Private Catamaran Cruise in Naxos with Lunch

Naxos Town from the Sea: Portara and Kastro

Your private day starts on the waterfront of Naxos town, the island's capital and main port. As the catamaran leaves the harbour, the marble Portara of the unfinished Temple of Apollo, begun in the 6th century BC, rises on its islet to one side, while the hill of the Venetian Kastro, built in the 13th century, crowns the old town on the other. Seen from the deck, the white houses, domes and mansions climb in layers above the quay.

Many travellers ask whether Naxos is worth visiting compared with its famous neighbours. From the water, the answer is obvious: a lively harbour town, long sandy beaches and green mountains in one view. Your skipper discusses the plan with you before setting off, so the day reflects what your party enjoys most, whether that is long swims, sailing or quiet time on deck.

The South-West Coast, Mikri Vigla and Aliko

Heading south, the catamaran follows a coastline of golden beaches: Agios Prokopios, Agia Anna and the long sweep of Plaka, then the rocky headland of Mikri Vigla, a favourite with windsurfers. Further on lies Aliko, a protected peninsula with sand dunes, small coves and a rare forest of ancient cedar trees growing down to the sea. Beyond it the coast becomes wilder, with bays reached only by boat.

Your skipper anchors in the coves best protected from the wind on the day, where the water is calm and clear over pale sand. With a private boat, you decide how long to stay at each stop. This is the beauty of a private catamaran cruise in Naxos: there is no fixed group schedule, just your own rhythm of swimming, sunbathing and sailing on.

Snorkelling, Paddleboarding and the Underwater Scooter

Snorkelling masks and snorkels are provided for everyone, and the crew helps beginners get comfortable in the water. Around rocky points you can spot bream, wrasse, starfish and sea urchins, and sometimes an octopus between stones. The private day also includes a stand-up paddleboard for exploring the shoreline at water level, and an underwater scooter that pulls you gently through the clear water.

These extras make the day especially fun for families and active travellers, while those who prefer to relax can stretch out on the deck nets above the sea. The best time for snorkelling in Naxos is from June to September, when the water is warm and visibility is excellent. In July and August the meltemi wind can blow hard, and the skipper chooses sheltered spots for calm, safe swimming.

Lunch on Board and the Paros Channel

At midday the crew prepares a fresh Mediterranean lunch on board, inspired by traditional Greek cooking, with salads, a main dish and seasonal fruit, followed by coffee. Vegetarian options are available on request. Halal food is limited on Naxos and on board, so please tell us any dietary needs when booking and we will advise on what can be arranged.

In the afternoon, if the wind allows, the sails go up and the catamaran glides along the channel between Naxos and Paros, with Paros on the horizon and Mount Zas, the highest peak of the Cyclades, behind you. It is the most peaceful part of the day, often enjoyed with a cool soft drink, before returning to Naxos town in the late afternoon.

Private Sunset Catamaran Cruise

If you prefer a shorter experience, the private sunset cruise lasts about two hours, departing at 18:30 from the Naxos waterfront. The catamaran is again reserved only for your party, with the skipper and a crew member, fresh fruit, soft drinks and water. You sail out as the light turns golden and watch the sun set behind Paros, with the Portara glowing on its islet as you return.

It is a favourite for couples, small celebrations and families who want an unforgettable evening without a full day at sea. Many visitors ask about the best time to see the sunset in Naxos: the Portara and the sea west of the harbour are the classic spots, and seeing it from your own catamaran is the most relaxed way to enjoy it.