Renting a boat in Mykonos 
 

One of the most popular islands in the Cyclades, Mykonos has always had a strong reputation for having the strongest nightlife culture in Greece. Even though it does hold this sentiment, Mykonos has everything you come to expect from Greece. When you're on the island, explore its deep culinary traditions, historic architecture with its classic white stonewashed buildings, and of course, its beautiful beaches. 

For most people visiting Mykonos for the first time, you'll fall in love with the sense of adventure it provides. You'll have plenty of things to see and do and if you're on a boat, you'll spend endless days discovering hidden coves and beaches, as you will when you hire a boat in Greece wherever you go. You could also hire a boat in Kos. 

When to sail in Mykonos?

While summer is the most popular season to hire a boat in the Cyclades, it is not necessarily the best time to sail for several days. Indeed, this period is hot and very dry. Spring and autumn are much milder. The question should not arise if you hire by the day, you will spend as much time in the water refreshing yourself as at the helm of the boat.  During the summer, the prevailing wind comes from the north. Called Etesian in Greek but also known as Turkish, Meltimi, this wind brings a light breeze in the morning but intensifies in the afternoon. This wind begins in May and generally ends in September, with July and August being the period when it blows the strongest, reaching a force of 8. Vigilance is required if you sail during this period. Generally speaking, the best time to hire a boat from Mykonos is from May to September. 

Boat Availability and Pricing 

When renting a boat in Mykonos, you'll have to keep in mind that the season will dictate the price along with any extras you might need. When hiring a yacht, you'll have extra fees including fuel, port fees, and any crew you would like on board. When renting a catamaran in Mykonos, you will pay an average of 400€ a day and to hire a sailboat in Mykonos it will be a little less averaging 300€ a day. Outside of the high season, prices will change by month and will be the lowest during the winter season. 

For motorboats, the range is much wider as there is a larger selection and inventory. Based on your necessities, you can hire a motorboat to see the coast, partake in water sports, go fishing, or simply find the best swimming spots. Due to this, we recommend playing with the filters until you find a boat that best suits your projects. 

Regarding availability, if you would like to hire a yacht in Mykonos, we suggest you start the booking process in November or December for bookings in the following summer. Usually, by March, more than 50% of boats are already booked. In terms of motorboats, we suggest looking at least 2 months in advance to ensure you get the boat you need. 

Do you need a license to hire a boat in Mykonos?

If you are coming from an EU member state, then your license is automatically valid and will be accepted anywhere in Greece. For sailors coming from outside the EU, we suggest getting an ICC. Keep in mind that licenses in languages other than English or Greek will have to be translated. When renting motorboats specifically, any boat having more than 30 horsepower will need a license to be operated. Anything under 30 horsepower does not require a license. 

If you choose to hire a bareboat, you will have to present a nautical CV detailing your previous experience including when, where and what type of boat you controlled. If you feel that you do not have the qualifications or experience, you can hire a boat with a skipper. 

Overview of Mykonos

One of the main islands of the Cyclades, Mykonos is an ideal destination for sailors of all levels. Made famous as a festive island, it is one of the most photographed places in the Cyclades. A veritable jewel of Greece, however, the island with its triangular shape has many surprises in store for you. Indeed it is more than 86km of coastline to explore that awaits you. For most wanting to see the island, you can either come directly or hire a yacht from Athens and make the cruise down. 

It is no longer possible to anchor at the port of the old town. Yachts and sailing boats are now located in the marina, north of the city (about 3 kilometres). Be careful, the marina is not very well protected from the wind and sometimes, the latter blows hard. During the summer, the peak of the tourist season, employees will help you and guide you during docking. There are so many different ways to explore Mykonos by the sea that you won't be bored! On the contrary, you will have to choose your activities carefully. Whether you are renting a boat for a day or cruising a catamaran for several days, choices will have to be made.

If you are looking for idyllic beaches and crystal clear waters, hoist the sails towards Psarnou, Ornos, Paradise Beach or Agios Ioannis beach. You can also sail to the beautiful islands of Delos and Rhenia, off the coast of the bustling Mykonos tourist attractions. If you are on the islands for a week, set sail to Kos. These secular islands, only a few miles from the main island are real jewels where the charms of the Cyclades are low at full speed.

Here are some other great places to visit in the Cyclades islands:

- Hire a boat in Paros

- Hire a yacht in Milos

- Hire a boat in Santorini 

- Hire a yacht in Naxos