The best way to see Mykonos isn't from the land -- it's from the water. Boat tours range from 2-hour sunset cruises to full-day catamaran trips with swimming, lunch, and island-hopping. Most include a professional captain, drinks, and stops at beaches and coves you can't reach by road.
In this guide
Mykonos's coastline is dotted with hidden coves, sea caves, and small beaches that have no road access. The south coast beaches are connected by water taxis, and the uninhabited islands of Rhenia and Delos sit just across the strait. A boat tour opens up all of it -- and the view of Mykonos Town's white cube buildings from the water is one of those "this is why I came to Greece" moments.
The market is crowded with operators, which means good options at every price point. Here's how to navigate it.
What Types of Boat Tours Are Available?
| Tour Type | Duration | Price Range | What's Included |
|---|---|---|---|
| Sunset cruise | 2-3 hours | 40-80 EUR | Drinks, snacks, sunset views |
| Half-day catamaran | 4-5 hours | 80-130 EUR | Swimming stops, lunch, drinks |
| Full-day catamaran | 6-8 hours | 120-180 EUR | Multiple stops, lunch, unlimited drinks, Delos/Rhenia |
| Private RIB/speedboat | 3-5 hours | 300-600+ EUR (per boat) | Custom route, beach hopping, snorkelling |
| Private yacht charter | Full day | 500-2,000+ EUR | Luxury, personalised itinerary, gourmet meals |
| Beach-hopping water taxi | Per trip | 10-15 EUR per hop | Point-to-point between south coast beaches |
The half-day catamaran cruise is the sweet spot for most visitors -- enough time for 2-3 swimming stops and a proper meal, without committing an entire day.
Where Do Tours Depart From?
Most tours leave from the Old Port (Mykonos Town) or the New Port (Tourlos). Some private operators can pick you up directly from south coast beaches:
Possible pickup points for private tours: Ornos, Platis Gialos, Psarou, Paraga, Paradise, Agrari, Kalafatis, Kalo Livadi, and Agios Ioannis.
Many operators include hotel pickup and drop-off in the tour price, especially for the more premium options.
What Will You See?
Mykonos Town from the Water
Every boat tour passes along the Mykonos Town waterfront. From the sea, you see the full sweep of the white-cube buildings, Little Venice's colourful houses overhanging the water, and the Kato Mili windmills on the hill. It's the postcard shot, and it's better from a boat than from anywhere on land.
South Coast Beaches
The south coast has Mykonos's best swimming -- sheltered from the Meltemi wind, with clear water and golden sand. Boats stop at one or more of: Ornos, Platis Gialos, Paraga, Paradise, Super Paradise, and Elia. Some tours let you choose which beaches to visit.
Secret Coves
Several operators market "secret coves" -- small, boat-only-access bays along the coastline. These are genuinely uncrowded and the snorkelling is good in the rocky shallows. The specific locations vary by operator and conditions on the day.
Rhenia Island
The uninhabited island next to Delos. Clear turquoise water, no crowds, no development. Most full-day cruises include a swimming stop here, and some include a simple lunch on board while anchored in a sheltered bay. It's beautiful in the way that only an empty Greek island can be.
Delos
Some tours combine a Rhenia swimming stop with a pass by Delos (the archaeological island). Note: landing on Delos requires separate entry tickets and isn't included in all boat tours. The dedicated Delos tour is a separate experience -- see the Delos day trip guide for details.
How to Choose the Right Tour
Choose a sunset cruise if: - You want a short, atmospheric evening experience - You're on a budget - You've already done beach-hopping during the day
Choose a half-day catamaran if: - You want swimming, lunch, and sailing in one package - You want the best balance of time and value - You're visiting with a partner or small group
Choose a full-day cruise if: - You want to see Rhenia/Delos and the south coast beaches - You want a full day on the water with everything included - You don't mind spending most of a day on a boat
Choose a private charter if: - You're a group of 4+ and want to split the cost - You want a custom route and schedule - You're celebrating something (the operators are well-practised at honeymoons, birthdays, and proposals)
What Should You Know Before Booking?
- Check what's included. The price difference between tours often comes down to inclusions. A "cheap" tour with no food or drinks can end up costing more than a pricier all-inclusive option.
- Free cancellation is standard with most platforms (GetYourGuide, Viator) up to 24 hours before. Book early, cancel if plans change.
- Tours run in most weather. Operators generally go out in everything short of heavy storms. Some boats have covered areas if it rains. The Meltemi wind is the main disruptor -- it can make the sea choppy and occasionally forces cancellations.
- Arrive 15-20 minutes early for boarding and the safety briefing.
- Bring: Sunscreen, sunglasses, hat, swimsuit, towel, waterproof phone case. Don't bring: Heavy bags, high expectations about phone signal at sea, a full stomach if you get seasick.
- Seasickness: The waters between Mykonos and Rhenia/Delos can be choppy when the Meltemi blows. If you're prone to motion sickness, take medication before boarding, choose a larger catamaran (more stable), and sit at the back of the boat.
- Private tours can pickup from beaches. If you're staying on the south coast and don't want to travel to Mykonos Town first, some operators will collect you from Ornos, Platis Gialos, or other beaches.
- Respect Delos. If your tour includes a Delos stop, remember it's a UNESCO-protected archaeological site. Follow the rules -- no removing anything, stay on the paths, no swimming from Delos itself.
When Is the Best Time?
May-June and September-October -- Calmer seas, warm weather, fewer boats on the water. The best overall conditions.
July-August -- Warmest water, longest days, but the Meltemi wind makes for choppier seas and occasional cancellations. Morning departures tend to have calmer conditions than afternoon.
April and November -- Some operators run reduced schedules. Water is cooler for swimming but the sailing is still pleasant.
Mykonos boat tours range from 2-hour sunset cruises (~40 EUR) to full-day catamarans (~150 EUR) to private yachts (~500+ EUR). Most depart from the Old Port or New Port. Half-day catamaran with lunch is the best all-round option. Book with free cancellation in case of weather changes.
Planning more adventures on the island? Browse our complete guide to the best day trips from Mykonos.
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