South Coast Cruise

If you’re visiting Mykonos and dreaming of soaking up the sun while exploring its stunning southern coastline, the South Coast Cruise offers a convenient way to see some of the island’s best beaches. This 8-hour boat trip, priced at around $102 per person, promises a relaxed day filled with swimming, snorkeling, and plenty of delicious Greek food and drinks. While the reviews are mixed, with a few hiccups along the way, many travelers find it a worthwhile way to enjoy the island’s stunning waters and laid-back vibe.

What draws many to this cruise is the chance to visit multiple beaches in one day without the hassle of ferrying around on land. Plus, the included lunch, snacks, and drinks make it a practical choice for those wanting a hassle-free day on the water. We particularly appreciate the emphasis on authentic Greek flavors and the opportunity to lounge in some of Mykonos’s most famous beaches.

One aspect to keep in mind is that the tour has had some last-minute cancellations in the past, and it doesn’t operate every year. This could be a consideration if your trip is highly scheduled or if you’re seeking a guaranteed experience. The group size, capped at 60, means you’ll likely enjoy a relatively intimate and social atmosphere, though it’s always subject to change depending on the day.

This tour is best suited for travelers who want a relaxed, social day focusing on beach life, good food, and scenic views, rather than seeking a luxury or highly exclusive experience. Now, let’s break down what you can expect from each part of the trip and what makes this cruise stand out.

Key Points

• Includes a Greek lunch with vegetarian options available, plus snacks and drinks
• Visits top beaches of Mykonos, including Super Paradise and Frangias
• Perfect for relaxed beach days with swimming, snorkeling, and sunbathing
• Group size is capped at 60, making for a social atmosphere
• Price offers good value considering the food, drinks, and multiple beach stops
• Last-minute cancellations have occurred in the past, so check availability in advance

The Itinerary Breakdown: What to Expect on the Water

Starting Point and Timing

The tour begins promptly at 9:30 am at Ornos Beach Bus Station. From here, you’ll board your boat and set off on what promises to be a laid-back day along Mykonos’s south coast. The tour runs for around 8 hours, giving you ample time to enjoy each stop without feeling rushed.

First Stop: Super Paradise Beach

Your day kicks off at Super Paradise Beach, famous for its lively atmosphere and clear waters. It’s a popular spot for swimming and sunbathing, although some reviews hint at it being a bit crowded during peak times. You’ll have about an hour here, which is enough to dip into the water, relax on the sand, or just enjoy the scenery.

Frangias Beach: A Deserted Gem

Next, the boat makes a stop at Frangias Beach, often noted for its seclusion and tranquility. It’s described as a “deserted beach,” which makes it perfect for those seeking a quieter escape. Here, you can enjoy bread, olives, ouzo, wine, and water, with an emphasis on authentic Greek snacks. It’s a good chance to unwind and soak up the peaceful vibe.

Kalafatis Beach and Lunch

The third key stop is Kalafatis Beach, where a Greek lunch is served at a beachside restaurant. The meal includes a Greek salad, tzatziki, oven-roasted chicken with potatoes, and a quarter bottle of wine, plus water. Reviewers highlight the delicious food and the relaxed atmosphere at the restaurant, making this a highlight for many. Vegetarian options are available if you prefer, but it’s advisable to request in advance.

Final Stop: Super Paradise (Return)

The cruise wraps up back at Super Paradise or nearby, giving you a final chance to swim or sunbathe before heading back to Ornos Beach around 5 pm. The day’s pace is relaxed, allowing plenty of time to enjoy the sun and sea.

Food and Drinks: A Highlight of the Tour

One of the biggest draws of this cruise is the food and drinks included. You’ll start with snacks like bread, olives, and ouzo at Frangias, which set a friendly, convivial tone. Later, the Greek lunch offers hearty flavors with an emphasis on authentic ingredients, including fresh salad, tzatziki, and well-prepared chicken.

The wine, which is a quarter bottle per person, and bottled water are included, making it easy to stay refreshed without extra cost. Many reviewers appreciate the quality of the wine and the delicious, traditional flavors — a notable contrast to some other tours that skimp on the quality of food and drink.

Authenticity and Value

This focus on genuine Greek cuisine adds to the overall experience, making it more than just a boat ride. It’s a chance to enjoy local flavors while overlooking beautiful beaches. For vegetarians, the availability of vegetarian options makes it more inclusive.

The Beach Stops: What You’ll Love and What to Watch For

Super Paradise Beach

Known for its lively atmosphere, many travelers love the chance to swim in its clear waters and relax on its golden sands. However, some reviews mention that it can get crowded, especially during peak season, which might detract from the peaceful vibe some seek. If you prefer quieter spots, arriving early might help.

Frangias Beach

This is the highlight for those craving solitude. Its deserted nature provides perfect privacy for swimming or reading in peace. The snacks here, complemented by a peaceful setting, are a nice touch, according to reviews. Just note that because it’s less developed, there are no facilities here beyond what the boat provides.

Kalafatis Beach

This is the designated lunch stop, and the restaurant’s location helps you enjoy stunning sea views alongside your meal. The food is said to be hearty and flavorful, with several reviewers commenting on the quality of the Greek dishes. It’s a great spot for a relaxing break before continuing your day.

Practical Considerations: What You Need to Know

Pricing and Value

At $102.39 per person, this tour offers a decent value considering the inclusion of lunch, snacks, drinks, and multiple beach visits. It’s especially appealing for those who want a hassle-free day with good food and scenic sights without extra costs piling up.

Group Size and Atmosphere

With a maximum of 60 travelers, the group size allows for a lively but manageable atmosphere. Expect a mix of solo travelers, couples, and small groups. This size tends to encourage mingling, especially with the relaxed, social vibe on board.

What to Bring

Pack swimming gear, a beach towel, and sunscreen — essentials for a day in the sun. Casual, comfortable clothing is recommended, and don’t forget your bathing suit for swimming. Since the tour departs at 9:30 am, arrive early to avoid missing the boat.

Cancellations and Weather

The tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours before the start, offering some peace of mind. As with any outdoor activity, the experience is weather-dependent. If canceled due to poor conditions, you’ll be offered an alternative date or a full refund.

Accessibility

It’s near public transportation, making it convenient to reach the meeting point. However, check if you need assistance with mobility or if you’re traveling with children — the tour doesn’t specify accommodations in this area.

Authentic Traveler Insights

While the overall reviews show a 3.6 out of 5 rating, some comments dive into the nuances. For example, one traveler, Derek, shared that the tour was canceled last minute and that he was awaiting a refund, which highlights the importance of confirming operational status before booking.

Another review mentioned the quality of the wine and delicious food as highlights, emphasizing the authentic Greek culinary experience. The snacks like bread, olives, and ouzo set a convivial tone early on, which many appreciated.

It’s worth noting that some travelers felt the experience could be more organized or offered more explanation about stops, but most agreed the beaches and food made up for it. The small group setting fosters a friendly environment, ideal for mingling or relaxing quietly.

Final Thoughts: Is This Tour for You?

This South Coast Cruise is best suited for travelers seeking a laid-back, scenic day in Mykonos’s waters with emphasis on authentic Greek food. If you love to swim, sunbathe, and enjoy casual gatherings over good snacks and wine, you’ll find plenty to love here. It’s also ideal if you prefer a low-pressure day with multiple stops but no strenuous activities or guided tours.

However, if you prioritize luxury, exclusivity, or a highly organized experience, you may want to explore other options. The possibility of last-minute cancellations and the group size could be a consideration for travelers with tight schedules or specific expectations.

This cruise offers a value-packed, relaxed way to enjoy Mykonos’s stunning south coast, especially for those who want a taste of local food, beautiful beaches, and a social atmosphere on the water.

FAQ About the South Coast Cruise

Is hotel pickup included?
No, hotel pickup and drop-off are not included unless you select that option. You’ll need to meet at Ornos Beach Bus Station.

What should I bring on the tour?
Bring your bathing suit, beach towel, sunscreen, and comfortable casual clothing. It’s also wise to carry some cash or cards for extras or souvenirs.

How long is the cruise?
The whole experience lasts about 8 hours, starting at 9:30 am and returning in the late afternoon, around 5 pm.

Are vegetarian options available?
Yes, vegetarian options are available for the lunch. It’s best to advise when booking.

What does the lunch include?
The lunch features Greek salad, tzatziki, oven-roasted chicken with potatoes, and a quarter bottle of wine, along with water.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, the tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, ensuring flexibility.

Is this tour suitable for children?
Most travelers can participate, but consider their comfort with boat rides and swimming. Group size and timing make it suitable for families seeking a relaxed day.

What are the main highlights of this cruise?
Visiting top beaches like Super Paradise and Frangias, enjoying authentic Greek food and snacks, and relaxing in a social setting while soaking up the sun.

To sum it up, the South Coast Cruise in Mykonos offers a well-rounded day of beach lounging, good food, and scenic waters for travelers who value authenticity and a casual atmosphere. While it may not be perfect for everyone, especially those seeking exclusivity or highly organized tours, it delivers a pleasant experience for most. Just remember to check the operational status before booking and arrive prepared for a relaxing day under the Greek sun.