While visiting Karpathos Island in Greece, we took an amazing boat trip to the nearby Saria Island. This was my top best thing ever during our 2024 trip to Greece. Definitely the best boat tour I have ever been on anywhere! Nikos from Nikos Boat, located in Diafani, Karpathos, was our guide. I highly recommend Nikos and his tour. Truly top of the must do lists when in Karpathos.
Nikos Boat, Karpathos to Saria Island Tour
Nikos Boat is located in Diafani Karpathos. There are several different boat tours that Nikos guides, including the one we loved to Saria Island. He has been hosting boat tours for over 30 years and his experience is evident with the ease in which he guides his tours, his knowledge of the area, and also his hospitality.
Leaving Diafani
It was a bit of a drive from our hotel to Diafani but we made it and excitedly boarded Niko’s boat. It was fun to be aboard and watch the village of Diafani become smaller and smaller as we went further out to sea.
Cave of Troulakas
Our first stop was the Cave of Troulakas which is located just north of Diafani and still on the island of Karpathos. This sea cave is the perfect place for a swim and also a perfect way to cool off in the beautiful azure waters. I can’t explain how exhilarating it felt to jump into the water and swim around.
Continuing On
We continued on, gliding along the beautiful sea with great views of the picturesque coastline. It was a perfect day for a boat trip, and Nikos also gave us information and insight of the area as we cruised along. It is amazing how beautiful this water is. There are no filters on these photos, just the natural beauty.
Saria Island
We arrived at our main destination of the day, Saria Island. We docked at Palatia Beach, meaning Palaces. This is a beautiful beach and the perfect place to spend the day.
Saria is a small island just north of Karpathos, and although millions of years ago it was once part of Karpathos. It is now separated by a 100m (109 yd) strait of water where it once connected.This island is a rocky seasonally inhabited (minimally) island with lots of goats. There are also ruins on Saria including an ancient city, temple to Apollo, an Acropolis, Christian Basilica, and more.
We settled our belongings at Niko’s spot, under the shade of a large tree with tables. Nikos then took us to a small chapel; I believe it is called Agia Sofia. It is also built over the remains of a 5th-century basilica. There is evidence of the basilica with remains in the area; below is a column and a mosaic floor nearby. Although I would have enjoyed exploring more of this area, it was just too hot, and the cool sea was calling.
Snorkeling Through the Sea Caves
Our next adventure on the island was again led by Nikos and it was so amazing! From shore, we swam to the sea caves lining the cliffs of the bay with Nikos in the lead. This is one of the most spectacular swims and snorkeling experiences I have ever had in a sea cave. Not only did it feel magical. but it also was exhilarating. My underwater photos are taken using my Olympus Tough Digital Camera. We have been using this camera since 2021 and although not perfect, it does take some pretty good underwater photos.
Lunch
We definitely worked up an appetite and had time to rest while Nikos prepared lunch. I was so amazed by this man! He worked so very hard to give each of us a great experience and both Steve and I appreciated all he did. Lunch was delicious and also filling
Exploring a Bit
After lunch, Steve and I walked a bit around the island and up one side of the cliff. The views were amazing. We would have loved to explore more, but it was hot and I was ready to return to the water to cool off.
Swimming Bliss
Swimming, or should I say floating, in the bay here was the most peaceful, serene moment I have ever had. The feeling of inner peace is a feeling I take myself back to. Whenever I have a rough moment I close my eyes and imagine myself floating here and feeling that inner peace. There are places in this world we connect to and feel almost a part of, this is one of those places I felt that way.
Alimounta Beach
Although time almost seemed to stand still when I was floating, all too soon it was time to pack up again and head back to sea. As we cruised to the next beach, we passed awesome rock formations and enjoyed hearing Nikos talk about the area and it’s history.
Our next stop was Alimounta Beach where we had the chance to swim one more time in these beautiful waters. Another perfect day.
Back to Diafani
We returned to Diafani, enjoying the ride over the sea filled with contentment and sweet exhaustion, the kind you get after having a wonderful day outdoors. We would have loved to wander through Diafani but wanted to get back to our hotel before night fall as we had to drive over the curvy, narrow road through the mountains.
Where We Ate
Once we returned to our hotel in Lakki, we walked up the hill to the Four Seasons Restaurant. This place was amazing. The food was excellent and the staff was friendly and full of smiles. We enjoyed it so much we also returned the next evening.
Conclusion
The only way I can express the enjoyment of this day is by calling it absolutely perfect! Nikos Boat stands out as the best boat tour I’ve ever experienced, surpassing every catamaran endeavor. There are no extravagant drinks or blaring party tunes, just a pure, grounding experience surrounded by nature’s beauty. This is truly how Greece ought to be enjoyed and savored! Beyond the breathtaking journey, Nikos himself is exceptional, ensuring that everyone enjoys their day. I recommend to anyone visiting Karpathos to book this boat trip to Saria Island; in fact, it’s a great reason to choose Karpathos as your destination just to enjoy this unforgettable tour!
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The Gen-X Travels recommendations for hotels, restaurants, activities or tour companies are based on our own experiences unless noted. We are not sponsored by any business or company and all trips are at our expense. All photos are by myself or my husband unless otherwise noted. We are affiliates of some companies such as Amazon,Viator, and others which we do receive a small commission from, at no cost to you if you buy or book through one of our links.
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Another wonderful post with beautiful pics!
Thank you, Rick! I loved everything about this tour.
Wow, it’s beautiful, it does look like the perfect day. Maggie
One I will never forget!
Amazing trip. Gorgeous photos.
Thank you!
What an amazing experience. Love the sea shots in particular.
The sea is such a beautiful blue! So magical!
What an amazing experience swimming in those caves. I’m a touch jealous.
It was beyond amazing. One of those magical moments in life that you keep close to your heart.
The boat trip sounds like such a fun excursion. The colour of the water is gorgeous around the sea caves. Looks like there’s a lot of great spots to swim and enjoy the scenery.
The water color is just out of this world beautiful! And so clear! We really enjoyed this adventure!