11 Spectacular Paros Boat Tours You Can’t Miss (2024)
If you want to book Paros boat tours to explore the island, I’ve got you covered!
I spent several days exploring Paros and it is one of my favorite Greek islands I’ve visited.
I loved how versatile the island is and how easy it is to explore other smaller islands on Paros sailing day trips.
A perfect alternative to sailing the Cyclades without actually paying the price of sailing the Cyclades!
I grew up by the sea, and I’ve taken more boat trips than I can count. It is a great way to see an island from a different perspective and discover spots and beaches only accessible by sea.
With so many Paros boat tours available, it might seem difficult to pick the best one.
So, I’ve gathered the best boat trips Paros offers to make it easier for you to select the one that fits your traveling style.
Let’s jump right in!
Disclaimer: This post may contain affiliate links, which means I may receive a commission, at no extra cost to you, if you make a purchase through a link. I hope you find the information here helpful!
TOP Picks: Paros Sailing Day Trips
✔️ Full-day customizable boat trip
✔️ Fresh Greek lunch on board
Best Paros Boat Tours
You can choose between group tours and private boat tours. Private are generally more expensive and better suited for groups than solo travelers.
If you have 3 days in Paros or more, a full-day tour is a perfect addition to your itinerary. If you’re short on time you can opt for a half-day tour or a sunset cruise, there are many options!
- Keep in mind some of the tours listed are seasonal, so they might now be available if you visit Paros outside of the tourist season, from May to September.
Best Group Paros Boat Tours
If you’re backpacking Paros as a solo traveler, the best way to enjoy a Paros boat trip on a budget is to join a group tour!
Some of these group tours are listed as semi-private, which usually means it’s a smaller boat with up to 10 people on board.
You’ll be on the boat for at least 4 hours, so if you want to meet people when traveling solo, joining a large boat with up to 40 people might be a good idea!
If you’re set to sail to Antiparos, here are all the best Antiparos boat tours to consider!
1. Paros: Full-Day Sailing Yacht Cruise
⭐️ RATING: 4.7/5 Stars | ⏳ TOUR LENGTH: 9 hours | Check it out!
Sail the Cyclades in style with this full-day sailing yacht cruise from Paros.
The tour starts early in the morning in Piso Livadi port, about 20-30 minutes from Naoussa or Parikia.
The tour takes you sailing around the Small Cyclades Islands, one of the least visited islands in the area. You’ll visit 2 islands, Iraklia and Schinoussa or Koufonisia, depending on the weather conditions.
“We had such a fun time! The journey of a lifetime. We boarded the boat a little after 9:30 and set sail to 3 stops. They were all unique and each more beautiful than the last. The crew was awesome and the food was too!”
– GetYourGuide traveler (see more reviews)
You’ll explore secluded coves, swim in crystal clear waters, and snorkel around a sunken WWII hydroplane wreck!
Before returning to Paros, you’ll also get to swim on one of Naxos’ endless white sand beaches.
The tour includes lunch, snacks, and fresh fruit, so you don’t have to worry about that!
The small group guarantees you’ll have an amazing time on board, lots of space to sunbathe, and enough snorkeling equipment for everyone on tour.
2. Koufonisia by traditional Kaiki from Paros
⭐️ RATING: 5/5 Stars | ⏳ TOUR LENGTH: 9.5 hours | Check it out!
If you want to spend a day on board enjoying the sun, crystal clear sea, and admiring iconic Cycladic churches hanging from the side of the cliffs, this is the perfect tour for you!
Koufonisia and the best hidden spots are quite far from Paros, so save the whole day for this tour.
You’ll sail the Small Cyclades on a traditional boat Kaiki. The boat is spacious, with plenty of room for everyone on board in the shade or in the sun.
“Took us to so many places we could not have seen otherwise, I would not have known about. The five stops were amazing… Opportunities to swim. Lunch was so good, and we felt like family with the crew.”
– Dave (read more reviews)
There are 5 stops on this tour, 2 in Naxos and 2 in Koufonisia. You’ll get to swim on remote beaches, snorkel in the caves, and enjoy a barbecue (they cater to vegetarians as well!) on a sheltered bay in Kato Koufonisi.
This is one of the only tours that take you to Koufonisia, so it is an amazing opportunity to discover this magical island.
