Milos & Poliegos: Small Group Sailing, Snorkel & Cave Swim

Summary

Sailing around milos caves pirate coves poliegos blue water swim

You’ll sail around Milos and Poliegos with a small group, stopping to swim in crystal-clear bays and explore caves once used by pirates. Enjoy homemade Greek food onboard with drinks included, plus get underwater photos sent to you after. It’s the kind of day where time slows down and you feel part of something local—even if just for a few hours.

What’s the experience like?

I didn’t expect to start the day laughing at myself, but there I was, fumbling with my snorkel mask while our captain, Yiannis, grinned and handed me a slice of watermelon. We’d just anchored near Cape Vani—the old mine’s rust-red cliffs looked almost painted on the sea. The air had that salty-mineral smell you only get near rocks like these. Someone asked about the history, and Yiannis told us stories about pirates and miners—his English was good but he’d slip into Greek for names. I liked that.

We drifted past Kalogries Bay and dove in. The water was so clear it felt like swimming through glass. I’m not usually a “jump off the boat” person, but something about the way everyone cheered made it easy. My friend tried to say “Kleftiko” right (Li laughed when she butchered it), and then we were floating under those wild white arches where pirates used to hide out. Our guide pointed out an underwater tunnel—he said if you hold your breath and trust your flippers, you can make it through. I chickened out but watched someone else do it. The light down there is unreal, all silver-blue flickers.

Lunch happened somewhere between Gerakas and Poliegos—homemade food (the tomato salad tasted like sunshine) and cold beer from the cooler. There was this quiet moment when most people were stretched out in the shade or sun, just listening to the water slap against the hull. I remember thinking how far away regular life felt right then. Later we stopped at Poliegos for another swim; even after all those beaches, that blue still caught me off guard.

On the way back we passed Klima—the houses are painted every color you can think of—and Yiannis told us about Venus de Milo being found there (I googled it later; he wasn’t making it up). They sent us GoPro photos afterward—some are hilarious because my hair’s everywhere—but honestly, I still think about that view from Kleftiko more than any picture.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Sail and snorkel around Milos and Poliegos

• Pass Cape Vani and learn history
• Stop at Kalogries bay for swim
• Snorkel and explore Kleftiko caves
• Visit Gerakas beach and have lunch
• Pass old Sulfur Mines by boat
• Swim and paddle at Poliegos blue waters
• Pass Klima fishing village and learn history
• See seagull islands lava formations

Top questions

How long does the Milos & Poliegos sailing cruise last?

The cruise is a full-day trip around Milos and Poliegos with multiple stops for swimming and lunch onboard.

Is snorkeling equipment provided on this tour?

Yes, snorkeling gear including masks and flippers is included for all guests.

Are meals or drinks included during the cruise?

Homemade food covering vegetarian and vegan options is served onboard along with bottled water, soda, beer, wine, and local spirits.

Does this Milos sailing tour include hotel pickup?

No hotel pickup is mentioned; guests need to arrive at the departure point themselves.

How many people are on each boat?

The sailing boat takes a maximum of 12 passengers for a small group atmosphere.

Can I bring children or pets on board?

Service animals are allowed; no specific mention of children but suitable for all fitness levels unless mobility impaired.

Will I get photos from the trip?

The crew takes GoPro photos (including underwater) which are emailed to guests after the tour.

Are there guides who speak languages other than English?

The tour may be operated by a multilingual guide depending on availability.

What’s included

Your day includes use of snorkeling equipment, plenty of fruit and snacks throughout the cruise, homemade Greek lunch catering to vegetarians or vegans if needed, unlimited bottled water plus soda, beer, wine or local spirits as you like them—all while WiFi keeps you connected onboard. The crew also snaps GoPro pictures above and below water which they’ll send you later by email so you don’t have to worry about missing any moments yourself.