Elia Mykonos is a fantastic base for boat tours and cruises thanks to its stunning beaches, clear waters, and strategic location. Whether you want to explore the charming village of Chora or relax on a private yacht along the south coast, there’s something for every type of traveler. One of our favorites is the Mykonos Island & Chora Walking Tour for Cruise Travelers — it combines cultural sights like windmills and the Paraportiani Church with time at the beaches of Elia and Ano Mera, offering a well-rounded experience of the island’s highlights. Meanwhile, the semi-private cruise around the south coast provides a more laid-back day of swimming and lounging on world-famous beaches, perfect for those who want to enjoy Mykonos’ waters in style.
Below, we’ve put together a list of the best boat tours and cruises in Elia Mykonos, focusing on what makes each unique — from cultural walking tours to luxurious private cruises. Whether you’re short on time or seeking a full day of relaxation, this guide will help you choose the ideal experience.
1. Mykonos Island & Chora Walking Tour for Cruise Travelers
This guided 4-hour walking tour is perfect if you want to absorb Mykonos’ charm and history without straying far from the cruise port. The tour covers the iconic windmills, the lively Little Venice, and the historic Paraportiani Church. A highlight is visiting Panagia Tourliani Monastery in Ano Mera, where you’ll get a glimpse of local religious traditions. But what we love about this tour is the combination of culture and scenery — you’ll also enjoy free time at Elia Beach, soaking up the sun and taking in coastal views.
The tour is highly rated for its personalized experience, with visitors noting how George, the guide, shares insightful stories and tips, including restaurant recommendations like a place famous for calamari. The tour is ideal for cruise travelers who want a blend of sightseeing and relaxation in a manageable timeframe. It’s especially valuable for those interested in local history, architecture, and scenic photography.
Bottom line: This tour offers a comprehensive, relaxed overview of Mykonos’ highlights, perfect for visitors who want an enriching yet manageable experience.
2. Mykonos: semi-private cruise around southcoastline of island
For around $236 per person, the semi-private cruise provides a full 5-hour day exploring Mykonos’ famous beaches from the comfort of a luxurious boat. This experience stands out because it offers the chance to visit multiple beaches that are often crowded or difficult to reach by land, such as Super Paradise, Paradise Beach, and Agios Sostis. You’ll enjoy crystal-clear waters for swimming and snorkeling, with the option to relax or party on the boat.
What makes this cruise especially appealing is its casual, fun atmosphere—you can choose to soak up the sun, take a dip, or even have a private onboard party. The boat typically offers refreshments, and guests rave about the spectacular views along the coast, making it an ideal choice for travelers eager to combine comfort with fun.
This cruise suits those who value privacy and flexibility, as well as those looking to enjoy Mykonos’ beaches in a more exclusive, laid-back setting. Keep in mind that the five-hour duration means you’ll want to pace yourself, as it’s a fairly full schedule.
Bottom line: This cruise offers a luxurious, relaxed way to experience the island’s most famous beaches, perfect for travelers who want a fun, scenic day at sea.
How to Choose
When deciding between these tours, consider your priorities. If you’re after a cultural overview with some beach time, the Mykonos Island & Chora Walking Tour provides a rich mix of sights and relaxation. For those seeking a luxury day on the water with plenty of swimming and socializing, the semi-private cruise is an excellent choice. Budget-wise, the walking tour tends to be more affordable, while the cruise offers more exclusivity and comfort.
Think about your interests and fitness level—a walking tour involves some strolling, while the cruise requires no walking but a taste for being on the water. If you have limited time, the walking tour is a great way to see the key sights in half a day. For a full day of lounging, swimming, and enjoying the scenery, the cruise wins out.
Booking early is advisable, especially during peak summer months, as these tours tend to fill up quickly. Check availability and start planning on the relevant tour pages, so you don’t miss out.
Elia Mykonos offers a fantastic variety of boat experiences, from cultural walks to luxurious cruising. If you’re short on time but want a taste of the island’s highlights, the walk-and-beach tour is a practical choice. For those who love being on the water and want to enjoy spectacular beaches in style, the semi-private cruise will deliver.
For different traveler types, we recommend the walking tour for history and culture lovers and the cruise for beach lovers and party-goers. Whichever you pick, booking ahead ensures you get the experience that suits your holiday perfectly.
