The Best Boat Rentals in Mikonos

Expect shared boat tours to start around $90–$180 per person for half-day outings that usually include the captain, fuel for a set route, soft drinks, and basic snacks. Private half-day speedboat or RIB charters commonly run about $800–$1,500, while full-day options range from roughly $1,800–$3,500 depending on size and season. Private sailing catamarans often start around $1,600–$3,000 for a day, and mid-size motor yachts usually range from about $2,000–$5,000+ for a day trip; luxury yachts can cost more in peak summer. Inclusions vary by listing, but you’ll typically get a licensed skipper on captained trips, standard safety gear, bottled water and ice, and sometimes round-trip transfers. Fuel surcharges may apply if you choose a custom route, and premium catering, alcohol, water toys, or drone photography are usually add-ons. Book earlier for July–August, when prices and demand peak.

You’ll find fast RIBs and sleek speedboats for beach-hopping, comfortable sailing catamarans for groups that want space and stability, classic monohull sailboats for a true sailing feel, and motor yachts for maximum comfort and speed. Traditional wooden kaiki-style boats and larger gulets are also available for a more local vibe or bigger parties. Most options can be booked as private charters; some operators also run semi-private shared cruises.

Most visitors choose a captained trip because local skippers know the bays, the winds, and the best sheltered routes on breezy days. If you want to self-operate, Greek rules generally allow you to drive small motorboats up to 30 hp without a boating license; anything more powerful and all bareboat sail or motor yacht charters require a recognized license. Even if you’re licensed, Mikonos can be windy in summer, so skippered trips are the easiest and most relaxing way to get on the water.

The most common meeting points are Ornos Bay (a popular, sheltered embarkation area) and the New Port at Tourlos, just outside Chora. Many trips also start from the Old Port in town for short cruises, and some beach-hopping tours use the jetty at Platis Gialos. Your confirmation message will specify the exact dock, pickup time, and any available hotel transfer.

Most charters follow the south coast to enjoy calm water and clear swimming coves, passing beaches like Psarou, Platis Gialos, Paraga, Paradise, Super Paradise, Agrari, and Elia. On calm days, some trips cross to Dragonisi (Tragonisi) to peek into sea caves with striking turquoise light. Many full-day routes also include Rhenia Island’s sandy coves for swimming and snorkeling, with views across to the ancient ruins of Delos. Closer to town, you’ll see the windmills and Little Venice from the sea, and sunset cruises often frame the shoreline in golden light.

For small motorboats up to 30 hp, no boating license is typically required, and the operator will give you a basic safety and route briefing. For faster motorboats, RIBs with larger engines, and any bareboat sail or motor yachts, you’ll need a valid license recognized in Greece (for example, an ICC or national equivalent). If you’re unsure, book with a skipper—there’s no license needed when a licensed captain is provided.

Yes. Family-friendly charters are common, and all commercial boats carry the required safety equipment. Let your captain know the ages of any children so they can load the right sizes of life jackets. For little ones or anyone prone to motion sickness, morning departures on sheltered routes are usually the smoothest.

Most private charters allow you to bring snacks, lunch items, and your favorite beverages, and many include bottled water and soft drinks. Some boats offer set menus or can arrange catering for celebrations. To keep the deck tidy and safe, use non-glass containers when possible, and check in advance about bringing alcohol or anything that stains (like red wine).

Pet policies vary by boat. Small, well-behaved dogs are often welcome on private charters if you ask in advance. Bring a towel or mat to protect cushions, fresh water for your pet, and consider a pet life jacket. If your day includes multiple swim stops or transfers by tender, make sure that’s comfortable for your dog.

Summer brings the seasonal Meltemi winds, especially in July and August. Captains typically adjust to the leeward south coast where conditions are more comfortable, or they may suggest a different day or time. If port authorities issue a sailing ban or your captain deems conditions unsafe, most trips will be rescheduled or refunded according to the listing’s policy. To avoid stress, build a little flexibility into your itinerary and consider a morning slot, which is often calmer.

Absolutely. Boats are a favorite for celebrations, with options that fit small groups up to larger parties. Captains can help plan swim stops, a beach-hopping route, snacks or catering, and a sunset return. For prime dates in late June through August—and around big weekends or festivals—reserve early and share your headcount, music preferences, and any decorations you want to bring.

Peak season runs June through September, with the warmest water and longest days. May and October are pleasant shoulder months with fewer crowds and slightly lower prices. U.S. holidays like Memorial Day, July 4th, and Labor Day don’t affect local operations, but they often align with high travel demand from American visitors. Locally, August 15 (Dormition) and late-August festivals bring big crowds, so book early. If you can, choose weekdays for easier scheduling and lighter marina traffic, and aim for a morning departure for smoother seas and less wind.

South-coast cruises focus on Mykonos’s famous beaches with multiple swim stops and a relaxed lunch-at-sea vibe, staying in sheltered waters. Delos–Rhenia trips add culture and nature: you’ll anchor off Rhenia for swimming in clear sand-bottom bays, and you can plan time to visit Delos’s archaeological site by tender during operating hours if your itinerary allows. Both are great—pick south coast for a chill beach day, or Delos–Rhenia if you want a mix of swimming and ancient history.

Decide your group size, vibe, and route preference first—beach day, Delos–Rhenia, or a sunset cruise—then filter by boat type and budget. Share your preferred date, time, and pickup spot (Ornos, Tourlos New Port, Old Port, or Platis Gialos) and let the captain know about kids, dietary needs, or special occasions. Plan to meet 15–30 minutes early, pack light with non-slip footwear, bring reef-safe sunscreen and hats, and keep your schedule flexible in case winds require a simple route tweak. Once you’re aboard, the crew handles the rest.