From Thessaloniki:Transportation to Mt. Athos & Ammouliani Cruise

Set out on a mesmerizing journey from Thessaloniki to explore the captivating wonders of Mount Athos and the picturesque Ammouliani Island. This 4-hour cruise through the Aegean Sea offers a seamless experience, with convenient transportation and clear instructions guiding travelers every step of the way. Discover the rich cultural and natural heritage of the region, from historic monasteries to the serene Banana Beach. With a carefully crafted itinerary, this cruise promises an unforgettable adventure that will leave you longing to uncover more of the region’s hidden gems.

This experience made our list of the 20 Best Cruises And Boat Tours In Thessaloniki.

Key Points

• Cruise departs from the meeting point at the Statue of Eleftherios Venizelos in Thessaloniki, providing convenient transportation to Mount Athos and Ammouliani Island.
• The 4-hour cruise offers scenic journeys through the Aegean Sea, visiting four historic monasteries along the Mount Athos peninsula.
• Passengers can relax and swim at the picturesque Banana Beach on Ammouliani Island during the cruise.
• Ticket prices are 25 euros for adults and 12.5 euros for children, with cash payment required at boarding.
• The total cruise duration, including the stop at Ammouliani Island, is approximately 5 hours and 45 minutes.

Overview of the Cruise Experience

What makes this cruise experience so unique? This scenic journey from Ormos Panagias to Mount Athos offers a one-of-a-kind opportunity to explore the breathtaking Halkidiki coastline and the iconic Mount Athos.

Passengers will embark on a 4-hour cruise through the serene Aegean Sea, taking in the stunning vistas of the region. With an overall rating of 4.5 stars from 7 reviews, this cruise has proven to be a popular choice among travelers.

Along the way, guests will visit four historic monasteries and stop at the picturesque Ammouliani Island, where they can relax and swim at the renowned Banana beach.

Itinerary and Highlights

The cruise offers an immersive itinerary, allowing passengers to visit four historic monasteries along the Mount Athos peninsula.

The highlights include:

1. Exploring the Holy Monastery of Dochiariou, H.M. Xenophontos, H.M. Panteleimonos (Russian Monastery), and H.M. Xiropotamou.
2. Stopping at the central port Daphni to experience the vibrant atmosphere.
3. Relaxing and swimming at the picturesque Banana beach on Ammouliani Island.

This carefully curated journey showcases the rich cultural and natural landscape of the Halkidiki region, providing an unforgettable experience for both first-time and seasoned travelers.

Monastery Visits

During the cruise, passengers have the opportunity to explore four historic monasteries along the Mount Athos peninsula.

The first stop is the Holy Monastery of Dochiariou, known for its impressive architecture and rich cultural heritage.

Next, they’ll visit the H.M. Xenophontos, a monastery with a long history dating back to the 10th century.

The third monastery on the itinerary is the H.M. Panteleimonos, also called the Russian Monastery, which boasts stunning views and intricate religious artwork.

Finally, passengers will explore the H.M. Xiropotamou before reaching the central port of Daphni.

These monastery visits offer a unique glimpse into the spiritual and cultural significance of Mount Athos.

Ammouliani Island and Banana Beach

After exploring the historic monasteries along the Mount Athos peninsula, the cruise takes passengers to the picturesque Ammouliani Island, where they’ll have the opportunity to relax and swim at the renowned Banana Beach.

This stop offers a chance to soak up the sun, cool off in the Aegean waters, and enjoy the island’s serene atmosphere.

The key highlights of this part of the excursion include:

1. Strolling along the sandy Banana Beach and taking a refreshing dip.
2. Enjoying a light lunch and snacks provided by the cruise.
3. Marveling at the stunning views of the surrounding coastline and Mount Athos.

Ammouliani Island provides a tranquil respite from the monastery visits, allowing travelers to fully enjoy the natural beauty of the region.

Inclusions and Pricing

What are the inclusions and costs for this cruise experience? The cruise ticket prices are 25 euros for adults and 12.5 euros for children ages 6-12, with cash payment required at boarding. The inclusions cover bottled water, snacks, a light lunch at Banana Beach, as well as all fees and taxes.

Inclusions	Adult	Child (6-12)
Bottled Water	✓	✓
Snacks	✓	✓
Light Lunch at Banana Beach	✓	✓
Fees and Taxes	✓	✓
Cruise Ticket Price	25 €	12.5 €

Meeting and Pickup Information

The meeting point for this cruise experience is the Statue of Eleftherios Venizelos, located at Egnatia 78 in Thessaloniki 546 24, Greece.

Travelers have the option to either meet directly at the designated location or request a pickup. Upon completion of the activity, the cruise will return to the same meeting point.

The key details regarding the meeting and pickup information are:

1. Meeting point: Statue of Eleftherios Venizelos, Egnatia 78, Thessaloniki 546 24, Greece.
2. Option for direct meeting or pickup request.
3. Activity ends back at the meeting point.

Activity Duration and Accessibility

The cruise lasts approximately 4 hours, with an additional 1 hour and 45 minutes spent at Ammouliani Island.

This total duration of about 5 hours and 45 minutes provides ample time to explore the monasteries along the Mount Athos coastline and enjoy the tranquility of Banana Beach.

Unfortunately, the tour isn’t wheelchair accessible due to the nature of the boat and the terrain at the monasteries.

However, the cruise is conveniently located near public transportation, making it easily accessible for most visitors.

Guests can expect a boat capacity of up to 150 people, ensuring a comfortable and intimate experience throughout the journey.

Booking and Confirmation

Booking and confirming this unique cruise experience is straightforward. Once you’ve reviewed the itinerary highlights and inclusions, you can secure your spot with ease.

The booking process involves:

1. Selecting your preferred cruise date and number of passengers.
2. Providing your contact information and making the payment, either in cash at the boarding point or through an online booking system.
3. Receiving your confirmation details, which will include the meeting point, schedule, and any additional instructions.

With your booking confirmed, you can look forward to an unforgettable journey exploring the stunning Halkidiki coastline and the UNESCO-protected monasteries of Mount Athos.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks on the Cruise?

Passengers are allowed to bring their own food and drinks on the cruise. The cruise operator provides complimentary bottled water and snacks, but guests are free to bring additional provisions if desired.

Is There an Opportunity to Purchase Additional Items on Board?

Yes, passengers can purchase additional items on board the cruise. The boat offers a selection of refreshments and light snacks for purchase during the journey.

What Is the Policy for Children on the Cruise?

The cruise offers discounted rates for children aged 6-12, priced at 12.5 euros. Children are welcome on the tour, with access to all inclusions such as bottled water, snacks, and the light lunch at Banana Beach.

Can I Extend My Stay at Ammouliani Island if Desired?

Passengers can extend their stay at Ammouliani Island if desired. The cruise schedule includes 1 hour 45 minutes at Banana Beach, allowing travelers to explore the island further or simply relax and swim at their own pace.

How Flexible Is the Pickup and Drop-Off Location for This Activity?

The pickup and drop-off location is flexible, as the activity offers both a designated meeting point and an option for direct pickup requests. Guests can choose the most convenient option for their needs.

Recap

This captivating cruise from Thessaloniki offers an unparalleled opportunity to explore the region’s rich cultural and natural heritage. From visiting historic monasteries to relaxing on the picturesque Ammouliani Island, this 4-hour excursion promises an unforgettable experience. With convenient transportation, clear instructions, and a seamless itinerary, it’s the perfect way for travelers to enjoy the breathtaking Aegean Sea and the remarkable sights of Mt. Athos and its surroundings.