Full Day Cruise to Delos and Mykonos Islands from Paros

A Full Day Exploring Ancient and Modern Greece: Delos & Mykonos from Paros

Imagine waking up on the beautiful island of Paros, and by mid-morning, you’re already on a boat heading toward two of Greece’s most captivating islands: Delos and Mykonos. This full-day cruise, costing around $91.71 per person, lasts about 9 hours and offers a relaxed way to soak in both history and local culture. The trip includes convenient round-trip transfers from select locations on Paros, making logistics easier for travelers.

What we particularly love about this experience is how straightforward it is to visit Delos, with its ancient ruins and UNESCO-listed status, and then enjoy the lively, scenic streets of Mykonos without the hassle of ferry planning. Plus, the ocean views from the boat add an extra layer of enjoyment—nothing beats relaxing on deck with the wind in your hair.

One consideration to keep in mind: since entry fees to Delos (currently €20 per person in 2025) are not included, you’ll want to budget extra for exploring the archaeological site. Also, note that this tour does not include a guided tour, so if you’re a history buff craving detailed commentary, you may prefer a different experience.

This cruise works best for independent travelers who love flexible exploration and authentic island atmospheres. If you’re comfortable wandering at your own pace and enjoy a mix of history and lively towns, you’ll find this trip well worth the effort.

Key Points

• Convenient day trip from Paros to Delos and Mykonos, avoiding the hassle of separate bookings.
• Self-guided exploration allows flexible timing on each island.
• Comfortable transportation with round-trip transfers included.
• Entry fees are extra and not included in the ticket price.
• The tour does not have a guide, so some prior knowledge or self-guided research is helpful.
• Ideal for history enthusiasts and those wanting a taste of lively Mykonos.

An In-Depth Look at the Full Day Cruise

This cruise offers a thoughtful way to experience two iconic Greek islands in a single day. Starting from Naoussa port at 09:30, the boat departs promptly, giving you plenty of time to enjoy each stop. The first leg takes you to Delos, arriving around 10:30.

Visiting Delos: The Ancient Heart of Greece

Once in Delos, you have approximately 2 hours and 45 minutes to explore. The island’s archaeological site is a treasure trove of ruins, including the sanctuary of Apollo, the Lion Processional Gallery, the Ancient Theatre, the House of the Naxians, and the Temple of Leto. The local museum houses artifacts uncovered from the site, providing context to the remains.

What truly makes Delos special is its timeless feel. As one reviewer noted, “You will feel that you have disembarked and got carried away at another time.” The large monuments and scenic ruins evoke the grandeur of a city that once thrived as a major commercial hub.

Reviewers mention that timing on Delos can be tricky—“Too much time to explore Delos” was a complaint from one, but generally, the amount of time feels just enough for a solid walk around. Since entry fees are not included in the ticket price, you should plan to pay €20 (or the equivalent) in cash or card at the site.

Transition to Mykonos: The Vibrant Island

Around 13:15, the boat departs for Mykonos, arriving at 13:30. The contrast couldn’t be starker: from ancient ruins to the lively, picturesque streets of Mykonos Town. Known for its narrow alleys, whitewashed buildings, famous windmills, and the Little Venice neighborhood, this island exudes a cosmopolitan charm.

You’ll have about 3 hours and 30 minutes to explore on your own. This freedom is a big plus, allowing you to wander at your own pace. Many reviews emphasize how the scenic views and unique architecture make Mykonos a must-see. One traveler described it as “the joy of life,” thanks to the whitewashed buildings and beautiful beaches nearby.

Returning to Paros

The boat departs Mykonos at 17:00, arriving back at Naoussa port around 18:10. The transfers from the port to your accommodation are included, making this a seamless experience.

What We Love About This Experience

Firstly, the ease of logistics. With hotel pickups and ferry tickets arranged, you can focus on enjoying the islands rather than worrying about transportation. This is particularly helpful if you’re unfamiliar with Greek ferry schedules or transportation options.

Secondly, the self-guided exploration affords flexibility. You can choose to spend more or less time at each site, which suits travelers who prefer to set their own pace rather than join a guided tour. The reviews highlight that timing worked well for most, though some wished for more detailed guidance.

Thirdly, the views from the boat are simply delightful. We loved the way the boat’s deck offered a panoramic setting, perfect for photos and relaxing with a drink, soaking in the Aegean scenery.

Potential Drawbacks & Considerations

The main limitation is the lack of a guide. While the ruins at Delos are impressive, without a guide, you’ll need to do some advance reading if you want detailed historical insights. Some travelers found the information provided in pre-trip emails to be lacking, which could make the visit feel a bit rushed or superficial for those craving depth.

Also, entry fees to Delos aren’t included. At €20 per person (in 2025), this adds to the overall cost, so it’s best to budget accordingly.

Finally, since the tour is quite popular—booked on average 45 days in advance—it’s wise to plan early, especially in peak season.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This day trip is perfect for independent travelers who enjoy sailing and self-guided exploration. If you’re interested in archaeology, you’ll appreciate the timed visit to Delos, though you may want to supplement it with your own guides or reading.

It’s also a great choice for those who want a relaxed day without the hassle of multiple bookings, as the round-trip transfers and ferry tickets are included. Young couples, solo travelers, or small groups will find this arrangement especially convenient.

However, if you prefer guided tours with detailed commentary, this might not fully satisfy that desire, as the experience is primarily transportation and independent wandering.

Final Thoughts

This cruise from Paros to Delos and Mykonos offers a balanced mix of ancient history and lively modern culture. The value lies in the convenience of transport, the freedom to explore at your own pace, and the stunning views along the way. It’s especially suitable for adventurous, self-sufficient travelers who appreciate flexibility and authentic island atmospheres.

The main appeal is how it bridges two very different worlds: the timeless ruins of Delos, a place frozen in history, and Mykonos, a bustling hub of celebration and beauty. The cost is reasonable considering the transport and island-hopping, but bear in mind the additional costs for site entry and personal expenses.

For those eager to combine history, scenery, and island life in a single day, this cruise hits the mark. Just come prepared, plan ahead, and enjoy exploring Greece’s captivating islands from a comfortable boat.

FAQs

Does this tour include a guide?
No, this cruise does not include a guide. It is primarily transportation, so you’ll explore the islands independently.

What is the duration of the trip?
The total duration is approximately 9 hours, with around 2 hours and 45 minutes at Delos and 3 hours and 30 minutes at Mykonos.

Are the transfers included?
Yes, round-trip transfers from select locations on Paros are included, making the journey more comfortable and hassle-free.

How much extra will I need for entrance fees?
Entry to the archaeological site of Delos costs €20 in 2025, which is not included in the ticket price.

Can I spend more time on Delos or Mykonos?
The schedule is fixed, but the self-guided nature allows you to spend as much or as little time as the itinerary permits. Keep an eye on the departure times.

Is the boat comfortable?
According to reviews, the boat is very clean and punctual. Most travelers find the vessel comfortable for the journey.

What if the weather isn’t good?
The tour requires good weather. If canceled due to weather, you’ll be offered a different date or full refund.

This full-day cruise is a practical way to experience two of Greece’s most beloved islands with minimal fuss. Whether you’re a history buff or just want to soak up the vibrant island atmosphere, it offers a good mix of culture, scenery, and flexibility—perfect for travelers who want to pack a lot into a single day.