Kaiki Cruise: Is the Antiparos & Despotiko BBQ Lunch Trip Really Worth It?

Thinking about booking a Kaiki boat cruise to Antiparos and Despotiko with a BBQ lunch? So, you are certainly not the only one. That sounds like a wonderful way to spend a day in the Greek islands, yet, it’s worth getting all the facts beforehand. I went on this very boat trip so I can share all about my firsthand experience, hopefully, giving you some help when choosing your next adventure.

What to Anticipate on Your Cruise

Right, let’s get into what to expect from your Kaiki cruise to Antiparos and Despotiko. Usually, the day begins in Parikia, Paros, where most of the boats usually set off. First thing in the morning, you’ll get onboard a traditional wooden boat called a “Kaiki.” It’s, arguably, the most traditional way to see the islands.

That’s almost the spirit you’ll want to bring with you for the day. These boats tend to vary a bit, some tend to be equipped with sunbeds, shaded areas, and, naturally, a bar. Once you’re all set, the boat then makes its way towards Antiparos. Often, the cruise includes a few stops for swimming in gorgeous bays and near interesting caves along the coastline. Then there’s the main event; a barbeque lunch on a secluded beach on Despotiko. Can’t argue with grilled food by the sea, right?

First Stop: Exploring the Island Charm of Antiparos

The initial stop tends to be the charming island of Antiparos. First off, you are free to spend some time exploring the main town. A few tips, the little streets there are filled with local shops and cafes, basically offering you a chance to sample some authentic Greek island life. What a cool experience it is, too. The beaches are nearby, like your average stroll-away kind of location, yet you might want to save your swim for the next stop.

While in Antiparos town, I, in some respects, wandered around the Kastro area, an ancient Venetian castle turned residential neighborhood. Very interesting. Also, too, there’s a big cave on Antiparos, basically, but the Kaiki trip probably, arguably, won’t stop there because it eats up too much time. But then there’s also the beaches like Soros and St. George are popular and, for the most part, are good places to unwind if you like your swimming closer to shore.

Despotiko: History, Tranquility, and BBQ Delights

Then comes Despotiko, that small, uninhabited island with quite a history. So it’s thought to have been a really significant sanctuary to Apollo. The archeological site there is certainly fascinating and the ruins are still being uncovered. The guides with the boat trips, you know, may or may not, tell you a little about the island’s background. Too, you are probably going to want to enjoy the lunch and the beach a bit more.

The BBQ is the highlight for many, which includes a freshly grilled selection, usually chicken and pork souvlaki, Greek salad, tzatziki, and bread. What sounds delicious is that they typically prepare it right on the beach, adding that fresh taste to the setting. Just picture it. Lunch is included in the price of the trip, drinks from the bar are an extra cost. By the way, you can definitely enjoy swimming in the crystal-clear waters right off the beach.

Swimming Stops and Hidden Gems Along the Way

Often, along the cruise, there might be a handful of opportunities for swimming. Those secret swimming holes, that can only be reached by boat, that most would never see otherwise. The boat staff usually is aware of a number of excellent spots. Like your, blue lagoons and interesting rock formations that can offer a very special experience. So what could be better than taking a dip in that refreshing Aegean water?

That often tends to be the memory-making parts of these kinds of cruises. In that case, it allows you to swim in spots you would not find on the tourist map. Yet, very, very important for you to bring a towel, sunscreen, and maybe even some water shoes, that is if you’re sensitive to the rocks. I am. That, honestly, tends to enhance your enjoyment and allows for the best experience.

Is the Kaiki Cruise Worth Your Time and Money?

Is the Kaiki cruise worth your time and money, or is it not? Well, that does, arguably, depend on what you’re after. Too it’s a great option if you wish to see some different islands, especially with that lovely convenience of not needing to organize everything separately. The cost can differ, anyway it usually lands between 50 to 80 euros, which, arguably, makes it a reasonably priced adventure, mostly depending on the tour operator and season.

What really adds to that worth is the BBQ lunch, a truly great element which simply enriches that total experience. But consider this too, the boats can get crowded, notably during peak season. As a matter of fact, if you like that intimate, quieter type of exploration, this could potentially, arguably, not be the most optimal choice. If you are after that energetic day trip complete with good food, pretty sights and some swimming, you’re likely, basically, going to find that cruise a real winner.