fresh Greek lunch on deck, and soak up island sun with drinks in hand. Expect laughter, new faces, and moments that linger long after you’re back on land.

What’s the experience like?

“You’ll want to try the feta,” Yannis grinned as he handed me a plate — honestly, I was still dripping from our first swim stop off Paros and my hands were half salty. It’s funny how quickly you get used to the gentle rocking of the catamaran. The water around us looked almost fake, that kind of blue you only see on postcards or screensavers. There was this quiet hum from the engine at first, but once they cut it and hoisted the sails, it went silent except for wind and some laughter from the bow. I kept thinking: so this is what people mean when they talk about “island time.”

We’d left Paroikia early-ish (not too early for vacation standards), and after maybe an hour or so we were already pulling up near Despotiko — I’d never heard of it before, but apparently it’s famous for being...well, not famous. Our guide (I think her name was Eleni?) pointed out these little coves where you can only get by boat. The air smelled like seaweed and sunscreen — someone passed around watermelon slices while a couple tried (and failed) to pronounce “Antiparos” right. Li laughed when I tried to say it in Greek; probably butchered it worse than them.

The day trip from Paros to Antiparos felt less like a tour and more like hanging out with new friends who just happen to know all the best swimming spots. We anchored by these empty beaches — no crowds, just a few seagulls and that weirdly satisfying crunch of sand underfoot when you jump in. Lunch was simple but perfect: tomatoes that tasted like sunshine, olives, soft bread still warm somehow? And local cheese that made me wish I could pack a suitcase full of it home.

I’m not much of a snorkeler usually but here it felt easy — clear water, fish darting around your toes if you stood still long enough. There was always someone offering another drink or towel (I lost mine twice). On the way back toward Paros as the sun started dipping low, there was this hush over everyone — maybe tiredness or maybe just not wanting it to end yet. I still think about that last bit of golden light on the water sometimes.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Sail Paros and Antiparos with lunch

• Depart from Paroikia port
• Sail around Paros highlights
• Visit Antiparos port and beaches
• Swim at secluded bays and coves
• Enjoy authentic Greek lunch onboard
• Sail to Despotiko island
• Relax and snorkel in turquoise waters
• Sail back to base port at sunset

Top questions

How long is the catamaran cruise from Paros to Antiparos?

The cruise lasts most of the day with several stops for swimming and lunch before returning around sunset.

Is lunch included on the Paros Antiparos catamaran tour?

Yes, lunch made from local Greek products is included along with snacks and drinks.

Are snorkeling equipment and towels provided?

Yes, use of snorkeling gear and beach towels are included for all guests.

Does the tour include pickup from my hotel?

The cruise includes pickup; details are provided upon booking confirmation.

What islands or locations do we visit during the cruise?

You’ll visit highlights around Paros, Antiparos, Despotiko island, lagoons, small islands, and hidden coves accessible only by boat.

Is this tour suitable for pregnant travelers?

No, it’s not recommended for pregnant travelers due to physical activity involved.

Are alcoholic beverages available on board?

Yes, both alcoholic beverages and soft drinks are available during your cruise.

What’s included

Your day includes round-trip sailing between Paros and Antiparos aboard a luxury catamaran with personalized service from local guides. You’ll have hotel pickup arranged beforehand, enjoy an authentic Greek lunch plus snacks and drinks (including wine or beer), use snorkeling equipment and beach towels at each stop, relax in air-conditioned comfort between swims—and return as sunset colors fade over the islands.