Island Hopping: Santorini to Mykonos

Island Hopping from Santorini to Mykonos: A Luxurious Aegean Adventure

Few experiences capture the essence of Greek island life quite like sailing between Santorini and Mykonos on a private luxury yacht. Imagine gliding over the shimmering waters of the Aegean, with the famous caldera cliffs behind you and the iconic windmills and whitewashed buildings of Mykonos ahead. This 10-hour tour, offered by Vista Yachting, combines scenic cruising, secluded swimming spots, gourmet dining, and a touch of glamour that’s perfect for those wanting to treat themselves or celebrate a special occasion.

The experience costs around the same as a good dinner out — but what you get in return is a full day of personalized service, stunning views, and authentic Greek hospitality. We particularly appreciated the chance to swim in crystal-clear coves and the delicious onboard menu featuring fresh seafood, Greek meze, and refreshing drinks. Plus, the flexible pickup and drop-off options make it easy to incorporate into your broader Santorini plans.

One thing to consider is that this tour is a full day — so it’s best suited for travelers comfortable with boat travel and those who enjoy scenic cruising and relaxing on deck. If you’re looking for a luxurious, intimate way to explore these islands without the crowds or the hassle of arranging your own transport, this tour hits the mark.

Who Should Consider This Tour?
This cruise is ideal for couples, small groups, or anyone wanting a hassle-free, indulgent way to see the Aegeans’ most famous islands. It’s perfect if you’re seeking luxury, privacy, and authentic seaside experiences, rather than packed sightseeing buses or crowded beaches.

Key Points

• Luxury Yacht Experience: Enjoy the comfort and exclusivity of a private motor yacht, making your journey smooth and stylish.
• Secluded Swimming & Snorkeling: Stop at hidden coves and beaches to cool off in clear waters, away from tourist crowds.
• Gourmet Dining Onboard: Savor Greek meze, fresh seafood, and an open bar with wine, beer, and soft drinks, topped with a sparkling Moscato at sunset.
• Flexible Itinerary: The tour includes scenic stops, sightseeing, and time on land in Mykonos, plus a sunset cruise back to Santorini.
• All-Inclusive Comfort: Towels, snorkeling gear, and maps are provided, making the day seamless and enjoyable.
• Authentic Aegean Views: From caldera cliffs to whitewashed streets, you’ll see some of Greece’s most iconic scenery in style.

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Detailed Look at the Experience

The Journey Begins: Santorini’s Caldera & First Stops

The adventure kicks off with a pickup from your hotel or a nearby location — a hassle-free start that ensures you’re ready to relax. Your boat, a comfortable motor yacht, sets sail from Vlychada Marina, waving goodbye to Santorini’s famous cliffs as you head toward the open sea. Early in the cruise, you’ll enjoy sweeping views of Santorini’s rugged caldera, with its dramatic cliffs and charming villages perched above.

The first stop is at Ios, renowned for its golden beaches and lively turquoise bays. Here, you’ll have about 30 minutes to swim, snorkel, or simply unwind on deck. Many reviews praise the clarity of the water, making it a real highlight. One guest remarked, “The swim was stunning — the water was so clear, and I loved exploring the underwater scenery with the included snorkeling gear.”

Cruising the Small Cyclades & Hidden Covest

After Ios, you’ll navigate past the Small Cyclades, a collection of near-pristine islands with quiet beaches and blue lagoons. This stretch offers some of the most tranquil scenery, perfect for relaxing or taking photos. The boat’s crew often point out interesting features along the way, enriching your experience with local stories and sights.

The tour emphasizes secluded spots—not typical crowded beaches—giving you the chance to enjoy Greece’s natural beauty in peace. Several travelers comment on how unique these stops are, with one noting, “I loved the feeling of being in untouched paradise, far from the crowds.”

Approaching Mykonos: Iconic Views & Final Stops

As your boat approaches Mykonos, the sight of the island’s famous windmills and whitewashed buildings comes into view — a postcard scene. Before disembarking, there’s a final chance to swim, snorkel, or relax in a secluded bay, making sure you get the most out of the water activities.

