Astypalea Day Cruise: Is Koutsomitis & Kounoupes Worth It?
Dreaming of the Aegean? Well, if you’re plotting a trip to Astypalea, then you’re likely checking out all the ways to soak in that famously clear water and Greek sunshine. And I want to tell you something, one super way is with a day cruise to Koutsomitis and Kounoupes. I figured I should let you know about this, because these small, almost secret islands near Astypalea offer that quintessential Greek island experience but without giant crowds. Let’s walk through what to expect, whether the cruise is truly worth the expense, and how to have just a wonderfully pleasant trip.
Setting Sail from Astypalea Town
First things first, your day really starts in Astypalea Town, sometimes also known as Chora. That’s pretty typical. And hey, I thought it’s cool that you will most likely depart from the main harbor area. That said, before setting off, be certain to take a brief glance around! It’s just so, so picturesque, very nearly postcard-perfect. I want to mention to you that you’ll see those white-washed houses tumbling down the hillside. The thing that really grabs the eye, though, is the Venetian castle sitting right at the top.
Typically, boats set off sometime around 10 in the morning, and you know, they really do vary a little. So that’s why I want you to be sure to check with your specific tour operator! Getting on the boat, well, it’s usually very simple. As a matter of fact, expect a pretty friendly greeting from the crew, and you know, maybe a quick safety speech. The boats themselves tend to be an alright size – not too big, so it feels a little personal. So, anyway, most have a mix of shaded spots and sun decks, and that’s ideal for taking it all in or catching some rays.
Cruising the Aegean: Views and Vibes
Now, honestly, the boat ride is nearly the best part. I will mention that sailing on the Aegean is, really, just breathtaking, you know? The water is oh-so blue, like you wouldn’t believe. And it’s awesome that it’s dotted with all those little islands, well, really, almost all of them looking completely uninhabited. Something like that! It is great that it creates a vibe, almost peaceful and really just away from all those crowds. So then it will occur to you, the journey over to Koutsomitis and Kounoupes takes more or less an hour or so, relying a bit on the sea conditions.
Along the way, and just so you’re in the know, it’s kinda common to get little bits of info about the islands. Anyway it could be the history, geology, that type of stuff, from the crew. Otherwise, what I found pretty fun, I admit, it’s honestly just relaxing, soaking in that fresh, salty air and really staring out at those sea views. You can keep your eyes open for dolphins! They pop up in that water every now and then, just that little extra, really cool perk, you see.
Koutsomitis: A Swimmer’s Dream
Right, and I am going to tell you something. Koutsomitis is where many cruises will often drop anchor for the first swim stop. What I want to let you know is, picture this. Just, small and totally stunning, so Koutsomitis really stands out for its emerald-colored waters. They are seriously inviting! It might come as a surprise, it is almost that bright and luminous. The beaches are not quite those super-wide sandy ones. Even still, what I thought was very wonderful, that little cove with pebbles really allows super easy access in and out of that water. The truth is, it’s kinda awesome for a refreshing dip.
Speaking from personal experience, so consider that the main activity, is you know, swimming. As I mentioned, that water there is just super clear. This, this does make it superb for snorkeling. I really think you should bring along your mask! Actually, expect to see fish of every size just zipping all around you. If you’re feeling a little more energetic, that said, it’s very possible to swim all around the bay! You might want to do it. In this spot, really, relaxation is what it’s about, right?
Kounoupes: Twin Beaches and Tranquility
The very next highlight on this day cruise, it really just has to be Kounoupes. Well, what I feel sets this island apart, are those twin beaches that are joined by that oh-so thin strip of sand. It actually forms almost this very picturesque isthmus. And I also wanted to tell you, like Koutsomitis, that that water is so crystal clear! It’s also every bit as calm. I’m trying to get you to picture that turquoise perfection.
Most of the time the cruise will stop nearby here, really, because, well, honestly, the whole vibe is pretty chilled out. I will say that I think it is basically a perfect spot for anyone needing a little peace. In my opinion it’s great. You could just, like, stretch out, soak up a little bit of sun, maybe wander a little. Seriously. The beaches here are all shallow! It’s not hard to enjoy a calm, refreshing wade. I kinda think Kounoupes gives those idyllic moments which makes you recall that, *this* is what that Greek island life is actually all about, right?
Lunch on Board: A Taste of Greece
And I have to mention this to you: very central to just about every single one of these cruises is a pretty typical Greek lunch served on board. You know, like after all that swimming and sunshine, a full tummy really does sound nice. What I would suggest, be mindful the exact menu can vary a bit. Many times it has very standard Greek stuff, think salads. And by the way, with those yummy vine-ripened tomatoes, souvlaki and all this bread. As a matter of fact I’m sure that you will know those flavors, but just to say, it really showcases all those locally sourced ingredients. The delicious fresh taste, it really heightens just about any experience, honestly.
