Island Hopping: Santorini to Mykonos

A Relaxed Yet Luxurious Way to Experience the Cyclades
This island-hopping tour from Santorini to Mykonos offers a taste of Greece’s most iconic islands in style. Operating on a private luxury yacht, it combines the thrill of cruising on the open water with the comfort of gourmet onboard dining and the chance to swim in crystal-clear coves. It’s especially appealing for travelers who want to elevate their Greek island experience beyond the usual, with a focus on personalized service and breathtaking scenery.

Two things I love about this experience are the stunning views of Santorini’s caldera as you depart and the delicious selection of Greek meze and fresh seafood served onboard. Plus, the opportunity to stop at hidden coves and secluded beaches for a swim makes it feel genuinely exclusive and intimate.

A potential consideration is the timing and length of the day—it’s quite a full 10-hour experience. For those with limited time or less stamina for a long day at sea, it might feel a bit intense, especially if you’re not used to days packed with activity. Also, the experience is a private group, which is great for personalization but might not be ideal if you prefer a more social or budget-friendly option.

Key Points & Takeaways

• Luxury Yacht Experience: Expect a comfortable, well-equipped vessel with knowledgeable crew, including a guide who speaks English.
• Stunning Scenic Views: From Santorini’s caldera to Mykonos’ windmills, the vistas are mesmerizing and photo-worthy.
• Multiple Swimming Stops: Hidden coves and beaches provide opportunities for snorkeling and relaxing in turquoise waters.
• Gourmet Onboard Food & Drink: Savor Greek meze, fresh seafood, and refreshing drinks, including wine, beer, and soft drinks.
• Flexible Itinerary: Stops include sightseeing, swimming, and even a brief guided tour of Mykonos, with free time on the island.
• All-Inclusive Feel: Toward the end of the day, enjoy sparkling Moscato D’asti at sunset—a sweet touch to a day of adventure.

How the Experience Works: From Santorini to Mykonos in Style

This tour is ideal if you’re craving a relaxed, luxurious journey between two of Greece’s most famous islands. It begins with pickup from your hotel or a nearby location, making logistics straightforward—no need to worry about taxis or navigating busy ferry terminals. Once aboard the yacht, you’ll be greeted with a safety briefing before setting sail.

The boat itself is a spacious, well-maintained motor yacht, perfect for enjoying the open sea without feeling cramped. As you glide past Santorini’s iconic cliffs, you’ll get a chance to snap photos of the caldera and watch the landscape change as you head toward your first swim stop.

The stops are carefully chosen for their beauty and tranquility. Ios, with its inviting beaches and turquoise bays, is an excellent place to cool off or snorkel. The Small Cyclades islands offer untouched shores and blue lagoons that look like scenes from a postcard. The crew, such as Vista Yachting’s staff, are knowledgeable and friendly, ready to assist whether you’re seeking the best snorkeling spots or a good sunbathing deck.

Navigating the Itinerary: What to Expect at Each Stop

Stop 1 & 2: Santorini Departure & Vlychada Marina
Your day kicks off with pickup from your hotel, followed by a short drive to Vlychada Marina, where the yacht awaits. Here, a quick safety briefing sets the tone for a smooth journey. You’ll be able to appreciate Santorini from the water, with the island’s rugged cliffs and whitewashed villages in view.

Stop 3 & 4: Cruising & Hidden Cove Swim
As you cruise past the island’s scenic coastline, the real fun begins when you stop at that “hidden gem” for swimming and snorkeling. The water is often crystal clear, inviting you to take a dip or explore the underwater world with provided snorkel gear. Many reviews mention how surprisingly tranquil these quiet spots are—perfect for unwinding and escaping the crowds.

Stop 5 & 6: Passing the Small Cyclades & Approaching Mykonos
Next, you’ll glide past the Small Cyclades, famed for their untouched shores and blue lagoons. Keep your camera ready; these islands look like they belong in a travel magazine. As you near Mykonos, the sight of the windmills and whitewashed buildings signals that you’re almost there.

