Mykonos: Private Catamaran Cruise—Hotel Pickup, BBQ & Drinks

The best Mykonos views come from offshore. This private catamaran cruise gives you a flexible day on the Aegean, with time for swimming, snorkeling, a BBQ lunch, and visits to Rhenia and Delos. I especially like the freedom of a private boat and the chance to shape the pace around your group rather than follow a crowded excursion schedule.

I also like the personal touch from captain Artemios and crew members Artemis and Kostas, who have adjusted routes for guests with motion sickness and explained points of interest around Delos. The main drawback is the price: at $1,922.34 for up to 10 people, it makes the most sense for a full group, not a solo couple or small party.

Key points to know before booking

• Private catamaran for up to 10 people: Your group has the boat to itself, which gives you more control over swimming stops, music, meals, and the pace.
• Rhenia is the main swimming stop: Expect clear turquoise water, quiet coves, and an escape from Mykonos crowds.
• Delos adds history to the day: You can see the Temple of Apollo, ancient theater, House of the Dolphins, mosaics, and statues.
• BBQ lunch is included: Chicken skewers, local appetizers, vegetables, and feta are part of the onboard meal.
• Wine, beer, and soft drinks are included: The package includes unlimited wine and beers, plus nonalcoholic drinks.
• Hotel pickup is offered: Pickup usually takes place about 30 minutes before departure, with the exact time confirmed after booking.

Why this private cruise works so well in Mykonos

Mykonos is famous for whitewashed streets, beach clubs, and strong summer crowds. From the water, the island feels different. You see the coastline as a series of small coves, rocky points, beaches, and bright Aegean water. The boat also gives you views of Delos and Rhenia that you simply cannot get from land.

The private setup is the key feature. You are not sharing the day with a large mixed group, so the atmosphere can feel relaxed and informal. If your group wants to swim longer, listen to music, linger over lunch, or spend more time looking at Delos, you have a better chance of doing so.

The cruise lasts about five to eight hours. That broad time range matters. A shorter trip may focus on swimming and the nearby islands, while a longer outing allows more room for lunch, sightseeing, and unhurried stops. You should ask for the exact planned duration and route before departure, especially if you have a ferry, flight, or dinner reservation later.

Rhenia offers the calmest part of the day

Rhenia is the main escape from Mykonos proper. The island is known for untouched coves and clear water, and the cruise uses the boat to reach places that are difficult to access by road or on foot.

This is where I would expect the day to slow down. You can swim from the catamaran, use the supplied snorkeling equipment, and spend time in the water without having to organize a separate beach transfer. The turquoise color of the sea is one of the strongest reasons to choose a boat trip in the Cyclades.

The private boat also helps here. Instead of being tied to a fixed beach schedule, your group may have more say in how long you stay in a cove. The crew can take sea conditions into account, too. One group with motion sickness concerns received a modified route, and the crew’s willingness to adjust the plan is a useful advantage.

Do not expect Rhenia to function like a fully developed beach resort. Its appeal is the lack of heavy development. Bring a relaxed attitude, swimwear, sunscreen, and a willingness to get in and out of the water from the boat. Beach towels are not included, so pack your own.

Delos brings the ancient world into the itinerary

Delos changes the character of the excursion. After swimming and relaxing around Rhenia, you get a chance to visit one of Greece’s most important archaeological sites.

The planned stop lasts about one hour. That is enough to see major sights, but it is not a full archaeological tour. You can walk among the ruins connected with Apollo, including the Temple of Apollo, the ancient theater, and the House of the Dolphins. Mosaics, statues, and temple remains help you picture Delos as more than a remote island of stones.

Delos is tied to the mythology of Apollo and Artemis, and its setting makes the visit memorable. The ruins sit with the Aegean as a backdrop, so the experience combines history and open sea rather neatly. Crew members may also explain points of interest, which adds context to a short visit.

The one-hour schedule is both useful and limiting. It keeps the day balanced, so you still have time to swim and eat, but it will not satisfy someone who wants to study every part of the site. If Delos is your main reason for booking, confirm exactly how much time you will have ashore and what access arrangements apply.

The itinerary lists the Delos stop with no separate admission ticket charge. The tour also includes all fees and taxes, but you should still confirm the day’s exact arrangements when booking, since schedules can change with weather and operating conditions.

Lunch is a real part of the experience

The BBQ lunch is more than a quick snack between stops. Chicken skewers are included, along with local appetizers, vegetables, and feta. Past menus have also included fish, so the exact food may vary.

Food receives particularly strong praise from people who have sailed with this crew. The grilled chicken, vegetables, and feta have been singled out as highlights, and one group liked the meal enough to try reproducing it at home. That tells you what to expect: simple Greek-style food prepared for a relaxed meal at sea, not a formal restaurant service.

Lunch is paired with unlimited wine and beer, as well as soda and other soft drinks. This is useful for a full private day because you do not need to budget separately for drinks on board. It also gives the outing a social feel, especially for birthdays, family gatherings, or a small celebration.

Still, use some common sense with alcohol. You will be on a moving boat, in strong sun, and possibly swimming. Water, shade, and a measured pace will make the day more comfortable.

What the catamaran is like for a group

The catamaran is described as spacious, comfortable, and well maintained. Its layout should suit a group of up to 10 better than a cramped small boat would. Several people have also appreciated the sound system, which lets you create a more festive mood with music.

The private capacity is important when you look at the cost. At $1,922.34 per group, the full price is high for two people. Split among 10, however, it works out to about $192 per person before any extra costs. A group of five would pay about $384 per person, while a couple would carry the entire group price between them.

