South Coast Cruise in Mykonos: A Relaxed Day on the Water with Delicious Food and Stunning Beaches
When visiting the Greek island of Mykonos, one of the best ways to see its beautiful south coast is by boat. For around $102 per person, you get an 8-hour cruise that covers four of the island’s noteworthy beaches, including Super Paradise, Frangias, Kalafatis, and Plati Yalos. The tour starts at Ornos Beach, with a departure time of 9:30 am, and offers a relaxed way to enjoy the sun, sand, and local flavors.
What we love about this cruise is the combination of scenic beauty and mouthwatering Greek cuisine. The included lunch at a beachside restaurant features classic dishes like Greek salad, tzatziki, and oven-baked chicken with potatoes—vegetarian options are available upon request. Plus, the complimentary wine, ouzo, and snacks make this a festive, laid-back day on the water. The second highlight? The opportunity to swim, snorkel, and sunbathe at some of the most stunning beaches in Mykonos.
A couple of things to consider before booking: this tour doesn’t include hotel transfers unless you opt for it separately, so you’ll need to get yourself to Ornos Beach. And, while most travelers find the experience enjoyable, one reviewer noted a last-minute cancellation last year (though this was due to operational issues unrelated to the current setup). This cruise suits travelers who love beach lounging, good food, and a relaxed pace—perfect if you’re not expecting a party atmosphere but rather a peaceful day on the sea.
Key Points
- Scenic Beaches: Visit four top beaches, including the famous Super Paradise.
- Delicious Greek Food: Enjoy a hearty, traditional Greek lunch with vegetarian options.
- Complimentary Drinks: Sip on Greek wine, ouzo, and enjoy snacks like olives and bread.
- Flexible & Relaxed: Plenty of time to swim, snorkel, or sunbathe at each stop.
- No Hotel Transfers: Meeting point is at Ornos Beach; plan your transportation accordingly.
- Weather-dependent: The tour is subject to good weather, with options for rescheduling or refunds if canceled.
An In-Depth Look at the South Coast Cruise Experience
If you’re after a day that combines beautiful scenery, authentic Greek cuisine, and relaxation, this cruise could be just what you’re looking for. While it isn’t a high-adrenaline adventure, it offers a classic, laid-back way to enjoy Mykonos’s stunning coastal landscape.
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Starting Point and Logistics
The tour begins at Ornos Beach Bus Station at 9:30 am, making it reasonably accessible if you’re staying nearby or using public transportation. Since the tour does not include hotel pick-up or drop-off, you’ll want to arrange your own transport to Ornos, which is quite manageable given its proximity to many accommodations.
The mobile ticket system makes check-in straightforward, but be sure to arrive a little early to ensure a smooth start. The tour lasts approximately 8 hours, giving plenty of time for the stops, meals, and leisure. With a maximum group size of 60 travelers, it feels comfortably social without being overwhelming.
The Itinerary: What You’ll See and Do
The first stop is Super Paradise Beach, renowned for its lively atmosphere and crystal-clear waters. Here, you can swim, sunbathe, or simply enjoy the scenery for about an hour. This beach is famous among younger crowds but also offers quiet spots if you prefer to relax.
Next, the cruise takes you to Frangias Beach, a more deserted and peaceful stretch of sand. This stop is perfect for enjoying some tranquility and tasting the complimentary bread, olives, ouzo, wine, and water provided on the beach. We loved this laid-back vibe—it’s the perfect spot for a picnic on the sand.
Then, the boat heads to Kalafatis Beach for lunch. Here, you’ll sit at a beachside restaurant and indulge in a Greek salad, tzatziki, oven-roasted chicken with potatoes, and a glass of local wine. Vegetarian options are available if you prefer plant-based dishes. Many travelers appreciate the authenticity and simplicity of the meal, which feels like sharing a family feast with new friends.
Finally, you’ll visit Plati Yalos, a charming bay with shallow waters ideal for swimming and snorkeling. This stop provides the chance to cool off and enjoy the stunning views of the Aegean Sea.
What Travelers Say
While the overall rating is 3.5 out of 5, reviews highlight some positive aspects. Several mention the quality of the food and wine, with comments like “excellent wine selection” and “delicious food and tapas.” These culinary highlights truly stand out and add value to the experience.
However, the cancellation of a tour in July 2020 by Derek_L reminds us that operational hiccups happen, and it’s wise to check current availability during peak season. The fact that refunds are processed promptly is reassuring; just be aware of potential last-minute changes.
What to Pack and Prepare
Dress casually and comfortably—think shorts, t-shirts, flip-flops, and don’t forget your bathing suit and beach towel. Sunscreen is a must, and if you plan to snorkel, bring your own gear if you prefer something specific. The tour offers bottled water, but bringing extra snacks or your favorite beverage could enhance your day.
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The Value of This Tour
At just over $100, this cruise offers a good value considering the transportation, multiple beach visits, meals, and drinks included. It’s a straightforward, hassle-free way to see some of Mykonos’s best beaches without the need to rent a boat or plan multiple excursions yourself. For those who want a balanced mix of sightseeing, relaxation, and local flavor, it’s a compelling option.
Who Should Consider This Tour?
This cruise is best suited for relaxed travelers who enjoy beach days, fresh food, and scenic views. It’s ideal if you’re staying near Ornos or can easily reach the meeting point, and you prefer a low-key, daytime experience over a lively party cruise. Families, couples, or solo travelers looking for a comfortable pace and authentic tastes will find plenty to enjoy.
It’s less suited for those seeking adventure, nightlife, or private charters, or travelers who want a more structured or guided tour with historical insights—this is primarily about the beaches, food, and sunshine.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is hotel pickup included?
No, unless you purchase that option separately. The meeting point is at Ornos Beach Bus Station, so plan accordingly.
What should I bring?
Bring your bathing suit, beach towel, sunscreen, hat, and perhaps some extra snacks or water if you’re particular about what you drink or eat.
Are vegetarian meals available?
Yes, vegetarian options are available if you advise the tour provider at the time of booking.
What is the duration of the tour?
The cruise lasts approximately 8 hours, providing enough time to enjoy each beach, eat, and relax.
What are the main highlights?
Visiting four top beaches, enjoying a traditional Greek lunch, and sipping on complimentary wine and ouzo while sunbathing and swimming.
Can I cancel if the weather is bad?
Yes, the tour is weather-dependent. If canceled due to poor weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.
What is the maximum group size?
Up to 60 travelers, making it a fairly social but manageable experience.
To sum it up, the South Coast Cruise combines the scenic beauty of Mykonos’s beaches with the joy of authentic Greek food and relaxed sailing. It’s a straightforward choice for travelers seeking a day of sunshine, swimming, and tasty bites on the water, especially if you enjoy a slower pace and scenic views. While not for those craving high-energy activities or nightlife, it offers a memorable and authentic way to experience the island’s stunning coast.
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