Paros Semi-Private Catamaran Cruise with Meal

Panteronisi and the islets between Paros and Antiparos

The narrow channel between Paros and Antiparos is dotted with small, uninhabited islets, and Panteronisi is the most beautiful of them. Shallow sandy shelves surround its rocks, so the water glows in shades of turquoise and emerald that look almost unreal on a sunny day. Nearby, the islets of Tigani and Glaropounta add low cliffs and quiet anchorages where only boats can go.

This is usually the first swim stop of the day, and one of the best places for beginners to snorkel, as the water is calm and clear over sand and sea grass. Many guests asking for the best Paros catamaran cruise mean exactly this kind of lagoon. On a boat limited to ten guests, there is plenty of room on the nets and deck to sunbathe between swims.

Faneromeni and its wind-sculpted rocks

On the east side of Antiparos, the area around Faneromeni is famous for its strange rock formations. Over thousands of years the sea and the wind have carved the soft stone into holes, arches and honeycomb shapes, giving the shore a sculpted look that changes with the light. A small white chapel stands near the beach, a typical sight of the Cyclades.

The catamaran slows down here so you can photograph the rocks from the water and, conditions allowing, take a dip in the sheltered bay. Our skipper explains how the island's geology shaped these forms and points out the best angles. It is a short but memorable stop on the way south, and a good reason why a boat trip is the easiest way to enjoy the coastline of Antiparos.

Sea caves and coves of southwest Antiparos

The southwest coast of Antiparos is wild and almost roadless, with steep cliffs, narrow inlets and sea caves that can only be reached by boat. Sailing along it you pass hidden pebble coves with water so clear that you can see the seabed several metres below. The crew chooses the most sheltered spots of the day, depending on the wind.

This part of the cruise is about sightseeing from the deck and a long, quiet swim in a cove of your own. Paddle boards and snorkelling gear are ready on board for anyone who wants to explore the cave entrances at sea level. If you are wondering whether an Antiparos boat trip from Paros is worth it, these empty shores, impossible to visit by car, usually answer the question.

Despotiko and Tsimintiri, the uninhabited islands

West of Antiparos lies Despotiko, an island with no permanent residents but a remarkable past. Archaeologists have uncovered here a large sanctuary of Apollo from the Archaic period, with temple foundations, dining halls and offerings that show it was an important religious centre of the Cyclades more than two and a half thousand years ago. Excavations continue every summer.

Between Despotiko and the tiny islet of Tsimintiri lies one of the most beautiful bays of the whole area, with bright turquoise water over white sand. The catamaran anchors here for the longest stop of the day, around two hours of swimming, snorkelling and paddle boarding. It is the perfect place to try the paddle board, as the shallow bay is usually calm and protected.

Life on board: the meal, the crew and the golden hour

The crew of three looks after the small group all day. While you swim, the cook prepares a fresh Greek meal on board, typically with salads, grilled dishes and seasonal vegetables, served at the table in the shade. Fruit, snacks, soft drinks and bottled water are available throughout, and beach towels and Wi-Fi are provided. Tell us about any dietary needs, including halal requirements, when booking; seafood and vegetarian choices are the easiest to arrange on the islands.

In the late afternoon the catamaran sails back towards Paros as the light turns golden over the islands. The best time for this cruise is from late May to early October; in July and August the meltemi wind can be strong, so the skipper adapts the route to keep the sea comfortable. Paros is reached by ferry from Piraeus or Rafina in about three to four hours, or by short flight.