3. Full-Day Cruise in Antiparos and Despotiko with Barbecue
⭐️ RATING: 4.5/5 Stars | ⏳ TOUR LENGTH: 7 hours | Check it out!
If you’re island hopping the Cyclades on a budget, this full-day Antiparos and Despotiko cruise is the best budget-friendly option.
This boat tour is popular among younger travelers, and it is a fantastic value for money as it is one of the cheapest boat tours Paros offers!
“This trip was a perfectly organized day! Very welcoming staff, refreshments on tap, and plenty of stops in the sea! Not to mention pick up and drop off from the hotel. The BBQ food was also amazing – one of the best meals we had all holiday. Absolute must – do not hesitate.”
Thomas (see more reviews)
The tour starts in Pounda port, and you can make your way to the port or request hotel pick-up.
You’ll board a traditional Kaiki boat for a relaxing day on the sea, soaking in the sun and swimming in crystal-clear turquoise waters.
You don’t have to worry about meals on this trip, as they serve so much food! The crew will prepare breakfast, barbecue for lunch with fresh seasonal ingredients, and fruit in the afternoon.
4. Boat Tour To Discover Paros, Antiparos, and Despotiko
⭐️ RATING: 4.5/5 Stars | ⏳ TOUR LENGTH: 8 hours | Check it out!
Pack your backpack and get ready to sail from Paros to Antiparos and Despotiko on an impressive, wooden Turkish vessel.
You’ll discover the hidden pirate caves off the coast of Paros, and hear the stories about how they were used throughout history.
The boat will take you to incredible beaches in the south of Antiparos, which are usually very hard to access from the land.
Finally, you’ll get to admire the small island of Despotiko with its ruins before sailing to the magnificent Blue Lagoon, near the island of Panteronisi.
“We had a fantastic day. The crew is very friendly and provided great entertainment. We went to very beautiful places where we had sufficient time to swim and enjoy the view. We had never water blue like this – perfect!!!”
– Jean Francois (read more reviews)
As there is a limit of 25 people on board, it won’t feel crowded and you’ll have enough space to relax and enjoy the ride.
Traditional Greek lunch is served as a buffet, and drinks are included as well!
The tour starts and ends in Piso Livadi, and you’ll have no problem identifying your boat as it is the only one of its kind on the island!
5. Paros: Private Catamaran Cruise with Swimming, Meals & Drinks
⭐️ RATING: 5/5 Stars | ⏳ TOUR LENGTH: 9 hours | Check it out!
With this tour, you get to sail around Paros and nearby islands on a private catamaran while relaxing on a meshed net above the sea.
Paros’ location makes it easy to explore several nearby islands. You’ll visit 3 beaches on 3 neighboring islands: Paros, Antiparos, and Despotiko.
Sailing to the islands is an excellent experience as you’ll get o swim on several magical beaches that are only accessible by boat.
“This was a fantastic experience! It exceeded our expectations. We loved the boat, food, and various stops to play and swim.”
– GetYourGuide traveler (see more reviews)
The crew will cook and serve a delicious Greek lunch you can enjoy between dips. Unlimited drinks are available throughout the tour, and you’ll get to watch the sunset with a glass of regional wine.
Pick-up from your hotel is included, so you don’t have to worry about getting to the departure point in the morning.
6. Private Sunset Cruise to Panteronnisia, Antiparos, and Despotiko
⭐️ RATING: New! | ⏳ TOUR LENGTH: 3 hours | Check it out!
A sunset cruise is one of the most romantic things you can do in Paros. However, you don’t need to be in a couple to enjoy this Paros sunset cruise!
If you don’t want to spend a day at sea, but you still want to join a boat tour, this 3-hour sunset tour is the perfect alternative.
You’ll board the boat at 7 pm, and start sailing around the island to the Pirate’s caves and Panteronisia island between Paros and Antiparos.
If the weather is hot, you can go for a dip and snorkel in the crystal-clear waters. The crew will lend you an underwater camera, so you can take photos in the water!
Don’t worry about dinner, as traditional Greek appetizers, fruit, and snacks are included!
7. Delos and Mykonos Full-Day Boat Trip From Paros
⭐️ RATING: 4.3/5 Stars | ⏳ TOUR LENGTH: 10 hours | Check it out!
