The playground of the 1960’s jetset which rose to fame thanks to Jackie O and Grace Kelly - Mykonos is seeing a new breed of A-list step ashore as it affirms its status one of the hottest destinations to visit on a Greece yacht charter. The destination of choice for a fine selection of A-list stars, including Cristiano Ronaldo last year, Mykonos has competition 150km away in its Cycladic sister Santorini – an island enchanting from its rocky clifftops to its sandy, multi-coloured shores.
Amidst the turmoil of Greece’s economic situation, Greek tourism continues to be boosted by visitors captivated by its aqua blue waters, fine cuisine and the charm of its traditional, pastel-coloured villages. To such an extent the country attracted record numbers last year, and was the hottest destination to visit across the whole of Europe.
Thinking ahead to the summer, YachtCharterFleet help you plan that all-important charter itinerary and choose between Santorini and Mykonos below.
Natural Beauty
Adjectives such as ‘breath-taking’ often come to mind when past visitors reflect upon Santorini’s natural beauty. Cliffs of every colour soar 300 metres from a sea-drowned caldera, with traditional Cycladic homes nested upon the terraces and with tiny islands curling around the western edge. Mykonos is not without its charm, from its picture-perfect beaches to the captivating crescent-shaped bay of Chora – yet it is the sunset on offer in Santorini (best enjoyed in Oia) which clinches this category. The glow of delightful hues of orange and reds combined with rocky landscape is a winning combination.
Winner: Santorini
Nightlife
Mykonos is renowned as the East Mediterranean’s very own Ibiza, here the champagne can effortless flow until dawn on the island’s famous beaches and open-air clubs. More laid-back than a luxury yacht charter in the Balearics, Mykonos received the vote of approval over Ibiza from DJ Afrojack himself for having that ‘magic’ and can include model Naomi Campbell amongst its fans. More suited for romance than decadence, Santorini has several places to let your hair down but is not famed for its club scene like Mykonos.
Winner: Mykonos
Landmarks & Activities
The Venetian windmills of Chora and 18th century fishing houses which line the waterfront of Little Venice offer a taste of the fascinating traditions which were part of everyday life in Mykonos. The nearby island of Delos, famed throughout mythology, is additionally home to one of the most extensive excavations in the Mediterranean – with landmarks dating back to the 3rd millennium BC.
Of the plethora of impressive ruins and museums scattered throughout the Cyclades, Santorini boasts a greater number. Hellenistic, Roman and Byzantine ruins originating from 9th century BC and an ancient Minoan city once buried beneath volcanic ash dating from 1613 BC offer extraordinary insight into Santorini’s past. A visit to Thirasia and the volcanic islets furthermore offers some adventure on a Santorini luxury yacht charter. Mykonos offers numerous walking trails, chic galleries and luxury boutiques are on offer in Mykonos, however Santorini is the overall winner for the sheer variety of things to do on the islands.
Winner: Santorini
Beaches
Turquoise blue waters meets white-sand shores in Mykonos - arguably, a huge part of the island’s appeal. Options vary on a Mykonos superyacht charter, from the decadence of party hotspots such as Super Paradise beach, to the small, tranquil cove of Agios Stefanos. Less famed for its stereotypical beach scene, Santorini’s beaches are made of volcanic rock – composed of sand and pebbles and red and black in colours, the island’s beaches offer a unique experience many have not enjoyed. Though perhaps a matter of preference, the allure of Mykonos’s idyllic shores are an integral part of the island’s appeal.
Winner: Mykonos
Both Mykonos and Santorini set the scene for a fun, sun-soaked Greece yacht charter, deciding between the two may simply come down to a desire for either enjoying the social life or activities and local sights. Both islands undeniably offer enough iconic Cyclades charm to satisfy any wanderlust.
For luxury yacht charter or 6 days or more, a visit to both islands is feasible – so what are you waiting for? Talk to your preferred charter broker today to begin planning your Cyclades yacht charter.
Alternatively, feel free to browse all superyachts for charter in Mykonos to compare the size, style and amenities of vessels available here.
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