Full Day Mykonos South Coast Cruise with Lunch

Taking a boat trip along Mykonos’s south coast promises a blend of scenic views, refreshing swims, and a taste of local Greek hospitality. This particular tour, offered by MTM TOURISM GREECE OE, is designed for those who want to explore the island’s best beaches without the hassle of planning logistics. It’s a solid choice for travelers craving a relaxing day on the water with a dash of adventure and cultural flavor.

What we love about this experience is the opportunity to see multiple beaches and natural wonders in one day, all while enjoying the comfort of a traditional Greek kaiki boat. The inclusion of lunch at a beachfront restaurant adds real value, turning this into a well-rounded day out. However, some travelers have noted that the group size and seating can feel crowded, and the overall pace might not suit those seeking a more intimate or leisurely trip. Still, if you’re after a fun, social, and scenic excursion, this tour should suit well.

This cruise is ideal for first-time visitors to Mykonos, those who enjoy moderate adventure with comfortable touches, and travelers looking for a cost-effective way to explore the coastline. If you’re open to a lively atmosphere and don’t mind sharing space with up to 60 other travelers, you’ll find this trip offers a lot of value for the price.

Key Points

• Scenic Coastal Views: Pass by iconic beaches, caves, and rock formations with ample photo opportunities.
• Snorkeling & Swimming: Enjoy swimming in crystal-clear waters at Frangias Beach with provided gear and instructions.
• Authentic Greek Cuisine: Tuck into a homemade-style lunch with wine, water, and traditional snacks.
• Flexible Itinerary: Multiple stops at beaches and natural sights, including a possible visit to uninhabited Dragonissi Island.
• Guides & Atmosphere: Knowledgeable guides (like Olivia) enhance the experience, adding local insights and fun.
• Group Size & Comfort: Up to 60 travelers can mean limited seating and space, depending on the crowd.

A Deep Dive into the Experience

Meeting & Departure

The tour begins at Ornos Beach, a lively spot that’s easy to access if you’re staying on or near Mykonos. The start time is 10 am, with check-in from 9:30 am. Travelers can choose to meet at the designated spot or pay extra for hotel transfers, which many might find convenient given the busy island traffic. The tour size caps at 60 people, which is a decent number but can mean a crowded boat, especially during peak season.

The Boat & Navigational Highlights

The vessel is a traditional Greek kaiki, which adds an authentic touch to the cruise. It’s a nostalgic vessel, with its wooden finish and classic design, making for a picturesque journey. The cruise along the south coast showcases stunning views of sandy beaches and rocky cliffs, perfect for snapping photos or simply soaking in the scenery.

One of the tour’s standout features is the opportunity to cross over to Dragonissi Island, weather permitting. This uninhabited island is famous for its caves and unusual rock formations. Reviewers have noted that the mineral-rich waters and caves create vibrant colors, and if luck is on your side, you might spot mountain goats and eagles. This natural spectacle is a real highlight, especially for geology or photography buffs.

Beach Stops & Activities

The first real stop is Frangias Beach, a natural spot ideal for swimming and snorkeling. The water is described as crystal-clear, perfect for a quick dip or exploring underwater life. The experience here is relaxed, with snorkeling gear supplied free of charge, and instructions are provided, so no prior experience is necessary. One reviewer mentioned that the short 10-minute snorkeling sessions are enough for most people to get a glimpse of the underwater world without feeling rushed.

Following this, the tour heads to Kalafatis Bay, where a Greek-style lunch awaits by the seaside. The meal includes Greek salad, Tzatziki, bread, oven-roast chicken with potatoes or vegetarian pasta, along with water and a quarter-liter of wine. Reviewers have praised the deliciousness of the lunch and the beautiful setting, which makes for a memorable dining experience. Post-lunch, there’s time for beach relaxation or water sports, though these are extra costs and not included in the tour price.

On the way back, the boat visits Paradise Beach, famous for its lively atmosphere and the Tropicana Bar, which is considered one of the best beach bars worldwide. If you’re keen on seeing the party scene or taking another swim, this stop offers both options in abundance.

The Tour Experience & Authenticity

What sets this tour apart is the friendly and knowledgeable guides, like Olivia, who shared interesting facts about Mykonos and the islands’ natural features. Reviewers appreciated guides who added personality and local insights, making the journey more engaging. The boat’s schedule and punctuality were also noted as positive aspects, with many travelers remarking on how smooth and organized the trip was.

However, some critics point out that the beaches themselves are relatively similar, and if you’re after secluded hideaways, this might not be the right tour. Plus, the crowded boat environment can sometimes feel cramped, especially during peak summer months, which might impact comfort levels.

Value for Money & Practical Tips

At $108.81 per person, the tour offers a decent price for a full day of sightseeing, swimming, and dining. The inclusion of lunch and a quarter-liter of wine enhances the value, but extras such as additional drinks and water sports are paid separately. Some reviews indicate that the experience is well worth the price, especially considering the scenic stops and authentic local flavor.

Travelers often advise arriving early to secure a good spot and to avoid the crowds. Also, wear comfortable clothing, bring sunscreen, and perhaps a waterproof camera for underwater moments. Given the group size, expect to share space, so those seeking privacy might prefer a private tour option, if available.

Final Thoughts: Who Is This Tour Perfect For?

This cruise is particularly suited for first-time visitors to Mykonos who want a balanced mix of scenery, culture, and relaxation. It’s great for those looking for an affordable guided experience that covers multiple beaches and natural landmarks without the hassle of arranging transport or activities independently.

If your main goal is to swim, enjoy authentic Greek cuisine, and admire stunning coastal views, this tour hits the mark. The friendly guides and authentic boat experience add to its charm, making it more than just a standard sightseeing trip. However, if you prefer secluded beaches or a more intimate, less crowded setting, you might find this tour a bit busy.

In summary, this full-day cruise offers a lively, scenic, and culturally enriching experience that’s packed with value—an excellent choice for travelers keen to explore Mykonos’s south coast with ease and comfort.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is transportation to the meeting point included?
Transportation is not included in the standard price but can be added for an extra fee. Alternatively, you can meet directly at Ornos Beach, which is straightforward to access.

What should I bring for the day?
Bring swimming gear, sunscreen, a hat, a waterproof camera, and possibly a towel. Comfortable clothing suited for a day on the water and sunscreen are highly recommended.

Is snorkeling equipment provided?
Yes, snorkeling gear is provided free of charge, along with instructions, so no prior experience is necessary.

How long is each stop?
Beach stops vary from around 10 minutes at Paradise Beach to about an hour at Kalafatis Bay. The stop at Frangias Beach allows for swimming and snorkeling for roughly an hour.

Can I participate if I don’t like swimming?
Absolutely. You can relax onboard, enjoy the scenery, or sunbathe. The tour offers plenty of viewing opportunities from the boat.

Are the guides knowledgeable?
Yes, reviews highlight guides like Olivia, who are friendly and well-informed about Mykonos and its natural sights.

What’s the group size?
The maximum number of travelers is 60, which might result in a crowded boat, especially during peak season.

Is vegetarian lunch available?
Yes, vegetarian options are available upon request when booking.

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

To sum it up, this Mykonos south coast cruise balances scenic beauty, authentic touches, and good value. It offers a lively, full-immersion experience into the island’s natural charm, making it an appealing choice for those wanting a fun, social, and scenic day out. Perfect for first-timers or visitors seeking an easy, guided day of exploration, it’s a well-rounded adventure that captures the essence of Mykonos’s stunning coastline.