From Naxos: Schinoussa and Iraklia Sailing Cruise With BBQ

Set out on a sailing adventure that promises to captivate your senses. This 9-hour cruise from Naxos takes you to the stunning islands of Schinoussa and Iraklia, where you’ll indulge in a delightful BBQ lunch on the picturesque Fidou Beach. Discover the fascinating WWII wreck site, bask in the sun at Karvounolakos Beach, and explore the charming capital village of Agios Georgios. With opportunities to swim, relax, and take in breathtaking coastal views, this cruise offers a perfect blend of adventure and relaxation in the Aegean Sea. Get ready to embark on an unforgettable journey that will leave you captivated by the beauty of these hidden gems.

This experience made our list of the 5 Best BBQ Experiences In Greece.

Key Points

• A 9-hour sailing tour from Agia Anna port, Naxos, with stops at a WWII wreck site, Karvounolakos beach, Fidou beach for a BBQ lunch, and the capital village of Iraklia.
• Opportunity to swim, snorkel, and explore natural rock formations and caves during the cruise.
• Includes a 2-hour BBQ lunch featuring pork or chicken skewers, salads, and local wine/drinks on Fidou beach.
• Not suitable for wheelchair users, non-swimmers, or individuals with medical conditions.
• Recommended attire includes sunglasses, sun hats, and beachwear, and nudity is strictly prohibited.

You can check if your dates are available here:

Cruise Overview

The Naxos: Schinoussa and Iraklia Sailing Cruise with BBQ is a 9-hour sailing tour that departs from the Agia Anna port in Naxos at 10:00 AM and returns at 7:30 PM.

Priced from $76.18 per person, the cruise offers the opportunity to explore the nearby islands of Schinoussa and Iraklia.

Highlights include swimming at a WWII wreck site, relaxing on Karvounolakos beach, and enjoying a BBQ lunch on Fidou beach.

Onboard amenities include sunbeds, snorkel equipment, life jackets, and sea-pool noodles. Guests can purchase additional drinks during the cruise.

This sailing adventure isn’t suitable for wheelchair users, non-swimmers, or those with pre-existing medical conditions.

Itinerary Highlights

This sailing cruise offers several highlights along the itinerary. Passengers can explore a WWII wreck site at Alimia, where they’ll have 30 minutes for swimming and taking photos.

The cruise then proceeds to Karvounolakos beach, providing a 2-hour stop for swimming. Afterward, guests will enjoy a 2-hour BBQ lunch on the picturesque Fidou beach.

The final stop is the capital village of Iraklia, Agios Georgios, where travelers can spend 2 hours swimming and exploring the local area.

The itinerary highlights include:

1. WWII wreck site at Alimia

2. Karvounolakos beach

3. Fidou beach for BBQ lunch

4. Agios Georgios, capital village of Iraklia

WWII Wreck Site

At the WWII wreck site in Alimia, guests can spend 30 minutes swimming and capturing photographs of the submerged vessel’s remains. The wreck, which lies just beneath the surface, offers an intriguing glimpse into the past.

Divers and snorkelers can explore the site, marveling at the ghostly outline of the ship and the marine life that has taken up residence around it. The calm waters and clear visibility make this an ideal spot for underwater photography, allowing guests to document their encounter with this unique historical landmark.

This stop on the cruise offers a chance to connect with the past while enjoying the beauty of the Aegean Sea.

Karvounolakos Beach

After the WWII wreck site, the cruise makes its way to the stunning Karvounolakos beach, where guests can indulge in over 2 hours of swimming and relaxation.

Nestled within a picturesque cove, Karvounolakos offers crystal-clear turquoise waters and a tranquil atmosphere, making it an idyllic spot for travelers to unwind and soak up the Mediterranean sun.

Highlights of the Karvounolakos stop include:

1. Refreshing dip in the inviting waters

2. Picnicking on the sandy shores

3. Exploring the natural rock formations and caves

4. Snorkeling to observe the vibrant marine life

This extended swimming break allows guests to fully recharge and enjoy the stunning island scenery before continuing on to the next destination.

