Athens Full-Day Cruise Review: Agistri, Moni & Perdika Islands

Planning a trip to Athens? A full-day cruise to the islands of Agistri, Moni, and Perdika, near, just a bit south of Athens, that can sound pretty nice, right? I am here, in a way, to share what you should expect and whether that experience might, usually, be just what you want for your trip.

Setting Sail from Athens: Getting Started

Your cruise will, usually, begin in Athens, or rather, from one of the harbors nearby – commonly Piraeus, that happens to be the main one, or maybe Flisvos. I suggest, anyway, that you check that departure location closely when you book, just so you know exactly where to go. It can be a bit tricky, actually, in the morning with everyone trying to get out to those places.

I remember that morning, like your own, so there I was, hurrying to Piraeus, slightly worried about traffic. The port had such an energized feel. Boats of just all sorts were bobbing in the water, and you will get tour guides calling out tour names; it really gets the excitement going. You’ll want to arrive, say, 30 to 45 minutes ahead of time. That can give you, say, a chance to find your boat and settle a little before departure. Find the right gate too, basically, because the ferries are boarding literally all at the same time and can seem really packed, just like a train station during rush hour, usually.

Once you get aboard, you can usually find seating both inside, so that can be air-conditioned, and outside, typically on the decks. Now, for me, you see, the deck really offers the best spot; imagine getting all of the sun, right? Plus, I think the breeze and the amazing sea views are such a way better start to your island adventure, so anyway, get outside if you can.

Agistri: A Quiet Island Getaway

Agistri, is that considered the smallest of the three islands, has such a super chill vibe. This, too, is the first stop on the cruise. You can expect it to be different because this island actually feels like such a world away from the urban feel in Athens.

I thought the beaches, so very sandy and the clean waters were very special. That’s, again, one spot where swimming looked awfully tempting, actually. Others onboard would say that some chose just to unwind by the sea for, say, two or three hours. And that beach is close to the port, in a way. You will literally see it in a minute. Some explored the little village too, actually. Others really took the chance to sample some local foods at those waterfront tavernas.

I chose to rent a bicycle from a store that’s right near the port. As a matter of fact, there are three shops there that provide scooters and ATV vehicles too. A bicycle can be that best way, just for going around Agistri, in particular to see this quiet spot and the hidden beaches. You can, that is, check out Halikiada Beach if you feel especially outdoorsy, though it is more a pebble beach. The Church of Agioi Anargyroi provides some fantastic views from above, too. Now, note that those roads are a bit hilly; anyway, if you are not very ready for that challenge, maybe rent a scooter.

Moni: Swimming in Crystal Waters

Moni Island, that really wasn’t anything like what I expected, actually. Now, there are, literally, no people living there. Wild peacocks and deer have become such residents on Moni, so typically they casually stroll around! Getting to see that wildlife was very cool and totally added such a quirky twist to the usual island trip. Some people, too, had bread with them and that would cause all sorts of the creatures to chase after you looking for more! In a way, they’ve gotten very acclimated to being given that kind of treat. Note too that, in fact, the only building you will see happens to be at the very top. These happen to be the restrooms. Also, no chairs. Bring that beach towel!

But this island, yet, it’s very famed for the waters, of course! Now, the boat has, actually, usually been equipped with such snorkeling gear you can use if you fancy a peek at such underwater sights. The captain will, usually, bring the boat quite close to shore here, though maybe not always, of course. It’s not a bad plan, anyway, if you love diving straight from the boat. That’s definitely worth it. If that sounds interesting, ask a worker if they have floatation devices for those of you, say, who happen not to be super strong swimmers.

The bay here has water which is perfectly blue, and very calm. People often spend an hour there at a time to go swimming and relax. But watch the sea urchins, so usually hidden in the stones down in the seabed – it is better if you happen to be using swim shoes. It felt actually like visiting my own super-private swimming spot!

Perdika: Picturesque Harbor and Greek Charm

The last place is Perdika. This small village is actually situated on the island of Aegina. That town has a very classic Greek look, very similar to all those picture postcards, as they are.

During your stay in Perdika you might like to visit the town which you will soon find happens to have several shops where you can pick up such mementos and also locally produced items. This might actually provide the perfect chance for you to find special little keepsakes that you want. Again, there are waterfront tavernas just here offering great selections. Now, you can relax by sitting right next to the sea while you have that drink and watch the little fishing boats bob on the horizon.

What you should consider that if, anyway, you’re very athletic, and you like such adventure, you must see the Monastery of Agia Paraskevi, very close to Perdika. I remember I actually enjoyed the challenge going uphill and there was such a beautiful view waiting right there! So now I have those beautiful photos to hold on to. Of course, taking such a cab there makes it easy and is, just a little, quicker.