Delos and Mykonos One Day Cruise from Naxos

Exploring the Highlights of Naxos to Delos and Mykonos in a Day

If you’re staying on Naxos and dreaming of visiting Delos and Mykonos, this one-day cruise offers a straightforward way to tick off both in a single trip. For $86.82 per person, you’ll spend around 10 hours on a boat, with about three hours to explore the UNESCO-listed archaeological site of Delos and a few hours in the lively streets of Mykonos. The journey boasts fast, no-frills transportation—no guides, no fuss, just a straightforward boat ride to two of Greece’s most iconic islands.

What we really appreciate about this experience is how time-efficient it is. You get to see Delos’ ancient ruins, walk through the island’s fascinating temples and theater, and then hop over to Mykonos for a taste of its famous Little Venice and narrow alleys. The boat itself is comfortable and punctual, making it ideal for travelers who want to avoid the logistics of public ferries. However, it’s important to note that this tour is strictly transportation—no guided commentary or structured tours on either island.

Two things stand out: First, the save hours of travel time compared to public ferries, which is a real plus for anyone on a tight schedule or trying to maximize limited time in Greece. Second, the convenience of a pre-arranged boat tailored for independent travelers, with an early start at 9:00 am, leaving plenty of time to enjoy each island. The potential downside? The lack of guidance means you need to be prepared to explore on your own, and the weather can impact your plans, especially since Delos can be quite windy and hot, with limited shade available.

This trip is best suited for adventurous, independent travelers who are comfortable navigating archaeological sites and bustling streets solo. It’s ideal if you’re looking for quick visits rather than in-depth guided tours, and if you’re okay with no included entrance fees or guided commentary. Those seeking a guided experience or a more relaxed, fully organized day might want to look elsewhere.

Key Points

• Fast, direct transportation: The boat gets you to Delos and Mykonos quickly, saving hours compared to public ferries.
• Flexible exploration: You’re on your own, giving you freedom to choose what to see and do.
• Limited guidance: No guides or commentary, so come prepared with your own plan.
• Weather-dependent: Windy days can make the Delos visit challenging.
• Affordable price: At around $86, it offers good value for a day trip combining two major islands.
• No food or drinks included: Pack water, sunscreen, and snacks for comfort.

The Realities of the Itinerary

Departure and Arrival

The tour starts from Naxos port at 9:00 am—aim to arrive at least 30 minutes early to secure a good seat. The boat is described as comfortable and sizable, accommodating over 100 travelers, which means you’ll likely find space, but during peak season, it can get crowded and warm. The journey itself is quick—under an hour to Delos—and the boat is reported to leave on schedule by many travelers.

This punctuality is a big plus, especially compared to the often unpredictable public ferries. As Paula_B mentioned, “The ferry ride was fun and fast to all locations,” which sets a promising tone for the day. Travelers also note that the crew is helpful, especially guiding those with mobility issues.

Visiting Delos

Once at Delos, the main attraction is the UNESCO World Heritage Site—the ancient Greek religious center, believed to be the birthplace of Apollo. Visitors can walk through the remains of temples, the theater, houses, and other ruins. However, the museum is closed for restoration in 2024, so you won’t be able to see the artifacts inside, which some travelers find disappointing.

The three-hour stop provides enough time for a self-guided exploration, with many reviews emphasizing the need for sun protection and water due to the lack of shade. Brian_T points out, “It can be very hot with no shade and no where to replenish water. Come prepared!” Some visitors, like Anthony_G, noted their time was shortened due to crowds and lines—Delos is one of Greece’s most popular archaeological sites, so expect a line and limited time.

Transition to Mykonos

After Delos, the boat departs for Mykonos, arriving about an hour later. Here, you’ll have approximately three hours to wander the iconic Little Venice, browse the shops, or relax at a café. Many travelers find that Mykonos offers a stark contrast to the ancient ruins—more modern, bustling, and full of lively streets.

From reviews, it’s clear that many appreciate the free time in Mykonos, with Amanda_B stating, “This experience is just transportation—no guide—and it was exactly as described. Get on the boat early for the best seat.” But some note that three hours feels just enough to get a flavor of the island, especially if you want to explore beyond the main streets.

Return Journey

The boat departs from Mykonos around 4:30 pm or 5 pm, reaching Naxos around 7 pm. The timing allows for a relaxed day, but be prepared for a full schedule, especially if you want to make the most of your time on each island.

