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Exploring the South Beaches Cruise in Mykonos: An Authentic Marine Escape
If you’ve ever dreamed of escaping the buzzing crowds of Mykonos town to enjoy the island’s renowned south beaches in peace, this South Beaches Cruise might just be your ticket. Offered by Mykonos Cruises, this 6-hour boat tour promises a blend of scenic sailing, refreshing swims, delicious Greek cuisine, and a chance to soak up some of the most famous beaches—like Paraga, Paradise, and Super Paradise—without the usual hustle.
What we love about this experience is the relaxed, intimate vibe it offers. You’ll get to enjoy private moments on the boat or dip ashore to mingle in the lively beach bars. The fact that the cruise includes Greek culinary treats and chilled local wine makes it feel more like a day of indulging rather than just sightseeing. Plus, with an itinerary that covers several iconic spots, it’s a great way to tick off multiple highlights in one trip.
One thing to keep in mind is that the tour’s timing and the limited 2-hour stop at Super Paradise mean you need to plan your day accordingly. For those wanting a more immersive land-based experience, this might feel a bit rushed. However, if you’re after a comfortable, scenic, and social day on the water, this cruise hits the mark.
This experience is ideal for travelers who prefer a relaxed, scenic cruise with the flexibility of swimming and sampling local flavors—perfect for couples, friends, or solo travelers who want to enjoy Mykonos from a different perspective.
Key Points
- Authentic Beach Experience: Drop anchor at famous south beaches like Paraga and Super Paradise for swimming and sunbathing.
- Culinary Delights: Onboard BBQ with Greek wine and refreshments create a true local flavor.
- Flexible Swimming Options: Dive from the boat or ashore in tender; both options are available.
- Scenic Navigation: Pass by key sights like Little Venice and Agios Ioannis for photo ops.
- Intimate Group Size: Limited to 85 travelers, so it maintains a friendly, less crowded atmosphere.
- Great Value: Combines sightseeing, food, drinks, and swimming in one well-priced package.
Looking for more options in Mykonos? Here are some other experiences worth considering.
The Experience in Detail
Starting Point and Booking Practicalities
The tour begins at Tourlos, Greece, with a meeting point accessible via public transport or local taxi. The start time at 10:00 am means you’ll have a whole day of adventure ahead. Booking well in advance—about 23 days—is recommended, and the cost is around $102.33 per person. Considering the inclusions—lunch, drinks, and on-board amenities—this fee offers good value, especially for a scenic, half-day escape.
What to Expect on the Itinerary
The tour’s route is designed to maximize the scenic beauty and relaxation opportunities. It starts with a pass by some of Mykonos’ most iconic sites, including Little Venice, Agios Ioannis, and Ornos Beach. These are mainly viewed from the boat, providing perfect photo moments, especially for those who enjoy capturing the essence of the island’s charming architecture and coastline.
As the boat sails westward, you’ll see the renowned Psarou Beach, favorite among celebrities and home to Nammos Beach Bar. This is more of a passing shot but adds context to the luxurious vibe of Mykonos’ beaches. Similarly, Platys Gialos offers a glimpse of a lively, bustling stretch of sand.
The Beach Stops: Paraga and Super Paradise
Paraga Beach is the first anchoring point, with the boat stopping for about 30 minutes. Here, swimmers can jump off the boat to cool off or paddle to shore if they wish to explore the beach. Based on reviews, the highlight here is the chance to swim in clear waters and enjoy the lively atmosphere of beach clubs like Scorpios. One traveler noted, “It was nice to sail past Delos and see the ruins before moving on,” highlighting the scenic journey.
The second stop is Super Paradise, where you spend around two hours. This is the longer break, perfect for swimming, sunbathing, and sampling the barbecue buffet onboard. Swimmers can jump from the boat or go ashore in the tender, giving flexibility. Reviewers emphasize the quality of the food—“delicious BBQ on board”—and the friendly, welcoming staff who make everyone feel at home.
