Spend a day aboard Galatea, a restored 19‑m schooner, cruising Paros and Antiparos with swims at sea caves, Despotiko’s ruins, and the famously clear Blue Lagoon. This private full‑day trip includes lunch, drinks and snorkeling gear.
More ways to explore the area's outdoor wonders
The bow of Galatea lifts slowly from Piso Livadi as morning light catches the varnished wood and the Aegean claims the horizon. Aboard the 19‑metre Turkish schooner—refitted in 2021—you’ll feel the deck beneath your feet, the sea daring you to dive in where turquoise suddenly deepens. The route threads Paros’ east coast, slips past Antiparos’ southern coves (Sostis and Faneromeni), explores Antiparos’ sea caves, and drops anchor at Despotiko before the Blue Lagoon near Panteronisi. Geology and history sit side by side here: Paros is famed for its fine white Parian marble and the Cycladic islands are sculpted by ancient tectonics and coastal erosion, which carved the sea caves you’ll snorkel around. Despotiko’s small flat profile hides an important archaeological footprint—a sanctuary complex associated with the Temple of Apollo—visible from the water as you cross the canal between islands. Culturally, this coastline is simple: fishermen’s coves, dry‑stone walls, and tavern flavors that emphasize fresh fish, olive oil and lemon. The cruise includes a buffet lunch with Greek specialties, snacks, water and alcoholic beverages, plus snorkeling equipment for shallow reefs. Practicalities: departures run roughly 10:00 from Piso Livadi with return about 18:00 and a 25‑person cap for comfort. Expect multiple 40–60 minute stops for swimming and exploration; timing adjusts for wind and sea state. Bring reef‑safe sunscreen, a light wind layer for open water, swim shoes for rocky landings and a waterproof camera. If the meltemi rises, the captain alters the plan—flexibility keeps the day safe and memorable.
Difficulty
easy
Duration
4–9 hours (typical 10:00–18:00)
Fitness Level
Suitable for most fitness levels; requires ability to climb ladder and walk on uneven, rocky beaches
Wildlife
History
Despotiko contains an important Cycladic sanctuary complex linked to the Temple of Apollo; views of ruins are visible from the water and speak to maritime rituals here for millennia.
Conservation
The Cyclades are ecologically sensitive; guests should use reef‑safe products, avoid anchoring on seagrass beds and follow crew guidance to reduce impacts.
Reserve your spot on the Private Cruise with Galatea(Paros,Antiparos,Despotiko,Bluelagoon) today and enjoy a trusted, highly rated experience designed to help you make the most of your adventure.
Arrive early to board
Piso Livadi port can get busy—arrive 20–30 minutes before the 10:00 departure to find the mooring and get briefed.
Protect against the sun
Bring reef‑safe sunscreen, a wide‑brim hat and polarized sunglasses—the Aegean glare is intense on deck.
Prepare for rocky shorelines
Many landings are on shingle or rock; pack water shoes to enter and exit the boat safely.
Motion‑sickness plan
If you’re prone to seasickness, take short‑acting medication before boarding and sit midship where motion is least noticeable.
Reef‑safe sunscreen
Protects skin and local marine life during prolonged sun exposure on deck and while swimming.
summer
Swimwear + quick‑dry towel
Necessary for swims at sea caves, bays and the Blue Lagoon; towel for lounging on deck.
summer
Water shoes
Protects feet during rocky landings and allows safer snorkeling from shore.
summer
Light wind jacket
Useful for open‑water stretches when the meltemi cools the air on deck.
spring