Mykonos: Brand-New Catamaran Cruise with Meal, Drinks & Transport

Mykonos looks best from the water. This five-hour catamaran trip takes you away from the island’s crowded roads and beach clubs for a calm stretch of Aegean sea, usually around Rhenia or the southern coast. I especially like the spacious new catamarans and the freshly cooked three-course lunch, both of which make the $180.19 price easier to understand.

The crew also earns strong marks for friendly service. Names that come up often include Captain Adontis, Alex, Manos, George, Harris, and Thomas. Hotel pickup is another real plus, especially if you are visiting Mykonos from a cruise ship. The main catch is that this is not guaranteed to be a lively party boat, and the route, swim stop, and Delos pass-by all depend on weather.

The quick take

• Two modern catamarans: You may sail on Aerial or White Coral, depending on availability. Both have large sunbeds, lounge areas, and a walk-around design.
• Rhenia or Mykonos’ southern coast: The captain chooses the safest route based on wind and sea conditions.
• A proper meal on board: The price includes a freshly prepared three-course lunch, wine, beer, soft drinks, and bottled water.
• Water time matters: Snorkeling gear, a kayak, and a stand-up paddleboard are included when weather permits.
• Small by cruise-excursion standards: The boat carries no more than 25 people, although seating can still feel limited when everyone gathers in one area.
• Delos is a pass-by only: You may see the UNESCO-listed island and hear about its monuments, but you do not go ashore.

Sailing away from Mykonos at Agia Anna

The cruise begins at Agia Anna Beach, near Paraga Studios, on the southern side of Mykonos. If you arrange a transfer in time, pickup and return are included. You must send the operator your pickup location and a phone number that receives texts or WhatsApp messages at least 24 hours before departure.

That transfer service is especially useful for cruise passengers. Several people had trouble confirming whether their ship used the old or new port, so check this carefully before the day of sailing. One van driver even returned for a delayed passenger, but you should not count on that kind of rescue. Give the operator the correct port and allow time for tendering from the ship.

The actual boarding process uses a tender boat. That means you do not simply step from a dock onto the catamaran. You ride a smaller boat to the yacht, then return by tender after the cruise. If you have balance concerns or large luggage, ask the operator about the process before booking. Most people can participate, but this is still a boat transfer rather than a level dock boarding.

The sailing portion lasts about four hours, while the full activity is listed at roughly five hours. Once aboard, the crew gives safety instructions and explains how to move around the boat. One point worth knowing: while the catamaran is moving, the crew may ask you to have someone walk with you. That rule can feel strict, but it is intended to reduce falls on a moving deck.

Aerial and White Coral: what the boats are like

The two sailing catamarans are called Aerial and White Coral. The operator describes them as brand-new, and the details suggest a comfortable setup rather than a basic day boat. You get broad sunbeds, open lounge areas, and a walk-around layout that lets you move between the front, sides, and rear of the vessel.

That open design is one of the strongest reasons to choose this trip. You can sit in the sun, find shade, watch the coast, or chat with other people without being locked into one bench. The boat is licensed for up to 25 people, which keeps it far smaller than a large shore-excursion vessel.

Still, do not mistake a 25-person limit for unlimited personal space. One complaint was that a group of around 20 did not always have enough seats for everyone at the same time. On a catamaran, the front sunbeds and best lounge spots can fill quickly. If you want a quiet place to sit, board promptly and be ready to move around during the trip.

The social mood also varies. Some departures become friendly and chatty, with people from different countries sharing drinks and swim time. Other sailings are quiet, with people mostly resting in the sun. If your main goal is meeting a lively crowd, a private charter or a more party-focused boat may suit you better.

Rhenia, swim stops, and the southern coast

The main destination is Rhenia, a smaller island near Mykonos known for clear water and a quieter setting. The point of the stop is not sightseeing on land. Instead, the catamaran anchors so you can swim, snorkel, paddleboard, kayak, or simply float beside the boat.

This is where the cruise earns much of its appeal. The water has been described as clear enough to see the bottom, and the boat carries masks, snorkels, pool noodles, and other water equipment. A stand-up paddleboard and kayak are available when conditions allow. You can take part in every activity or stay on deck with a drink while the crew prepares lunch.

The route may change to the southern coast of Mykonos. That coast includes the island’s famous beach area, but this excursion is not a beach landing tour. You may cruise past beaches and anchor near a suitable swimming spot, but you should not expect to walk onto the sand. This distinction matters. If your ideal day includes a beach restaurant, a stroll ashore, or time on a particular beach, this is the wrong format.

Weather controls the plan. Wind can make a stop unsafe or change the route completely. On calmer days, you may get a longer swim period and use more of the water equipment. On rougher days, the captain may shorten the stop or choose a sheltered area. The company can cancel for poor weather and offer another date or a full refund.

Passing Delos without stepping ashore

When conditions permit, the captain passes by Delos. From the boat, you can view the island and its archaeological remains, and the crew may explain what you are seeing. This offers a useful taste of one of the Aegean’s most important ancient sites without adding the time required for a full landing.

The limitation is simple: Delos is only a pass-by. You do not walk among the monuments, visit the museum, or explore the site. If Delos is a major reason for your trip, book a dedicated Delos excursion instead. If you mainly want to see the island from the sea while enjoying a swim cruise, the passing view is a pleasant extra.

The captain may adjust the route to suit the sea. One departure included Delos after the passengers made clear they were comfortable with rougher water, but that should not be treated as a promise. Safety comes first, and the captain has final say.

Lunch, wine, beer, and the onboard rhythm

A three-course meal is cooked on board. The menu can vary, so do not book this expecting a specific dish. Pasta and other freshly prepared food have been praised, while some people found the meal only average or felt portions were limited for the price.

That mixed response is useful. Food quality can depend on the day, the menu, and your own expectations. I would treat lunch as a valuable part of the package, but not the sole reason to pay for the cruise. The bigger benefit is having a proper meal without leaving the water or finding a restaurant during a short sailing.

Wine, beer, soft drinks, and bottled water are included. Some sailings have a relaxed flow of drinks, while one person felt they had to ask for each beer and that service was closely monitored. This may reflect responsible onboard service rather than an open self-serve bar. If you expect unlimited cocktails and a party atmosphere, adjust your expectations.

The pace is generally restful. There may be music, conversation, a swim session, lunch, and long stretches of sitting in the sun. That is a strength if you want to slow down. It can feel like idle time if you prefer constant sightseeing or a packed schedule.

The crew makes the difference

The crew receives some of the strongest praise attached to this cruise. Captain Adontis and Alex are singled out for being warm and attentive. Manos, George, and Thomas are also praised for their friendly approach and positive energy. Harris is remembered for preparing a particularly good meal.

The crew handles more than navigation. They explain boat rules, help people board and leave the yacht, serve drinks, prepare food, and provide information about places such as Delos. That practical help matters during swim time, especially for anyone who is less confident in the water or needs assistance with the tender boat.

A good crew can also change the feel of a shared cruise. They cannot control the weather or guarantee that every person on board will be sociable, but they can keep the day organized and welcoming. The strongest reports describe a clean boat, clear instructions, full glasses, and staff who make people feel looked after without turning the trip into a scripted show.

Is $180.19 a fair price?

At $180.19 per person, this is not a cheap way to spend half a day in Mykonos. The value depends on what you would otherwise pay for transport, lunch, drinks, water equipment, and a smaller boat.

The price includes hotel pickup and return when requested properly, fuel, Wi-Fi, a cooked three-course meal, wine, beer, soft drinks, bottled water, snorkeling equipment, and use of a kayak and paddleboard when weather permits. Those extras add up, especially on an island where food and transport can be expensive.

You are also paying for the catamaran itself and the limited group size. A boat carrying up to 25 people gives you more room than a large excursion vessel, though it does not provide the privacy of a charter. If you are traveling as a couple or small group, the shared format keeps the cost below a private yacht.

The value is weaker if you want a beach landing, a long Delos visit, or a full open bar. It is also weaker if you dislike group excursions and would rather control the music, menu, route, and schedule. A private charter costs more, but it solves those problems.

Bring your own swim towel. Towels are not included. Also pack sun protection and a waterproof way to carry anything you need near the water. The supplied details confirm the towel issue, but not a full list of personal items, so keep your packing simple and practical.

Who should book this cruise?

I would recommend it for people who want a comfortable day at sea without arranging every detail themselves. It suits couples, friends, families with older children, and cruise passengers who want a well-organized shore day. The combination of transport, lunch, drinks, swim gear, and a small group makes planning easy.

It is particularly good for you if you value scenery and relaxation more than a packed sightseeing program. You can see Mykonos from a different angle, pass Delos, swim in clear water, and spend time on a stylish boat.

I would hesitate if you need guaranteed calm seas, a specific beach, a guaranteed Delos stop, or a lively social scene. I would also compare a private charter if your group wants control over the music, route, food, and timing. The shared cruise is best understood as a polished sea day, not a private yacht party or archaeological tour.

The experience has a 4.9 rating from 777 ratings, with 96 percent recommending it. Those numbers fit the main pattern: the boat, crew, transfers, swimming, and meal usually land well, while the weaker points involve price, food expectations, seating, and the fact that the route can change.

Booking details worth knowing

You can cancel for a full refund up to 24 hours before the start time. Changes or cancellations inside that 24-hour window are not accepted for a refund. The company can also cancel if weather is poor or the minimum number of people is not reached, in which case you are offered another date, another experience, or a full refund.

Pickup is not automatic unless you provide your location and a text-capable phone number at least 24 hours before departure. If you miss that deadline, you may need to arrange your own transport. The stated meeting point is Agia Anna Beach near Paraga Studios, and the cruise returns there if you do not use a transfer.

FAQ

How long does the Mykonos catamaran cruise last?

The full activity lasts about five hours, with roughly four hours on the water.

How much does the cruise cost?

The listed price is $180.19 per person.

Where does the cruise start?

The meeting point is Agia Anna Beach near Paraga Studios in Paraga, Mykonos.

Is hotel pickup included?

Pickup and return are included only when you provide your pickup location and a phone number that can receive texts or WhatsApp messages at least 24 hours before the cruise.

Which catamaran will I sail on?

The cruise uses either Aerial or White Coral, depending on catamaran availability.

Is lunch included?

Yes. The price includes a freshly cooked three-course meal prepared on board.

Are drinks included?

Yes. Wine, beer, soft drinks, and bottled water are included.

Does the cruise stop at Delos?

The boat may pass by Delos when weather permits, but it does not stop there for a shore visit.

Should you book it?

Book this catamaran cruise if you want a comfortable, social sea day with transport, lunch, drinks, and swimming included. Skip it if you need a guaranteed beach landing, a full Delos visit, or a private and highly customized boat. For most people, the best reason to go is simple: it gives you several unhurried hours of clear water, open sea, and Mykonos views without the usual land-side crowds.