Rina's Cave and Koufonisia cruise from Naxos: Swim and lunch

Swim inside a sea cave, then anchor for a homemade lunch on an island

A full-day boat tour from Naxos visits three stops: Rina's Cave on the southern coast for swimming and diving, Kato Koufonisi for a BBQ lunch made with local Naxian products, and Ano Koufonissi for two hours of free time to explore the village and beaches. The boat departs Agia Anna port around 8:15 a.m. and returns by 7 p.m., with an English-speaking guide on board.

Step-by-step itinerary

Sail, swim, and explore islands

• Sail along Naxos west coast
• Stop at Rina's Cave for swimming
• Visit nearby pebble beach and water spring
• Enjoy BBQ lunch at Kato Koufonisi
• Free time at Ano Koufonissi to stroll and swim
• Depart Ano Koufonissi at 17:15
• Return to Agia Anna's port at 19:00

The experience

The boat leaves Agia Anna port and sails the west coast for roughly 1.5 hours to reach Rina's Cave, an inlet accessible only by sea. You get an hour to swim in the cave's turquoise water, dive from the rocks if you want, or wade ashore at the pebble beach where a natural spring offers fresh water. The cave sits in the Kalandos area on Naxos's southern coast, surrounded by unspoiled shoreline and bird nests tucked into the rock.

After Rina's Cave, the boat heads to Kato Koufonisi for a BBQ lunch break on board. The meal includes a spread of local Naxian dishes prepared by hand, with options for vegetarians and vegans, plus local wine, water and soft drinks. This is where the day slows down: you eat, drink and rest before the final leg.

The last stop is Ano Koufonissi, the smallest inhabited island in the Cyclades, where you have two hours on your own. Walk through the village, swim at nearby beaches, or pay a small fee for a sea taxi to reach other coves. The boat departs around 5:15 p.m. and arrives back at Agia Anna by 7 p.m. Note that the route can shift if weather turns.

What’s included

• Boat ticket for the full route.
• BBQ lunch on board with local Naxian products, vegetarian and vegan options available.
• wine, water and soft drinks during lunch.
• English-speaking guide throughout the day.

Before you book

Days and timesNext departure: 1 May 2027

Book up to12h before

AgesAdult (13 and older) · Child (3 to 12 years) · Infant (under 3): free

GroupUp to 120

Live guideEnglish

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

Cancellation and refundsFree cancellation up to 24 h before the start. After that, no refund.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 2 days ago

Good to know

Low physical effortNot recommended during pregnancy

Operated by MTM Experiences

Is this one for you?Small groups and families work well on this tour since you're on one boat with other travelers, and the mix of swimming, lunch and free time suits anyone who wants a full day out without a rigid schedule. The two-hour stop on Ano Koufonissi gives you the freedom to move at your own pace, whether that means staying on the beach or exploring the village.

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Top questions

Can children come?

Yes. Ticket types: Child (3 to 12 years); Infant (under 3): free.

What happens if it rains?

It may be canceled due to bad weather. If that happens, you're offered another date or a refund. Free cancellation up to 24 h before the start.

What can I do at Rina's Cave during the one-hour stop?

Rina's Cave lets you swim in the water, dive from the rocks above if you're comfortable doing so, or walk onto the pebble beach where a natural spring provides fresh drinking water. The cave is only reachable by boat, so this is your only chance to see it.

Is lunch included in the tour price?

Yes, a BBQ lunch on board at Kato Koufonisi is included, along with local wine, water and soft drinks. The meal features homemade Naxian dishes with vegetarian and vegan options.

How much free time do I have on Ano Koufonissi?

Ano Koufonissi gives you two hours to spend as you choose: explore the village, swim at the beaches nearby, or hire a sea taxi for a low-cost trip to other beaches on the island.

What time does the boat leave and return?

The boat departs Agia Anna port around 8:15 a.m. and returns by 7 p.m., making it a full day on the water with three distinct stops.

Does the route ever change?

Yes, the route may shift depending on weather conditions, so the operator may adjust which stops you visit or how long you spend at each one.