Board a small-group cruise from the tranquil harbour of Ormos Panagias and drift through Halkidiki's blue lagoon — a necklace of deserted islets and translucent bays with Mount Athos looming magnificently in the distance.
What to expect
The boat glides out of the pine-fringed harbour of Ormos Panagias and threads through a scatter of tiny islets, anchoring in two or three successive bays where the water shades from turquoise to deep cobalt. Snorkelling gear is provided; the crew serves chilled watermelon and Greek coffee on deck between swims. As the boat rounds toward Ammouliani the eastern face of the Athos Peninsula comes into full view — a 2,000-metre pyramid of forest and rock capped by the monastery of the Great Lavra. It is the kind of view that reframes your sense of the Mediterranean entirely.
Good to know
Departs Ormos Panagias on the Sithonia coast. Confirm exact departure point and timing with operator at booking. Typically a half-day to full-day excursion; ideal for a mid-morning departure. Bring cash for any onboard extras, a dry bag for valuables and reef-safe sunscreen.