Mykonos: South Beaches Cruise

Mykonos: South Beaches Cruise offers a charming way to explore some of the island’s most famous coastlines from the water. This 6-hour tour, operated by Mykonos Kaiki Cruises, combines scenic sailing, refreshing swims, and tasty Greek cuisine—all aboard a traditional wooden caique. With an average rating of 4.3 based on 30 reviews, it’s clear this experience resonates with many travelers, though it’s worth considering a few practical points before booking.

One thing we particularly appreciate about this cruise is the chance to escape the busy beaches and view them from the water—offering a more relaxed and private perspective. The stops at Paraga Beach and Super Paradise are highlights, especially with the opportunity to swim in crystal-clear waters and enjoy authentic Greek food and wine on deck. That said, the tour can get crowded during peak season at Super Paradise, which might be a consideration if you prefer more solitude.

This cruise suits travelers looking for a balance of scenic sailing, beach relaxation, and local flavor, without the hefty price tag. It’s perfect for those who enjoy a laid-back day under the sun, with plenty of swimming, good food, and beautiful views. If you’re after a more exclusive or private experience, or have specific needs like mobility considerations, it’s worth reviewing the details carefully.

Key Points

• Scenic coastal sailing: Enjoy panoramic views of Mykonos’ famous beaches and the surrounding island scenery.
• Beautiful stops: Drop anchor at Paraga Beach and Super Paradise, offering prime swimming and photo opportunities.
• All-inclusive on board: Savor Greek delicacies, refreshing drinks, and complimentary Greek wine during the trip.
• Flexible swimming options: Swim directly from the boat or venture ashore—your choice.
• Expert guides and friendly crew: Knowledgeable staff, like Cristo and Lisa, make the experience smooth and enjoyable.
• Good value for the price: At around $96, this tour offers a full day of fun, scenery, and local flavor.

Introduction: A Relaxed Day on the Water in Mykonos

If you’re after a way to experience Mykonos beyond its well-trodden streets and crowded beaches, this South Beaches Cruise might be just the ticket. Instead of fighting for space on the sand or navigating busy beaches, you get to see the famous coastlines from the comfort of a traditional caique, and more importantly, you’ll get some of the best swimming spots in the area.

One of the things we love about this cruise is how it offers short, manageable stops at two of the island’s most iconic beaches—Paraga and Super Paradise. Not only do these beaches boast stunning crystalline waters and soft golden sands, but they’re also surrounded by the classic Cycladic landscape, making each swim feel like a scene from a postcard. Plus, the chance to relax with Greek wine and tasty snacks on deck makes it feel like a true Mediterranean getaway.

However, it’s worth noting that Super Paradise can become quite crowded during the high season, as it’s one of Greece’s most popular beaches. If privacy is a priority, you might prefer to lay your towel on the less crowded right side of the beach. The tour’s duration of six hours strikes a good balance—ample time to relax, swim, and enjoy the scenery without feeling rushed.

This cruise is best suited for travelers who want a laid-back, scenic day with good food and comfortable sailing—a great choice for couples, small groups, or families wanting a taste of the iconic beaches without the hassle of land-based crowds.

Detailed Breakdown of the Itinerary

Departure and Setting Sail

The tour begins at the Mykonos Port marina, situated directly opposite the Olia Hotel. The embarkation process is straightforward, with the crew welcoming guests aboard the traditional wooden caique—an authentic, charming vessel that immediately sets the tone for a relaxed day on the water. The guides, like Cristo and his team, are praised for their friendly attitude and knowledge, adding a personal touch that makes the trip more engaging.

First Stop: Paraga Beach

Sailing past the west of Mykonos, the first anchorage is at Paraga Beach, home to the renowned Scorpios beach club. Here, guests have around 30 minutes for swimming and snorkelling in the clear waters or just soaking up the sun on the boat. Reviewers mention that swimming from the boat is a highlight—“the ocean was picturesque, and the swim was cold but refreshing,” as one traveler noted. The proximity to the beach club means you can also get a glimpse of the lively scene from the water.

Second Stop: Super Paradise Beach

Next, the boat heads towards Super Paradise, arguably the most famous and vibrant beach in Greece. Here, you get around 2 hours to swim, sunbathe, and indulge in a Greek BBQ lunch with souvlaki, tzatziki, Greek salad, and fresh fruit. The reviews highlight the quality of the food, with one guest raving about the delicious, fresh lunch served onboard—“unusual, but we had the whole boat to ourselves, and it was a bonus,” said a reviewer.

While Super Paradise is lively, the tour allows you to choose your comfort level—whether to stay on the boat or venture ashore. The soft sands and crystalline waters make it an ideal spot for swimming, and the organized beach amenities (sunbeds and parasols) cater well to those who want a bit of comfort. For those seeking solitude, the right side of the beach remains quieter.

The Cruise Back

After the swim and lunch, the boat gently sails back towards the marina, passing by Agios Ioannis, Psarou, Platys Gyalos, and Ornos—offering stunning views of the coastline from the water. Reviewers mention that the scenic drive back provides some of the best photo opportunities, especially with the sun setting over the island.

What’s Included and What’s Not

Included:
– Welcome drink upon boarding—helping guests relax right away
– Delicious Greek lunch and drinks, including complimentary chilled Greek wine
– Cruise escort and local taxes, making it a hassle-free experience

Not Included:
– One-way transfer to the port costs around $8 per person, with round-trip costing about $16 per person. This is a common fee in Greece, but worth budgeting for if you’re staying further from the port.

Experience Highlights from Reviews

Many travelers mention the friendly and knowledgeable guides, such as Cristo and Lisa, who make the trip smooth and entertaining. One reviewer appreciated being able to ride the boat themselves, adding a fun, hands-on element to the experience. The cleanliness and charm of the caique are also praised—meaning you can relax knowing you’re on a well-maintained vessel.

Guests consistently highlight the quality of the food and wine—with fresh snacks and a hearty BBQ lunch, there’s plenty to satisfy even the most hungry travelers. The scenic route along the southern coast, with stops at the most popular beaches, ensures plenty of photo-worthy moments, and the option to swim directly from the boat makes for an active, refreshing day.

Practical Tips for a Great Experience

• Bring your passport or ID as full passenger details need to be submitted 12 hours before departure for port authorization.
• Pack swimwear, a towel, and sunscreen—the sun on the water can be intense.
• Consider whether you’d prefer to sit on the boat or venture ashore—the beaches are beautiful but can get crowded.
• The cruise is available every day from April 1st until October 31st, so plan accordingly.
• The tour generally caters to most, but people with pre-existing medical conditions should consult with their doctor before booking.

The Sum Up: Who Will Love This Cruise?

This Mykonos South Beaches Cruise offers a balanced mix of scenic sailing, beach lounging, and authentic Greek flavors. It’s a fantastic choice for travelers seeking a relaxed, fun day on the water—where stunning views, good company, and delicious food come together seamlessly. The guided stops at Paraga and Super Paradise beaches give you the best of both worlds: beautiful swimming spots and lively beach scenes, all without the hassle of crowded land-based beaches.

If you love authentic experiences that combine scenery, culture, and comfort, this tour delivers. It’s especially well-suited for small groups, couples, or families wanting a memorable day with plenty of opportunities for swimming, photos, and enjoying Greek hospitality.

However, if privacy or avoiding crowds is your priority, be prepared for the likelihood of a lively scene, particularly at Super Paradise in high season. The price offers great value for the full-day experience, with friendly guides and a scenic route that showcase the best of Mykonos’ southern charm.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for children?
It generally suits most travelers, including families, as it involves swimming, relaxing, and sightseeing. Make sure children are comfortable with boat trips and the water activities involved.

What is the duration of the cruise?
The cruise lasts approximately 6 hours, with specific starting times depending on availability.

Do I need to pay extra for transfers?
Yes, one-way transfers are an additional cost, around $8 per person, with round-trip costing about $16 per person.

What should I bring?
Bring your passport or ID, swimwear, towel, and sun protection. It’s also handy to have some cash for optional extras or souvenirs.

Can I swim directly from the boat?
Yes, the itinerary includes time for swimming right off the boat at both stops, which many guests find refreshing and fun.

Are drinks included?
Yes, the tour provides drinks on board, including complimentary chilled Greek wine, and the BBQ lunch features beverages as well.

Is this cruise available year-round?
No, it operates from April 1st to October 31st each year, aligning with the warm weather months.

In the end, this Mykonos South Beaches Cruise balances scenic beauty, cultural flavor, and good value, making it a worthwhile addition to any travel itinerary in the Cyclades. Whether you’re after a day of swimming and sunbathing or just want a relaxing way to see the coast, you’ll likely find plenty to love about this authentic sailing experience.