Skiathos: Mamma Mia Island and Beach Day Cruise

Planning a day on the water in Greece often means tossing in a boat trip or two. But if you’re a fan of the film “Mamma Mia” or simply craving a leisurely escape to some of the most stunning beaches and filming locations in the Aegean, this Skiathos Mamma Mia Island and Beach Day Cruise has a lot to offer. While we haven’t personally taken this exact tour, reviewing the detailed accounts and reviews from past travelers shows that it’s a well-loved experience blending film nostalgia with authentic island beauty.

What makes this trip stand out? First, it offers the chance to visit “Mamma Mia” filming sites like Kastani Beach, with plenty of time to swim and relax. Second, the stunning views of Skopelos’ lush landscape from the boat are often described as breathtaking. Third, the crew’s reputation for being helpful and knowledgeable makes the day more enjoyable. One potential consideration? The schedule can feel a little rushed at times, especially at the chapel, so if you’re looking for a slow, contemplative day, it might not be perfect.

This cruise is ideal for film fans, beach lovers, or anyone seeking a scenic and relaxed day with a good mix of sightseeing and leisure. Families, solo travelers, and couples all find value here, especially given the reasonable price point of around $55 per person, which includes the boat journey and transfers.

Good To Know

• Stunning Film Locations: Visit iconic beaches made famous by “Mamma Mia.”
• Relaxing Beach Days: Multiple stops for swimming, sunbathing, and exploring.
• Knowledgeable Guides: Crew members provide helpful info about each site.
• Good Value: Price includes boat tickets and optional transfers, with optional extras like chapel visits.
• Flexible Schedule: Enough time at each stop to soak in the scenery without feeling rushed.
• Weather-Dependent Routes: Routes may change based on sea conditions.

You can check if your dates are available here:

An In-Depth Look at the Tour Experience

Starting Point and Departure

The adventure kicks off from Skiathos New Port, located opposite Alpha Bank, with the boat named “KALYPSO”. The cruise departs at 09:15 am, a sensible morning time that leaves plenty of daylight for exploration and relaxation. If you’ve opted for the transfer, expect to be picked up from a nearby bus stop rather than your hotel, which is worth noting if you prefer direct hotel pickup or are staying in Skiathos Town. The tour lasts about seven hours, including travel time, stops, and free time.

The Voyage to Skopelos

The journey begins with a 100-minute sailing on a boat equipped to comfortably accommodate the group, with the option to sit outside or in shaded areas. As the boat leaves Skiathos harbor, you’ll get a chance to soak in views of the island’s lush, green landscape and perhaps snap a few photos of the coastline. Many reviewers mention the lively atmosphere onboard, with the crew playing ABBA hits, creating a cheerful, nostalgic vibe.

Kastani Beach — The “Mamma Mia” Filming Location

The first major stop is Kastani Beach, where the 2007 “Mamma Mia” scenes were filmed. This location is a highlight for many — soft sands, turquoise waters, and the chance to jump straight into the sea. Reviewers like Sarah describe it as a “beautiful beach” with enough time to swim and sunbathe. However, some note that the time here is limited (about an hour), which might feel short if you want to explore more or take photos of the iconic setting.

Kastani is often praised for being less crowded than other beaches, offering a peaceful, picture-perfect environment. Its reputation as a “film site” adds a special touch, especially if you’ve seen the movie. For those interested, there’s an optional visit to Agios Ioannis Chapel (the “Mamma Mia” wedding site), which costs around 15 euros per person. Some reviewers mention that the chapel visit is split into groups, and it can be quite a climb (around 198 steps), so bringing water and good walking shoes is advised.

More Great Thing To Do Nearby

Exploring Panormos

Next, the cruise takes about 25 minutes to reach Panormos port. Here, you’ll have around two hours to explore, eat lunch at local taverns, or relax along the harbor. Many reviews highlight the town’s friendly atmosphere and the wide choice of eateries. Reviewers like Susan describe it as “beautiful” and mention that the trip offers a good balance of sightseeing and downtime.

Milia Beach — The Final, Most Gorgeous Stop

The last stop is Milia Beach, regarded by many as the most beautiful of the island. It’s a perfect place to end the day — pristine white sands, clear waters, and a tranquil setting. With about an hour here, guests can swim, relax, or take photos. Reviewers frequently mention how stunning this beach is, often saying it’s one of the most beautiful places they’ve seen. It’s an ideal spot for a peaceful finale to the day, and some note that the beach provides a more natural, unspoiled vibe.

Return Journey and Final Stops

The boat returns via a 20-minute cruise, and the day wraps up with a final 1-hour visit or photo stop, depending on the group’s preferences and weather conditions. The journey back to Skiathos is lively, with a soundtrack of ABBA and lots of chatter about the day’s highlights.