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Fidou Beach BBQ

Following the refreshing respite at Karvounolakos, the cruise makes its way to the picturesque Fidou beach, where guests can indulge in a delightful 2-hour BBQ lunch amidst the serene island surroundings.

The menu features succulent pork or chicken skewers (souvlaki), accompanied by fresh salads and sides. Sip on local wine, water, and soft drinks as you savor the flavors of traditional Greek cuisine.

After the hearty meal, guests can relax on the provided sunbeds or explore the nearby area. This leisurely stop offers the perfect opportunity to recharge and take in the idyllic island atmosphere before continuing the sailing adventure.

Agios Georgios

The cruise then sails to the capital village of Iraklia, Agios Georgios, where travelers can spend 2 hours swimming, exploring the local shops and attractions.

As the largest settlement on the island, Agios Georgios offers a glimpse into traditional Greek island life. Visitors can:

1. Wander the charming narrow streets lined with whitewashed buildings and blue-domed churches.

2. Browse local artisan shops selling handmade crafts, ceramics, and textiles.

3. Visit the picturesque harbor and watch the fishing boats come and go.

4. Enjoy a refreshing swim in the crystal-clear waters of the Aegean Sea.

After the stop in Agios Georgios, the cruise returns to Naxos, completing a day of island hopping, sightseeing, and relaxation.

Included Amenities

The cruise provides various amenities to enhance the sailing experience. Sunbeds, snorkel equipment, life jackets, and sea-pool noodles are all included for guests to use during the stops.

Plus, while on board, travelers can purchase additional drinks beyond the provided local wine, water, and soft drinks. These inclusions ensure that guests can fully enjoy the activities and enjoy the day to the fullest.

The crew is attentive and available to assist with any needs, making the overall experience seamless and comfortable.

With these thoughtful amenities, the sailing cruise from Naxos to Schinoussa and Iraklia offers a well-rounded and enjoyable outing for all participants.

Important Considerations

When booking this sailing cruise, there are a few important considerations travelers should keep in mind.

Firstly, the tour isn’t suitable for wheelchair users, non-swimmers, or individuals with pre-existing medical conditions, so prospective participants need to assess their physical capabilities beforehand.

Plus, guests are advised to wear appropriate attire, such as sunglasses, a sun hat, and beachwear, to fully enjoy the various activities during the stops.

Some other key points to consider include:

1. No pets or high-heeled shoes are allowed on the cruise.

2. Nudity is strictly prohibited.

3. The meeting point is the Mikros Kosmos II on the dock.

4. Free cancellation is available up to 24 hours in advance.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is There an Option to Self-Drive the Boat During the Cruise?

No, there is no option for self-driving the boat during this cruise. The tour is led by a professional crew who handle the sailing and navigation. Passengers participate in the activities at the various stops but do not operate the vessel themselves.

Can I Bring My Own Snacks and Drinks on Board?

Passengers are welcome to bring their own snacks and drinks aboard, but the cruise operator provides a full BBQ lunch and beverages included in the tour price. Bringing outside food and drinks is allowed, but the onboard catering is a key part of the experience.

Is There a Limit on the Number of Guests Allowed per Booking?

The tour operator doesn’t specify a limit on the number of guests per booking. However, it’s best to contact them directly to inquire about availability and any group size restrictions that may apply.

Do I Need to Know How to Swim to Participate in This Activity?

No, you don’t need to know how to swim to participate in this activity. However, the tour is not suitable for non-swimmers, as there will be opportunities for swimming and water activities throughout the day.

Can I Arrive Late to the Departure Point and Still Join the Cruise?

Arriving late to the departure point is not recommended for this activity. The tour has a specific departure time, and late arrivals may not be able to join the cruise. It’s best to arrive on time to ensure a smooth start to the experience.

Recap

This Naxos-based sailing cruise offers a remarkable opportunity to explore the enchanting islands of Schinoussa and Iraklia.

Highlights include swimming at a WWII wreck site, relaxing on picturesque Karvounolakos Beach, and savoring a delectable BBQ lunch on Fidou Beach.

With time to wander the charming capital of Agios Georgios, this immersive experience blends relaxation and adventure, showcasing the Aegean’s breathtaking coastal beauty.

You can check if your dates are available here: