Best Paros Boat Tours: 6 Tours Tested from €65 | Complete Guide [2026]

Best Paros Boat Tours: 6 Tours Tested from €65 | Complete Guide [2026]

Looking for the perfect Paros boat tour? After countless visits to Paros and extensive research of local operators, I’ve compiled this guide to the 6 best boat tours from Paros in 2026. Compare prices, routes, and what’s included to find your ideal Greek island adventure.

Quick Comparison: All 6 Best Paros Boat Tours

Tour Name

Price(€)

Hours

Best For

Key Highlights

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Catamaran Cruise Paros1608All-rounders Luxury catamaran, Antiparos, Greek lunchView Details →
Antiparos BBQ Cruise947Families Blue Lagoon, Despotiko, BBQ  lunchView Details →
Odyssey Small Cyclades Sailing1909AdventurersNaxos, Schinoussa, and Heraklia islands View Details →
Pirate Caves Half‑Day Cruise653.5 Budget travelersBlue Lagoon, sea caves, snorkeling View Details →
Private Island‑Hopping Cruise 1750/group10Private groupsKoufonisia & Small Cyclades View Details →
Sunset Cruise 65Couples, those short on timeSunset Lagoon, wine & snacksView Details →

Detailed Reviews: 6 Best Paros Boat Tours for 2026

1. Best Overall: Full‑Day Catamaran Cruise in Paros

A white catamaran with several people onboard floats on clear blue water near a rocky coastline under a sunny sky, offering an unforgettable experience with Paros Boat Tours.

Full Day Catamaran Cruise in Paros

This stylish full‑day catamaran trip showcases the turquoise waters of Paros and Antiparos, with excellent food and friendly guides. A consistent traveler favorite.

Typical Highlights: three to four swimming stops, deluxe lunch and open bar, and occasional dolphin sightings reported by guests.

Quick Facts:

  • Price: €160 per adult
  • Duration: 8 hours (9:30 AM start)
  • Group Size: Maximum 23 people
  • Departure: Parikia or Piso Livadi port
  • Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ 4.8/5 (44 reviews)

What’s Included:
✓ BBQ lunch with mezze and fresh fruit
✓ Unlimited beer and wine
✓ Snorkeling equipment and floatation gear
✓ Professional crew and English commentary

Detailed Itinerary:

  • 9:30 AM – Depart from Piso Livadi
  • 11:30 AM – Swim stop near Antiparos Blue Lagoon (cyan waters and snorkeling)
  • 12:00 PM – Visit deserted Despotiko Bay for BBQ lunch prepared onboard (souvlaki, Greek salads, fruit)
  • 2:00 PM – Sail to Panteronisia for floating, relaxing , and paddleboards
  • 3:30 PM – Return via northern Antiparos with final swim stop at Faneromeni Cove
  • 5:30 PM – Dock back at Piso Livadi

 

“Exceptional experience – friendly staff, delicious food and wine, and swims in crystal-clear water.  Highly recommended!” – Mario M.

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2.Best Family Tour: Antiparos & Despotiko BBQ Cruise

A blue sailboat with people onboard floats on clear turquoise water during Paros Boat Tours, while several swimmers enjoy the sea nearby; rocky shoreline and hills are visible in the background.

Full‑Day Cruise in Antiparos and Despotiko with Barbecue

A relaxed kaiki trip designed for families and casual swimmers, featuring the Blue Lagoon and a Greek beach BBQ with wine and fruit.

Quick Facts:

  • Price: €94 adults 
  • Duration: 7 hours
  • Vessel: Traditional wooden ‘kaiki’ (renovated 2021)
  • Departure: Pounta port (with hotel/accommodation pick-up option)
  • Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ 4.6/5 (155 reviews)

Family-Friendly Features:

✓Shallow swimming areas
✓ Life jackets all sizes
✓ Toilet on board
✓ Shaded areas
✓ BBQ on board with vegetarian options
✓ Optional hotel transfers

Detailed Itinerary:

- 10:00 AM – Board the traditional kaiki “Kaiki Naoussa.” Welcome drink and crew briefing.
- 10:30 AM – Cruise past Panteronisi Islets (known as the Blue Lagoon). First swim stop.
- 12:00 PM – Anchor off Antiparos for the second swim and snorkelling inside small caves.
- 1:00 PM – Beach landing on Despotiko. BBQ lunch served on shore (pork or chicken souvlaki, tzatziki, Greek salad, wine , and fruit).
- 3:30 PM – Leisurely return sail along Antiparos coastline with a final dip stop , weather permitting.
- 5:00 PM – Return to Pounta port.

“Phenomenal day - gorgeous swimming spots, delicious food, and a fun crew who made the trip fantastic for kids and adults alike.” – Marianne I. 

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3. Best Adventure Tour: Odyssey Small Cyclades Day Sailing

A sailboat is anchored in clear turquoise water between two rocky, shrub-covered landmasses, with swimmers visible nearby—an idyllic scene often experienced on Paros Boat Tours.

Odyssey Shared Day Cruise

This popular semi‑private cruise is ideal for travelers wanting real sailing and a mix of swimming, snorkeling, and cliff‑jumping in remote Cycladic bays. With a maximum of 25 guests and an exceptionally friendly crew, it’s both adventurous and comfortable.

Quick Facts:

  • Price: €190
  • Duration: 9-10 hours (9 AM to 7 PM)
  • Group Size: Maximum 25
  • Departure: Piso Livadi
  • Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ 4.9/5 (125+ reviews)

What’s Included:

✓ Three alcoholic drinks (wine, beer, ouzo or cocktail)
✓ Coffee, tea , and bottled water
✓ Towels and snorkeling gear

✓ Local lunch with fresh fish and Greek meze

Highlights:

  • Multiple swims around Antiparos and Despotiko
  • Cliff diving and snorkeling in sea caves
  • Chance to taste Greek specialties like marinated fish and ouzo
  • Spacious deck loungers and sun shade options

Detailed Itinerary:

10:00 AM – Depart Piso Livadi for Blue Lagoon swim stop
11:45 AM – Cliff jumping and cave swimming around Antiparos
1:00 PM – Lunch anchored off Despotiko Island
3:00 PM – Sail east toward Naxos for one final snorkel break
6:30 PM – Return to Paros under sunset, serving fruit and coffee

 

“What an amazing day! The crew was so nice and helpful, the food was fantastic, and the views and swim spots are incredible – the highlight of our Paros trip!” – Esther S., July 2025

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4. Best Budget Tour: A Boat Trip to the Pirate Caves

A wooden sailboat floats on blue water, framed by a large rocky sea cave with sunlight illuminating the scene—a picture-perfect moment from one of the best Paros Boat Tours.

A Boat Trip to the Pirate Caves

Enjoy a half‑day cruise that blends Paros’ rugged coastline, mysterious caves, and crystal‑clear lagoons. Perfect for budget travelers or families with limited time, this tour offers adventure without crowds.

Quick Facts:

  • Price: €65 per person
  • Duration: 3.5 hours (9:30 AM or 1:30 PM departures)
  • Group Size: 20–30 people
  • Departure: Alyki or Pounda Port
  • Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ 4.6/5 (90+ reviews)

What’s Included:

✓ Snorkel mask and gear
✓ Refreshments & seasonal fruit
✓ White wine served onboard
✓ Local crew commentary in English & Greek

Highlights:

  •  Three distinct swim locations (Pirate Caves, Aspra Nera, Blue Lagoon)
  • Local wine and fruits served between stops
  • Chilled music and a laid‑back crew atmosphere

Detailed Itinerary:

9:30 AM – Depart Alyki Port toward the famous Pirates’ Cave.
10:00 AM – Swim and snorkel at the Pirates’ Cave (a deep sea grotto framed by cliffs and legends of Aegean corsairs.
11:00 AM – Cruise on to Aspra Nera, a volcanic cove with rare black rocks and tranquil waters.
12:00 PM – Final relaxing swim at Blue Lagoon (Panteronissia Islets).
1:00 PM – Return leisurely to Alyki harbor.

