How to Rent a Boat in Milos — Complete Guide (2026)
Milos is one of the few Greek islands where the best parts are completely invisible from land. The pirate caves of Kleftiko, the collapsed dome of Sykia, the wild untouched beaches of Polyaigos — none of them appear on a road map, because there is no road to them. The only way to reach them is by sea.
That is why, every summer, thousands of visitors to Milos ask the same question: how do you rent a boat in Milos?
This guide covers everything you need to know — from licence requirements to departure points, from what's included in the price to the best routes to take once you're out on the water.
Do You Need a Licence to Rent a Boat in Milos?
This is the first question most people ask, and the good news is: for most boats, no licence is required.
At Poseidon Milos, our inflatable speedboats (up to 50hp) can be rented without any boating licence. You do not need prior experience. Before departure, we give every group a full briefing — how to operate the boat, safety procedures, anchoring, and a personalised map of the best spots to visit. Most of our guests have never driven a boat before. All of them manage just fine.
If you want to rent a higher-powered vessel — such as our Compass Boat 190CC (100HP) — a speedboat licence is required. However, if you don't hold one, you can hire one of our experienced skippers at an additional cost. Your skipper will handle navigation while you focus entirely on enjoying the day.
The rule in Greece: boats under 30hp require no licence. Boats between 30–50hp fall into a grey zone — in practice, rental companies (including us) can provide these without requiring a licence, as long as a safety briefing is given. Boats over 50hp require a licence or a certified skipper.
Where Do the Boats Depart From?
We operate from two departure points in Milos:
- Adamas port — the main port of Milos, opposite the Shell gas station. Easy to find, central location, close to accommodation in Adamas and Plaka.
- Agia Kyriaki Beach — on the south coast, closer to Kleftiko and the island's most famous swimming spots. Ideal if you're staying in the south of the island.
When you book, we confirm which departure point works best for your group based on your accommodation and your planned route.
What's Included When You Rent a Boat in Milos?
Every Poseidon Milos boat rental includes:
- Full safety briefing before departure
- Life jackets for all passengers
- Cooler with ice, drinking water and soft drinks
- Bluetooth speakers
- Sunshade
- Detailed map of beaches, caves and anchorages
- Full tank of fuel
There are no hidden extras. The price you agree when you book is the price you pay.
Which Boat Should You Choose?
We offer two main boats for self-drive rental:
Poseidon Blue Water 170
- Engine: Tohatsu 50hp outboard
- Speed: Up to 23 knots
- Length: 5.2 metres (17 feet)
- Capacity: Up to 6 people
- Licence required: No
- Best for: Couples, families with children, first-time renters
Compass Boat 190CC
- Engine: Selva-Yamaha 100HP outboard
- Speed: Up to 35 knots
- Length: 5.9 metres (19 feet)
- Capacity: Up to 7 people
- Licence required: Yes (or hire our skipper)
- Best for: Larger groups, experienced boaters, those wanting more speed and range
Both boats are fully equipped, regularly maintained and insured.
How Long Should You Rent for?
We offer half-day and full-day rentals:
- Half day (4–5 hours): Enough time to reach Kleftiko or Polyaigos, have a swim, explore and return. Best for those with limited time or travelling with young children.
- Full day (7–8 hours): Allows you to visit multiple destinations — Kleftiko, Sykia, Gerakas, Firiplaka, and even cross to Polyaigos or Kimolos. This is by far the most popular option.
If you want all the highlights without worrying about navigation, consider one of our organised Milos cruises — a skipper takes care of everything while you sit back and enjoy.
The Best Routes When You Rent a Boat in Milos
Once you're on the water, Milos opens up completely. Here are the most popular routes:
The Southern Loop (half day)
Depart from Agia Kyriaki → Kleftiko caves → Sykia sea cave → Gerakas → return. Around 4–5 hours including swimming stops.
The Full South Coast (full day)
Depart from Agia Kyriaki → Tsigrado → Firiplaka → Gerakas → Kleftiko → Sykia → optional: cross to Polyaigos → return. A full 7–8 hours.
Polyaigos Day Trip (full day)
Depart from Agia Kyriaki or Pollonia → cross to Polyaigos → spend the morning on deserted beaches → return via Kimolos village. One of the most spectacular days possible on the Aegean.
How to Book a Boat Rental in Milos
Booking is straightforward. Call or WhatsApp us on +30 698 79 30 867 or email poseidonmilosboats@hotmail.com.
We strongly recommend booking in advance — particularly between June and September, when our fleet fills up quickly. Early bookings also allow you to choose your preferred departure point and departure time.
When you contact us, let us know:
- Your preferred date
- Number of people in your group
- Whether you hold a boating licence (if relevant)
- Your accommodation area in Milos (to help choose the best departure point)
Tips Before You Go
- Bring sunscreen — reef-safe products preferred to protect the marine environment around Kleftiko.
- Start early — the best anchorages at Kleftiko and Sykia fill up by midday in summer. Departing by 9am gives you first pick.
- Check the wind — the Aegean can be breezy. We'll advise you on conditions when you collect the boat. The southern coast is generally well-sheltered.
- Bring a waterproof bag — for your phone, camera and documents.
- Pets are welcome — our boats are pet-friendly. Just let us know when booking.
Rent a Boat vs Join a Cruise — Which Is Right for You?
If you want total freedom — your own schedule, your own stops, your own pace — a self-drive boat rental is the perfect choice. Most guests find the independence is what makes the day unforgettable.
If you'd prefer someone else to handle navigation while you relax, or if you want a skipper who knows every hidden corner of the island, our Milos cruises are the ideal alternative. We offer 5-hour and 8-hour tours covering all the island's highlights, in both private and group formats.
Not sure which suits your group? Call us — we're happy to help you decide.
Rent a Boat in Milos — Book Now →
Poseidon Milos has been operating boat rentals and private cruises in Milos since 2018. Our fleet of 8 boats departs daily from Adamas and Agia Kyriaki Beach throughout the season.