You might also want to explore these Mykonos activities
- Mykonos Shore Excursion with Pickup from Cruise Ship Terminal
- Mykonos Catamaran Daytime or Sunset Tour, 8-flavor Meal & Drinks
- Half-Day Highlights of Mykonos Tour
- All inclusive Delos & Rhenia Islands tour up to 12 pax (free transportation)
- Super Paradise Beach Mykonos Seaside Sunbed (3rd & 4th row)
- Private Tour Mykonos
Snorkeling, Swimming, and Relaxation
Multiple reviewers mention the crystal-clear waters, notwithstanding a slightly chilly temperature—still manageable and worth the refreshing dip. The boat’s crew, praised for their friendliness, ensures everyone is comfortable, whether jumping from the boat or taking the tender ashore.
Food and Drinks: A Greek Feast at Sea
Onboard, guests enjoy a BBQ lunch, which has been described as satisfying and flavorful. The inclusion of Greek wine and refreshments enhances the experience, creating a relaxed, celebratory vibe during the cruise. One reviewer particularly appreciated the “lovely and welcoming” staff, noting the excellent wine selection and tasty food, which were highlights of the trip.
Commentary on Service and Group Size
While one guest noted a slight hiccup with boat allocation—”no communication from the tour operator”—the overall experience remains positive. The smaller group size, with a maximum of 85 travelers, helps foster a friendly atmosphere and allows for better interaction with the crew.
Practical Tips for Travelers
- Bring sunscreen, a hat, and sunglasses—the sun can be strong on the water.
- Snorkeling gear is optional but not provided, so consider bringing your own if you want to explore underwater.
- Cash or card can be useful for tips or optional land excursions.
- The transfers are not included in the base price—an 8 euro one-way fee is typical, so plan accordingly.
- Be prepared for a slightly cool sea water; swimming is optional but highly recommended.
Who Will Love This Tour?
This cruise appeals most to those seeking a chill day on the water, with opportunities for swimming, sunbathing, and enjoying Greek cuisine. It’s ideal for travelers who want a laid-back experience with scenic views without the crowds of land-based beaches. It’s also perfect for groups or couples who enjoy socializing or want to take photos of iconic spots from the sea.
For Families or Solo Travelers
The tour’s relaxed pace and friendly crew make it accessible for families with children and solo travelers alike.
For the Food and Wine Enthusiasts
The onboard BBQ and Greek wine pairings make this a tasty journey worth considering.
For the Photographers
The route offers plenty of opportunities to capture stunning shots of the coastline, beaches, and local scenery.
The Sum Up: Is It Worth It?
In short, this South Beaches Cruise offers a thoughtful blend of scenic sailing, beach relaxation, and authentic Greek flavors—all in a manageable 6-hour window. It’s a fantastic choice for those who prefer a balanced mix of exploration and leisure without overcommitting to a full-day tour. The inclusion of a tasty BBQ, chilled Greek wine, and friendly crew elevates the experience beyond just a boat ride.
While it might not suit those seeking an all-day beach party or a more immersive land experience, it definitely caters to travelers wanting a relaxed, scenic, and social day at sea. The beaches visited are iconic, the waters are clear, and the atmosphere is lively yet laid-back, making it a valuable addition to any Mykonos itinerary.
FAQ
How long is the cruise?
The cruise lasts approximately 6 hours, starting at 10:00 am and returning to the meeting point.
What is included in the tour?
The tour includes a BBQ lunch on board, drinks (including Greek wine), a cruise escort, all taxes, and a welcome drink.
Are transfers included?
No, transfers are not included in the tour price. A one-way transfer costs around 8 euros per person. You can also make your own way to the meeting point.
Can I swim during the tour?
Yes, there are opportunities to swim at both Paraga and Super Paradise beaches. You can jump from the boat or be taken ashore in the tender.
Is the tour suitable for children?
Most travelers can participate, and the relaxed pace makes it suitable for families, though children should be able to enjoy swimming and sitting on a boat for several hours.
What is the maximum group size?
The tour accommodates up to 85 travelers, ensuring a friendly and less crowded experience.
What should I bring?
Bring sunscreen, a hat, sunglasses, swimwear, and perhaps snorkeling gear if desired. Cash or cards are handy for tips or optional land excursions.
What happens if the weather is poor?
The tour requires good weather. If canceled due to bad weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.
In summary, the South Beaches Cruise in Mykonos offers a well-rounded, enjoyable day suited for those wanting a scenic, relaxed, and delicious experience. With stunning views, friendly staff, and delicious Greek fare, it’s a lovely way to see the island’s southern coast from a different perspective.