Stop 7: Final Swim & Arrival in Mykonos
Before reaching port, you’ll enjoy one last swim in a secluded bay, followed by a delicious onboard meal featuring fresh seafood, Greek tapas, and sparkling Moscato D’asti at sunset—an experience that many reviews describe as idyllic and indulgent.

Stop 8 & 9: Exploring Mykonos & Return Journey
Once in Mykonos, you’ll have time to explore the charming streets, visit the iconic windmills, or relax at a beach club. After some time on land, a speedboat whisks you back to Santorini, with scenic views of the islands and sea along the way. The day concludes with drop-offs at your hotel or nearby location.

The Value of a Private, All-Inclusive Day at Sea

When considering value, this experience stands out for its inclusivity. The onboard menu of cold meze, fruit salad, and drinks—encompassing white wine, beer, soft drinks, and a special Moscato D’asti at sunset—adds a layer of luxury that many day tours don’t include. Snorkelling gear and towels are also provided, eliminating the need to scramble for your own equipment.

The cost—though not cheap—can be justified by the personalized service, the convenience of hotel pickup, and the chance to see both Santorini and Mykonos from a perspective few travelers experience. It’s particularly suitable for couples, honeymooners, or small groups seeking a semi-private adventure with a touch of elegance.

Who Will Love This Tour?

If you enjoy a leisurely pace with plenty of time to relax on deck and swim in beautiful waters, this tour is a winner. It’s perfect for those who want to avoid crowded ferries and prefer the comfort of a private yacht. Families with older kids or groups of friends will appreciate the customizable nature and the high-end amenities onboard.

However, if you’re budget-conscious or prefer more structured, guided land-based tours, this may feel a bit indulgent. Also, those prone to sea sickness should note that the day involves a good deal of boat travel—though the yacht’s stability and calm seas usually make it manageable.

Final Thoughts: Why This Experience Is Worth Considering

This island-hopping cruise from Santorini to Mykonos offers a genuinely unique way to experience the Aegean. The combination of scenic cruising, swimming in secluded coves, and enjoying gourmet Greek food on a private yacht makes it stand out. It’s a chance to see the islands from a different perspective—away from the crowds and in ultimate comfort.

For travelers craving a luxurious day in Greece, with incredible views, excellent wine, and the chance to swim in crystal waters, this tour provides great value. It’s especially well-suited to those celebrating a special occasion or simply looking to treat themselves to an unforgettable experience.

While the full day can feel long, the variety of stops, the scenic beauty, and the onboard amenities make it a worthwhile adventure. Just remember to bring your camera, a sunhat, and a sense of relaxation — your Greek island escape awaits.

FAQ

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 10 hours, from pickup to drop-off, with a detailed itinerary that includes multiple swimming stops, sightseeing, and time on Mykonos.

What’s included in the price?
The price covers hotel pickup and drop-off, use of snorkelling gear, towels, a gourmet onboard menu with Greek meze and seafood, and drinks including wine, beer, soft drinks, and sparkling Moscato D’asti at sunset.

Are there any optional costs?
Yes, fuel surcharge, tips, Wi-Fi, and transport on the island (like taxis or buggies), as well as any additional meals or drinks purchased on land, are not included.

Is this suitable for children or families?
While the experience is private and comfortable, it’s best for older children or teenagers comfortable with boat travel, as the day involves several hours at sea.

What should I bring?
Bring swimwear, sunscreen, a hat, sunglasses, a camera, and any personal items you might need for a day outdoors. Towels and snorkelling equipment are provided.

How flexible is the itinerary?
The tour is planned but offers some flexibility in timing, especially during the stop in Mykonos for sightseeing, shopping, or relaxing on your own.

This yacht trip between Santorini and Mykonos offers a memorable blend of luxury, adventure, and authentic Greek scenery, perfect for travelers seeking a special day on the water.