The archeological site of Delos is a must-see when you’re visiting the Cyclades. The best way to visit Delos and Mykonos from Paros is on a tour, and this full-day boat trip is an excellent option to see both!
You’ll visit the UNESCO site Delos first, and you’ll have free time to explore the archeological site at your own pace. The ticket is not included, so remember to bring cash to pay at the entrance.
Afterward, you’ll get to Mykonos where you’ll have 3 hours of free time to explore the island. You can swim on Mykonos beaches, stroll the cobblestone streets or grab a drink in Little Venice
The tour is pretty much a self-guided boat transfer, as you have the freedom to plan your itinerary on the islands and there’s no professional guide taking you around.
“Delos was absolutely fascinating and the history behind it. The site was really good. Overall a very well spent day.”
– Cynthia (read more reviews)
Best Paros Private Boat Tour
While group tours are a fantastic option for solo female travelers on a budget, a private boat tour can be a fun alternative if you’re traveling with friends.
If you’re considering your Paros travel budget, the price might seem steep upfront. However, when divided between 6-8 people, it can be more affordable than a group tour!
So, if you gathered a group of friends interested in Paros sailing day trips, these are the best Paros private boat tours to consider!
8. Private Catamaran Cruise with Meals, Drinks & SUP
⭐️ RATING: 5/5 | ⏳ TOUR LENGTH: 8 hours | Check it out!
Gather up to 9 of your friends and spend a magical day cruising around Paros. This private cruise is a perfect way to experience the stunning islands of the Aegean Sea with your friends or family.
As it is a private tour, it is completely customizable and you get to choose the itinerary.
Pick whether you want to sail to Antiparos or the Small Cyclades islands of Koufonissia and Irakleia-Schoinoussa, relax, and enjoy the ride.
All three options include plenty of breathtaking landscapes, crystal clear seas, and 3 stops on secluded beaches to swim and snorkel.
You don’t need to worry about the lunch, as the crew will prepare fresh Greek delicacies to enjoy on board. Drinks and snacks are available throughout the tour.
It was an amazing day on the catamaran. Nikos and Dimitris were super knowledgeable, kind, professional and could not have made our day more special. We loved every minute of it. Highly recommend!
GetYourGuide traveler, United States (read more reviews)
9. Private Sunset Cruise to Antiparos with Local Snacks
⭐️ RATING: New!| ⏳ TOUR LENGTH: 3 hours | Check it out!
If you’re looking for romantic things to do in Paros, look no further than this private sunset cruise.
People who say Oia, Santorini has the best sunsets, didn’t see the sunset from a boat in Paros! Forget about crowds of people pushing to see the sunset in Oia, it will be just you and a handful of your friends or a partner.
You’ll sail to the unique rock formations of Saint Spyridon and Fira Channel, where you can go for one last swim of the day before enjoying the sunset on board.
The crew will serve you delicious local wine and fresh Greek food as you admire the sun setting in the distance.
10. Paros: Antiparos Island and Despotiko Private Boat Trip
⭐️ RATING: 5/5 Stars | ⏳ TOUR LENGTH: 7 hours | Check it out!
Private tours can be a great and affordable experience even for smaller groups! This private boat trip is an excellent way to see all the best places around Paros, as you get around on a fast speedboat.
It is also a fantastic way to add a trip to Antiparos to your Paros itinerary!
The itinerary is completely customizable, and as you’re in a speedboat, you get to see more than on a regular sailing trip.
Your skipper will suggest the best spots to visit, and you’ll get to swim in crystal clear sea, on hidden beaches away from the crowds.
“We had a wonderful experience! The day on the boat was beautiful and our skipper was open to customizing the day to what we wanted. He was both accommodating and relaxed.”
– GetYourGuide traveler (read more reviews)
Keep in mind skipper fee is not included in the price of the tour. You’ll have to pay for it on the day.
Paros Boat Rental
Did you know you can rent a boat in Paros even if you don’t have a boating license?
Paros boat rental without a license is a great Paros day trip activity, as you get to rent a small boat and sail around the island following your own itinerary.
11. Paros: Full-Day Small Boat Rental with Self-Driving
⭐️ RATING: 5/5 Stars | ⏳ TOUR LENGTH: 5-8 hours | Check it out!
Did you know that you can rent and drive a small boat in Paros even without a license?
Small boat rental is a fun and unique way to discover secluded beaches and caves around the island which are only accessible by sea. The fuel is on you, so you can go as far as you want!
Don’t worry if you never operated a boat before, the staff will teach you everything you need to know before you set off.
The boat can accommodate up to 5 people and you can have it for 8 hours. That means you have a full day to discover all the best spots around Paros!
“This was the absolute highlight of our trip to Paros! It was so much fun cruising around the Aegean on this boat. The staff is amazing and went over EVERYTHING before we set off so we felt comfortable operating the boat.”
– GetYourGuide traveler (read more reviews)
What To Bring On Paros Boat Tours?
Your Paros boat tour packing list will look a lot like a regular boat trip packing list. If you’ve never been on a boat day trip here’s what you’ll need to pack:
- Bag (ideally waterproof, if not, at least a waterproof pouch for electronics)
- Swimsuit
- Towel
- Sunglasses
- Sunscreen
- Water bottle
- A hoodie or a cardigan
- Snacks
You won’t need a waterproof bag on every type of boat trip. If you’re taking a larger boat, your stuff will probably stay dry as there is a dedicated dry space to put it. However, if you’re on a smaller speed boat, the water will likely splash everywhere!
A swimsuit (and something dry to change into!) is a must if you’ll be swimming on the trip.
You can take a regular beach towel, but if you’re backpacking Cyclades you probably have a quick dry microfibre towel. It works great, and I love mine!
Sunscreen is a must! There’s no debate about that one. Putting it on before you go won’t be enough. Make sure to have a bottle of sunscreen with you, the sun is strong in Paros!
Some of Paros boat trips will serve food or even a full lunch! However, as a vegan, I always pack some snacks in case there are no vegan options available
Even if you’re traveling to Paros in summer, it can get chilly at night. Also, speedboats are very windy, so a hoodie can come in handy. Worst case scenario, you’ll wrap yourself in a towel.
I love to take a GoPro on boat tours as it is waterproof (and saltwater resistant, unlike the iPhone!) and you can take incredible underwater photos.
Best Places To Visit On Boat Trips From Paros?
OK, you know you want to take a Paros sailing tour, but you’re not sure where to go.
The Small Cyclades are the best place to discover on a sailing tour from Paros. These small islands are often overlooked as most of them are inhabited and too small to spend a night. They are also popular day trips from Naxos, as the beaches are incredible!
Antiparos is an island right next to Paros, and it is one of the best day trips from Paros you can take.
Naxos is the largest island in the Cyclades, with some of the most beautiful white sand beaches. With a boat tour, you get to visit more remote beaches that are harder to reach by land.
Mykonos is infamous as one of the most expensive Cyclades to visit. However, it is a beautiful island, and combined with a trip to Delos is a must-see in the Cyclades. Joining a day trip from Paros is an excellent way to enjoy the island and avoid overpriced accommodation in Mykonos.
FAQ
Paros boat cruises depart from multiple ports throughout the island – Piso Livadi Port, Pounta Port, Naoussa Port, and Parikia Port. Parikia is the main ferry port you would take to get around the Cyclades, but most boat cruises depart from smaller ports around the island.
Yes, you can book several boat trips departing from Naoussa, Paros. That is perfect for those staying in Paros without a car, as you don’t have to worry about getting to the departure point. At the same time, many Paros boat tours offer complimentary hotel pick-up!
Yes, you can join a Paros sunset cruise. There are group and private Paros sunset cruises. With a private sunset cruise, the whole boat is reserved just for you and your group. Those traveling solo or in a group of fewer than 4 people can join a group Paros sunset sailing available as well!
Final Thoughts: Best Paros Boat Tours
Paros is one of the most versatile islands in the Cyclades, and you’ll be spoilt for choice with all the incredible things to do in Paros.
Whether you want to relax on a yacht sailing and discover hidden beaches or you want to explore Paros and other nearby islands, there’s a boat tour Paros offers made for you.
Grab your swimsuit, towel, and sunscreen, and get ready to have an incredible day in the Cyclades!
⛵ This Paros: Full-Day Sailing Yacht Cruise is my TOP pick for Paros boat tours!