Anyway, there may be that simple buffet-style setup. This does means you know, help yourself and then eat wherever on the boat feels most comfortable. When I remember back, eating lunch on that top deck, gazing out at the sea, seriously, that makes that meal taste extra scrumptious. The crew normally pours a free flowing supply of, maybe local wine and something like water too, and really it all combines into an awesome, social meal that’s honestly as tasty as it is filling.
Snorkeling and Sunbathing: Maximize Your Time
To actually make the very best of this, think, you know, how to best organize the down time. The thing I recommend is make sure you bring loads of sunblock! That hot sun is often very intense. So is all that UV in reflection. You also may wish to get yourself a cool hat, sunglasses, you recognize this all right? Well, if you really do adore snorkeling, carry on using those chances in that awesome clear water in any way that you can. Really take your own kit along so you are all set to jump straight into the sea.
As for that sunbathing, alright so, the majority of these boats often come fitted with deck space. Even so you can recline, let your mind drift, just catch all those super Greek rays. If, that said, you like finding something shady, plenty of boats offer covered locations, and also even indoor seating sections, you see. In that case, well you are just set! You ought to then switch between all your swimming, snorkeling and your tanning with all these periods on your boat where you relax, have a refreshment. You’ll like that! If you’re that type of person, that really does makes all this day incredibly well rounded, right? You should.
What to Bring on Your Astypalea Cruise
You really should consider bringing particular items. Anyway let me quickly run through some must-have stuff you absolutely need. You definitely are going to want your sunscreen, without it, oh well. Bring just lots of that very strong SPF stuff for you and everyone with you. Next I want you to bear in mind hats plus those all important sunglasses for that very powerful Mediterranean glare, seriously! This is good because those sunnies are not just something aesthetic.
Additionally, please carry swimwear, plus any covers or maybe even clothing that you are not so worried about getting drenched, which honestly can occur. Seriously, pack at minimum a beach towel too. Something that takes all that wet off is worth it. And maybe remember a small bag. And here is something that can be a lifesaver: some sea-sickness tablets. The waters there are largely calm; nevertheless they might change a little! Lastly, bringing just some money comes in real handy. This would take care of any on-board purchases for trinkets.
Is the Astypalea Day Cruise Worth It? The Verdict
I guess now we come down to really whether you get great value from that cruise. So then. Is that Astypalea day cruise something that you may love? Alright, in just about every aspect it brings about pretty remarkable value, certainly! Like. Is taking a day cruise quite good, generally? Okay so I kinda think it boils down simply to whatever it is *you* appreciate on vacation! But look here.
Therefore what you’d like. If experiencing many things quickly is what it’s about for *you*, along with lots of convenience, right? Consequently going ahead will truly get those things done. You need an effortless, awesome approach that gets you around and brings you from landmark to landmark super smoothly, I am really convinced. Anyway, should you love exploring that underwater stuff and those amazing sites off the coast, great!
Tips for a Great Day Cruise Experience
Anyway to basically increase that likelihood of enjoying the most rewarding day imaginable. Well then here are various things you could start pondering! To show what I’m driving at! First off you wanna go way before all of that actual vacation to those Greek islands! That way all spots are more widely free, you may perhaps just get more peace away out from just crowds.
In order that your sun cream does everything it can. Well. Make a great choice which is totally sun resistant to anything and then put some more on liberally way earlier. Also. Just prior to that time, get to know all those weather conditions so you better grasp what you should wear as well. Like any little concerns with seasickness. Get prepared for those by carrying stuff with medication, just as stated just before there! This would mean more relaxing!
A Note on Responsible Tourism
Look. We each, in the present moment must always respect. Well it needs respect toward, where those destinations for touring tend to land. Which means! Just about everybody travelling could really make quite a massive great outcome and give that area some care as well. The main parts to keep at heart should center all on basically just a little eco responsibility at various landmarks as well.
Therefore you wish to check into trying to do those cruises that place lots of love to doing eco trips, like basically just minimizing that use when you get rid of every part or refuse to dispose that waste everywhere for anything at this site. Seriously folks. Let others visit as you have to see all nature in these lands! Seriously, make certain every one of folks appreciates these various parts as perfectly in time as *we* each got them. To reiterate though I cannot state, the significance with preserving for what exactly and all things, in such of those settings in natural beauty could basically ever allow! But. No way.
Key Takeaways:
- Astypalea day cruises to Koutsomitis and Kounoupes offer a slice of Greek paradise.
- The cruise includes swimming, sunbathing, and a traditional Greek lunch.
- Pack essentials like sunscreen, a hat, and swimwear.
- Consider booking in advance, particularly during the peak season.