Spetses sits at the edge of the Saronic Gulf with a coastline that rewards anyone willing to get out on the water. The town beaches are fine for a morning dip, but the island's best spots - tucked-away coves, a sea cave, and clear water channels toward Hydra - are only reachable by boat. Whether you rent a small motorboat and go at your own pace, or book a skippered tour on a traditional wooden vessel, a day on the water here tends to be the highlight of the trip.
- Boat types: Self-drive motorboats (no license for under 30hp), skippered Kaiki wooden boats, small speedboats
- Typical cost range: Prices vary by operator and season - check current rates directly with local agencies
- Best season: Late May through September; July and August are busiest (see when to visit)
- Booking tips: Reserve skippered tours at least a day ahead in high season; self-drive boats can often be picked up same-day at the Old Port
Renting a Boat vs. Hiring a Private Tour
Deciding between taking the helm yourself or hiring a local crew changes the entire dynamic of your day on the water. Both options offer distinct advantages depending on your group size and comfort level at sea.
Self-Drive Boats (No License Required)
Operating a small motorboat yourself gives you absolute privacy and schedule flexibility. Rental agencies provide a thorough safety briefing and route suggestions before you leave the dock. You control the pace entirely - drop anchor in a quiet cove, stay as long as you like, and move on when the mood strikes.
These smaller vessels are ideal for couples or small families staying close to the Spetses shoreline. Keep in mind that you are responsible for navigation and anchoring. It requires a bit of attention, but the reward is a highly personalised adventure. No marine license is required for engines up to 30 horsepower.
Prices vary by operator - check current rates directly with local agencies at the Old Port.
Traditional Kaiki Tours with a Captain
Booking a skippered tour usually means stepping aboard a classic, handcrafted wooden boat. These vessels offer significant space, stability, and shade. A local crew handles all the logistics, from navigating tricky winds to finding the perfect anchor spot.
The real advantage is the insider knowledge. Captains know which coves stay sheltered from the prevailing afternoon breeze. The crew sets up SUP boards, hands out snorkeling gear, and serves fresh fruit platters on deck. It shifts the experience from an active task to pure relaxation.
Top Boat Routes from the Island
Spetses serves as an ideal base for exploring the surrounding waters of the Saronic Gulf. The routes below each offer a different coastal character.
Round-the-Island Tour (Zogeria and Bekiri Cave)
Circling Spetses takes you away from the busy main town and into pine-fringed bays. Zogeria beach is a mandatory stop - the water is striking in colour and calm enough for comfortable snorkeling.
Further along the coast lies Bekiri Cave, a sea cave best accessed directly by boat. Anchor outside the entrance, swim inside, and you step into a cool shaded chamber that contrasts sharply with the bright Mediterranean sun above. The round-island route takes roughly 4 to 5 hours at a relaxed pace, depending on how long you linger at each stop.
Day Trips to Dokos Island and Hydra
Heading east across the channel brings you to the uninhabited island of Dokos. The landscape is rugged, the bays completely silent. It ranks among the best spots in the area for uninterrupted snorkeling and diving off the boat.
Combining Dokos with a stop at Hydra makes for a full-day expedition. You swim in remote coves during the morning, then dock at Hydra's picturesque port for a late lunch at a waterfront tavern. The crossing between islands typically takes under 45 minutes from Spetses.
Sunset Cruises in the Saronic Gulf
Late afternoon changes the colour palette of the sea and sky entirely. Departing just before twilight allows for a quiet swim while the crowds are heading back to their hotels. The sea surface is generally calmer during these hours.
Relaxing on deck with a cold drink as the sun drops below the horizon makes for a memorable close to the day. The return trip to the Old Port happens under early evening stars, with the coastal lights of Spetses guiding the way back.
What to Expect: Practical Details and Logistics
Understanding the onboard setup helps you pack correctly and avoid surprises at the marina.
Fuel Policies and Included Amenities
Skippered private charters almost always include the cost of diesel fuel in the quoted package. The crew ensures the boat is fully stocked, clean, and ready for departure. Towels, snorkeling masks, fins, and basic refreshments are standard provisions on most tours.
Self-drive rentals handle fuel differently. The tank is full at check-in, and consumed fuel is calculated on your return to the dock. Bring your own beach towels and a cooler with snacks if you plan to stay out for the full day.
Boarding Points and Departure Times
Most private tours and rental boats depart from the Old Port (Baltiza). Some operators coordinate alternative pickup points along the coast, including from Porto Heli or Agios Emilianos on the mainland, on request. Departures are typically early morning - around 9:00 AM - to make the most of calm morning waters, which also works well if you are arriving on the first ferry from Piraeus.
What to Bring
Pack high-factor sunscreen, a light windproof jacket for the late afternoon breeze, and appropriate footwear for boarding. Skippered tours provide snorkeling gear and towels, but personal swimwear and a waterproof camera for the sea caves are worth adding to the bag.