What’s Included and What’s Not

The cost of $55 per person covers your boat ticket and the optional transfers if selected, making it a pretty good deal considering the number of stops and the scenic sailing. Food and drinks aren’t included — so bringing cash for lunch or snacks is necessary. The optional visit to the Mamma Mia Chapel costs an additional 15 euros, which some travelers consider well worth it for the iconic photo opportunity.

The Crew and Guides

Reviews consistently praise the crew, especially the captain, George, who is described as lively and engaging, often joking and creating a fun atmosphere. Knowledgeable guides provide background information on the filming sites, enhancing the experience. The staff’s friendliness seems to be a highlight, with many reviewers mentioning how helpful and cheerful they are.

Practical Tips for a Great Day

• Bring sun protection: Sunglasses, hats, and sunscreen are essential, especially during the walk up to the chapel or on the exposed boat deck.
• Plan for swimming: Pack swimwear, towels, and flip-flops for quick dips — the water is famously clear and inviting.
• Book extras early: If you’re interested in visiting the chapel, consider booking ahead since it can sell out.
• Timing is key: Be mindful of the schedule if you want more time at a particular beach or site; the itinerary is fairly packed.
• Weather impact: Routes are weather-dependent. Rough seas or high winds might alter the route, sometimes limiting stops or changing the order of visits.

Authentic Experiences and Real Insights

Based on reviews, this cruise is a hit for those looking for a combination of film nostalgia and natural beauty. Many travelers mention the quality of the beaches — pristine sands, clear waters, and a peaceful atmosphere. Hannah describes it as “some of the most beautiful places I’ve ever seen,” which echoes the general sentiment.

The onboard vibe — lively music, helpful staff, and the chance to meet fellow travelers — adds to the relaxed, fun environment. Reviewers love the way the crew blends informative commentary with entertainment, making the day both educational and enjoyable.

However, some reviewers note that the music playlist can get repetitive, especially with ABBA tunes playing often, which might not suit everyone. Also, the limited time at each stop means you’ll want to set your expectations accordingly and perhaps prepare for some quick visits.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This cruise is best suited for film buffs and beach lovers who want a mix of sightseeing and relaxation without spending an entire day on land. It’s great for those who enjoy sailing, scenic views, and a lively onboard atmosphere. Families with kids, couples, or solo travelers looking for a social yet laid-back experience will find plenty to enjoy.

Since the itinerary can be weather-dependent and involves walking up to the chapel, those with mobility issues or seeking a super slow-paced day might find it less ideal. But for most, the balance of fun, scenery, and nostalgia makes it a worthwhile adventure.

Final Thoughts

For around $55, this Skiathos Mamma Mia Island and Beach Day Cruise offers a memorable taste of Greece’s natural beauty and film history. It’s a well-organized, lively trip that makes the most of the island scenery, iconic beaches, and the charming atmosphere of the Aegean.

You’ll love the way the trip combines the excitement of filming locations with the serenity of the beaches — perfect for a relaxed yet visually stunning day. The crew’s friendliness, the breathtaking views, and the chance to swim in crystal waters all contribute to a genuinely enjoyable experience.

If you’re looking for a day filled with sunshine, sea, and a bit of Hollywood magic, this tour is definitely worth considering. It’s especially appealing if you want good value, friendly guides, and plenty of opportunities to chill out on some of Greece’s most beautiful beaches.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is there a transfer included in the tour?
Yes, if you select the transfer option, you’ll be picked up from a main road near your accommodation or a designated bus stop. Note that hotel pickups in Skiathos Town are not available.

What time does the tour start?
The cruise departs at 09:15 am from Skiathos New Port. Exact pickup times and points will be sent via email if you booked the transfer.

How long is the cruise?
The entire experience lasts about 7 hours, including travel, stops, and free time at beaches and villages.

What’s not included in the price?
Food and drinks are not included, so bring cash if you want to buy lunch or snacks. The visit to Mamma Mia Chapel costs an additional 15 euros per person.

Can I visit the Mamma Mia Chapel?
Yes, it’s available as an optional add-on. The visit involves climbing around 198 steps, so be prepared for the walk and bring water.

Is it suitable for children or people with mobility issues?
The tour involves some walking, especially to the chapel, and is not suitable for wheelchair users or those with recent surgeries. It’s best suited for those who can handle a bit of walking and standing.

What should I bring?
Pack sun protection (sunscreen, hats, sunglasses), swimwear, towels, cameras, flip-flops, and some cash for extras. Weather can change, so check the forecast and dress accordingly.

This tour blends film magic with the natural splendor of Greece, offering a lively, scenic, and memorable day on the water. Whether you’re a “Mamma Mia” fan or just looking for a beautiful day at the beaches, it’s an experience that many travelers cherish long after they return home.

You can check if your dates are available here: