Island Hopping from Athens
Explore the Saronic Gulf islands on a private RIB boat
Discover the magic of the Saronic Gulf with a private island hopping cruise from Athens aboard a luxury RIB boat. Unlike conventional ferry routes and crowded tour boats, our high-performance RIBs let you set your own pace, glide into secluded coves, and visit multiple Greek islands in a single unforgettable day. Whether you dream of swimming in crystalline waters off hidden beaches or strolling through car-free cobblestone streets, Celline Cruises turns island hopping in Athens into an experience tailored entirely to you.
Saronic Gulf Islands
The Saronic Gulf stretches south of Athens and is home to some of Greece's most captivating islands. Each one offers a distinct character - from the pistachio groves of Aegina to the artist studios of Hydra - and all are reachable within a day cruise from the Athenian coast. Our typical island hopping route begins at the marina, sweeps through the heart of the Saronic Gulf, and can be customised to match the islands and experiences you care about most.
Aegina
Just 40 minutes from Athens by RIB, Aegina is the nearest major island in the Saronic Gulf and the perfect first stop on your cruise. The island is renowned for the ancient Temple of Aphaia, one of the best-preserved Doric temples in Greece, and for its famous pistachio orchards. Wander through the colourful harbour town, sample freshly caught seafood at a waterfront taverna, or simply dip into the warm Aegean before continuing your journey.
Hydra
Hydra is unlike anywhere else in the Greek islands. No cars, no motorbikes - only donkeys, water taxis, and your own two feet. Roughly 90 minutes from Athens by RIB, the island's amphitheatrical harbour lined with 18th-century stone mansions has long attracted artists, writers, and travellers seeking authentic beauty. Enjoy a leisurely lunch at one of the harbour-side restaurants, explore the galleries, or take a short swim at the rocks near Kamini before setting off again.
Poros
Separated from the Peloponnese by a narrow strait just 200 metres wide, Poros offers dramatic scenery and a wonderfully relaxed atmosphere. About 75 minutes from Athens, the island is known for its iconic clock tower, lush pine-covered hillsides, and the serene Love Bay - a sheltered cove ideal for swimming and snorkelling. Our RIB can anchor right at the bay's edge, giving you direct access to water that larger vessels simply cannot reach.
Spetses
The farthest of the classic Saronic Gulf destinations, Spetses rewards the journey with an aristocratic elegance all its own. Approximately two hours from Athens by RIB, the island is dotted with neoclassical mansions, fragrant pine forests, and beautifully maintained pebble beaches. Spetses is ideal for those who want to combine a boat trip with a taste of old-world Greek glamour - horse-drawn carriages still serve as taxis in the old harbour.
Agistri
Tiny Agistri is the Saronic Gulf's best-kept secret and sits just a short hop from Aegina. Reached in roughly 50 minutes from Athens, this unspoiled island is blanketed in pine trees that run all the way down to turquoise waters. It is the ideal spot for a peaceful swim or a snorkelling stop, far from the busier harbours, and a favourite among our guests who value tranquillity and natural beauty.
What's Included
Every island hopping day cruise with Celline Cruises is a fully equipped, all-in-one experience. When you step aboard, everything you need for the day is already on board:
- Spacious all-around deck with sunbathing areas
- Bimini shade and awning tent
- Shower and electric toilet
- Bluetooth sound system and wireless phone charger
- Ice compartments
- Snorkeling equipment for 5 people
- SUP paddle
Why Choose a RIB Boat for Island Hopping?
Speed makes all the difference when you want to visit multiple islands in a single day. Our RIB boats are powered by twin 300 hp engines, cutting travel times in half compared to conventional cruisers and ferries. That means less time in transit and more time exploring - you can comfortably fit two or even three islands into your day cruise from Athens without feeling rushed.
Flexibility is the second advantage. With a private RIB boat charter, there is no fixed timetable and no crowd to follow. Want to linger at a quiet beach on Agistri? Skip the busy harbour on Aegina in favour of a hidden bay? Your skipper will adapt the route on the fly, crafting a Saronic Gulf cruise that feels genuinely yours.
Finally, a RIB's shallow draft and agile handling open up a world of hidden coves, sea caves, and secluded swimming spots that larger boats simply cannot access. These are the moments our guests remember most - anchoring in a turquoise inlet with no one else in sight, diving off the bow into crystal-clear water, and discovering a side of the Greek islands that few travellers ever see.