6 Hours Kimolos and Poliegos islands Private tour

Exploring Kimolos and Poliegos: A 6-Hour Private Island Adventure

In the world of Greek island hopping, few tours promise such an immersive and authentic experience as the 6-hour private trip around Kimolos and Poliegos. While this tour is compact, it’s packed with moments of awe—from secluded beaches to dramatic sea caves and historic lighthouses—delivered in a personalized setting that ensures comfort and flexibility.

What makes this experience particularly appealing is the chance to see some of the most untouched and photogenic spots in the Cyclades, away from the crowds. We especially love how the tour prioritizes secluded swimming spots and rare vistas that most visitors miss. On the flip side, due to the tight schedule and the focus on multiple stops, you might find less time at each location than you’d hope for a truly leisurely day. This tour is ideal for travelers who want an authentic, scenic escape with a sense of adventure, all wrapped into a manageable half-day adventure.

Key Points

• Personalized Experience: Only your group participates, ensuring a tailored, flexible outing.
• Unmatched Seclusion: Access to private beaches, caves, and bays largely untouched by travelers.
• Perfect for Nature Lovers: Clear waters, dramatic rock formations, and snorkeling opportunities are highlights.
• Expert Local Knowledge: The guides know the islands intimately, sharing insights and stories.
• Value for Money: At just under $1,500 for seven people, it’s a unique and intimate way to explore.
• Weather Dependent: Cancellation policies mean good weather is essential for the best experience.

An In-Depth Look at the 6-Hour Kimolos and Poliegos Private Tour

This tour, offered by A La Mer, is designed for small groups (up to 7 people), making it an intimate and flexible way to explore two of Greece’s most striking Cycladic islands. At around $1,475, it offers an experience that balances exclusivity with value, considering the itinerary’s richness. Booking on average 64 days in advance indicates high demand, which is a testament to its popularity among travelers seeking authentic island adventures.

Starting Point: From Platis Gialos Marina

The day kicks off at the lively Platis Gialos marina, where you’ll meet your skipper and hop aboard a private boat. The boat is your gateway to a day of discovery, offering the freedom to stop, swim, and explore at your own pace. The fact that this is a private tour means your group can tailor the experience, whether it’s lingering at a favorite spot or moving swiftly to the next.

First Stop: Secluded Soufi Beach on Kimolos

Departing southwest from Sifnos, your journey takes you through the Kitriani-Sifnos strait, a scenic waterway that sets the tone for the day. After about 35 minutes (roughly 9 nautical miles), you arrive at Soufi Beach on Kimolos. This spot is a highlight for its seclusion—rarely crowded even in high season, and often visited only by local goats, according to one reviewer.

The bay is described as “Valium” by the guide, hinting at its calming atmosphere. Here, you’ll enjoy approximately 30 to 45 minutes of swimming in waters renowned for their clarity and turquoise hue. The tranquil setting is perfect for unwinding, and the waters are so inviting you might be tempted to stay longer.

The Marvel of Poliegos: Sea Caves and Iconic Lighthouses

Next, the boat heads southeast for about 15 minutes (around 5 nautical miles) to the uninhabited island of Poliegos. The island is known for its dramatic volcanic landscapes and secret spots.

The first stop on Poliegos is the open-roof cave of Fanara. Its vivid volcanic walls and crystal-clear waters make it a photographer’s paradise. Sitting atop the rocks inside or around the cave provides a unique vantage point, and swimming here is optional but highly recommended. The reviews highlight the awe-inspiring colors of the cave walls and the pristine waters, making it clear why this is a favorite stop.

Continuing south, you’ll visit the Faros Bay, home to the lighthouse built in 1898 by the British. This lighthouse is still operational and offers one of the most photogenic views on the island. Being able to swim in this bay adds to the charm, especially with the lighthouse standing sentinel in the background.

Secluded Bays and Snorkeling Gems

The journey then takes you to the southern tip of Poliegos, passing the famous Indian totem-like rock—a striking natural sculpture. When the boat turns southwest, it often results in calmer, turquoise waters, thanks to the geographic protection from north winds, which is a clever navigational tip from the guides.

A particularly popular spot is a small, secluded bay ideal for snorkeling. With waters so clear they resemble a swimming pool, you’ll get about 45 minutes here, soaking in the serenity and marine life.

Another highlight is Kalogeroi Bay, with its white and pink pebbles and old mine ruins. The boat ventures into caves near sailboat-shaped rocks, and Poliegos Beach is another destination where the waters are so turquoise they seem unreal.

Reviewer quotes reveal how unforgettable these waters are: “waters there are as turquoise as they come, you will think you are in a swimming pool, simply unbelievable clarity and color.” If you’re a fan of extraordinary beaches, this will be a highlight.