“Such a chill crew! They let us drive the boat and play music – the Blue Lagoon was incredible! Best short tour we did in Paros.” – Ingrid J., Aug 2025

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5. Best Private Tour: Island‑Hopping Cruise to Koufonisia & Naxos

A sailboat is anchored near a rocky island surrounded by clear blue water under a bright sky, offering the perfect scene for unforgettable Paros Boat Tours.

Glaraki Private Day Cruise

For travellers seeking freedom and comfort, this private full‑day charter is custom‑made for exploring the less‑

visited Small Cyclades islands. Great for families or groups up to 5.

Quick Facts:

  • Price: €1750 per group (up to 10)
  • Duration: 10 hours (9 AM to 7 PM)
  • Departure: Piso Livadi port
  • Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ 4.8/5 (115 reviews)

What’s Included:

✓ Snorkel & SUP equipment
✓ Fresh Mediterranean lunch onboard
✓ Local wine & fruit platter
✓ Professional skipper and freedom to customize route

Highlights:

  • Custom‑planned day visiting 3–4 islands
  • Private skipper with deep Cyclades knowledge
  • Ideal for families, photo enthusiasts, and honeymooners

Detailed Itinerary:

9:00 AM – Depart Paros for southern Naxos and Agios Sostis Cove (first swim).
11:00 AM – Head toward Glaronissi sea caves for snorkelling through arches and reefs.
12:30 PM – Lunch anchor stop at Kato Koufonisi (white‑sand beach and turquoise waters).
3:30 PM – Optional stop at Heraklia or Schinoussa , depending on weather.
6:30 PM – Return to Piso Livadi as the sun sets across the Cyclades.

“Unbelievable day out – best swimming I’ve ever done! We felt spoiled with the crew and the fresh food aboard. Worth every euro.” – Claire M., June 2025

 

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6. Best Sunset: Private Evening Paros Boat Tour

The sun sets behind distant islands, casting orange and yellow hues across the sky above a dark, rippling sea—an unforgettable scene often admired on Paros Boat Tours.

Paros Sunset Cruise

The perfect romantic option – a gentle 3-hour sail showcasing Paros’ southern coast bathed in sunset gold. A romantic and photogenic experience featuring local wine, music, and glimpses of Antiparos on the horizon. 

Quick Facts:

  • Price: €65 per person
  • Duration: 3 hours (6 PM – 9 PM)
  • Max Group: 12 people
  • Departure: Alyki port
  • Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐5/5 (1+ reviews)

Highlights:

- Romantic setting and brilliant sunset photos
- Ideal for couples or private groups
- Complimentary wine, local snacks , and music

What’s Included:

✓ Alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks and finger food
✓ Swimming stop at Blue Lagoon
✓ Live background music playlist
✓ Professional skipper and safety equipment

Detailed Itinerary:

6:00 PM – Depart Alyki harbor and set sail for Panteronisia.
6:30 PM – Swim stop at Blue Lagoon with snorkel gear provided.
7:15 PM – Anchor for wine and Greek snacks aboard as the sun sets behind Antiparos.
8:30 PM – Leisurely return sail along southern Paros with evening light views.
9:00 PM – Dock back in Alyki harbor.

 
“It was wonderful! The views were great, the crew was nice, and the overall atmosphere of our sunset cruise was wonderful!”  – Meghan M., June 2025

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Essential Information for Booking Paros Boat Tours

Departure Ports & Locations

Paros boat tours depart from 4 main ports:

🛥️   Parikia – Main port, most options   

🛥️   Piso Livadi – Eastern tours    

🛥️   Alyki – Sunset cruises 

🛥️   Naoussa – Limited options 

Fishing boats docked along Naoussa marina, Paros, with white buildings and Greek flags in the background under a clear blue sky, capture the charm of Paros Boat Tours.

