Rina Cave & South Naxos Traditional Boat Trip from Panermos
by Gialitissa Boat Trips, since 2010
Welcome to Panermos for a unique boat trip aboard Gialitissa
Since 2010, Captain Giannis and our family have been welcoming guests and friends from all around the world aboard our traditional wooden boats. With a deep love for our island and a passion for sharing our stories, we take you on an authentic 2-hour trip to Rina Cave and the pristine, sheltered beaches of southern Naxos—accessible only by boat.
More than just a tour-
it's a visit to our home
Tour info:
- Departure: Daily departures from Panermos Port, South Naxos — a quiet, wind-protected bay on the southern coast.
- Destination: Rina Cave and secluded south Naxos beaches accessible exclusively by boat.
- Locally hosted boat tour: Led by Captain Giannis and local crew born and raised in these waters, offering authentic stories and local secrets.
- Boat: Traditional wooden vessels, Gialitissa (capacity: 10 guests) and Agios Nikolaos (capacity: 20 guests), fully certified and compliant with all official safety regulations.
- Experience: Swim into Rina Cave with our experienced crew, followed by extra time for relaxation, snorkeling and coastal exploration.
- Duration: 2 hours.
- Local Specialization: Dedicated to the unspoiled southern coast of Naxos since 2010, offering deep local expertise in Panermos and Rina Cave. .
Rates & Options 2027
- 25 € per adult
- 10 € per child (up to 12 years old)
- 280 € private boat trip per group (up to 10 guests)
What is included:
- Local captain & experienced crew
- Snorkeling equipment (masks & snorkels)
- Swimming & flotation aid equipment (safety gear)
- Complimentary trip photos & videos
- All local taxes & port fees
MAY 2027
2-Hour Shared Trip Departures:
- 11:00
- 13:30
- 16:00
2-Hour Private Trip Departures:
- 12:00
- 14:30
- 16:30
JUNE 2027
2-Hour Shared Trip Departures:
- 11:00
- 13:30
- 16:00
2-Hour Private Trip Departures:
- 12:00
- 14:30
- 16:30
JULY 2027
2-Hour Shared Trip Departures:
- 11:00
- 13:30
- 16:00
2-Hour Private Trip Departures:
- 10:00
- 12:00
- 14:30
- 16:30
AUGUST 2027
2-Hour Shared Trip Departures:
- 11:00
- 13:30
- 16:00
2-Hour Private Trip Departures:
- 10:00
- 12:00
- 14:30
- 16:30
SEPTEMBER 2027
2-Hour Shared Trip Departures:
- 11:00
- 13:30
- 16:00
2-Hour Private Trip Departures:
- 12:00
- 14:30
- 16:30
OCTOBER 2027
2-Hour Boat Trip:
- 10:30
- 13:00
- 15:30
The Story of Our Traditional Boats
Gialitissa
Built in Syros in 1960 entirely from wood, Gialitissa originally sailed the Aegean as a traditional sponge-diving boat under full canvas. Later used as a local Naxian fishing boat, it entered a new chapter in 2010 when Captain Giannis restored it to carry guests. Today, with a capacity of 10 passengers, it offers an intimate, authentic wooden-boat experience along the south coast of Naxos.
Agios Nikolaos
Crafted from wood in Perama in 1980, Agios Nikolaos served for years as a traditional fishing boat. In 2018, Captain Giannis brought it from Astypalea to Naxos, marking a beautiful new chapter — the same year we got married and dreamed of making Panermos our life. Today, with a capacity of 20 passengers, it offers ample space for guests and families to experience the beauty of South Naxos.
Our Guests' Experience
Rated 5/5 ✨ by 1k+ travelers. Discover why guests and travel bloggers consistently recommend Gialitissa as the best boat tour in Naxos island for an authentic sea experience.
The Team
Since 2010, our family has been welcoming guests to Panermos in South Naxos. With local captains at the helm and a team that feels like home, Gialitissa Boat Trips is all about warm hospitality, authentic sea stories, and genuine Naxian care.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Do you offer boat tours to Koufonissi?
We do not offer boat tours to Koufonissi.
Instead, the focus is on short, authentic sea experiences along the south coast of Naxos, ideal for travelers seeking a more relaxed and local side of the island.
Departures take place exclusively from the peaceful bay of Panermos, one of the island’s most sheltered areas on the south side of Naxos. This is home — and a big part of what makes these small-group boat trips unique and memorable.
Why Choose the South Coast of Naxos?
- Consistently calmer waters: The south coast of Naxos is naturally more protected from the summer Meltemi winds, offering a smoother, safer, and more comfortable boat experience on most days.
- A true local experience: The route focuses on nearby sea caves, hidden coves, and unspoiled coastline that remains largely untouched by mass tourism, perfect for swimming, snorkeling, and relaxing in nature.
- Perfect timing for day trips: The 2-hour boat trip allows plenty of time to explore Rina Cave and enjoy the sea without giving up the rest of the day — many guests combine the tour with a visit to traditional mountain villages like Filoti, Apiranthos or Moni in central Naxos.
Boat Tours to Koufonissi and Island Hopping
For island hopping or a full-day trip to Koufonissi and the Small Cyclades, a ferry or a different boat tour operator is the most suitable option.
For those who want to experience the quiet, authentic side of Naxos by sea, with short, scenic boat trips from Panermos on the south coast, this is the right place.
Why Panermos Is One of the Best Starting Points for a Boat Tour in Naxos?
Why many guests choose Panermos as a starting point
Many visitors prefer beginning their Naxos boat trip from Panermos for its sheltered location, easy access to natural attractions, and peaceful atmosphere.
- Sheltered from Meltemi winds. The south coast of Naxos is naturally more protected from the summer Meltemi winds. While sea conditions always depend on the day, Panermos often offers smoother and more comfortable waters, especially compared to more exposed routes around Naxos.
- Quick access to Rina Cave. Panermos is the closest departure point to Rina Cave, one of Naxos' most famous sea landmarks. Less travel time means more time swimming, snorkeling, exploring sea caves, and enjoying the crystal-clear waters.
- A quieter, more authentic atmosphere. Starting away from the busy port of Naxos Chora creates a peaceful, uncrowded setting that feels closer to the island's traditional rhythm, local life, and unspoiled coastline.
- A complete island experience in one day. Driving from Naxos Town to Panermos leads through picturesque mountain villages and scenic inland roads, offering the perfect introduction to the island's rich culture, local traditions, and breathtaking landscapes before heading out to sea.
- History and local stories. This part of Naxos is rich in history and mythology. The local host shares stories and insights that connect the sea, the land, and the island's past, turning the boat trip into a more meaningful and memorable experience.
Starting from Panermos is not about being "better" than other locations on Naxos.
It is about offering a calmer, more personal way to discover the hidden side of Naxos, combining a scenic drive, authentic villages, and a relaxed boat trip along the south coast.