Polyaigos, often written Poliegos on boat signs, is the large uninhabited island that lies just off the south-east of Milos, and the cruise that visits it is the other great sea day of the island. Where the Kleftiko cruise is about white arches on the south-west, the Polyaigos trip heads east and across the strait, past the colourful fishing village of Pollonia in many itineraries, to coves with exceptionally clear water, steep cliffs, sea caves and a sense of wilderness that is hard to find in the Cyclades. Polyaigos has no permanent residents, and visitors will see few buildings and only wildlife, sometimes goats on the slopes and, rarely, seals. Many round-the-island cruises combine Polyaigos with a circuit of Milos itself, so that you also pass the white shores of Sarakiniko, the coloured cliffs of the south coast and the formations around Kleftiko, giving a complete view of the coastline. A day on board typically means stops for swimming and snorkelling in several coves, a lunch served on deck that may be a barbecue or a Greek meal, and a relaxed pace under sail or on a catamaran. Departures usually leave from Adamas in the morning, with some operators using Pollonia as the starting point to shorten the crossing.
What makes Polyaigos special is the water: the sea is exceptionally clear, and the coves are deep enough to swim in over sand and rock without the crowds of the main beaches. The island is part of a protected area for wildlife, and local rules aim to keep the coastline natural. Snorkellers often spot fish, urchins and, with luck, sponges and rock formations beneath the surface; keep a respectful distance from any wildlife you see, and never touch or feed animals.
Choosing the cruise
Round-the-island itineraries cover more ground and suit first-timers, while Polyaigos-focused trips from Pollonia spend more time at the island itself. Catamarans carry larger groups with a bar and comfortable decks; smaller sailboats feel more intimate; private charters allow a flexible itinerary. Check inclusions carefully, since meals, drinks and snorkelling gear differ, and ask about hotel pick-up, which may be offered from some areas.
Tips
The sea crossing between Milos and Polyaigos can be choppy when the meltemi blows, so skippers adapt their plans and may keep to the sheltered side. If this is your only boat day, choose it for the calmest forecast. Bring swimwear, a towel, reef-friendly sun protection, a hat, a windproof layer and a dry bag.
If you are prone to motion sickness, take a remedy beforehand. For a more complete picture of the island's sea scenery, combine this trip with the Kleftiko half-day or a sunset cruise on another day, and keep a spare day in your schedule in case of weather.
The sensory side of the day matters too: the smell of grilled food drifting along the deck, the sound of the hull against small waves and the sudden silence when the engine stops in a cove with no buildings in sight. Many guests say the Polyaigos stop is the part they remember longest, because the island offers a rare sense of emptiness in a region famed for its crowds.
What to expect
The experience
A full-day catamaran or sailing cruise around Milos and over to uninhabited Polyaigos, with swimming and snorkelling in several coves and lunch on board.
Best time
Morning departures for calm water; June and September are often the most comfortable months.
How long
A full day; the exact hours vary by operator.
Tips
Check inclusions, choose a day with a calm forecast and bring a windproof layer for the crossing.
Quick picks
- Best for
- Travellers who want clear water, wild coves and fewer buildings.
- Families
- Good for swimmers; check child rules and life jacket availability.
- Couples
- A relaxed day with lunch and drinks, ideal for two.
- Pair with
- The Kleftiko half-day or a sunset cruise on another day.
- Time needed
- A full day.
Good questions
Is Polyaigos inhabited?+
No. It has no permanent residents, which is part of its appeal, and visitors see only coves, cliffs and wildlife.
Does the cruise include Kleftiko?+
Many round-the-island itineraries pass or stop at Kleftiko as well, but not all. Check the description for the stops.
Is lunch included?+
Many full-day cruises provide a barbecue or Greek meal and drinks. Inclusions vary, so check before you choose.
Where does the cruise start?+
Usually Adamas, though some operators sail from Pollonia to shorten the crossing to Polyaigos.
Can I swim from the boat?+
Yes. Stops are planned for swimming and snorkelling, and the crew usually provides ladders and sometimes masks.