Blue Lagoon-Vourvourou Lunch Cruise from Ouranoupolis

A Blue Lagoon and lunch cruise out of Ouranoupolis is a solid idea if you want a boat day with built-in swim time, not just standing on a beach wishing the sea were closer. You’ll go to the Vourvourou Bay islet area first, then head to Alykes for a second lagoon-style swim.

I love that the cruise includes souvlaki lunch (with vegetarian meals available if you request it 1 day ahead). I also like that the boat has water slides, so the fun is not only in the water, it’s also on the way back up.

One possible drawback to consider: the cruise is branded as glassbottom, but the viewing can be limited, so you should treat this as a swim-first outing. And if you want a good spot on the bow, plan to show up early, because the ship can fill fast.

Quick highlights

• Two timed swim breaks totaling about 3 hours in clear water areas
• Souvlaki lunch included, plus a vegetarian option if you email or message in advance
• Water slides on board, great when you want a quick thrill between swims
• Swim from boat stairs at about 3 meters depth at the first stop
• Snorkeling gear not included, so bring your own if you use it
• Up to 100 passengers, which means seating can get competitive

Cruise logic: why two swim stops beat a single beach day

This is the kind of trip that makes sense in Halkidiki. Instead of spending the whole day commuting, finding parking, and dragging towels from one shoreline to another, you choose your “swim window” and the boat does the work. You get two separate chances to enter the water, each scheduled for about 1.5 hours.

The first stop is at the Blue Lagoon area around the Vourvourou Bay islet, where you swim from the boat stairs. The second stop shifts to Alykes beach lagoon, which gives you that same water access, but with a different feel. One stop is about the famous islet scenery and snorkeling-friendly conditions. The other is more about floating around, swimming, and relaxing without rushing to chase sights.

If you enjoy swimming and you like the idea of jumping off a boat (once your brain accepts the cold, you’re good), this route is a great value. The day stays active, but not stressful. Also, you end back where you started, which makes the logistics easy.

Boarding day in Ouranoupolis: arrive early for the best seats

The cruise starts at 11:00 am in Ouranoupolis at the Byzantine Tower of Prosphorion, Tower Prosforios, Ouranoupoli 630 75, Greece. The tour ends back at the meeting point, so you do not need to plot a return ride or rethink your evening plans.

Here’s the practical tip that can make a big difference: seating can be competitive. One common complaint is that more tickets are sold than there are comfortable spots everywhere on the boat. If you want a good outdoor seat, especially near the bow, aim to arrive early. Many people recommend being there at least an hour before departure if you care about where you sit.

What to bring is straightforward:

• Swimsuit plus a quick-dry towel
• Sunscreen and a hat (you’re on the water a lot)
• Water shoes if you prefer them for swimming areas
• If you plan to snorkel, bring your own equipment, because snorkeling gear is not included

This is offered in English, and the cruise runs with a maximum group size of 100 travelers. That’s large enough to feel lively, but small enough that the boat still feels like a shared day out, not a floating airport.

Vourvourou Bay islet swim and snorkel (1.5 hours, about 3 meters deep)

Stop 1 is the star for many people: the Blue Lagoon-Vourvourou area around the islet. You’ll have about 1 hour 30 minutes for swimming and snorkeling. The big detail I like is how accessible the water entry is. You swim directly from the boat stairs, and the depth is listed as around 3 meters.

That matters for two reasons. First, it’s deep enough to make snorkeling feel real, not like you’re walking in a puddle. Second, it’s shallow enough that most people can get comfortable without needing to be an expert swimmer. You can focus on taking your time, looking around, and enjoying the water rather than worrying about footing.

One small note on expectations: while this is labeled a glassbottom-style cruise, the real magic here is the location and the water access. If you want underwater viewing, treat it as a bonus, not the core plan. Your schedule is built around being in the water, not staring at the floor like it’s a museum.

If you’re going with kids or teens, this stop usually does the trick. Many families enjoy the mix of scenery, swimming time, and the fact that you’re all together on the same boat, so it stays simple. And keep your eyes up. On some days along this route, people can spot dolphins, so it helps to stay alert while you’re waiting for your next swim round.

Alykes beach lagoon swim (another 1.5 hours) and what to expect

After the first stop and lunch, you head to the Alykes beach lagoon area. This is another scheduled swim break of about 1 hour 30 minutes. The description notes a stop at the port of the beach, which usually means the boat docks or lines up close enough that getting in and out is easy.

What I like about a second swim stop is variety without extra effort. Your day stays balanced: you swim, you eat, you swim again. Alykes tends to feel more like a relaxed lagoon stop, so it’s a good match if you want some calmer water time after the first stop’s more scenic-islet vibe.

A practical downside to keep in mind: the day is packed enough that you’ll want to manage your energy. You won’t have the freedom of a full-day beach, and you’re on a cruise timeline. If you’re the type who enjoys sunbathing for hours, this might feel a little short between swims. But if you like being active in the water and then cooling off on deck, it fits well.

Also, remember that snacks and drinks are not included. That means you might want to pace water and plan for what you’ll need on the second swim hour.

Onboard lunch: souvlaki, Greek sides, and vegetarian planning

Lunch is a key part of the value here. After the first swim stop, the crew organizes a Greek traditional lunch, and it’s specifically described as souvlaki, with vegetarian options available if you request them 1 day before.

That request detail is important. If you’re traveling with a vegetarian (or anyone who avoids certain meats), don’t leave it to chance. Send the request ahead of time so you’re not stuck improvising on board. When lunch is pre-planned, it feels smoother and faster, especially on a day where you’ll want to get back into the water promptly.

What you’ll likely want to know before you board: lunch is included, but snacks and drinks are not. That means if you’re the kind of person who snacks constantly or prefers coffee, juice, or extra water, you should expect to purchase those items during the cruise.

The upside is that lunch is timed right. You don’t have to find food near a beach. You’re already on the water, and the crew feeds you in between swims. That alone can save you the stress of searching for a meal in town while everyone else is waiting.

Water slides and the glassbottom setup: fun vs expectations

The boat includes water slides, and that’s one of the reasons this trip stays fun even for people who aren’t die-hard swimmers. After a swim break, sliding back into action can feel like a built-in reset button. It’s also a nice choice for families because kids often want a repeat experience.

Now, about the glassbottom part. The experience is described as a glassbottom-style cruise, but the reality seems mixed. Some passengers enjoy the view from glass openings on board, while others have felt the underwater viewing is more limited than the name suggests. So here’s the healthy way to interpret it: plan for swimming first, and treat any glass viewing as a small extra.

In practice, this also explains the different opinions you’ll hear. If you’re expecting a big, dramatic undersea show, you may be disappointed. If you’re happy with clean, modern boat time plus two swims in good water, you’ll probably feel satisfied.

One more practical note from what people experienced on the day: the vibe can depend on sound levels. If you’re seated near a speaker, music can feel loud. If that happens, it’s worth politely speaking up. Some crew members will adjust when asked, and that can make the day more comfortable, especially for families or anyone sensitive to noise.

Price and value at $48.27

At $48.27 per person, this cruise is priced like a mid-range day tour. The key to the value is what you get without needing extra planning:

• Two admissions included for the swim areas
• Lunch included (souvlaki, Greek style)
• Boat-based water access with stairs entry at about 3 meters during the first stop
• Water slides included
• A ride that starts and ends in Ouranoupolis, so you avoid a longer day of transportation puzzles

What’s not included matters just as much. You’ll still need to cover:

• Snacks and drinks
• Snorkeling equipment (not included)

So think of it as a “pay once, swim twice” deal. If you would otherwise pay for boat access plus lunch, you’re likely getting decent value. If you already have snorkeling gear and you only care about one swim, you might question whether you want two scheduled swim breaks in the day.

Another value point is group size. With a maximum of 100 travelers, you’re not on a huge mega-boat. Still, seating and getting comfortable on deck can depend on arrival time, which is why early arrival is worth the effort.

Who should book this cruise, and who should skip it

Book it if:

• You want two swim sessions without doing any travel planning once you’re at the dock
• You like the idea of swimming from a boat, not hiking from shore to shore
• You’ll enjoy simple boat fun like water slides
• Lunch timing and inclusion matter to you (souvlaki is included, and vegetarian meals can be arranged if you request)

Consider a different option if:

• Underwater viewing is your main goal. Glass viewing may not match the bigger picture you might be imagining from the name.
• You hate being on a schedule. This is a timed cruise, with about 6 hours total.
• You’re not comfortable swimming. The stops are built for water play, not sightseeing-only.

This is also a friendly choice for families because it’s structured and lively. The crew tends to be supportive, and the setup makes it easy to keep everyone together. The experience allows service animals, and it’s offered in English.

If you’re traveling with friends who want different levels of activity, the cruise usually works because some people swim longer while others stay on deck, and you’re still all in the same place for lunch and the ride.

Should you book this Blue Lagoon Vourvourou Lunch Cruise from Ouranoupolis?

If you’re deciding between a beach day and a boat day, I’d lean toward this one for most people, because it solves three common problems: it includes lunch, it delivers swimming access without hassle, and it gives you two different water spots in one outing.

My “yes” comes with one condition: manage your expectations about glassbottom viewing. Treat it as a bonus, not the main attraction. Also, plan your timing. Arrive early if you want a good deck seat, especially if you care about being outside near the bow.

If you want an easy half-day that feels like a real Greek summer day, this cruise is a strong pick. You’ll spend your time in the water, you’ll eat without chasing lunch, and you’ll head back to Ouranoupolis while the rest of the day is still young.

FAQ

What is the duration of the Blue Lagoon-Vourvourou Lunch Cruise from Ouranoupolis?

The cruise lasts about 6 hours (approx.).

What time does the tour start and where do we meet?

It starts at 11:00 am, meeting at the Byzantine Tower of Prosphorion, Tower Prosforios, Ouranoupoli 630 75, Greece. The activity ends back at the same meeting point.

What are the main stops on the itinerary?

You visit Vourvourou Bay (the Blue Lagoon-Vourvourou islet area) and then Alykes beach (at the port of the beach).

Is lunch included, and can I request a vegetarian meal?

Yes. After the first stop, you’ll be served a Greek traditional lunch during the cruise. For a vegetarian meal, you need to inform the provider 1 day before.

Is snorkeling equipment included?

No. Snorkeling equipment use is not included.

Are snacks and drinks included?

No. Snacks and drinks are not included.

What is the cancellation policy if weather is bad?

You can cancel for a full refund up to 24 hours in advance. The experience requires good weather, and if it is canceled due to poor weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.