Are you planning a sailing trip in Mykonos? We help with itineraries, ports, yacht rental options & other useful information. The island of Mykonos is a great starting point to discover the Cyclades. From here, you can quickly reach every island on the Aegean Sea, so you can sail to Santorini as well. In this article, we will show you some islands you can visit along the way, the important ports and give you other useful information. This article is intended for those who are planning a trip from Mykonos to Santorini by their own boat or a rented yacht.

Our article gives you an overview of the following topics:

• Important facts when sailing from Mykonos to Santorini
• Ports in route from Mykonos to Santorini
• Catamaran routes from Mykonos to Santorini:
• One way Mykonos southern cruise
• 1-week catamaran from Mykonos to Santorini
• Marine gas near Mykonos, boat gas stations en route from Mykonos to Santorini

Important facts when sailing from Mykonos to Santorini

When are the winds and weather like from Mykonos to Santorini?

In summer (May to September), the Meltemi is the dominant wind in the Aegean Sea. Dry, northerly winds that can be quite strong, especially in July and August when they can reach 6-7 Beaufort (25-38 knots). Meltemi can create choppy seas, especially in open water passages. During your trip, the main wind will probably be the Meltemi, which blows from the north or northwest. This means that you will often be sailing with the tailwind towards Santorini and sailing against the wind back towards Mykonos, which can be more challenging.

In May-June and September-October, outside the Meltem season, the wind can be more variable, the southerly winds (Sirocco) brings warmer temperatures and occasional rain. Tip: Start your trip early in the morning to take advantage of calmer conditions before the Meltemi takes off. Check the sailing conditions and wind rose diagram of Cyclades. Read about sailing in Greece September, or sailing in Greece in October.

How far is it and how long does it take to sail from Mykonos to Santorini on a private yacht?

The distance between Santorini and Mykonos is approximately 90 nautical miles from the port of Tourlos. This means that approx. 13 – 15 hours of non-stop sailing on an average sailing yacht, in average weather conditions, sailing at 6-7 knots per hour. The entire Athens – Mykonos – Athens route is approx. 26-30 hours of non-stop sailing.

An average motor yacht, in average weather conditions, travels at 15-25 knots per hour, so with a motor yacht the journey there can be around 3-6 hours, and the entire Athens – Mykonos – Athens route takes approx. 6-12 hours of travel. A motorboat comes with a lot more extra costs, the most important difference being fuel consumption.

Extra expenses

The official currency of the country is the euro. If you are coming from a country where the euro is not the official currency, be sure to visit a currency exchange before you leave. Also, be prepared that the pricing of marinas is not uniform. You can moor for free in some places, but typically you will expect prices of around € 30-50 per port, depending on the length of your yacht. In the Cycladic islands, food is usually 1-2 euros more expensive than, for example, in the Attica Peninsula.

Which route should I choose?

According to Greek law, a boat transfer must have 2 people on board. If you are traveling with a crewed boat (which has 2 crew members), a one-way sailing can be arranged without any problems, but the boat must still return to the starting base within the rental period, before the next shift. If you rent a boat without a crew, in that case you will have to pay the crew’s travel costs to the transfer point of your boat, their daily expenses and all other costs incurred. This usually involves a disproportionately large amount of organization and expense. As a result, very few charter companies in Greece provide one-way bareboat boat rental options, so we do not recommend planning a one-way charter without hired crew. During the high sailing season, until September, sailing in the north direction takes place against the wind, which can sometimes make it difficult and slow to get back to the starting base.

What to do in Mykonos before sailing?

Mykonos offers a variety of entertainment options, you will not feel bored for a second here. It does not matter if you like parties or you prefer a quiet holiday, you will have a good time here. You can swim at beautiful beaches. The Platys Gialos beach or the Panormos are excellent choices.

Are you looking for a vibrant beach party? Visit the Super Paradise beach with dance parties all summer long! If you are interested in the architecture of the island, discover the windmills! If you arrived in Mykonos early, pop over from the capital to the island of Delos. According to the legend, the god Apollo was born there. His memory is commemorated by an ancient sanctuary and the ruins of a theatre. In Mykonos, Little Venice is the place to go. The promenade and buildings are right at the sea. In Greece, GMT +3 is the time zone, as in other EU countries, it switches between winter and summertime. Rent a boat in Mykonos and let the island’s hidden coves and crystal clear waters enchant you – without stress, at your own pace.

Ports in route from Mykonos to Santorini

Ayios Nikólaos Marina, Kea

Ayios Nikólaos is one of the most secure marinas on Kea, offering easy mooring even for larger charter yachts. If you plan to dock here, it is recommended to notify the staff via radio before arrival, as the most sheltered berths fill up quickly during peak season. The area is a great starting point for short coastal cruises and snorkelling, while the nearby golden sandy bays are ideal for a refreshing swim before setting sail. The marina is well equipped, so water and electricity supply are easy to access, and the deeper sections are suitable for vessels with a larger draft.

