If you’re spending time in Halkidiki and you haven’t been out on the water yet, you’re missing the best part. The area around Vourvourou hides a paradise that most tourists never get to see, a cluster of 9 small islands sitting right off the coast, with beaches so clear and quiet that they feel like a different world. The only way to get there? By boat.
That’s exactly what we do at Swan Luxury Boat Rentals. We help you get out there, explore, and come back with memories you’ll actually talk about.
Vourvourou is a small village on the Sithonia peninsula in Halkidiki, and it’s one of those places that looks almost too good to be real. The bay is calm, the water is warm, and the islands are right there in front of you.
Most people who come to Vourvourou spend their time on the main beach. That’s perfectly fine. But if you want to see what this part of Halkidiki really looks like, the hidden coves, the empty beaches, the water that shifts from green to deep blue, you need to get on a boat.
Diaporos is the largest of the 9 islands near Vourvourou, and it’s the one everyone talks about after they come back.
The water around Diaporos is the kind you see in travel magazines and think “that can’t be real.” It is. The beaches are clean and mostly empty because the only way to get there is by boat. The scenery is magical, just the sea and pine trees.
It’s a great spot to anchor, jump in, have lunch on board and spend a few hours doing absolutely nothing. Or you can explore the coastline, find a quiet corner of the island and make it yours for the afternoon.
Most of our boats don’t require a skipper’s licence to rent. If you’re comfortable on the water and want to do things your own way, this is the option for you. You’ll get a full briefing before you head out, where to go, what to watch out for, how to handle the boat, and then you’re free to explore!
This is honestly the most popular choice. There’s something about steering your own boat out to Diaporos that makes the whole day feel more like an adventure.
Not confident on the water? No problem. We have experienced local skippers who know these islands well. They’ll take you where the good spots are, handle the boat, and let you focus on enjoying the day. Great option for families with young kids or anyone who just wants to switch off completely.
Want to see exactly what we have available? Check out our full fleet here and find the right boat for your group size and plans.
Not sure how to plan a boat day around Vourvourou? Here’s a rough idea of how most of our customers spend their time:
Morning: Pick up your boat, get your briefing, head out early before it gets too hot. The water is calm in the morning and the light is incredible.
Mid-morning: Anchor off Diaporos, swim, explore the beach. This is the time to find a good spot before other boats arrive.
Lunch: Most people bring food and eat on board. There’s nothing better than lunch on a boat with the island in the background. We’re happy to point you toward the best spots to pick up food in Vourvourou before you set off.
Afternoon: Keep exploring. Head to one or two more islands, find a shallow bay for more swimming, or just drift and enjoy the sun.
Late afternoon: Head back. The bay at Vourvourou looks stunning in the afternoon light.
It’s a simple day, but it’s the kind you remember for years.
No licence needed for most of our boats, just a valid ID and a basic briefing.
Groups of all sizes are welcome. We have boats that work for couples, families and bigger groups. Check our services page for more details on what’s included.
Book ahead in peak season. July and August fill up fast. If you know your dates, don’t leave it too late.
The best months to visit are June, early July and September. The weather is perfect, the water is warm and it’s noticeably quieter than the peak summer rush.
Absolutely. Families are very welcome. Let us know the ages of your children when you book and we’ll help you choose the best boat and route for a safe, fun day out.
Sunscreen, water, food if you want to eat on board, a towel, and a waterproof bag for your phone and valuables. We’ll take care of the rest.
Yes. We take you through everything before you leave, how to operate the boat, what to do in different situations, and the areas to avoid. Our team is also reachable by phone throughout the day.
There’s a reason people come back to Vourvourou every summer. The islands, the water, the freedom of a day on your own boat!
We’d love to be part of your trip!