Best Time to Book

☀️   Peak Season (July-August): Book 3-4 weeks ahead

⛅   Shoulder Season (May-June, Sept): Book 1 week ahead

🌊   Weather: Morning tours have calmer seas

🍃   Meltemi Winds: Strongest in the afternoons

Several motorbikes and ATVs are parked in front of a small white cylindrical building with a conical thatched roof at Parikia Port area, where Paros Boat Tours begin under a clear blue sky.

What's Typically Included

Most Paros boat tours include:

✅   Lunch or substantial snacks

✅   Beverages (alcoholic and non-alcoholic)

✅   Basic snorkeling equipment

✅   Safety equipment and briefing

✅   English-speaking crew

Small boats are docked at Alyki marina and harbor, Paros, often featured on Paros Boat Tours.

What to Bring

🩱   Towel and swimsuit

🧴   Sunscreen

🤿   Snorkel (if you have one)

📱   Waterproof phone case

🪙   Cash for tips (€5-10 pp)

🍃   Light windbreaker

Paros Boat Tours vs Ferry: Which to Choose?

Choose a Paros boat tour when:

⛵   You want multiple swimming stops

⛵   Meal and drinks included matters

⛵   You prefer small group experiences

⛵   You want a guided experience

Take the ferry when:

⛴️   You just need transportation

⛴️   You’re on a tight budget

⛴️   You want to stay overnight

⛴️   You get seasick easily

Frequently Asked Questions About Paros Boat Tours

Can you do Santorini as a day trip from Paros?

Yes, but only via organized boat tours (€180+). Regular ferries arrive too late and depart too early for a proper day trip. The organized Paros boat tour includes all transfers and gives you 6+ hours in Santorini.

Which islands can you visit on Paros boat tours?

  • Half-day: Antiparos, Despotiko
  • Full-day: Koufonisia, Naxos, Small Cyclades, Santorini, Mykonos, Delos
  • Multi-day only: Amorgos, Ios, Folegandros

How much do Paros boat tours cost?

  • Budget tours: €60-80 (larger groups, basic boats)
  • Mid-range: €90-130 (semi-private, lunch included)
  • Premium: €150-250 (luxury yachts, all-inclusive)
  • Sunset cruises: €50-80 (3-4 hours)

Do Paros boat tours run in bad weather?

All tours offer free cancellation for unsafe weather conditions. Morning departures are most reliable. Book the same tour for multiple days and cancel if needed (24+ hours notice).

Are Paros boat tours suitable for non-swimmers?

Yes, select carefully. The Santorini and Delos/Mykonos tours focus on sightseeing. For swimming tours, boats provide flotation devices and stay in calm bays.

How long is the boat from Paros to Santorini?

Paros boat tours to Santorini take 3-4 hours each way (47 nautical miles). High-speed ferries make the journey in 2.5-3 hours.

Which Paros boat tour has the most swimming stops?

The Koufonisia traditional boat tour offers 6 swimming stops – the most of any standard tour. The Antiparos/Despotiko tour has the most spectacular swimming locations including the famous Blue Lagoon.

Monique Skidmore, Take Me To Europe Tours founder

About the Author

Monique Skidmore is an award-winning anthropologist and travel expert who has spent more than 25 years exploring and documenting cultures around the world. As the founder of Take Me To Europe Tours, she combines her deep academic expertise with a passion for cultural immersion and archaeology. Monique leads annual small-group journeys across Greece, Italy, Malta, and the wider Mediterranean.

Having traveled extensively throughout the Cyclades Islands, including countless visits to Paros, she writes from direct experience and on-the-ground knowledge of local history, maritime traditions, and coastal life. Her writing has appeared in international media and she has been featured on television and in academic publications for her fieldwork in Europe and Asia.

For more on her work and travels, visit her About Monique page.

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