Mérikha Marina, Kithnos

Although small, Mérikha is an excellent overnight stop when exploring the western side of Kithnos. Arrive early if you want a sheltered spot, especially when the strong northern winds pick up. Along the waterfront you will find opportunities to restock water and provisions, and the nearby tavernas serve fresh fish, perfect after a long day at sea. Nightlife is close by as well, offering entertainment for the crew.

Ermoupolis Marina, Syros

Ermoupolis is not only the busiest marina in Syros but also one of the best equipped in the region. As a charter guest you can count on efficient service, boat maintenance facilities and reliable refuelling options. Thanks to its proximity to the town, it is ideal for strolling through the historic streets or shopping before continuing your route across the Cyclades. The marina is well protected, making it a safe choice even during strong meltemi winds. Syros sailing, Syros yacht charter

Naxos Marina, Naxos

The main marina on Naxos is perfect for stocking up and handling basic maintenance tasks. The pontoons are easy to approach, although crosswinds from the meltemi can occur, so prepare your lines in advance. Supermarkets, bakeries and fresh fish shops are only minutes from the moorings, making provisioning simple before you set off. The town centre is within walking distance, offering plenty of bars and tavernas. Naxos sailing, boat rental Naxos

Paroikia Marina, Paros

Paroikia is an excellent base for exploring Paros and one of the most frequent stops for charter yachts. Refuelling and water supply are best handled early in the day when traffic is lighter. The town centre lies right next to the marina, giving you easy access to top restaurants, local sights and accommodation. The location also works well for island-hopping routes towards Naxos or Ios. Paros sailing, boat rental Paros

Karavostasi Marina, Ios

This marina is easily accessible and ideal as a stopover along longer Cycladic itineraries. Reliable water supply is available alongside the main pier, and the nearby restaurants provide comfortable dining options after a short stroll ashore. If you stay longer, it is worth visiting the famous beaches of Ios, which are quickly reached by taxi or scooter. The marina is well protected and organised, ensuring safe mooring even in stronger winds.

Adhamas Marina, Milos

Adhamas Marina is one of the best choices on Milos if you want a secure, well-equipped mooring. It is perfect for refilling water, refuelling and carrying out maintenance, with efficient and reliable services. The waterfront is lined with bars and restaurants serving authentic local dishes. From here it is easy to plan trips to iconic sites such as Kleftiko or Sarakiniko, making it worth preparing your route the evening before departure.

Vlikhada Marina

This is one of the most sheltered small marinas on Santorini, especially useful when arriving in rougher sea conditions. The entrance can sometimes be shallower, so approach slowly and follow local markers. The marina offers quick access to nearby beaches and restaurants, and water refilling is straightforward. It is an ideal option for those seeking a quieter alternative to the busy Athinios Port.

Athinios Port

The busiest harbour on Santorini, Athinios receives heavy traffic, so it is important to prepare for constant vessel movement. When arriving with a charter yacht, contact port control by radio to coordinate berthing, as ferries and cargo ships operate continuously. All essential services are available, and taxis and buses wait at the pier to take you up to Fira. For longer stays, consider relocating to a calmer bay nearby.

Catamaran routes from Mykonos to Santorini:

One way Mykonos southern cruise

We present a flexible 1-week itinerary. From the capital of Mykonos, you sail to the island of Santorini. Along the way, you visit every important island of the Southern Cyclades before arriving at your destination.

Day 1. Mykonos – Siros

33, 79 km (20, 99 nm)
Sailing southwest from Mykonos, you arrive on the island of Siros. On this lively island, you can lose yourself in the crowd right away. There are many important landmarks. As a sailor, you will find the Syros shipyard is especially interesting. They still build beautiful wooden boats here. You can find the municipal library on Miaouli Square, known as the cultural main square of Ermoupolis. The library has a beautiful pen exhibition.

Day 2. Siros – Naxos

53, 34 km (33, 14 nm)
Sailing southeast from the island of Siros, you arrive on the island of Naxos. You can immediately spot the main landmark of the island: the sight of a door frame left from the ancient temple of Apollo welcomes visitors to the island. The port is also very cosy, and the scenery is beautiful wherever you go on the island. You will also find romantic mountain villages, the ruins of various ancient temples, and the cave where, according to the legend, Zeus grew up. If you want to look around the island, it is worth renting a car. Read more about what to do in Naxos

Day 3. Naxos – Paros

28, 53 km (17, 73 nm)
Sailing west from Naxos, you will visit the neighbouring island of Paros. Following the northern coast of the island, you arrive in Parikia. The bay of Parikia is very well protected against both Meltemi and Sirocco; its disadvantage is its difficult accessibility. Even as an experienced sailor, it is not easy to moor here: in the west, some cliffs make it difficult to set in. The island itself is famous for its beautiful snow-white marble architecture. You should see the Frankish castle built-in 1260, which has now become part of the city of Parikia. If you are curious about the origins of the abundance of marbles, be sure to check out the marble quarries that have been in operation for thousands of years.

