Exploring Greece’s Cyclades isn’t complete without a trip to Mykonos, and this full-day boat cruise from Naxos offers a lively way to do just that. For around $79, you’ll spend roughly 10 hours on a modern, comfortable catamaran, enjoying scenic views of the Aegean Sea and island views en route. The highlight is six hours of free time in Mykonos, giving you plenty of space to explore the legendary town at your own speed.
What I truly appreciate about this experience is how it balances the beauty of a boat trip with flexible sightseeing. The modern, air-conditioned catamaran ensures comfort, and the bar onboard adds a casual touch for relaxing drinks as you cruise. My favorite part? The freedom to roam Mykonos Town and discover its famous Little Venice and iconic windmills without a rigid schedule. Also, the reviews highlight knowledgeable guides and stunning views as especially memorable.
However, it’s worth noting that this isn’t a guided tour—there are no planned stops or guided commentary. If you’re craving structured historical insights or a guided experience, this might feel a bit light. Also, food and drinks are not included, so you’ll want to plan for meals or snacks while onshore or bring some onboard.
Key points / Takeaways
- Flexible 6-hour free exploration of Mykonos Town allows you to tailor your experience.
- Comfortable, modern catamaran with air conditioning and a bar makes for a relaxing cruise.
- Spectacular island views and the chance to see Greece’s iconic seascapes from the deck.
- Authentic experience focused on self-guided wandering rather than guided tours.
- Good value for the price compared to guided trips with included meals or tours.
- Accessible for most travelers with wheelchair accessibility and English-speaking hosts.
The Itinerary: A Well-Organized Day on the Sea

Starting at Naxos small port, you’ll board a sleek, air-conditioned catamaran in the morning. The departure time varies, so you’ll want to check availability ahead of booking. The boat cruise itself is a smooth, scenic ride across the Aegean, with plenty of opportunities to snap photos of the islands, sea, and sky.
The journey to Mykonos takes about a few hours, and the boat provides a comfortable setting for sitting back and enjoying the views. As reported in reviews, the stunning scenery is a highlight, with Patrik noting, “Everything worked out great,” and the views being “perfect,” which makes the long cruise enjoyable rather than tedious.
Upon arrival in Mykonos, you get a full six hours of free time. The town’s maze of narrow alleys, beautiful white houses, and vibrant cafes mean you can spend your time wandering, shopping, or relaxing at a café. The Little Venice area, with its iconic colorful balconies and windmills, is a must-see and the perfect spot for photos or a quiet coffee.
Many travelers enjoy exploring the scenic alleys leading to the waterfront, with some noting the town’s refined art galleries and boutique shops as appealing stops. If you’re keen to swim, there are scenic spots and beaches nearby, though you might need to travel further. The town’s welcoming atmosphere makes it a very pleasant place to linger, sip a cold drink, or indulge in local cuisine.
As the afternoon winds down, you’ll reboard the boat for the return trip to Naxos, with the evening cruise offering beautiful sunset views and a chance to unwind after a busy day. The journey back is often described as relaxing and scenic, perfect for recounting your favorite moments.
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What Makes This Experience Stand Out?

Authentic freedom to explore Mykonos on your own terms is a significant advantage. Without a guided timetable, you can prioritize what interests you most—whether that’s boutique shopping, people-watching in Little Venice, or simply enjoying the lively atmosphere of the town.
The spectacular views during the cruise are frequently praised. You’ll enjoy sailing past the iconic islands and watching the Aegean’s light play on the water, making it a photographer’s paradise. The reviews echo this, with Patrik calling it “a perfect day trip,” emphasizing the reliable and enjoyable nature of the boat ride.
The value for money is another key point—at $79, you’re paying mainly for the boat ride and free time in Mykonos. Since food and drinks aren’t included, you can choose to dine at the town’s many cafes or bring snacks. The absence of guided tours means less pressure and more flexibility, which many travelers find refreshing.
Accessibility is worth noting too—this activity is wheelchair accessible and hosted by English-speaking staff, making it convenient for a broad range of travelers.
Who Should Consider This Trip?

This experience is perfect for travelers who want a self-guided day in Mykonos combined with a scenic boat cruise. It’s ideal if you prefer exploring independently rather than being part of a guided tour. If you’re comfortable with a flexible schedule, enjoy scenic boat rides, and want to avoid guided group activities, this trip offers good value and authentic freedom.
It’s also well-suited for those who enjoy relaxing on the water, taking in views at their own pace, and appreciating Greece’s stunning seascapes without the burden of guided commentary. However, if you’re seeking historical insights or guided commentary about the islands, you might want to supplement this trip with a guided tour.
This trip is not recommended if you prefer an all-inclusive experience or want meals and guided explanations included. Also, if you’re looking for a quick, half-day visit, this full-day experience might feel a bit long.
Price and Logistics: A Practical Look

At $79 per person, this trip offers a very reasonable way to visit Mykonos without booking a full guided tour or ferry separately. Since transportation, the boat ride, and 6 hours in town are included, you’re getting a fair deal for the experience. Keep in mind, food and drinks are extra, so budget accordingly.
The activity’s duration of about 10 hours means it’s a full-day commitment, but the relaxed timing allows for a leisurely exploration. The meeting point at Naxos small port is straightforward to find, and the activity ends right back where it started, making logistics simple.
It’s also flexible—you can reserve and pay later or cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, providing peace of mind if your plans shift.
More Great Tours NearbyFinal Thoughts: Is This the Trip for You?
If you love boat trips that offer genuine independence to explore a famous Greek island, this cruise from Naxos to Mykonos checks many boxes. It’s a good mix of scenic sailing and free time in one of Greece’s most iconic towns. The stunning views and laid-back vibe make it a memorable day, especially if you enjoy wandering charming streets, people-watching at cafes, or snapping photos of windmills and waterfront scenery.
This trip suits travelers who appreciate authentic experiences over guided tours and are comfortable navigating on their own. It’s especially great for those traveling on a budget who want to maximize their time on Mykonos without the cost of guided excursions or guided transportation.
While it doesn’t include guided commentary or meals, it’s a flexible, well-organized way to enjoy the best of both worlds—sailing across the Aegean and discovering the charm of Mykonos at your own pace.
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FAQ

How long is the boat trip from Naxos to Mykonos?
The cruise typically takes a few hours each way, with the total activity lasting about 10 hours including the time spent in Mykonos.
Is there a guide on the boat?
No, this is a self-guided experience. The trip is hosted in English, but there’s no guided tour of Mykonos included.
What’s included in the price?
The boat trip, onboard bar, and 6 hours of free time in Mykonos are included. Food and drinks are not included.
Where do I meet the boat in Naxos?
The meeting point is at the Naxos small port, a straightforward location for travelers to find.
Can I cancel this trip?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.
Is the activity wheelchair accessible?
Yes, the cruise is wheelchair accessible, making it easier for travelers with mobility needs.
What should I bring?
Bring snacks or meals for the day, some cash for extras, and comfortable walking shoes for exploring Mykonos.
How flexible is the schedule?
You have six hours in Mykonos to explore at your own pace, making it adaptable to personal interests.
Is this trip suitable for families?
Yes, it’s suitable for families and solo travelers alike, especially those who enjoy independent exploration and scenic boat rides.
This full-day cruise from Naxos to Mykonos offers a balanced blend of stunning sea views, authentic town wandering, and flexible timing — ideal for travelers seeking independence and scenic beauty in the Cyclades.
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