Private Cruise with Handmade Antique Boat around Mykonos-Full Day

My take on the Private Cruise with Handmade Antique Boat around Mykonos

This private full-day cruise promises an authentic way to explore the south coast of Mykonos on a traditional handmade Kaiki, a rare vessel that adds a touch of old-world charm and character. The tour is family-run, emphasizing personalized service, and it offers a more intimate, flexible alternative to crowded boat trips. What caught my eye? First, the chance to sail on a varkalas, a traditional wooden boat that feels like stepping back in time, and second, the carefully curated itinerary that includes a few of the island’s most popular beaches, plus a secret spot for a peaceful lunch.

I love how this experience centers on local authenticity—from the family behind it to the Greek flavors served during the onboard barbecue. The guides seem attentive and eager to customize the day based on your preferences, which makes the trip feel truly tailored. However, one consideration is that the price, at over $1,000 per group, might seem steep for some, especially since other options are more budget-friendly. But when you factor in the private nature of the tour, the quality of the boat, and the unique experience of sailing on a handmade vessel, the value begins to make more sense.

Key points / Takeaways

• Authentic Mykonian Experience: Sailing on a traditional Kaiki offers a glimpse of local maritime history, not just another generic boat cruise.
• Flexible Itinerary: The tour can be tailored, so you decide how much time to spend at each beach, making it suitable for both sunbathers and swimmers.
• Passes by Famous Beaches: Stops include Psarou, Platis Gialos, Super Paradise, Paradise, and others—each with its own vibe.
• Swim and Relax: Multiple anchor points, especially at the vibrant beaches like Paraga and Super Paradise, mean plenty of opportunities for swimming, photos, and relaxing.
• Exquisite Lunch Spot: Ending the day at a secret beach for a peaceful Greek meal, including barbecued skewers, adds a special touch.
• Family-Friendly and Comfortable: The boat is described as comfortable and suitable for children, making it a great option for families.
• Excellent Service: Multiple reviews highlight attentive guides and crew, making guests feel valued and cared for.
• WiFi on Board: Stay connected or share your favorite moments during the trip.

Exploring the Itinerary in Detail

Starting at Ornos Beach

The cruise kicks off at Ornos Beach, a popular spot that offers both ease of access and a lively atmosphere. From here, you’ll head south along the coast, passing by the most famous beaches and scenic spots. The boat is small enough to navigate the wind-protected waters, providing a smooth, stable ride—great if you’re prone to seasickness or prefer a more relaxed trip.

Psarou Beach and Nammos Shopping

Your first stop is Psarou Beach, renowned for its luxury vibe and the famous Nammos beach bar and shopping village. If you’re into high-end brands like Dior, Cartier, or LV, you can take a quick walk ashore for some retail therapy—something truly unique in a beach setting. The stop here is brief, around ten minutes, enough to take photos or browse a few stores without feeling rushed.

Platis Gialos: Family-Friendly and Relaxed

Next, you’ll cruise over to Platis Gialos, a beach that’s known for its welcoming, family-friendly atmosphere. Ideal for a quick visit, it offers a more laid-back vibe compared to Psarou. The review mentions that it’s a “family-friendly beach,” which is great if you’re traveling with kids or simply want a more relaxed stop.

Paraga Beach: Swim and Sample Greek Flavors

At Paraga Beach, you’ll anchor for about 30 minutes. This is a prime swimming spot, with clear waters perfect for a dip. The crew often offers Greek wine and fresh fruits, making it a delightful break to lounge and enjoy the scenery. Expect to spend enough time here to relax, take photos, and soak up the summer atmosphere.

Super Paradise: Dive, Photos, and Jackie O

The next stop is Super Paradise, famous for its lively vibe and the iconic Jackie O beach bar. This is a popular spot where you’ll have about 30 minutes to take more pictures, enjoy swimming, or just watch people having fun. If you’re into a vibrant, party-like atmosphere, this stop will not disappoint.

Paradise Beach: Party Central

Paradise Beach is known for its energetic scene and several well-known beach clubs. Your brief visit (around ten minutes) can be enough to enjoy the views or snap some photos of the lively scene from the boat. If you’re seeking a party atmosphere, you might plan to stay longer here on your own, but the cruise keeps the schedule flexible.

