Full Day Mykonos South Coast Cruise with Lunch

Discover the Full Day Mykonos South Coast Cruise with Lunch

This 8-hour cruise around the southern coast of Mykonos offers a relaxed way to explore some of the island’s most beautiful beaches and rugged coastlines. Priced at $108.81 per person, the tour combines scenic sailing, swimming, snorkeling, and a delicious Greek lunch in a scenic beachfront setting. It is ideal for visitors seeking a mix of adventure, relaxation, and authentic Greek cuisine without the need for prior snorkeling experience, as instructions are provided.

The tour departs from Ornos Beach, with options for hotel pickup at an additional cost. It showcases traditional Greek kaiki boats, which add to the sense of authentic sailing, and includes visits to Dragonissi island caves, Frangias Beach, and Kalafatis Bay. While the tour offers beautiful scenery and a good value, it has received mixed reviews, notably for comfort issues and organization, making it most suitable for travelers eager to enjoy the coastline and beaches at a leisurely pace.

Key Points

• Price and Duration: Costs $108.81 per person for about 8 hours of sailing, swimming, and dining.
• Main Highlights: Scenic cruise on a traditional Greek kaiki, stops for swimming and snorkeling at Frangias Beach, and a Greek-style lunch at Kalafatis Beach.
• Stops and Activities: Visit Dragonissi island caves (weather permitting), enjoy water sports on Kalafatis Beach, and relax at Paradise Beach.
• Included in the Tour: Lunch, 1/4 liter of wine, all taxes and fees.
• Additional Costs: Extra drinks, transfers, and personal expenses are not included.
• Group Size: Tours accommodate up to 60 travelers, which can influence comfort and intimacy.

Starting Out at Ornos Beach with Scenic Sail Along the South Coast

The tour begins at Ornos Beach, with meeting times from 09:30 am and a departure at 10:00 am. You can choose to meet at the designated bus/boat stop or opt for hotel pickup for an additional fee, which varies depending on the location. The tour emphasizes sailing on a traditional Greek kaiki, which offers an authentic maritime experience, passing closely by beaches and sea cliffs of the south coast.

This initial cruise offers the chance to admire sandy beaches and rugged rock formations while relaxing aboard the vessel. The 15-minute stop near Nisída Tragonísi allows for photos of the nearby Dragonissi island caves and rock formations, which are admired for their vivid mineral colors and potential sightings of mountain goats and eagles.

Visiting Dragonissi Island Caves and Rock Formations

If weather conditions are favorable, the boat crosses over to Dragonissi, an uninhabited island known for its spectacular caves and colorful waters. The 25-minute stop offers opportunities for photos of the rock formations and mineral-rich waters that create striking color contrasts. This stop is often a highlight, especially for those interested in nature photography or rock formations.

Wildlife enthusiasts might catch glimpses of mountain goats and eagles, adding a touch of wildlife spotting to the experience. As this stop depends on weather conditions, it’s advisable to be flexible, and it is not guaranteed every day.

Swimming and Snorkeling at Frangias Beach

The first major beach stop is Frangias Beach, where the crystal-clear waters invite swimming and snorkeling. The 1-hour stop caters to beginners and experienced snorkelers alike, with snorkel gear supplied and instructions provided—no prior experience needed. The shallow, transparent waters make this an accessible spot for families and those simply wanting to cool off.

After swimming, the tour provides a refreshing snack with wine, Ouzo, and Greek snacks to enjoy on the beach. The relaxed pace allows plenty of time to sunbathe or explore the shoreline before moving on.

Authentic Greek Lunch at Kalafatis Beach

The lunch break takes place at a seafront restaurant in Kalafatis Bay, with lunch included in the tour price. The meal features a personal Greek salad, Tzatziki, bread, and a choice between oven-roast chicken with potatoes or vegetarian pasta. Alongside the meal, there is a 1/4 liter of wine and water.

This scenic dining experience is complemented by views of the sea, creating a perfect setting for relaxation and people-watching. After eating, visitors have time at leisure—a great opportunity to swim, relax on the beach, or indulge in water sports (which are available at extra cost).

Visiting Paradise Beach and the Famous Tropicana Bar

The tour continues to Paradise Beach, known for its vibrant party scene and renowned Tropicana Bar. The 1-hour stop offers a chance to swim again or explore the lively beach environment. The bar has earned fame as one of the best beach bars worldwide, and visitors might observe the party atmosphere.

The stop is ideal for those interested in beach entertainment or simply soaking up the bustling scene. It also provides a last chance for swimming or people-watching before the boat heads back to Ornos Beach, where the tour concludes.

Logistics and Group Size Considerations

The full-day tour starts at 10 am from Ornos, with the option for hotel transfers at an additional fee. The max group size of 60 travelers can affect the comfort level, especially at busy stops like Paradise Beach and on the boat.

The tour is designed to be family-friendly and accessible, with snorkeling instructions provided, but some stops may be crowded, and comfort may vary depending on weather and group size.

Reviewing the Experience: Strengths and Limitations

The main strengths of this cruise include the scenic sailing on a traditional Greek kaiki, opportunities for swimming and snorkeling, and the authentic Greek lunch. The views of the coastline and rock formations are a highlight, especially at Dragonissi island.

However, some limitations are evident from reviews. Comfort issues arise due to limited seating on the boat, and the large group size may diminish intimacy. The coastline itself offers mostly similar scenery, which may feel repetitive for some. Plus, weather-dependent stops mean that some parts of the experience can be unpredictable.

Final Thoughts on the Mykonos South Coast Cruise with Lunch

This tour offers a well-rounded experience for those interested in cruising along Mykonos’ southern coast, enjoying beach stops, water activities, and local cuisine. The value for money is generally appreciated, especially given the included lunch and wine.

Ideal for beach lovers, first-time visitors, or anyone wanting to see more of the coastline without strenuous activity. The large group size and comfort concerns are factors to consider, especially if seeking a more intimate experience. For travelers eager to combine scenic views with relaxing beach time, this cruise provides a practical and scenic option.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is snorkeling included in the tour?
Yes, snorkeling gear is supplied, and instructions are given, making it suitable for beginners.

What is the lunch menu like?
Lunch features Greek salad, Tzatziki, bread, with oven-roast chicken and potatoes or vegetarian pasta. It includes water and a quarter-liter of wine.

Can I join the tour without prior sailing experience?
Absolutely, no prior experience is necessary, as instructions are provided for swimming and snorkeling.

Are transfers available from hotels?
Yes, hotel pickup can be arranged for an additional fee, but must be booked in advance as transfers are not scheduled less than 24 hours before the tour.

What is the best time of year to take this cruise?
The tour is weather-dependent, so the best time is spring through early fall, when conditions typically allow for visible caves and enjoyable water activities.

What makes this tour different from other Mykonos boat trips?
Its focus on authentic Greek sailing, scenic stops at caves and beaches, and lunch at a beachfront restaurant set it apart, despite some feedback about crowds and comfort.