Set off from Pera Gialos for a 6½-hour loop visiting Red Rock, Koutsomiti and the double beach of Kounoupa. Expect clear snorkeling, short swims, and a long beach stop with shade and a snack bar.
Set off from Pera Gialos for a 6½-hour loop visiting Red Rock, Koutsomiti and the double beach of Kounoupa. Expect clear snorkeling, short swims, and a long beach stop with shade and a snack bar.
The boat slips away from Pera Gialos at 10:30, the marina’s low stone quay shrinking as the island’s white houses watch. Wind combs the surface into a silver path and, before long, the boat drops anchor at Red Rock — a sheer, weathered cliff with a small cave that dares swimmers to explore its shadowed lip.
Verified experiences and guided adventures in the surrounding area.
Operated by Thalassopouli Cruises · Pera Gialos, South Aegean
The boat slips away from Pera Gialos at 10:30, the marina’s low stone quay shrinking as the island’s white houses watch. Wind combs the surface into a silver path and, before long, the boat drops anchor at Red Rock — a sheer, weathered cliff with a small cave that dares swimmers to explore its shadowed lip.
This loop of islets highlights Astypalea’s layered past: a crossroads of Aegean sailors, its coastline shaped by tectonic uplift and marine erosion rather than gentle beaches. Koutsomiti is a scatter of rocks and turquoise shelves where seagrass beds host shy fish; Kounoupa’s famous double beach opens like a pair of palms, backed by scrubby hills and a single snack bar serving simple, local fare.
Expect warm, clear water ideal for snorkeling, frequent seabirds, and a relaxed pace set by the crew. The cruise runs roughly 6½ hours, with swim stops (30–40 minutes) and a longer beach stay at Kounoupa for three hours—enough time for a swim, a walk between the two bays, or a cold drink beneath the supplied umbrellas.
Practical notes: snorkel gear, bottled water, and restrooms are onboard; bring reef-safe sunscreen, a waterproof case, and mild-motion-sickness meds if you’re sensitive. Arrive early at the Pera Gialos quay to confirm boarding, and pack a small dry bag for valuables. This day at sea is straightforward—an accessible taste of Astypalea’s wind-sculpted coast for anyone wanting clear water, short swims, and island-side calm.
easy.
6–7 hours.
Suitable for most fitness levels—requires short swims and boarding a small boat; basic mobility recommended.
Yes—masks, snorkels and fins are supplied for guests at no extra charge.
Boarding is at Pera Gialos marina, typically departing at 10:30 AM; check confirmation for exact times.
Yes, the vessel includes restrooms and a small onboard shower for rinsing off after swims.
Yes—infants must sit on an adult’s lap; the trip is rated easy for all fitness levels but supervise children during swim stops.
Astypalea sits on ancient maritime routes; its Chora and castle reflect Venetian and Byzantine influences from centuries of Aegean trade.
Avoid anchoring on seagrass (Posidonia) beds and use reef-safe sunscreen; local operators typically follow simple rules to protect the coastal ecosystem.
Thalassopouli Cruises operates guided outdoor trips and adventures with an emphasis on safety, stewardship, and memorable experiences.




The boat slips away from Pera Gialos at 10:30, the marina’s low stone quay shrinking as the island’s white houses watch. Wind combs the surface into a silver path and, before long, the boat drops anchor at Red Rock — a sheer, weathered cliff with a small cave that dares swimmers to explore its shadowed lip.
The boat slips away from Pera Gialos at 10:30, the marina’s low stone quay shrinking as the island’s white houses watch. Wind combs the surface into a silver path and, before long, the boat drops anchor at Red Rock — a sheer, weathered cliff with a small cave that dares swimmers to explore its shadowed lip.
This loop of islets highlights Astypalea’s layered past: a crossroads of Aegean sailors, its coastline shaped by tectonic uplift and marine erosion rather than gentle beaches. Koutsomiti is a scatter of rocks and turquoise shelves where seagrass beds host shy fish; Kounoupa’s famous double beach opens like a pair of palms, backed by scrubby hills and a single snack bar serving simple, local fare.
Expect warm, clear water ideal for snorkeling, frequent seabirds, and a relaxed pace set by the crew. The cruise runs roughly 6½ hours, with swim stops (30–40 minutes) and a longer beach stay at Kounoupa for three hours—enough time for a swim, a walk between the two bays, or a cold drink beneath the supplied umbrellas.
Practical notes: snorkel gear, bottled water, and restrooms are onboard; bring reef-safe sunscreen, a waterproof case, and mild-motion-sickness meds if you’re sensitive. Arrive early at the Pera Gialos quay to confirm boarding, and pack a small dry bag for valuables. This day at sea is straightforward—an accessible taste of Astypalea’s wind-sculpted coast for anyone wanting clear water, short swims, and island-side calm.