That makes this a strong value for a family reunion, birthday group, wedding party, or several couples traveling together. It is a much weaker value if you only want a basic swim stop and do not have enough people to share the boat.

The reviews also point to a strong sense of comfort and safety. Captain Artemios has been praised for handling windy conditions, and one group said it felt safe even on a fairly rough day. That does not mean the sea will always be smooth. If you are prone to motion sickness, tell the crew in advance and ask about the route before setting off.

Pickup is convenient, but timing still matters

Hotel pickup is included from most Mykonos accommodations. Pickup normally takes place around 30 minutes before departure, and you should be ready at the designated location at least 10 minutes early.

The exact pickup point and time are confirmed after booking. This is convenient, but do not treat it as a reason to ignore your schedule. Mykonos roads and transfers can take time, and the cruise itself may last as long as eight hours. If you have a same-day ferry or flight, leave a generous buffer.

Private transportation is included, which removes one common hassle. You do not need to arrange a separate taxi to the dock if your accommodation is covered by the pickup area. If you are staying somewhere outside the usual pickup network, confirm the arrangement before you pay.

The experience is offered in English, and confirmation is provided at booking. Mobile tickets make the practical side simple.

Day cruise or sunset sailing?

The outing can be arranged as a daytime cruise with lunch or as a sunset cruise with dinner. The provided meal details focus on a BBQ lunch, while the sunset option is described as including dinner, so confirm which meal applies to your selected departure.

Choose the day cruise if swimming and snorkeling are your priorities. More daylight makes it easier to enjoy the water around Rhenia and take in the coast from the boat. It also gives you the clearest setting for exploring Delos.

Choose the sunset option if the mood matters more than a long swim. The evening light can make the coastline and islands especially attractive, and a private catamaran is a natural setting for a birthday, proposal, or quiet celebration.

The sunset choice may not provide the same amount of time for archaeological sightseeing and swimming. Ask how Delos fits into the evening schedule before booking that version.

The crew adds value beyond the boat

The strongest human element is the crew. Captain Artemios has been praised for his sailing skills and calm handling of windy conditions. Artemis and Kostas have also been described as warm hosts who take guests to attractive swimming spots and help create a comfortable day.

That matters because a private cruise can be excellent or awkward depending on the crew. Here, the service appears to be attentive without being overly formal. The crew has prepared meals, explained parts of Delos, handled special route requests, and added thoughtful touches for celebrations, including a small birthday cake and sparkling wine.

You should not assume every extra celebration detail is automatically included. If you are marking a birthday or special event, ask what can be arranged and whether there is an additional charge.

The crew’s flexibility is especially valuable for families. One family-friendly outing was praised for its balance of swimming, beaches, lunch, and historical sightseeing. Children can get water time, while adults still receive a proper cultural stop.

Who should book this Mykonos catamaran cruise?

I would recommend this cruise most strongly to:

• Families wanting a full day away from crowded Mykonos beaches
• Groups of friends who can share the private price
• Couples celebrating a birthday, engagement, or anniversary
• People who want both swimming and ancient sites in one outing
• Guests who value a flexible schedule over a fixed group itinerary
• Anyone who wants a boat day with food and drinks already arranged

It may be less suitable for a solo visitor or a couple on a tight budget. The price is built around a private group, so the per-person value improves sharply as your party gets larger.

It may also disappoint someone expecting a long, detailed archaeological visit to Delos. The scheduled stop is about one hour, which gives you a worthwhile look but not an exhaustive study.

Practical details worth knowing

Snorkeling equipment is provided, but beach towels are not. Bring your own towel, along with sun protection and anything you need for time in the water.

The cruise requires good weather. If conditions force a cancellation, you can choose another date or receive a full refund. The same applies if the minimum number of participants is not met.

You can cancel for a full refund up to 24 hours before the start time. Changes or cancellations made less than 24 hours before departure are not accepted for a refund, and all cut-off times use local Mykonos time.

The activity is private, and only your group participates. Most people can take part, and the meeting area is near public transportation, though hotel pickup is offered from most accommodations.

Should you book it?

Book this private catamaran cruise if you have a group large enough to share the $1,922.34 cost and want a relaxed day that combines water time, Greek food, and Delos. The strongest reasons are the private schedule, capable crew, included drinks, and the chance to reach quiet Rhenia coves away from Mykonos crowds.

For a couple, compare the price carefully with smaller shared cruises. For a family or group of eight to 10, the value becomes much easier to justify. Ask about the exact route, departure length, day versus sunset format, and Delos timing before booking. If those details fit your plans, this is one of the more satisfying ways to see Mykonos from the sea.

FAQ

How much does the private catamaran cruise cost?

The price is $1,922.34 per group, with up to 10 people included.

How long does the cruise last?

The approximate duration is five to eight hours.

Is hotel pickup included?

Yes. Pickup is included from most Mykonos accommodations and usually takes place about 30 minutes before departure.

How early should I be ready for pickup?

You should be at your pickup location at least 10 minutes before the confirmed pickup time.

Is the cruise private?

Yes. Only your group participates in the activity.

Are food and drinks included?

Yes. The package includes a BBQ meal with chicken skewers and local appetizers, plus wine, beer, soda, and other soft drinks.

Is snorkeling equipment provided?

Yes. Snorkeling equipment is available for use during the cruise.

Are beach towels included?

No. You need to bring your own beach towel.

Can I choose a sunset cruise?

Yes. The experience can be arranged as a daytime cruise with lunch or a sunset cruise with dinner.

What happens if bad weather cancels the cruise?

You will be offered another date or a full refund if poor weather causes the cancellation.