Kleftiko Sunset Catamaran Cruise with Meal Milos

Adamas port and the great bay of Milos

Milos is a volcanic island, and its huge central bay is the flooded heart of an ancient volcano, one of the largest natural harbours in the Mediterranean. Adamas, also called Adamantas, is the port town on its shore, where ferries arrive and the boats for Kleftiko depart. The crew welcomes you aboard with espresso, teas and fruit-infused water before casting off.

As the catamaran crosses the bay you see the island's colourful layers of volcanic rock, the hilltop village of Plaka and the white chapels scattered on the slopes. The boat has sunbeds, shaded lounges, a toilet and an outdoor shower, so the afternoon is comfortable from the start. With a maximum of 20 guests, there is room for everyone on deck.

Klima, the fishing village of colourful boathouses

At the mouth of the bay lies Klima, the most photographed village of Milos. Its traditional houses, called syrmata, are built right at the water's edge: boats are kept on the ground floor behind brightly painted doors in red, blue, green and yellow, while fishing families live on the floor above. Seen from the sea, the row of colours against the cliff is unforgettable.

The catamaran slows down for photos and the crew explains how the syrmata were dug into the soft volcanic rock to shelter boats from winter storms. Above Klima rise the hills where the ancient city of Milos stood, with its Roman theatre and early Christian catacombs. From the water you understand why Klima is on every list of the best things to see in Milos.

Cape Vani and Sykia Cave

Sailing along the western coast, you reach Cape Vani, where cliffs of red, orange and black rock reveal the mineral wealth of Milos. Manganese was mined here in the past, and the remains of old loading structures still cling to the rocks. The colours are especially striking in the warm afternoon light.

Further on lies Sykia Cave, one of the natural wonders of the island. Its roof collapsed long ago, leaving a wide opening to the sky, so sunlight pours into the cave and turns the water inside an intense turquoise. Conditions allowing, you can swim or paddle into it from the catamaran. It is a highlight for many guests and impossible to reach except from the sea.

Kleftiko, the pirate hideout of Milos

Kleftiko is the most famous sight of the whole island and the main reason people book a Kleftiko boat trip. On the remote southwest coast, tall white rock formations rise from the sea, carved by waves into arches, tunnels and caves. Its name comes from the Greek word for thief, as pirates once hid their ships here, out of sight between the rocks. There is no road, so the only way to get to Kleftiko is by boat.

The catamaran anchors in the turquoise bay for the longest stop of the cruise. Snorkelling gear, paddle boards and swim floats are ready on board, so you can explore the cave entrances, swim through the arches or simply float in water so clear you see the seabed far below. Is Kleftiko worth visiting? Most guests say it is the highlight of their stay on Milos.

The meal, the sunset and the best time to sail

While you swim, the chef prepares a fresh Mediterranean meal with local ingredients, with options for seafood lovers, vegetarians and lighter appetites, and children's meals on request. Soft drinks and water are unlimited. Tell us about dietary needs, including halal requirements, when booking; halal food is limited on Milos, but seafood and vegetarian dishes are easy to arrange.

The return sail is timed for sunset, when the white cliffs glow amber and pink and the sea reflects the sky. The best time for this cruise is from May to October. In July and August the meltemi wind can be strong, and the captain may adapt the route to sheltered coves; the morning option offers the calmest water. Milos is reached by ferry from Piraeus in about three to seven hours, or by short flight.