On arrival in Mykonos, you have approximately 8 minutes of scenic travel en route to the port, where you’ll hop off for a mix of sightseeing, lunch, or free time. Many reviews mention the vibrant atmosphere of Mykonos, with its charming streets, lively cafes, and stylish boutiques.

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Onshore in Mykonos & Return Trip

Once on land, you can explore at your leisure — whether wandering through the labyrinth of streets, shopping, or soaking in panoramic views from high points. The tour includes guided options, so you can opt for a quick tour or just enjoy free time.

On the return journey, you’ll cruise back to Santorini in a different boat, enjoying the sunset and scenic vistas. The last 15 minutes are particularly praised for the breathtaking sunset views that paint the sky in warm hues, ideal for ending the day on a high note.

The Onboard Experience: Food & Drinks

The onboard menu is a highlight for many guests. You’ll find a plate of cold “meze” — a selection of finger foods and seafood — as well as fresh fruit salad. The open bar features white wine, beer, soft drinks, and water, providing refreshment throughout the day. At sunset, a glass of sparkling Moscato D’asti is served, adding a touch of celebration to the voyage.

Guests often mention the quality of the food and drinks, noting that the meal complements the stunning scenery beautifully. One reviewer shared, “The seafood was fresh, and the wine selection was excellent — it made the whole experience feel very special.”

Practical Details & Comfort

The tour includes helpful amenities like towels, snorkeling equipment, and detailed maps. Pickup and drop-off at your hotel or nearby location are seamless, making this a very convenient option. The group size is private, so it’s tailored to your party’s needs, which makes for a more intimate experience.

The tour lasts approximately 10 hours, which provides plenty of time to enjoy water activities, land exploration, and scenic cruising without feeling rushed.

Considerations for Travelers

While the tour is well-organized, it is a full-day adventure, so travelers should be comfortable with a day at sea and some walking in Mykonos. Also, there’s a fuel surcharge and gratuity not included in the price, which is common for luxury experiences but worth noting.

Final Thoughts: Is This Tour for You?

This island-hopping cruise offers a blend of luxury, natural beauty, and Greek culture in one package. If you’re after a private, relaxed way to see both Santorini and Mykonos without the hassle of ferry schedules or crowded tours, this is a fantastic choice. The combination of scenic cruising, secluded swimming stops, and gourmet dining makes it especially suited for couples or small groups wanting a memorable day.

However, those prone to seasickness or preferring a more active land-based tour might find the day a bit too leisurely. Also, if your priority is spending extensive time exploring Mykonos or Santorini, you might prefer a different type of tour — this one is more about the journey and the views than exhaustive sightseeing.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 10 hours, including pickup, cruising, stops for swimming, and time on land in Mykonos.

What is included in the price?
You get hotel pickup and drop-off, use of snorkeling equipment, towels, a menu of Greek meze and fresh fruit, open bar (wine, beer, soft drinks), and a sparkling Moscato at sunset.

Are there any additional costs?
Yes, fuel surcharge and gratuity are not included, so plan for those extra expenses. Lunch and cocktails on the island are also not included.

What should I bring?
Bring swimwear, sunscreen, a hat, sunglasses, and perhaps a camera. Towels and snorkeling gear are provided, but feel free to bring your own if you prefer.

Is this tour suitable for children?
While not explicitly stated, the focus on swimming, cruising, and relaxing suggests it’s best suited for older children or teenagers comfortable with boats and water activities.

How many people are in a private group?
The experience is tailored for a private group, so the number depends on your booking — ideal for small parties looking for exclusivity.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, providing flexibility in your travel plans.

To sum it up, this yacht trip from Santorini to Mykonos marries comfort, stunning scenery, and authentic Greek flavors into one package. It’s perfect for those who want to see the islands from a different perspective — on the water, in style, and with plenty of opportunities for swimming, relaxing, and soaking up the views. Whether celebrating a special occasion or just seeking an unforgettable day, this experience offers a refined way to enjoy the Aegean’s beauty.

You can check availability for your dates here: