Full Day Boat Tour Around Milos and Poliegos

A full day exploring Milos and Poliegos by boat offers a slice of Greek maritime magic, with swimming in colorful waters, visiting lava formations, and hearing pirate tales along the way. This tour is popular, often booked 19 days in advance, and designed for travelers eager to see the island’s varied landscapes from the water. It’s a long day—about 10 hours—but packed with sights that make every moment worthwhile.

Two things I particularly like about this experience are how it balances scenic stops with cultural tidbits and the relaxed onboard atmosphere, complete with an open bar and a freshly cooked Mediterranean meal. Plus, the opportunity to snorkel with provided gear and capture unique photos with waterproof cameras makes it feel more like a personalized adventure than just another cruise.

One thing to keep in mind is that the boat can be crowded, and not everyone may find the seating arrangements comfortable for a full day. As one reviewer pointed out, the boat’s tight spaces and long hours in the same spot might test your patience if you prefer more space and comfort. Still, if you’re passionate about the water and eager to explore hidden corners of Milos, this tour really does deliver a memorable experience.

Key points / Takeaways

• Stunning swimming spots like Sarakiniko and Kleftiko offer colorful, transparent waters perfect for snorkeling.
• Rich geological sights like Glaronisia and Thiorichio showcase millennia-old lava formations and abandoned mines.
• Authentic local charm can be seen in the little fisherman villages and the stories about pirates.
• All-inclusive onboard meals and drinks add great value, making the long day feel relaxed and indulgent.
• Small group size (max 18 travelers) fosters a more intimate experience, but can also mean tighter spaces.
• Good weather is essential—poor conditions can lead to cancellations or switches to different dates.

Exploring the Milos and Poliegos Boat Tour

This full-day boat tour around Milos and Poliegos captures the island’s diverse natural beauty and offers a chance to see its lesser-known sides. When I look at what makes this trip special, it’s the variety of stops—each unique—and the chance to experience the island from the water, which is often the best vantage point.

Starting at Adamantas, the tour kicks off at 9:00 am, with a friendly crew ready to share their love of the sea. The first part involves a gentle cruise along Milos’s coastline, where you’ll get your first glimpses of ancient catacombs, fishermen’s houses, and scenic rocky outcrops. It’s a wonderful introduction to the island’s character, leaving you eager for what’s next.

The Highlights of the Itinerary

Sarakiniko Beach is an obvious star—its stark white cliffs and lunar landscape make for unforgettable photos. During a full moon, the scenery becomes even more surreal, as one reviewer mentioned. The hour spent here is enough to admire the landscape and snap some pictures, but don’t plan on staying too long if you want to see everything else.

Next is Glaronisia, an island of lava that’s over thousands of years old. The fascinating hexagonal rock formations are a natural marvel, reminding us how powerful geological forces have shaped Milos long before humans arrived. It’s a brief stop, just 10 minutes, but one that’s packed with visual interest.

Across from Milos, the northern village offers insight into local life, with stories about fishing and the island’s history. It’s a quiet, authentic spot that adds context to your water-based adventure.

Poliegos is the largest uninhabited island in Greece and a highlight for many. Here, you’ll find bays with therapeutic waters that invite you to swim and relax. The stunning scenery makes it tempting to stay forever, especially if you’re a fan of snorkeling or just floating on your back and gazing at the sky.

Thiorichio, the abandon sulphur mines, feels like walking into an old ghost town. The construction on a gorge with abandoned tools still lying around creates an almost eerie vibe—perfect for capturing photos and pondering what life might’ve been like when the mines were active.

Gerakas Bay boasts one of the clearest, greenest waters on the tour. Its white sand bottom and steep cliffs make it an idyllic place for a long swim or just soaking up the views. One reviewer highlights this as an especially beautiful spot, where you can truly disconnect.

Kleftiko, the pirate’s haven, is the most famous stop. The impressive rock formations and caves are perfect for diving, swimming, and exploring. Stories of pirates and hidden treasures seem to echo here—although you’re more likely to find serenity than buried gold. The hour spent here is one of the tour’s peak moments.

Cape Vani, with its striking red cliffs and former manganese mines, offers a peaceful yet dramatic end to the day. The deep vertical rocks plunging into the water give it an almost otherworldly feel—great for those who love natural edginess.

What It’s Like Onboard

The boat itself is a cozy vessel, fitting up to 18 passengers. While this small group size encourages a more personal experience, some reviewers have noted the tight spaces, especially on a long day. The crew, notably two Georges according to feedback, are friendly and eager to make your trip enjoyable. They serve a generous Mediterranean meal and drinks, including an open bar, making the hours at sea lighter and more festive.

Snorkeling gear and waterproof cameras are provided, elevating your photographs and underwater adventures. This thoughtful touch helps you capture memories and relive them long after your trip ends.

Who Will Love This Tour

This experience suits travelers who are comfortable spending a full day on a boat, enjoy swimming and snorkeling, and want an authentic taste of Milos’s natural beauty. If you’re looking for a relaxing, scenic cruise with some adventure, this is a fantastic choice.

However, if you’re sensitive to cramped spaces or prefer a more luxurious, cushioned experience, you might find the boat’s tight seating a bit uncomfortable. The long duration also requires a certain level of perseverance and patience.

Price and Overall Value

At $156 for a 10-hour tour, it’s competitively priced considering the inclusions—meals, drinks, snorkeling gear, and water cameras. The stops are well-selected, and the variety of landscapes—volcanic formations, bays, caves, and historical ruins—offer good value for your money. The small group size and personalized service also add to the experience.

Final Thoughts

This boat tour around Milos and Poliegos is a well-rounded way to see the island’s highlights from the water. The mix of stunning natural scenery, authentic Greek stories, and relaxed onboard amenities makes it a memorable adventure. It’s perfect for travelers who want to get off the beaten path, enjoy some time swimming in colorful waters, and learn a little about the island’s geology and history.

If you’re prepared for a long day that’s filled with visual treats and gentle sailing, this cruise is a solid choice that delivers more than just sights—it offers a genuine taste of life on and around Milos.

FAQ

What’s included in the tour?
You get a full day of sailing, snorkeling gear, waterproof cameras, a Mediterranean meal, and drinks from the open bar. Stops at key locations are part of the package.

How long is the tour?
Approximately 10 hours, starting at 9:00 am and returning to the meeting point in Adamantas.

Is the tour suitable for children or non-swimmers?
Most travelers can participate, and snorkeling gear is provided, but swimming and water activities are optional. Children comfortable with boat rides and water should be fine.

What should I bring?
Bring sunscreen, a hat, swimwear, a towel, and perhaps a light jacket for the boat. Photos and a waterproof camera are provided, but you can bring your own if you like.

How crowded is the boat?
Maximum 18 travelers, which helps keep it intimate. Some may find the seating tight after several hours.

What about weather cancellations?
The tour depends on good weather. If canceled due to poor conditions, you’ll get a different date or a full refund.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, free cancellation up to 24 hours before the tour. Last-minute changes are not refundable.

Are vegetarian or special diet meals available?
The info doesn’t specify, but you might want to ask the operator if you have specific dietary needs.

How do I meet the tour?
At the Defibrillator (AED) at Adamantas, ready to start at 9:00 am.

Is this tour a good value?
Considering the meals, drinks, gear, and multiple stops, many find it offers good value for a full day of exploring Milos from the water.

In the end, this boat tour offers a wonderful chance to see Milos and Poliegos in a relaxed, scenic way. It’s a chance to swim in crystal waters, learn about the island’s geology, and enjoy authentic Greek island life—all from the comfort of a small, friendly boat. If you’re looking for an active, authentic, and scenic day at sea, this trip will likely leave you with lasting memories.