Authenticity and Practicalities

This trip is perfect for independent travelers who don’t need a guided tour but want the ease of organized transportation. The no-frills approach keeps costs down and logistics simple, but it also means you need to do a bit of homework beforehand—know what to see, and plan your own route.

The price point is generally seen as good value, considering it covers the boat rides and the convenience of skipping the hassle of public ferries. Reviews show that most travelers felt they received sufficient time on each island and appreciated the reliability of the schedule.

However, keep in mind that entrance fees to Delos aren’t included, and the museum is closed for restoration in 2024, which could impact your experience. Also, some travelers expressed disappointment when their trip was canceled due to weather conditions, highlighting the importance of flexibility in outdoor plans in Greece.

The Experience from Different Perspectives

Many travelers appreciate the simplicity and timeliness of this service. Wendy_M describes it as “Great places to visit, the trip in the boat was comfortable and the girl in the bar selling snacks and drinks was super nice.” The ease of booking and quick check-in make it appealing for those who want to maximize island visits without getting bogged down in ferry schedules.

Others, however, note the lack of guidance or commentary, which can make the experience feel less informative. Tamara_C cautions, “Keep in mind this is not a guided tour—it’s just a ride,” emphasizing that you’ll need to self-guide on both islands.

Weather issues also feature prominently in reviews. MissSL_W and Emmarose_H share frustrations about cancellations due to rough seas and high winds, reminding travelers that Greece’s weather can be unpredictable. The company does offer full refunds if canceled, but it’s wise to check weather forecasts ahead.

Practical Tips for a Smooth Trip

• Arrive early: The boat departs promptly at 9:00 am, so get there at least 30 minutes beforehand.
• Bring essentials: Sunscreen, hats, water, and snacks are a must due to limited shade and no onboard food.
• Dress appropriately: Light, breathable clothing suits the hot sun, and comfortable shoes for walking.
• Plan your own itinerary: Without guided commentary, research points of interest beforehand.
• Be flexible: Weather can impact operations, so stay informed about possible cancellations.
• Book well in advance: Given the tour’s popularity—booked on average 56 days ahead—early planning helps secure your spot.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This cruise is ideal if you want efficient, no-fuss transportation from Naxos to Delos and Mykonos. It’s perfect for those on a tight schedule or travelers who prefer independent exploration rather than guided tours. If you’re comfortable navigating ruins and bustling streets on your own, this trip offers a straightforward way to visit two of Greece’s most famous islands with minimal hassle.

However, it’s probably not suitable if you’re seeking guided insights, full cultural context, or comfortable shade and amenities. If weather safety is a concern or you prefer more extensive time on each site, look for alternatives or guided options that include those features.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this a guided tour?
No, it’s primarily transportation. You won’t have a guide or commentary on either island, so you’ll explore independently.

What’s included in the price?
The cruise itself is included, but entrance fees to Delos are not, and meals or snacks are not provided.

Can I get a refund if the trip is canceled?
Yes, if canceled more than 24 hours in advance due to weather or other reasons, you’ll receive a full refund or can reschedule.

Is the boat comfortable?
Yes, many reviews mention the boat is nice, big, and on schedule. Be prepared for potential crowding during peak season.

What about the weather?
High winds can cause cancellations or make Delos visits challenging. Always check the forecast before your trip.

How much time do I have on each island?
Approximately three hours at Delos and Mykonos, though some reviews note that actual time on Delos can be shorter due to lines or weather.

Are there facilities on board?
Some reviewers mention onboard snacks and drinks being available, but no food or beverages are included in the package.

Do I need to book in advance?
Yes, the experience is popular, and bookings are made on average 56 days ahead, so early reservation is advisable.

What should I bring?
Water, sunscreen, hat, comfortable shoes, and perhaps a book or camera—there’s limited shade and plenty to see.

Is this suitable for families or elderly travelers?
It can be, especially since the boat is described as comfortable and helpful staff assist those with mobility issues. Just consider the weather and the no-guided nature of the trip.

To sum it up, this one-day cruise from Naxos to Delos and Mykonos offers a convenient, straightforward way to visit two of Greece’s most renowned islands. It’s best suited for self-sufficient travelers who want to maximize their time without the hassle of organizing multiple ferries. While the lack of guided commentary and unpredictable weather are drawbacks, the timeliness, comfort, and cost-effectiveness make it a practical choice for those eager to tick off these must-see destinations efficiently. For travelers looking for a well-organized, independent day trip with some of Greece’s most iconic sights, this cruise provides a solid, no-nonsense option.