Blue Bay and Celebrity-Spotting

The boat then moves to Blue Bay, often considered the most beautiful spot on Poliegos. Here, the waters are so stunningly vivid that it often gets compared to the best swimming pools, and you’ll want to snap plenty of photos. The guide suggests spending about 20 minutes here before heading northwest to Myrsini Beach.

Myrsini is a favorite among luxury yachts, indicating its popularity with the well-heeled. The white sands and clear waters make it an ideal spot for another swim, with around 20 minutes allocated for relaxing here. This stop offers a perfect blend of natural beauty and a dash of local glamour.

Return to Kimolos and Optional Local Experience

As the day winds down, the boat heads back towards Kimolos, passing through the island’s port, Psathi. Travelers who choose to stop here often enjoy a local seaside tavern, To Kyma, for a relaxed lunch or coffee. If time permits, you can explore the beaches on Kimolos’ east coast—Goupa Kara and Prassa, the latter being considered the island’s most beautiful beach, are easily accessible.

The return journey allows for reflection and soaking in the scenic views, with the entire day totaling around 6 hours, including stops and travel time.

Authentic Experiences and Practical Details

What travelers love most about this tour, according to reviews, is the access to secluded spots that larger tour boats can’t reach. The guiding team, including the captain (notably Antonis and Yannis in some reviews), is praised for their friendliness, humor, and local knowledge—vital for making the experience both enjoyable and informative. The boat is described as comfortable, with many reviewers highlighting how the private nature of the tour allows for a relaxed, flexible adventure.

Timing is well-paced, with most stops lasting between 20 and 45 minutes—long enough for swimming, photography, or just soaking up the scenery. The total duration of six hours balances sightseeing with enough downtime to truly appreciate each location without feeling rushed.

The cost of roughly $1,475 for a group of up to seven might seem steep at first glance, but considering the exclusivity, personalized attention, and access to top-tier spots, it offers excellent value. The private nature means you’re not competing with crowds, and the flexibility allows you to customize the day if desired.

Weather plays a crucial role; the tour’s cancellation policy offers full refunds if canceled due to poor weather, emphasizing the importance of clear skies and calm seas for the best experience.

Who Will This Tour Suit?

This private tour is particularly well-suited for small groups seeking a luxurious yet authentic escape into Greece’s lesser-known islands. It’s ideal for couples, families, or friends who value intimacy and personalized experiences. It also appeals to those who want to combine stunning natural beauty with a touch of adventure—snorkeling in crystal waters, exploring caves, and taking photos of iconic lighthouses.

If you’re not in a rush and enjoy spending time in naturally beautiful, less-visited spots, this tour will hit all the right notes. However, if you prefer more leisurely, unhurried exploration, consider the overall schedule, as the itinerary covers a lot of ground in just a few hours.

The Sum Up

This 6-hour private tour of Kimolos and Poliegos offers a rare glimpse into the unspoiled side of the Cyclades, with opportunities to swim in turquoise waters, explore dramatic sea caves, and snap envy-inducing photos of lighthouses and rocky formations. It delivers a personalized, flexible experience that appeals to travelers craving authenticity, seclusion, and natural beauty.

For those who love stunning scenery and snorkeling in crystal-clear waters, the trip is undeniably worth the price, especially given its exclusivity and the chance to visit spots few travelers see. It’s perfect for couples, small groups, or anyone eager to experience Greece’s quieter, more pristine islands.

However, a good weather forecast is essential, as the entire experience hinges on calm seas and sunshine. Be prepared for a busy schedule but a day filled with unforgettable sights, laughter, and a true sense of adventure on the Aegean.

FAQ

How long is this private tour?
The entire experience lasts about 6 hours, including all stops and travel time, making for a full but manageable day.

What is included in the price?
The tour price covers the boat, the private guide/skipper, and access to all the stops. Entrance fees for the beaches and caves are free, as noted.

How many people can join this tour?
Up to 7 guests can participate, ensuring an intimate experience and personalized attention.

Can I customize the itinerary?
Being a private tour, you have some flexibility to suggest stops or spend extra time at certain locations, depending on weather and your preferences.

What should I bring?
Swimwear, towels, sun protection, waterproof camera, and a sense of adventure. Snacks and drinks can be brought onboard, but check with the operator if you wish to bring your own.

Is this tour suitable for children?
Most travelers can participate, but consider the boat ride’s length and the water activities if traveling with very young children.

What if the weather is bad?
The tour is weather-dependent. If canceled due to poor weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

How do I book this tour?
Bookings are made in advance, with most guests booking about 2 months ahead. Contact details and availability can be confirmed directly through the provider’s website or Viator.

In essence, this private boat tour offers a slice of paradise—secluded beaches, vibrant sea caves, and iconic lighthouses—all accessible in just six hours for a small group seeking authentic Greek island magic.