6 Hours Tour to Delos and Rhenia Islands with Sailing Yacht

A 6-Hour Sailing Escape to Delos and Rhenia Islands

Imagine leaving the bustling streets of Mykonos behind and setting sail on a beautiful sailing yacht with just a small group of fellow travelers. For about six hours, you’ll explore two captivating islands—Delos, a UNESCO World Heritage site with ancient ruins, and Rhenia, a quiet island offering crystal-clear waters perfect for swimming and snorkeling. Priced at around $160 per person, this experience promises a well-balanced mix of history, relaxation, and fun on the water.

What we love most about this tour is how it combines authentic Greek island scenery with the comfort of a well-organized, small-group cruise. The knowledgeable crew, especially Captain Bob and Ernests, earn glowing reviews for their friendly service and attention to detail. Plus, the onboard lunch—featuring shrimp pasta, Greek salad, and unlimited drinks—adds a delicious touch to the day.

One possible consideration is the entrance fee to Delos, which isn’t included and costs about 20 euros. Since the tour is more about enjoying the islands at your own pace rather than a guided tour of the ruins, history buffs might want to come prepared with some background info.

This tour is perfect for couples, families, or small groups who want a mix of adventure, culture, and leisure, all in a comfortable, intimate setting.

Key Points

• Authentic Sailing Experience: Set sail from Tourlos Bay aboard a traditional yacht, avoiding crowded tour buses.
• Visit Delos at Your Own Pace: Explore the archaeological site independently, with access to signs and information.
• Snorkeling and Swimming: Enjoy crystal waters around Rhenia with provided snorkeling gear.
• Gourmet Onboard Lunch: Savor freshly cooked Mediterranean dishes, paired with unlimited wine, beer, and soft drinks.
• Small Group Setting: Limited to 12 travelers, offering a personal and relaxed atmosphere.
• Flexible Cancellation: Free cancellation up to 24 hours before departure, offering peace of mind.

A Detailed Look at the Tour Experience

Starting Point and Departure

The tour begins early at 9:00 am from Tourlos Bay, a convenient pickup point for many travelers staying in or near Mykonos. The journey to the islands involves roughly one hour of sailing. The boat, a sailing yacht named S/Y Aeolus, is well-regarded for its seaworthiness and comfort, providing a stable platform for the day’s adventure.

The Journey to Delos

Once you leave Tourlos Bay, you’ll enjoy the fresh sea breeze and panoramic views of Mykonos. The 1-hour trip to Delos is a lovely way to start the day, giving you time to relax and take photos of the stunning Aegean scenery. While entry to the archaeological site costs about 20 euros and isn’t included, many reviews mention that this is an excellent opportunity for independent exploration. Visitors can wander among ancient ruins, ruins that are not guided, but signs and information boards help you piece together the island’s past.

Authentic tip: Since you’re not on a guided tour, you’ll want to bring your own curiosity and a good guidebook or app if you want to learn more about the ruins. Arriving early before the crowds is a definite bonus, as many reviewers noted.

Exploring Delos

The highlight here is the ancient Greek ruins, including temples, statues, and the famous Terrace of the Lions. The silence and preservation of the site lend a sense of stepping back in time. Reviewers praised the opportunity to explore at your own pace, with some describing it as “beautiful” and “not to be missed.” You get roughly an hour here, which is enough to see the main sights without feeling rushed.

Transition to Rhenia

After Delos, the boat heads to Rhenia, about a 30-minute sail. Rhenia offers a peaceful alternative to the busy Delos, with fewer visitors and pristine waters. Once there, you’ll have around two and a half hours to swim, snorkel, or simply relax on deck.

The snorkeling gear is provided, and the waters are described as crystalline—perfect for spotting colorful fish and enjoying the Mediterranean’s natural beauty. Reviewers highlight that the crew is attentive, making sure everyone gets to enjoy the water comfortably.

Lunch and Refreshments

A key highlight is the lunch served aboard. It’s a freshly cooked Mediterranean meal—shrimp pasta and Greek salad—that many travelers raved about as “amazing” and “delicious.” The meal is complemented by unlimited wine, beer, and soft drinks, making for a relaxed, convivial atmosphere. Bottled water is also provided, ensuring everyone stays hydrated after swimming.

Return to Mykonos

The return trip takes another hour, providing a chance to unwind and reflect on the day. Many reviews mention how the crew’s friendliness and attention to detail made the experience memorable. The small group size—maximum 12 travelers—means it never feels crowded or hurried.

The Value and What You Can Expect

The $160 fee includes lunch, snorkeling equipment, unlimited drinks, and transportation to and from the islands. While the entrance to Delos isn’t included, the cost is modest, and the benefits of avoiding large tour groups and having the flexibility to explore independently are significant.

This tour is especially valuable for those seeking authenticity and relaxed pacing. Unlike crowded bus tours, you’ll enjoy the open sea and intimate island visits with the crew taking care of all the logistics. Travelers consistently praise the professionalism of the staff and the well-organized nature of the trip.

Who Will Love This Tour?

If you’re a history enthusiast wanting to see Delos’s ruins without a guided tour, you’ll appreciate the freedom to explore at your pace. If you love swimming and snorkeling in clear waters, Rhenia offers an ideal setting. For food lovers, the onboard lunch and drinks are a real treat. This experience suits families, couples, or small groups looking for a intimate, scenic day out with good value.

The Sum Up

This sailing tour to Delos and Rhenia from Mykonos offers a rare blend of culture, natural beauty, and relaxed luxury. It’s perfect for travelers who want to avoid the hustle of larger organized excursions and instead enjoy a more personal, authentic experience on the water.

You’ll love the way the crew makes everyone feel welcomed and how the day seamlessly combines history, swimming, and good food. The small group size ensures a quiet, intimate environment that’s ideal for those who enjoy meaningful downtime in beautiful settings.

While a visit to Delos does require a modest entrance fee, the overall value, stunning scenery, and memorable experience make this tour a compelling choice. Whether you’re a history buff, a water lover, or simply seeking a peaceful escape from Mykonos, this trip promises a rewarding day out on the sea.

FAQ

Is transportation included?
Yes, the tour includes pickup and transportation to and from the meeting point at Tourlos Bay, ensuring a smooth start and finish to your day.

How long is the sailing trip?
The total experience lasts about six hours, with roughly three hours on the water, including transfer times between islands.

Do I need to bring my own snorkeling gear?
No, snorkeling equipment is provided by the crew, making it easy to enjoy the waters around Rhenia.

Can I explore Delos freely?
Absolutely. Once ashore, you can explore the ruins independently for around an hour. Entrance to Delos costs approximately 20 euros and is not included in the tour.

Is lunch included?
Yes, a freshly cooked Mediterranean lunch with shrimp pasta, Greek salad, and unlimited drinks is part of the package.

What is the group size?
The tour is limited to 12 travelers, which keeps the experience intimate and relaxed.

What should I wear?
Bring swimwear, a towel, sunglasses, and sun protection. Comfortable clothes for the boat and walking shoes for Delos are recommended.

This sailing trip to Delos and Rhenia strikes a fantastic balance between adventure, relaxation, and cultural discovery. For those wanting to experience Greece’s islands in a personal and memorable way, it’s a journey worth considering.