Agrari and Elia Beaches: Hidden Gems and Luxury

Moving along, you’ll visit Agrari Beach, which is somewhat off the beaten path—hard to reach by car but accessible by boat. It’s described as a family beach, perfect for a quiet swim without the crowds. Then, on to Elia Beach, one of the largest beaches on the island, with some of the island’s most luxurious hotels nearby. Here, you’ll have about 30 minutes, ideal for a gentle swim and enjoying the views.

Kalo Livadi: Lindsays Lohan Beach Bar

Finally, the cruise stops at Kalo Livadi, known for its long, sandy stretch and the Lindsays Lohan Beach Bar. With about 20 minutes here, you can grab a drink or simply take in the last sights of your day on the water.

The Hidden Beach and Lunch

The day concludes at a secret beach, a peaceful spot away from the crowds. Here, a Greek barbecue with skewers is typically served, offering authentic flavors in a relaxed setting. This exclusive ending provides a perfect opportunity to unwind, enjoy good food, and reflect on a day well spent.

What Makes This Cruise Stand Out

The handmade Kaiki itself is a highlight—these boats are rare and lend a historical, authentic flair that many other tours lack. The fact that the entire experience is private and customizable means you can tweak the itinerary to suit your pace and interests—whether you want more swimming, shopping, or simply lounging.

On top of that, the reviews underscore the quality of the crew and guides. People frequently mention how attentive and welcoming they felt, with many citing the barbecue lunch as a memorable highlight. One review even calls it “the best boat cruise,” emphasizing the family-run nature and personal touch.

Practical Considerations and Value

The tour costs $1,020.29 per group for up to four people, which might seem high at first glance. However, when you think about the private experience, the customizable itinerary, and the quality of the boat and food, the value becomes clearer. This isn’t a shared group tour but a tailored day on a charming vessel, making it well suited for special occasions or those wanting a more intimate experience.

Booking includes the sailing between beaches, and WiFi is available onboard—handy for sharing photos or keeping in touch. Remember, it’s a full-day experience of around 6-7 hours, which means a relaxed pace, plenty of swimming and lounging, and no rush to cram everything in.

Who is this perfect for?

If you’re traveling with family or friends and want a personalized, authentic experience on a beautiful boat, this cruise fits well. It’s especially good if you enjoy customizable itineraries, good food, and amazing views. It’s less ideal if you’re looking for a budget option or prefer larger group tours with more structured schedules.

Final thoughts

This private Mykonos cruise blends traditional charm, personalized service, and beautiful scenery into a memorable day on the water. The family-run approach shines through in the attention to detail, from the authentic boat to the delicious barbecue. The stops at iconic beaches, combined with the chance to relax at a secret spot, make it a well-rounded experience—perfect for those who want to see the highlights without the crowds.

While the price might be a consideration, the value of having a private vessel, the flexibility to tailor your day, and the authentic ambiance make this cruise a worthwhile choice for those seeking a genuine and special Mykonos adventure.

FAQ

How many people can fit on the boat?
This experience is designed for groups of up to four people, making it quite intimate and ideal for a family or small group.

Is the cruise suitable for children?
Yes, reviews mention that the boat is suitable for children, and the relaxed pace makes it family-friendly.

What should I bring on the cruise?
You should bring your swimsuit, towel, and suncream. It’s also a good idea to have a camera or smartphone for photos.

What’s included in the price?
The cost covers the private boat, the guided itinerary, and a barbecue lunch with Greek flavors. WiFi is available onboard.

Can I customize the stops or timing?
Yes, the program is 100% adjustable based on your preferences, so you can spend more or less time at each beach.

What if the weather is bad?
The experience requires good weather. If canceled due to poor weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

Is the boat comfortable?
Reviews describe it as comfortable and suitable for a relaxed day on the water, with plenty of space for everyone to enjoy.

This private cruise in Mykonos offers a blend of authentic Greek maritime tradition, personalized service, and stunning island views. It’s a wonderful way to see the beaches and enjoy a peaceful, memorable day. Perfect for small groups, families, or couples craving a more intimate experience away from the crowds.