Island Hopping: Santorini to Mykonos

Travelers dreaming of the Cyclades often picture whitewashed buildings, blue-domed churches, and sparkling seas. While a stay in Santorini or Mykonos offers plenty of that beauty, the best way to truly connect with the spirit of these islands is by boat — ideally on a private luxury yacht. This Island Hopping: Santorini to Mykonos tour promises a full day of spectacular scenery, relaxing swims, gourmet food, and a taste of Greek maritime luxury. We’ve examined the details to help you decide if it’s worth your while.

What we love about this experience is the stunning views of the caldera and the islands—it’s a picture-perfect introduction to the Cyclades. Plus, the culinary offerings onboard, including fresh seafood and wine, elevate the trip into a true feast. However, it’s worth noting that the full-day nature of the tour may feel long for some, especially if you prefer more time onshore exploring. This tour best suits travelers who value comfort, scenic sailing, and a touch of luxury — perfect for those who want to see the islands from a different perspective, with a small group or private setting.

Key Points

• Luxurious sailing experience on a private yacht with panoramic views.
• Multiple swimming and snorkeling opportunities in crystal-clear coves.
• Gourmet onboard dining, featuring fresh seafood, Greek meze, and wines.
• Flexible itinerary with stops at hidden beaches, scenic overlooks, and iconic landmarks.
• All-inclusive with towels, snorkeling gear, drinks, and maps.
• Ideal for travelers seeking comfort, scenic beauty, and a relaxed pace.

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Perfect Introduction to the Cyclades

This tour is designed to give you a taste of both Santorini and Mykonos without the hassle of organizing your own transport or navigating crowded ferries. Starting with a hotel pickup (or a nearby meeting point if your hotel isn’t accessible), you’ll be whisked to Vlychada Marina where the adventure begins. The luxury motor yacht is a comfortable, well-equipped vessel with space to relax, snack, and socialize.

What sets this experience apart is the combination of scenic sailing and active stops. We loved the way the tour balances sightseeing with downtime. Cruising past the caldera, you’ll get incredible views of Santorini’s rugged cliffs, whitewashed villages, and volcanic formations. We also appreciated the safety briefing — vital on a boat — and the well-organized stops.

The Itinerary Breakdown

First Stop: Ios and its golden beaches – Within the first few hours, you’ll stop at Ios, renowned for turquoise bays and golden beaches. Travelers have found the swimming conditions excellent, with some noting that the water is “crystal clear,” perfect for snorkeling or just relaxing on deck. You might find this stop refreshing after the early morning start, with the opportunity to explore a scenic coastline.

Cruising the Small Cyclades – The journey then continues to the Small Cyclades islands, which boast untouched shores and tranquil blue lagoons. These islands are often overshadowed by their more famous neighbors, but that’s part of their charm. Here, you’ll experience unspoiled beauty and peaceful waters, ideal for unwinding away from busy beaches.

Approaching Mykonos: Iconic Views and a Secluded Bay – As your boat nears Mykonos, the scenery shifts to the famous windmills and whitewashed buildings. The last swimming stop is often at a secluded bay, providing one final opportunity for a dip before arriving in the lively port of Mykonos.

Arrival in Mykonos: A Taste of the Cosmopolitan

Disembarking in Mykonos is like stepping into an entirely different world. You’ll see the iconic windmills, bustling streets, and vibrant café scene. The tour includes a break time or guided tour, giving you a chance to explore at your own pace. Many travelers report that the island’s lively atmosphere is a highlight, whether you’re shopping, sightseeing, or enjoying the local cafes.

If you’re hungry, the tour offers a lunch onboard, featuring fresh seafood, Greek meze, and drinks from the open bar, including white wine, beer, and soft drinks. The highlight for many is the sparkling Moscato D’asti wine at sunset, which makes for a memorable end to the day.

The return journey involves a 45-minute speedboat cruise back to Santorini, during which you’ll enjoy scenic views and perhaps a sunset if timing permits. The final stop is in Fira or other designated drop-off locations, with door-to-door service making the day hassle-free.

What’s Included and What’s Not

This package provides excellent value considering the all-day experience. Included are hotel pickup and drop-off, use of snorkeling equipment, towels, and informative maps. The onboard menu features cold meze and seafood, plus fruit salad and a variety of drinks, making the day feel like a floating banquet.

Not included are some extras like the fuel surcharge, gratuities, Wi-Fi access, or additional transport (like taxis or buggies on the islands). Also, lunch and cocktails on the island are not covered — but with onboard dining and drinks included, you’ll likely find this sufficient for most.

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Authenticity and Comfort in a Small Group Setting

The experience is tailored to private groups, which means you’re not stuck with strangers and can enjoy a more relaxed, personalized atmosphere. The live English-speaking guide ensures you get insights along the way, tailored to your interests.

The duration of about 10 hours means you get plenty of time to relax, explore, and soak up the scenery — but it also demands a full day’s commitment. The tour’s flexibility, with multiple pickup options and an easy checkout process (reserve now, pay later), makes planning straightforward.

Final Thoughts: Is This Tour Right for You?

This Island Hopping adventure offers a wonderful way to combine scenery, comfort, and local flavor. For travelers who appreciate a mix of leisure and exploration, it’s hard to beat the chance to see both Santorini and Mykonos from the water — a perspective that’s both relaxing and visually stunning.

You’ll love the crystal waters, gourmet onboard dining, and breathtaking views of the iconic islands. It’s especially well-suited to those who want a luxurious, guided experience with minimal hassle, and who enjoy a leisurely pace with opportunities for swimming and soaking in the sun.

However, if you’re seeking deep culture or prefer more time on land to explore local sights, this may feel somewhat limited. As a day-long cruise, it’s best for those who prioritize scenery and comfort over intensive sightseeing.

FAQs

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts about 10 hours, starting and ending with hotel pickups and drop-offs included.

What should I bring?
Bring your swimsuit, towel, sunscreen, and a hat. Snorkeling gear is provided, but if you have your own, feel free to bring it.

Are meals included?
While lunch on the island is not included, the onboard menu features cold meze, seafood, fruit salad, and drinks, plus a special sparkling Moscato D’asti at sunset.

Can I swim in the coves and beaches?
Yes, many stops include opportunities for swimming and snorkeling in clear waters at secluded coves and beaches.

Is this tour suitable for children?
The experience is generally family-friendly, especially for those comfortable on boats and with enough patience for a full day at sea.

What about safety?
A safety briefing is included, and the yacht is well-equipped. The small group setting also allows for attentive supervision.

How many people are on the yacht?
It’s a private group, so the number depends on your booking, but it tends to be a small, intimate experience.

What’s the best time of day for this tour?
The tour starts in the morning, with the return trip including a stunning sunset over the Aegean if timing allows.

Final Words

Choosing this yacht-based island hop means opting for comfort, privacy, and a stunning perspective on the Cyclades. It’s perfect for travelers who want luxury without the overly commercial feel, combined with opportunities for swimming, sightseeing, and enjoying excellent Greek cuisine aboard. Whether celebrating a special occasion or simply indulging in a love for the sea and scenic beauty, this tour offers a memorable day on the waters of Greece.

If you’re after a stress-free way to see Santorini and Mykonos from a different angle, this experience hits all the right notes. Just pack your swimsuit, grab your camera, and get ready for a day of stunning views and relaxing indulgence.

You can check availability for your dates here: