Pelion East Coast Boat Tour: Sea Caves, Fakistra & Mylopotamos

Summary

Boat ride from Agios Ioannis to wild Pelion beaches with sea caves and movie spots

You’ll ride a small boat along Pelion’s east coast with a local skipper, stopping at Damouchari’s historic cove, swimming near underwater springs at Agios Athanassios Bay, exploring Fakistra Cave’s cool shadows, and gliding past famous beaches like Mylopotamos. Expect salty air, movie scenery, and moments of real quiet between stops.

What’s the experience like?

The first thing I remember is the way the sun bounced off the water as we left Agios Ioannis port—almost too bright to look at, but kind of hypnotic if you let your eyes blur. Our skipper, Giorgos, had this quiet way of pointing things out without making a big deal. He nodded toward Damouchari cove and said something about old trading boats docking here—hard to picture now with all the sleepy white houses. The air smelled salty and green at the same time, like pine needles mixed with seaweed. I tried to say “Damouchari” properly; Giorgos grinned but didn’t correct me.

We drifted past that beach from Mamma Mia (I didn’t expect it to look so normal in real life), then stopped at this bay called Agios Athanassios. The water changed temperature in patches—one second cool on my toes, next second almost warm—and Giorgos explained there were underwater springs. I dunked my head under and heard nothing but my own bubbles for a few seconds; it felt weirdly private out there even though there were other boats somewhere in the distance.

The best part was probably Fakistra Cave. It’s not huge or anything, but inside it’s chilly and smells like wet stone. Stalactites drip overhead—one of them looked like an icicle melting in slow motion. We floated quietly for a bit, just listening to the echo of our voices bouncing off the walls (I tried singing but gave up halfway through). After that we cruised by Fakistra beach and then Mylopotamos—the rocks there are sharp underfoot but the water is so clear you can see every pebble. Limnionas was last—wild and empty except for one fisherman waving from shore. I still think about that view sometimes when I’m stuck in city traffic.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Explore East Pelion Coast by Boat

• Start from Agios Ioannis port
• Visit Damouchari village
• Pass by Milopotamos beach
• Explore sea cave near Fakistra

Top questions

Where does the Pelion boat tour start?

The tour starts from Agios Ioannis port on Pelion’s east coast.

Is snorkeling equipment included on this day trip?

Yes, use of snorkeling equipment is included during the tour.

Which beaches do you visit on the East Pelion boat tour?

The tour visits Damouchari cove, Agios Athanassios Bay, Fakistra Cave and beach, Mylopotamos beach, and Limnionas beach.

Can people with allergies or diabetes join?

Yes, but allergic or diabetic travelers should inform the skipper before departure.

Is lunch provided on this boat tour?

No lunch is included; bottled water is provided during the trip.

How long does it take to reach Damouchari from Agios Ioannis by boat?

The distance is short; you reach Damouchari shortly after departing Agios Ioannis port.

Are there any famous movie locations on this route?

Yes, Damouchari beach is known for being featured in the movie “Mamma Mia.”

Is public transportation available near the starting point?

Yes, public transportation options are available nearby Agios Ioannis port.

What’s included

Your day includes use of snorkeling equipment so you can jump right into those clear waters whenever you feel like it—and bottled water to keep you going between stops. The local skipper handles everything else while you just watch Pelion slide by from your spot on deck.