As a sailor, the Skorpios Museum in Aliki is a must-see, where you can visit Benetos Skiadas ’wonderful collection of ship models. Be sure to check out the Valley of Butterflies, where you can see plenty of butterflies worthy of its name in a beautiful natural environment. Read more about what to do in Paros, Paros sailing, or Paros yacht charter

Day 4. Paros – Sifnos

53, 46 km (33, 22 nm)
Sailing west from Paros, you sail past the island of Antiparos and then, after a short cruise at sea, you approach Sifnos. Cruising along the coast westward, you arrive at the port of Sifnos. Here you can admire beautiful olive trees and almond fields. The symbol of the island is the Church of the Seven Martyrs, seen on a tiny peninsula-like extension of the east coast. Its beautiful whitewashed walls, sky-blue dome, and Cycladic architectural style are worth a look. In addition to the iconic church, the island hides many monasteries and museums. The most significant of these is the monastery of Chrissopighi.

Day 5. Sifnos – Milos

43, 65 km (27, 12 nm)
Sailing southwest, you will reach the island of Milos. It is not too popular among tourists yet. On this beautiful volcanic island, you can enjoy nature and the atmosphere of ancient monuments, away from the crowds. In Adamas, the Agia Triada Church has a museum. The Mining Museum showcases minerals and the mining past of the island. The most important landmarks are the early Christian catacombs from the time of the Roman Empire. There is an ancient theatre nearby, where locals still hold events and theatre performances to this day. Read more about what to do in Milos or Milos sailing. Milos boat rental

Day 6. Milos – Ios

86, 09 km (53, 49 nm)
Sailing east of Milos, you will arrive in Ios. It is a bustling island full of life. In summer, there are parties and festivals in the capital. If you want to get away from the city, discover the Tomb of Homer! If you want to see an archaeological excavation, visit the ruins of Skarkos!

Day 7. Ios – Kamari – Vlichada

53, 21 km (33, 06 nm)
Sailing southeast of Ios, you will arrive in Santorini. Your next destination is the town of Kamari on the east side of the island. You can find several shops, pubs, and restaurants in the streets close to the coast. There are cinemas on the island, one of them is an open-air cinema, surrounded by trees. Be sure to visit the beach that has Certification! You can go diving or try some exciting water sports. If you are interested in the ancient history of the island, visit the ruins of Thera on Mount Mesa Vouno on the south part of the island. Santorini sailing, yacht rental Santorini

Leaving Kamari, you will arrive at the port of Vlichada on the south side of the island. On these guided tours, you can explore Vlychada and the nearby beaches by horseback. If you arrive early, you can go on a tour of the archaeological excavations at Akrotiri. On this tour, you will visit the ancient town of Akrotiri, go to a wine tasting and visit the monastery of the Prophet Elijah.

1-week catamaran from Mykonos to Santorini

It is a longer cruise to Santorini and then back to Mykonos. Half of the journey is more difficult due to the headwinds. The distances are also greater compared to the one-way cruise.

Day 1. Mykonos – Siros 33, 79 km (20, 99 nm), Day 2. Siros – Paros 44, 17 km (27, 44 nm), Day 3. Paros – Ios 48, 64 km (30, 22 nm), Day 4. Ios – Agia Eirini (Therasia) – Oia 36, 02 km (22, 38 nm), Day 5. Oia – Vlichada – Kamari 33, 57 km (20, 86 nm), Day 6. Kamari – Naxos 86, 04 km (53, 46 nm), Day 7. Naxos – Rineia – Mykonos 41, 38 km (25, 71 nm)

More Mykonos sailing tours

Marine gas near Mykonos, boat gas stations en route from Mykonos to Santorini

• Merihas, Kithnos: Depth: 8m, Working time: 0-24, GPS Coordinates: 37.389860, 24.397059
• Mikonos Marina, Mikonos: Depth: 4.5m, Working time: 0-24, GPS Coordinates: 37.4475266, 25.3275272
• Tinos, Tinos: Depth: 5.5m, Working time: 0-24, GPS Coordinates: 37.537555, 25.161119
• Parikia, Paros: Depth: 3.5m, Working time: 0-24, GPS Coordinates: 37.087424, 25.151587
• Naxos, Naxos: Depth: 5m, Working time: 0-24, GPS Coordinates: 37.106213, 25.372575
• Riva Tirasia, Santorini: Depth: 5m, Working time: 0-24, GPS Coordinates: 36.452705, 25.344247
• Thira New Port, Santorini: Depth: 4.5m, Working time: 0-24, GPS Coordinates: 36.386354, 25.428268

The volcanic island of Santorini awaits you with beautiful sunsets and gorgeous beaches! There are many interesting events and places to discover, visit this unforgettable place! Find more Cyclades sailing routes.
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