Ios is a fantastic spot for boat tours. The island’s dramatic coastline, crystal-clear waters, and secluded beaches are best appreciated from the water. Whether you want a relaxing half-day cruise or an action-packed speedboat adventure, Ios offers options that suit different interests and schedules. We especially love the 4-hour cruise of Ios’s best beaches, which combines comfort, scenery, and the chance to snorkel at the famous Never Bay, where the Big Blue was filmed. For those with less time but a desire for a quick thrill, the Speedboat Cruise from Mylopotas Beach delivers an exciting glimpse of hidden coves and underwater caves in just 2.5 hours.
Below, we’ll compare these two highly-rated tours, highlighting what makes each unique, so you can pick the best fit for your trip.
1. Ios: 4-Hour Cruise of the Best Beaches
At number one on our list is this comprehensive 4-hour boat cruise that takes you along Ios’s most stunning beaches. Departing from the south of the island, this tour offers a relaxed but active way to explore Ios’s coastline, with stops at seven different beaches. The experience includes swimming and snorkeling at Never Bay, famous for its connection to the film Big Blue, making it a highlight for water lovers.
The tour is operated in a luxury speedboat, which adds comfort and style to your day. The crew is attentive, helping with photos and making sure you get the most out of each stop. Food and drinks—sandwiches, wine, and beer—are included, making it feel like a day out with friends rather than a typical tour. The reviews praise the smooth operation, expert captain, and the natural beauty encountered, with many calling it one of the best activities in Ios.
What makes this cruise stand out is its combination of luxury, scenery, and informative commentary. It’s perfect for travelers who want a relaxed day with plenty of opportunities to swim and snorkel, while also experiencing Ios from the water. The price of $76 per person offers great value considering the length, comfort, and included amenities.
Bottom Line: If you want a well-rounded, high-quality boat tour that combines scenic beaches with snorkeling and good food, this cruise hits the spot.
2. Ios Island: Speedboat Cruise from Mylopotas Beach
For around $64, the Speedboat Cruise from Mylopotas Beach offers a shorter, more energetic water adventure. Departing in the afternoon, this 2.5-hour trip explores some of Ios’s less accessible spots, including underwater caves and a shipwreck, where snorkeling opportunities abound.
This tour is especially appealing for travelers who want a fast-paced, thrill-filled experience with a focus on hidden spots. The guide, Niko, is described as cheerful and fun, adding to the relaxed but adventurous vibe. Passengers get to see secluded beaches that look like postcards, with waters that are beautifully transparent.
Guests praise this trip for its intimacy and exclusivity—being the only group at many of the stops feels like a private tour. The highlight is exploring underwater caves and snorkeling around a wreck, which makes this a memorable, photo-worthy trip. The reviews note that some found the 4-hour cruise a bit long, so this shorter option suits those with limited time or a preference for a brisk adventure.
Bottom Line: If you’re after a quick, fun trip that hits the highlights of Ios’s secret beaches and underwater sights, this speedboat tour is a fantastic choice.
How to Choose Between These Tours
If your schedule allows for a longer, more relaxed day on the water, the 4-hour cruise of Ios’s best beaches will give you a deeper experience with plenty of swimming and snorkeling in idyllic spots, along with comfortable amenities. It’s especially good if you value comfort, food, and a comprehensive look at the island’s coastline.
On the other hand, if you’re limited on time but still want to see some of Ios’s coolest underwater caves or shipwrecks, the Speedboat Cruise from Mylopotas Beach offers a quick, lively tour that packs a punch. It’s ideal for travelers looking for a thrilling, private-feeling experience without the long hours.
Consider your budget, how much time you want to spend on the water, and whether snorkeling or exploring underwater caves is higher on your list. Booking early is advisable, especially in peak summer months, when tours fill up quickly.
Final thoughts
Both tours offer a fantastic way to enjoy Ios from the water, but they suit different needs. The luxury 4-hour cruise provides a full day of scenic relaxation and snorkeling, perfect for those who enjoy a leisurely pace. The speedboat adventure offers a shorter, action-packed experience for travelers with limited time or a love of underwater exploration.
If you’re planning your trip, we recommend choosing based on your priorities: comfort and a longer, more relaxed day versus excitement and quick access to hidden underwater spots. Regardless of your choice, booking early will help ensure you get your preferred time on these popular tours. Both options promise a memorable way to see Ios from the water—and that’s what makes boat tours in Ios so worthwhile.
